Joe Crowley: “In 2010 the Republicans promised smaller government and fewer taxes. They even signed a pledge, a pledge not to raise…”

“In 2010 the Republicans promised smaller government and fewer taxes. They even signed a pledge, a pledge not to raise taxes. Yet here we are, 56 days after assuming control of the Congress, and Republicans are proposing to do exactly that, tax hikes for working middle class Americans. Their bill, H.R. 4, would repeal the onerous reporting provisions on small businesses, but on the backs of hardworking middle class American families. Those watching the debate are probably thinking ``say it ain't so, Joe,'' but despite Republicans' claims that it isn't a tax increase, it is a tax increase. If it isn't, why did the Joint Committee on Taxation say it is? If it isn't, why do Republicans block a vote on my amendment that would prohibit any section of H.R. 4 from kicking in if it did, indeed, raise taxes on middle-class families? It took only 56 days to break their pledge. Republicans are raising taxes on working people. Say it ain't so, GOP. Say it ain't so.”