Thomas Daschle: “I concur with the distinguished Republican leader in making that assertion as well. This is exactly the same language…”

“I concur with the distinguished Republican leader in making that assertion as well. This is exactly the same language that 7 days ago we sent to the House. My only reason for renewing the request today is because, unfortunately, I think we are going to be getting a much more comprehensive package back from the House, a package that clearly doesn't today enjoy the 60 votes that it would require to move not only unemployment compensation but all the other issues that are attached. On a bipartisan basis, both Republicans and Democrats in the Senate are clear and on record in support, at the very least, of an extension of the unemployment benefits, and for good reason. Every day, about 11,000 people are pushed off the unemployment compensation rolls. About 77,000 of these workers have been made ineligible for unemployment compensation just since we passed this resolution 7 or 8 days ago. Our proposal is simply to give the House an opportunity to take up this simple extension with an expectation at some point later that we could entertain economic stimulus legislation as well. I thank my colleagues for their cooperation. Again, this sends a clear message. We are very hopeful we can do something to help these unemployed workers prior to the President's Day recess.”