Thomas Daschle: “I appreciate the optimistic forecast of the distinguished assistant Republican leader. I will say, we have heard this…”

“I appreciate the optimistic forecast of the distinguished assistant Republican leader. I will say, we have heard this now for some 48 days. The House leaves tomorrow, and they will have left without addressing this issue. So as checks are received for millions of families whose incomes exceed $26,000, all of those 12 million kids whose incomes are below $26,000 are going to be left empty-handed, in part because of objections, in part because of intransigence on the other side, in part simply because, by design, they were left out when this bill was written several months ago. It is unfortunate but, as I say, we will continue to draw this matter to the attention of our colleagues, continue to find a way to resolve this so that some measure of equity can be provided, especially with regard to families who need it the most.”