The refusal to vote for the package, a key priority of the administration, and Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner in particular, was portrayed as a direct rebuke of the White House's "lack of response to the economic situation."
"We will not be proceeding to passage today," Frank began. "I have been meeting with members of the committee, particularly the members of the Congressional Black Caucus, who have informed me that they are troubled by what they believe is the lack of response to the economic situation that is confronting them on the part of the administration, and therefore do not feel that they could -- in deference to the various constituencies that they represent -- vote for passage."
..."The recession has created a unique systemic risk that threatens all parts of the African-American community, including the poor and the middle class," said Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.), a subcommittee chair, in a statement after shutting down the vote. "I have always been committed to addressing that risk and will continue to do so. This is a critical issue for my constituents."
I'm glad to see that at least some democrats are breaking away to speak up about that lack of employment and the lack of attention needed to turn things around.
My only problem with this is that unemployment doesn't just affect the African-American community. The middle class, comprised of varying races, is definitely hurting right now.
My only hope is that this does not further divide the current administration. I would hate to see votes and policies being divided up by race as well. It's terrible enough that there are such strong party lines in this country.
It seems, more and more, that we are taking many more steps backwards than forwards.
On a positive note, it is nice to see at least some Democrats paying attention to what is going on.
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