TAX BILL CLEARS SENATE, BUT HOUSE INSANITY WAITS – AT 9:07 A.M. ET:  We are closer to an extension of the Bush tax cuts, but not yet there.  Some in the outgoing Democratic House appear poised to launch kamikaze attacks.   From the Washington Times:

In an overwhelming bipartisan vote, the Senate on Monday cleared a path for the tax-cut deal President Obama struck with congressional Republicans last week, with even former staunch opponents of the Bush-era tax cuts voting for their extension.

The 83-15 vote ends a filibuster attempt by liberal Democrats and gives a boost to the deal ahead of an expected showdown in the House this week, where Democratic leaders have said they will try to alter the $857 billion package.

"This proves that both parties can, in fact, work together to grow our economy and look out for the American people," said Mr. Obama, who staked his ability to deal with the newly ascendent Republicans on this battle. He urged House lawmakers to follow the Senate's lead and approve the package quickly.

If Congress fails to act, taxes will go up across the board Jan. 1. If Congress passes the Obama-GOP deal, it will benefit many taxpayers, thanks to a short-term payroll-tax cut.

Actually, the provision that most Americans will actually feel is that short-term payroll-tax cut, which was the Obama administration's idea.  Shrewd thinking, and a campaign issue for the Dems at the next election.

The Senate will hold a final vote this week, but action now shifts to the House, where Democratic leaders are wrestling with rank-and-file members who are enraged over the deal. Last week, House Democrats held a nonbinding caucus vote to urge their leaders not to bring the deal to the floor as written.

Don't fret.  There won't be enough of them left when the new Congress comes in to cause much trouble...except for President Obama, now regarded on the silly left as a sellout.  Are you believing that?

December 14, 2010