Generally speaking, “widespread support” is D.C. code for “loaded up with enough pork and welfare giveaways that a majority will hold their noses and vote for it.” Which is the basic story of the tax compromise:
Senators get their first chance Monday to vote on the tax-cut deal struck by President Barack Obama and Republicans in a test vote that is expected to get widespread support. . . .
The No. 2 Senate Democrat, Dick Durbin of Illinois, said a “good cross-section” of senators in his party are ready to accept the deal.
Monday’s vote is expected to lead to passage in the Senate Tuesday or Wednesday. The bill would then go to the House.
The legislation would avert a Jan. 1 increase in income taxes for nearly all Americans, including middle and high earners. The package also would renew a program of jobless benefits for the long-term unemployed and put in place a one-year cut in Social Security taxes.
“Everybody understands what it would mean for the economy if we don’t get this done,” Obama adviser David Axelrod said. . . .
While many House Democrats have criticized the tax deal, Axelrod said he didn’t foresee “major changes” being made by the House.
The road to Hell is paved with bipartisanship.
