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Dec 30, 2010

'The most productive post-election period in decades'

WASHINGTON -- As 2010 comes to a close, so does the most productive post-election period America has seen in decades. The past several weeks have shown that Washington is not doomed to perpetual gridlock.

President Obama and congressional leaders joined together and took vital steps to boost economic recovery and increase America’s national security, making progress on several important issues. Much of this progress was in spite of obstructionism by Arizona Sens. Jon Kyl and John McCain:

New START Treaty: The Senate ratified the most important arms control agreement in almost two decades – in a bipartisan vote.  In so doing, they demonstrated America’s leadership on non-proliferation issues, reinforced America’s relationship with a key ally, and made America safer.

Repeal of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell': President Obama and congressional leaders brought an end to the longstanding injustice created by ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.’  Ending this outdated policy was the right thing to do for America’s military and for America as a whole, upholding the ideal that all men and women are created equal.

Middle-class tax cuts and unemployment insurance: The president and Congress passed a package of middle-class tax cuts and unemployment insurance that will create jobs, support businesses, and boost growth. While the president and Democrats were not happy about the GOP's push to extend tax cuts for the rich, the overall bipartisan agreement was cited by economists from both sides of the aisle as good for America.

Food safety bill: President Obama and congressional leaders undertook the biggest upgrade of America’s food safety standards since the 1930s.

9/11 health bill: Despite puzzling opposition from many Republicans, this important measure was passed to cover the health care costs of first responders who ran into the World Trade Center and inhaled toxic air during the rescue effort.

"While it's deeply disappointing that the Senate didn’t pass the DREAM Act during this session, we applaud the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives for its vision and commitment in voting for passage," said Luis Heredia, Arizona Democratic Party executive director.

"The president and congressional Democrats have made it clear they are fighting for the middle class and strengthening the economy," Heredia said. "In 2011, we'll be watching incoming Republicans like Schweikert, Quayle and Gosar to see who they are fighting for."

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