Press Releases

Today, Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) released the following statement after voting for a tax cut package that will extend tax cuts for middle class Americans, help the unemployed, and extend a payroll tax holiday to spur job growth. 

“Our economy is still hurting. The Bush recession has lasted too long and too many folks are still struggling to make ends meet.

“I share the anger of people who are calling my office, upset with the President and the fact that he caved to the wealthiest Americans. But I can’t let that anger get in the way of what this tax cut deal can do to grow the economy, create jobs and help the folks in my district who need this help.

“Tonight, I put politics aside and voted to help grow the economy, create jobs and put money in the pockets of folks who need it to get by during these tough times.

“If this was a decision between voting for the extension of middle class tax cuts and stopping the extension of the high end cuts, that would also be an easy decision.  In fact, I have already taken that vote.

“Unfortunately, that was not the choice I faced with this tax cut package. I voted for this package because it included unemployment benefits for folks still looking for work, tax credits to help families afford skyrocketing tuition, and a payroll tax that will spur hiring and send workers home with a higher paycheck. 

“The Center for American Progress estimates that the job-creating elements of this package will create 2.2 million jobs on top of what the economy will produce in 2011. 

“I know many share my concerns about the impact this package has on the debt and deficits. I have consistently said the number one step to shrink the deficit and control the debt is to grow the economy. If our economy is growing, it increases our capability to shrink the deficit and control the debt.

“I was elected to look out for the middle class and help the economy grow and create jobs. This package has a lot to offer in that regard. So I am going to keep my commitment to growing the economy and the middle class in order to fight another day to get a more progressive tax structure.”

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