The issue of unemployment benefits was being filibustered by Republicans and was finally stopped on Tuesday. About 2 million Americans have run out of jobless benefits since legislation stalled at the end of May. 9.5 percent is where the U.S. unemployment rate has been for a when. There are five times more individuals looking for work than you will find available jobs. Longer unemployment benefits could stimulate the economy according Democrats. Individuals won’t look for jobs anymore according to Republicans.
Unemployment benefits escape Republican filibuster
60-40 was voted by Senate to stop the filibuster by Republicans on unemployment benefits. Carte Goodwin was sworn in as the West Virginia new Democratic senator and then the vote was taken. Instead of allowing final consideration, Republicans postponed the vote making Democrats angry, even after the vote had already gone through, reports the New York Times. Since Democrats didn’t lower the U.S. unemployment rate by creating new jobs, they had to extend unemployment benefits as outlined by Republicans.
Through November, unemployment benefits extend
Everyone who had their benefits expire will be covered by unemployment benefits through November. USA Today reports that the House could pass the bill Wednesday and send it to President Obama for signing. Republicans want to help lower unemployment rates but think the $ 33.9 billion bill shouldn’t be placed into action unless the spending budget can be balanced still with cuts elsewhere. Obama said on Monday that Republicans put spending “on the backs of the unemployed” while not cutting taxes for the wealthy.
Unemployment benefits and economic recovery
The economy will be helped by the average $ 310 a week given in jobless benefits, according to the Congressional Budget Office. Basic needs like gas, food, and rent, are what unemployed benefits end up going to. $ 1 spent on benefits puts 70 cents into $ 1.90 growth, reports the CBO.
Vote on unemployment makes political divide worse
Obama’s personal involvement in passing the unemployment extension has further hardened Republican opposition to virtually any attempt to govern the country. It would be impossible for Obama to pass other things before November elections after Tuesday’s vote which made political divisions stronger than ever, reports the Los Angeles Times. Democrats still want to promote job creation.
Unemployed Americans being messed with because of politics
Democrats are hoping job creation and economic recovery is right around the corner with November elections nearing. Republicans are hoping to regain control of Congress with Democratic achievements so low right now.
More details on this topic
New York Times
nytimes.com/2010/07/21/us/politics/21jobs.html?ref=us
USA Today
usatoday.com/money/economy/employment/2010-07-21-1Ajobless21_ST_N.htm
Los Angeles Times
articles.latimes.com/2010/jul/20/nation/la-na-jobless-20100721
