Republican Representative Aaron Schock on Tax Cuts and Deficit Reduction

Strategic Insights -

Representative Aaron Schock (R-IL) appeared on CNN's "The Situation Room" interview with Wolf Blitzer on November 11, 2010, to discuss tax cuts and deficit reduction. Schock stressed the importance of extending the Bush-era tax cuts for the middle class and expressed his willingness to negotiate with the president on the issue. He also highlighted the growing influence of the Tea Party movement, emphasizing the need to address spending and debt.

Key Takeaways:

  • Representative Aaron Schock expressed his support for extending the Bush-era tax cuts for the middle class, stating that he would vote yes on a two-year extension.
  • Schock noted that 38 House Democrats had publicly stated their intention to break with Speaker Pelosi and support the Republican alternative, which would extend the tax cuts at all current rates.
  • The representative emphasized that small-business owners, who are often classified as top-income earners, are crucial to the recovery and should not be subject to tax increases.
  • Schock indicated that he would be willing to negotiate with the president on the issue, but expressed concern about raising taxes on any Americans.
  • The Tea Party movement's focus on spending and debt was highlighted by Schock, who agreed with their concerns and acknowledged the need to address these issues in the next Congress.
  • Schock anticipated that the new Congress, which will include over 90 new members, will be more committed to stopping income tax increases.

Statistics:

  • 38 House Democrats publicly stated their intention to break with Speaker Pelosi and support the Republican alternative to extend tax cuts at all current rates.
  • 40 House Democrats would be required to buck the current speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi, to pass a tax cut extension.
  • Over 90 new congressmen will be showing up in Washington, D.C. for their freshmen orientation in the new Congress.

Sources:

  • CNN's "The Situation Room" transcript, November 11, 2010
  • Federal News Service, Inc. (2010)