June 8, 2010

Reid Spokesman: Republicans Push For $47 Billion Giveaway To Big Oil, Protecting Yet Another Special Interest Over The Middle Class

Washington, DC— Jim Manley, spokesman for Nevada Senator Harry Reid, released the following statement today  regarding the Murkowski resolution of disapproval, which amounts to a Republican giveaway to big oil companies:

“Even with thousands of barrels of oil still gushing into the Gulf, Republicans are trying to hand a $47 billion giveaway to big oil companies later this week.

“This giveaway, otherwise known as the Murkowski disapproval resolution, is backed by oil company lobbyists because it would increase the nation’s consumption of oil by at least 455 million barrels, and probably waste several billion more. This latest attempt by Republicans to protect big oil companies comes after they repeatedly blocked Democrats’ attempts to hold BP fully accountable for its negligence by increasing the grossly insufficient $75 million oil spill liability cap.

“With Republicans standing up for Wall Street, health insurance companies and now big oil companies, this begs the question – is there any special interest Republicans will not protect?”

June 8, 2010

Schumer, Merkley Discuss How Democrats Are Working To Close Outsourcing Loopholes, Cut Taxes And Create Jobs

Washington, DC— Senate Democratic Conference Vice Chairman Chuck Schumer and Senator Jeff Merkley held a press conference this morning to discuss Democratic efforts to close outsourcing loopholes, cut middle-class taxes and create new jobs.  Some of the same Republicans who voted to pass tax cuts for CEOs who ship American jobs overseas are now threatening to block this bill that would create jobs and protect the middle class.  Democrats are calling on Republicans to support this bill and stop putting the interests of big corporations over those of middle-class families and small businesses.

“We are keeping our eye on the ball by keeping jobs number one on the agenda,” said Senator Schumer.  “This legislation will improve the jobs picture by stopping outsourcing and providing critical support to small businesses. We are trading offshoring for shoring up of U.S. jobs.”

“We should be doing everything we can to create new jobs here in America, not subsidizing the outsourcing of jobs abroad,” said Senator Merkley.  “Multinational corporations use legions of lawyers to avoid paying taxes altogether.  This bill will close egregious loopholes and at the same time help businesses that create jobs here in America.”

June 8, 2010

Reid Statement On Nomination Of General James Clapper For Director Of National Intelligence

Washington, DC—Nevada Senator Harry Reid released the following statement today in reaction to the recent nomination of General James Clapper for Director of National Intelligence:

“The next Director of National Intelligence (DNI) will inherit a tremendous set of challenges. We will ask him to continue the reform of our Intelligence community undertaken in the wake of the 9/11 attacks – streamlining, integrating and directing the 16 disparate elements of the Intelligence community.  We will ask him to coordinate and strike a sound balance between often competing interests of our military and civilian intelligence programs.  Most importantly, we will ask him to ensure that policymakers receive the timely, relevant and precise intelligence we need to keep our nation safe.

“A strong DNI who has the confidence of the President, the trust of the Congress and the necessary influence over the entire Intelligence community is critical to our national security.  With his distinguished record of service, it is clear why General James Clapper has been nominated by President Obama to meet these challenges.  During his four decades of public service, he has earned a reputation for sound judgment, strong leadership and close familiarity with the work of our 16 intelligence agencies.  I am pleased that General Clapper has stated his intention to work closely with the Congress if confirmed.  Fulfilling that commitment will be critical if he is to achieve the results and reform our national security demands.

“The next step in this process is for the Senate Intelligence Committee to conduct a thorough examination of General Clapper’s record and obtain his views on important issues, including conducting a hearing.  Chairman Feinstein has indicated she intends to do just that and I look forward to learning the Committee’s views on this critical nomination.”