THIS WEEK, DEMOCRATS WILL WIN THE FUNDS FOR A BETTER AMERICA

Daily Action
Written By Barbara Isaacman

The goals of Republicans and Democrats are revealed in the weekend fight over drug prices and climate.

QUICK READ:  In today’s 50-50 Senate, where 60 votes control almost everything, the rules allow for only one shot at reconciliation which can pass with a simple majority. Republicans have blocked every helpful bill to come out of the House, but they couldn’t stop this one. The House and the President still need to sign off, which is expected by the weekend. This legislation shows that Democrats work for the people. 

CONTENT

BACKGROUND

Senate Democrats have passed a historic $740 billion funding bill. Yes, the House and the President still need to sign on, possibly by the weekend. But the effort demonstrates that the government has a role in promoting growth and guiding industrial policy.

The largest component targets climate and energy. The investments will change the energy source in America and shape climate policy. Billions will go for:

  • Expansion of wind and solar power, tripling clean power production.

  • $15 billion to oil companies to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. 

  • $4 billion to help address climate disasters.

This bill also includes:

  • An increase in the IRS budget to step up enforcement efforts.

  • Expanding Obamacare subsidies through the 2024 election.

  • Allowing Medicare to negotiate the price on certain prescription drugs.

  • Imposition of a $1500 fee per ton of methane emissions.

  • A 15% minimum tax on large corporations.

  • And much more.

Currently, the measure pays for itself by tightening the enforcement of taxes for corporations and the wealthy.

This bill vividly shows the difference between Republicans and Democrats. Republicans scream about imagined threats and deny voting rights to millions only so they can control the government. Democrats provide real solutions for citizens suffering real problems. 

ACTION One: Call the Senate.

Script for Oregon Senators

SEN. MERKLEY: Portland office: 503-326-3386 | D.C. office: 202-224-3753

My name is [--] and I'm a constituent from [city], Oregon [zip code].

Your job now is to sell the reconciliation package to America. Please talk about how this bill will help all Americans, also mentioning that a Republican budget would look like a gift to business and the rich. Demonstrating the stark difference between the parties is a message that is essential for the coming election.

SEN. WYDEN:

Portland office: 503-326-7525 | D.C. office: 202-224-5244

My name is [–] and I’m a constituent from [city], Oregon [zip code].

Your job now is to sell the reconciliation package to America. Please talk about how this bill will help all Americans, also mentioning that a Republican budget would look like a gift to business and the rich. Demonstrating the stark difference between the parties is a message that is essential for the coming election.

Script for Republican Senators

D.C switchboard: 202-224-3121

My name is [–] and I’m a constituent from [city], [state], [zip code].

Go your own way and support the reconciliation bill. It will help many of your constituents.

ACTION TWO: Call the House.

Script for Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01)

Oregon office: 503-469-6010 | DC office: 202-225-0855

My name is [–] and I’m a constituent from [city], Oregon [zip code].

Your job now is to sell the reconciliation package to America. Please talk about how this bill will help all Americans, also mentioning that a Republican budget would look like a gift to business and the rich. Demonstrating the stark difference between the parties is a message that is essential for the coming election.

Script for Cliff Bentz (OR-02)

Medford office: 541-776-4646 | DC office: 202-225-6730

My name is [–] and I’m a constituent from [city], Oregon [zip code].

Go your own way and support the reconciliation bill. It will help many of your constituents.

Script for Earl Blumenauer (OR-03)

Oregon office: 503-231-2300 | DC office: 202-225-4811

My name is [–] and I’m a constituent from [city], Oregon [zip code].

Your job now is to sell the reconciliation package to America. Please talk about how this bill will help all Americans, also mentioning that a Republican budget would look like a gift to business and the rich. Demonstrating the stark difference between the parties is a message that is essential for the coming election.

Script for Peter DeFazio (OR-04)

Eugene office: 541-465-6732 | DC office: 202-225-6416

My name is [–] and I’m a constituent from [city], Oregon [zip code].

Your job now is to sell the reconciliation package to America. Please talk about how this bill will help all Americans, also mentioning that a Republican budget would look like a gift to business and the rich. Demonstrating the stark difference between the parties is a message that is essential for the coming election.

Script for Kurt Schrader (OR-05)

Salem office: 503-588-9100 | DC office: 202-225-5711

My name is [–] and I’m a constituent from [city], Oregon [zip code].

Your job now is to sell the reconciliation package to America. Please talk about how this bill will help all Americans, also mentioning that a Republican budget would look like a gift to business and the rich. Demonstrating the stark difference between the parties is a message that is essential for the coming election.

ACTION THREE: Good Trouble.

GOOD TROUBLE: Below are opportunities to fight for our democracy. As John Lewis said, go make some “good trouble.” 

FURTHER READING

Barbara Isaacman
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