BACKGROUND ON RAHM’S 128 VOTES - Chicago Tribune



BACKGROUND ON RAHM’S 128 VOTES

As a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, Rahm Emanuel voted 128 times against a majority of the ethnic minority members of the Congressional delegation from Chicago. The following are highlights culled from those votes, showing how Mr. Emanuel consistently opposed the efforts of the Congressional Black Caucus in particular. The accompanying spreadsheet lists all 128 of Mr. Emanuel’s votes against the Chicago minority delegation, with links to bill descriptions.

Against Black Caucus FY2004 Budget Substitute

On Mar. 20, 2003, the House REJECTED (85-340) the Black Caucus/Progressive Caucus alternative to the Fiscal 2004 Federal Budget Resolution, H.Con.Res 95. The alternative would have provided a balanced budget by fiscal 2008, repealed tax cuts for high income individuals, and called for additional tax breaks for low income families. It also would have provided additional funding for education, health care, child care, and housing. (Roll Call #80, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2003, pg. H-30, H-31)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: AYE

Against Black Caucus FY2005 Budget Substitute

On Mar. 25, 2004, the House REJECTED (119-302) the Congressional Black Caucus substitute to H. Con. Res. 393, the FY2005 Federal Budget Resolution. The substitute budget called for $43.3 billion in additional spending and $5 billion for deficit reduction in 2005. It called for rescinding tax cuts for individuals making more than $200,000 in gross income, closing several tax loopholes and reducing funding for the ballistic missile defense program. Spending increases included $30.5 billion more for non-defense programs and additional $12.8 billion for defense, homeland security and veterans’ programs. (Roll Call #88, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2004, pg. H-32)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: AYE

Against Black Caucus FY2008 Budget Substitute

On Mar. 29, 2007, the House REJECTED (115-312) the Congressional Black Caucus Substitute to H.Con.Res. 99, the FY2008 Federal Budget Resolution. The measure would have balanced the budget and achieved a surplus in fiscal 2012. It assumed a repeal of tax benefits for the top two income brackets as well as for dividends and capital gains. (Roll Call #209, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2007, pg. H-72)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: AYE

Against Progressive Caucus FY2008 Budget Substitute

On Mar. 29, 2007, the House REJECTED (81-340) the Congressional Progressive Caucus Substitute to H.Con.Res. 99, the FY2008 Federal Budget Resolution. The alternative budget would have set non-defense, domestic discretionary spending at $483 billion for fiscal 2008. It would have achieved a $22.7 billion surplus by fiscal 2010 from a repeal of the 2001 and 2003 tax cuts for the top 1 percent of U.S. households and the elimination of certain corporate tax provisions. It would have assumed that veterans’ health care would become a mandatory spending program and that the amount available in fiscal 2008 would be 130 percent of the fiscal 2005 level. (Roll Call #210, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2007, pg. H-74)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: AYE

Against Progressive Caucus FY2009 Budget Substitute

On Mar. 13, 2008, the House REJECTED (98-322) the Congressional Progressive Caucus Substitute to H. Con. Res. 312, the FY2009 Federal Budget Resolution. The substitute would have set non-defense discretionary spending at $551.7 billion for fiscal 2009, and would have projected surpluses in fiscal 2012 and 2018. It assumed a redeployment of U.S. military personnel and contractors from Iraq by Sept. 30, 2009, and an extension of tax credits for investment in renewable and alternative energy. It assumed a repeal of the 2001 and 2003 tax cuts for the top 1 percent of U.S. households and the elimination of certain corporate tax provisions. It also called for increased funding for transportation, global warming efforts, education, housing, health care and job training. (Roll Call #138, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2008, pg. H-44)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: NO VOTE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: AYE

Against Increased Child Care Funding

On Feb. 13, 2003, the House REJECTED (124-300) the Kucinich amendment to H.R. 4, the Welfare Reauthorization bill. The amendment would have continued then-current provisions requiring welfare recipients to work 30 hours per week and requiring states to have at least half of the families in their caseloads working. It also would have allowed legal immigrants to receive assistance, given states a poverty reduction bonus, provided annual funding increases for inflation, and increased mandatory child care funding to $20 billion over five years. (Roll Call #27, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2003, pg. H-14, H-15)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: AYE

Against Increased Funding for Minority Health Research

On Sep. 8, 2004, the House REJECTED (112-305) the Jackson-Lee amendment to H.R. 5006, the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for 2005. The amendment would have increased funding for the National Center for Health Statistics surveys and the National Center on Minority Health and Health Disparities. NCMHD conducts research to reduce and eliminate “the profound disparity in health status of America’s racial and ethnic minorities.” (Roll Call #425; Thomas, H.AMDT.719; NCMHD website, accessed Jan. 14, 2010)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: AYE

Against African Agricultural Aid

On Jul. 15, 2004, the House REJECTED (164-243) the Jackson-Lee amendment to H.R. 4818, the Consolidated Appropriations Act for 2005. The amendment would have required at least $5 million in agricultural development funds for sub-Saharan Africa be made available for small-scale irrigation, water and drainage, post-harvest storage, crop intensification, crop and livestock diversification and rural infrastructure. (Roll Call #388, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2004, pg. H-128, H-129)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: AYE

For Free Trade Agreement with Singapore

On Jul. 24, 2003, the House PASSED (272-155) H.R. 2739, which implemented a trade agreement between the United States and Singapore. The trade pact reduced duties and tariffs on agricultural and textile products and opened markets for services. Under the trade agreement, certain goods made by Singapore companies in other countries would be treated as though they had been made in Singapore. The bill also included language allowing professionals from Singapore to get temporary visas to the United States that could be renewed annually even when there was no shortage of Americans to fill the jobs they held. At the time, Singapore was America's 12th-largest trading partner, with two-way trade nearing $40 billion in 2002. A “yes” vote was in support of President George W. Bush’s position. (Roll Call #432, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2003, pg. H-132, H-133; Austin American-Statesman, Jul. 25, 2003; AP, Jul. 25, 2003)

Rahm Emanuel: AYE

Bobby Rush: NAY

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: NAY

Danny Davis: NAY

Bush: Free Trade Fundamental to Economy

ANNOUNCING THE SINGAPORE TRADE AGREEMENT, PRESIDENT GEORGE W. BUSH SAID, “IN SUM, FREE TRADE IS A FUNDAMENTAL SOURCE OF AMERICA'S ECONOMIC VITALITY. THIS AGREEMENT WILL BENEFIT THE U.S. ECONOMY THROUGH BOTH HIGHER-PAYING JOBS CREATED BY EXPORTS AND LOWER PRICES PAID BY CONSUMERS. IT WILL STRENGTHEN U.S. TIES WITH A VALUED ECONOMIC PARTNER AND PROMOTE AMERICA'S POLITICAL AND SECURITY INTERESTS IN AN IMPORTANT REGION.” (WHITE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE, JAN. 29, 2003)

For Free Trade Agreement with Chile

On Jul. 24, 2003, the House PASSED (270-156) H.R. 2738, which implemented a trade agreement between the United States and Chile. The trade pact reduced duties and tariffs on agricultural and textile products and opened markets for services. The bill included language allowing professionals from Chile to get temporary visas to the United States that could be renewed annually even when there was no shortage of Americans to fill the jobs they held. A “yes” vote was in support of President George W. Bush’s position. (Roll Call #436, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2003, pg. H-132, H-133; AP, Jul. 25, 2003)

Rahm Emanuel: AYE

Bobby Rush: NAY

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: NAY

Danny Davis: NAY

Critics: Agreement Was “Omen for More Job Losses”

CRITICS OF LABOR STANDARDS PROVISIONS IN THE AGREEMENT SAID THAT IT SET “A HORRIBLE PRECEDENT FOR FUTURE TRADE NEGOTIATIONS AND WILL BE AN OMEN FOR EVEN MORE JOB LOSSES.” (AP, JUL. 25, 2003)

For Free Trade Agreement with Morocco

On Jul. 22, 2004, the House PASSED (323-99) H.R. 4842, which implemented a trade agreement between the U.S. and Morocco. Under the agreement, more than 95 percent of consumer and industrial products would become duty-free immediately, and other tariffs would end within nine years. The agreement expected to double trade between the two countries, which amounted to $860 million in 2003. A “yea” vote was in support of President George W. Bush’s position. (Roll Call #413, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2004, pg. H-134, H-135; AP, Jul. 22, 2004)

Rahm Emanuel: AYE

Bobby Rush: NAY

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: NAY

Danny Davis: NAY

Dems: Agreement would Stifle Jobs Growth

Opposition to the Moroccan trade agreement was led by Democrats whose states had been hit hard by foreign competition. "These trade agreements aren't translating into more jobs, and people at home know that," said Rep. Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio. (AP, Jul. 22, 2004)

For Free Trade Agreement with Peru

On Nov. 8, 2007, the House PASSED (285-132) H.R. 3688, the United States-Peru Trade Promotion Agreement Implementation Act. The bill implemented a free trade agreement between the United States and Peru. The agreement reduced most tariffs and duties on goods traded between the two countries, increased protections for intellectual property and required Peru to take steps to strengthen its labor and environmental enforcement standards. A “yea” vote was in support of President George W. Bush’s position. (Roll Call #1060, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2007, pg. H-338)

Rahm Emanuel: AYE

Bobby Rush: NAY

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: NAY

Danny Davis: NAY

Watchdog Group Said Agreement Lacked Protections

Consumer watchdog group Public Citizen said that despite the gesture toward labor and environmental rights, the trade agreement with Peru did not address problems with foreign investor privileges, incentives for U.S. companies to outsource or issues of food import safety. The group also said a surge in American agriculture exports to Peru could displace tens of thousands of poor Peruvian farmers, forcing them into drug production, paramilitary groups or flight to the United States. (AP, Nov. 9, 2007)

For Free Trade with Bahrain

On Dec. 7, 2005, the House PASSED (327-95) H.R. 4340, which implemented a free trade agreement between the United States and the Middle Eastern nation of Bahrain. The agreement eliminated tariffs on all U.S. manufactured goods sold to Bahrain and removed Bahrain's import duties on over 80 percent of U.S. agricultural products. The pact also reduced trade barriers in services. Under the agreement, Bahrain would provide duty-free access for agricultural exports in 98 percent of agricultural tariff lines. In 2003 the United States exported $509 million in aircraft, vehicles, pharmaceuticals and other goods to Bahrain and imported $378 million from the island. A “yes” vote was in support of President George W. Bush’s position. (Roll Call #616; Thomas, H.R. 4340; UPI, Dec. 8, 2005; AP, Dec. 7, 2005)

Rahm Emanuel: AYE

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: NAY

Danny Davis: NAY

Critics: Agreement was “Business as Usual”

Rep. Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio, said the Bahrain trade pact was "more business as usual" citing its environmental and labor standards. "You'd think USTR and the administration would be taking a tough stand against these abuses, but they've said little and done less over the past five years," said Brown. "The template is always the same, the Bush administration hasn't changed a thing. Every free trade agreement we've voted on since Jordan has been a step back." (UPI, Dec. 8, 2005)

For Granting Permanent Normal Trade Status to Vietnam

On Nov. 13, 2006, the House REJECTED (228-161) a motion to suspend the rules and pass H.R. 5602, which would have extended permanent normalized trade relations between the United States and Vietnam and made it easier for Vietnam to join the World Trade Organization. Democrats criticized the bill’s consideration without committee hearings. A “yes” vote was a vote in support of President George W. Bush’s position. A two-thirds majority was required for passage. (Roll Call #519, H.R. 5602, ; Washington Post, Nov. 14, 2006)

Rahm Emanuel: AYE

Bobby Rush: NO VOTE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: NAY

Danny Davis: NAY

Teamsters Called Bill “Shameful”

TEAMSTERS UNION LEADERS SAID THE BILL WOULD “ONLY BENEFIT THE MULTINATIONAL COMPANIES WHOM OFFSHORE THERE IN ORDER TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE DISMAL LABOR CONDITIONS AND LOW PAY THAT EXISTS IN VIETNAM. IT IS SHAMEFUL THAT SOME MEMBERS OF CONGRESS SEE A BENEFIT IN THIS.” (TEAMSTERS PRESS RELEASE, NOV. 14, 2006)

Against Early Withdrawal from Iraq in 2005

On Jul. 20, 2005, the House PASSED (291-137) the Ros-Lehtinen amendment to H.R. 2601, the Foreign Relations Authorization Act for Fiscal Years 2006 and 2007. The amendment stated that it would be U.S. policy not to withdraw U.S. forces prematurely from Iraq, but to do so only when it was clear that U.S. national security and foreign policy goals relating to a free and stable Iraq were achieved. Democrats said the proposal was aimed mainly at putting critics of the war, and those seeking an exit strategy, in a bad light. (Roll Call #397, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2005, pg. H-122; AP, Jul. 21, 2005)

Rahm Emanuel: AYE

Bobby Rush: NAY

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: NAY

Danny Davis: NAY

For Iraq War Funding without Withdrawal Timeline in 2007

On May 24, 2007, the House PASSED (280-142) the Obey motion to concur in the Senate amendment to H.R. 2206, with an amendment that appropriated $97.8 billion in fiscal 2007 emergency spending, including $87 billion for military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. It established 18 “benchmarks” for the Iraqi government and required the president to report on progress toward meeting the benchmarks. However, in addition to jettisoning a plan for a troop withdrawal timeline, the amendment abandoned attempts to require the Pentagon to adhere to troop training, readiness and rest requirements unless President Bush waived them. (Roll Call #425, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2007, pg. H-140; AP, May 25, 2007)

Rahm Emanuel: AYE

Bobby Rush: NAY

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: NAY

Danny Davis: NAY

Against Investigating Cheney’s Knowledge of Iraqi WMDs

On Jun. 26, 2003, the House REJECTED (76-347) the Kucinich amendment to H.R. 2417, Intelligence Authorization Act for FY2004. The amendment would have required an audit of all telephone and electronic communications from Sept. 11, 2001, to the start of the war in Iraq between the CIA and the office of Vice President Dick Cheney on the topic of Iraqi weapons of mass destruction. (Roll Call #319, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call, 2003, pg. H-102, H-103)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: AYE

Against Resolution to Impeach Cheney for Lying about WMDs

On Nov. 6, 2007, the House REJECTED (162-251) a motion to table H. Res. 799, which would have brought articles of impeachment against Vice President Dick Cheney for high crimes and misdemeanors. The resolution charged that Mr. Cheney "purposely manipulated the intelligence process to deceive the citizens and Congress of the United States by fabricating the threat of Iraqi weapons of mass destruction to justify the use of U.S. Armed Forces against the nation of Iraq in a manner damaging to our national security interests." The motion to table failed after a majority of Republicans voted in favor of it in an effort to debate the issue and portray anti-war Democrats as radical. (Roll Call #1037, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2007, pg. H-330; McClatchy News, Nov. 7, 2007)

Rahm Emanuel: AYE

Bobby Rush: NAY

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: NAY

Danny Davis: NAY

For Affirming U.S. is “Safer” with Removal of Saddam

On Mar. 17, 2004, the House ADOPTED (327-93) H. Res. 557, which affirmed that the United States and the world are safer with the removal of Saddam Hussein and his regime from power in Iraq. It also commended U.S. and coalition forces for liberating Iraq and commend the Iraqi people on the adoption of Iraq’s new interim constitution. (Roll Call #64, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2004, pg. H-24, H-25)

Rahm Emanuel: AYE

Bobby Rush: NAY

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: NAY

Danny Davis: NAY

For Spending $400 Billion on Defense in 2004

On May 22, 2003, the House PASSED (361-68) HR 1588, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2004, which:

• Authorized $400.5 billion for defense programs for FY2004, an increase of 4.7 percent over FY2003

• Authorized research funding for new types of nuclear weapons

• Gave the Pentagon more flexibility to hire, transfer and promote civilian employees

• Made it easier for military bases to circumvent the Endangered Species Act and other environmental laws

• Allowed the Pentagon to award fewer contracts through open bidding process (Roll Call #221, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2003, pg. H-74, H-75)

Rahm Emanuel: AYE

Bobby Rush: NAY

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: NAY

Danny Davis: NAY

Dems Opposed Nukes, Environmental & Labor Provisions

THERE WAS STRONG OPPOSITION, MAINLY FROM DEMOCRATS, AGAINST PLANS TO START RESEARCH INTO "LOW-YIELD" NUCLEAR WEAPONS AND PROVISIONS MAKING IT EASIER FOR MILITARY BASES TO CIRCUMVENT THE ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT. HOUSE DEMOCRATS ALSO OPPOSED THE PROVISION GIVING PENTAGON MANAGERS MORE FLEXIBILITY TO HIRE, TRANSFER AND PROMOTE CIVILIAN EMPLOYEES AND CRITICIZED GOP LEADERS FOR NOT ALLOWING THEM TO OFFER A "BILL OF RIGHTS" AMENDMENT GUARANTEEING THAT CIVILIANS WOULD NOT FACE FAVORITISM OR LOSE COLLECTIVE BARGAINING RIGHTS. (AP, MAY 23, 2003)

For $87 Billion in Supplemental War Spending in 2004

On Oct. 17, 2003, the House PASSED (303-125) H.R. 3289, the Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act for Defense and for the Reconstruction of Iraq and Afghanistan for 2004. The bill appropriated $87 billion in fiscal 2004 supplemental spending for military operations and reconstruction in Iraq and Afghanistan. The bill provided $18.6 billion in grants for Iraqi reconstruction, $39.9 billion for operations and maintenance, $339 million for procurement, and $412 million for military construction. (Roll Call #562, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2003, pg. H-170, H-171)

Rahm Emanuel: AYE

Bobby Rush: NAY

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: NAY

Danny Davis: NAY

For $491 Billion in Defense/War Funding in 2006

On May 25, 2005, the House PASSED (390-39) H.R. 1815, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2006. The bill authorized the Bush administration to spend $491 billion for defense in FY2006, including $49 billion to support operations in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and to fight terrorism, $3.4 billion for the Army's next generation of combat vehicles and weapons systems, and $7.9 billion for ballistic missile defense. The bill also allowed the Army to increase its ranks by 10,000 and the Marine Corps to grow by 1,000. (Roll Call #222, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2005, pg. H-72; AP, May 26, 2005)

Rahm Emanuel: AYE

Bobby Rush: NAY

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: NAY

Danny Davis: NAY

For Spending $164 Billion on Wars in 2008-09

On Jun. 19, 2008, the House PASSED (268-155) a motion to concur in the Senate amendment to the House amendment to H.R. 2642, which appropriated $165.4 billion for the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan — $99.5 billion for military operations for fiscal 2008 and $65.9 billion for fiscal 2009. A “yea” was a vote in support of President George Bush’s position. (Roll Call #431, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2008, pg. H-144)

Rahm Emanuel: AYE

Bobby Rush: NO VOTE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: NAY

Danny Davis: NAY

Against Restricting Military Action against Iran in 2006

On Jun. 20, 2006, the House REJECTED (158-262) the Hinchey amendment to H.R. 5631, the Department of Defense Appropriations Act for 2007. The amendment would have prohibited any of the funds made available by the bill from being used to initiate military operations against Iran except those approved by Congress. (Roll Call #300; Thomas, H.AMDT.1072)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: AYE

…And Again in 2007

ON MAY 16, 2007, THE HOUSE REJECTED (136-288) THE DEFAZIO AMENDMENT TO H.R. 1585, THE NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2008. THE AMENDMENT WOULD HAVE CLARIFIED THAT NO PREVIOUSLY ENACTED LAW AUTHORIZES MILITARY ACTION AGAINST IRAN. IT WOULD HAVE PROHIBITED THE USE OF FUNDS AUTHORIZED IN THE BILL OR IN ANY OTHER ACT TO TAKE MILITARY ACTION AGAINST IRAN WITHOUT SPECIFIC CONGRESSIONAL AUTHORIZATION UNLESS THERE IS A NATIONAL EMERGENCY CREATED BY AN ATTACK BY IRAN ON THE UNITED STATES, ITS TERRITORIES OR POSSESSIONS OR ITS ARMED FORCES. (ROLL CALL #365, CQ PRESS, CONGRESSIONAL ROLL CALL 2007, PG. H-120; AP, MAY 17, 2007)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: AYE

Against Increased Funding for Nuclear Non-Proliferation

On Jun. 25, 2004, the House REJECTED (163-224) the Wilson amendment to H.R. 4614, the Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act for 2005. The amendment would have increased funding for defense-related nuclear non-proliferation programs by $5 million, to be offset by cuts in administrative funds. (Roll Call #322, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2004, pg. H-108, H-109)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: AYE

Against Treaty Banning Space-Based Weapons

On Jul. 20, 2005, the House REJECTED (124-302) the Kucinich amendment to H.R. 2601, the Foreign Relations Authorization Act for 2006 and 2007. The amendment required the president to direct the U.S. representatives to the United Nations to commence negotiations for an international treaty banning space-based weapons. (Roll Call #391; Thomas, H.AMDT.475)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: NO VOTE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: AYE

Against Reduced Missile Defense Funding in 2006…

On May 11, 2006, the House REJECTED (124-301) the Tierney amendment to H.R. 5122, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2007. The amendment would have instructed the Secretary of Defense not to deploy additional ground-based missile defense systems beyond existing systems in Alaska and California. It also would have halted deployment of space-based interceptors of intercontinental ballistic missiles, and would have reduced Missile Defense Agency funding by $4.747 billion. (Roll Call #142; Thomas, H.AMDT.819)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: AYE

...And Again in 2007

ON MAY 17, 2007, THE HOUSE REJECTED (127-299) THE TIERNEY AMENDMENT TO H.R. 1585, THE NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2008. THE AMENDMENT WOULD HAVE REDUCED THE BILL’S AUTHORIZATION FOR MISSILE DEFENSE AGENCY ACTIVITIES BY $1 BILLION. (ROLL CALL #367, CQ PRESS, CONGRESSIONAL ROLL CALL 2007, PG. H-122)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: AYE

Against Reviewing Need for Cold War Defense Programs

On May 16, 2007, the House REJECTED (119-303) the Woolsey amendment to H.R. 1585, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008. The amendment would have required the Defense Department to issue a report on the continued use, need, relevance, and cost of weapons systems designed to fight the Cold War and the former Soviet Union. (Roll Call #366, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2007, pg. H-120)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: AYE

Against Alternative Minimum Tax Freeze

On Dec. 19, 2007, the House PASSED (352-64) the Rangel motion to suspend the rules and concur in the Senate amendment to H.R. 3996, which provided a one-year freeze on growth of the alternative minimum tax rate. It spared more than 20 million families from an average $2,000 tax increase. Opposition to the bill was led by Blue Dog Democrats who complained that the measure violated pay-as-you-go rules. A two-thirds majority was required for passage. A “yes” vote was a vote in support of President George W. Bush’s position. (Roll Call #1183, CQ Press Congressional Roll Call 2007, pg. H-378)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: AYE

Against Ban on Awarding Contracts to Tax Dodgers in 2005…

On Jun. 30, 2005, the House REJECTED (190-231) the DeLauro amendment to H.R. 3058, the Transportation, Treasury, HUD, Judiciary, District of Columbia and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act for 2006. The amendment would have prohibited the use of funds in the bill to carry out contracts with a U.S. company that is incorporated or chartered in Bermuda, Barbados, the Cayman Islands, Antigua or Panama for the purpose of avoiding U.S. taxes. (Roll Call #351, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2005, pg. H-108)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: AYE

…And Again in 2006

ON JUN. 14, 2006, THE HOUSE REJECTED (195-231) THE DELAURO AMENDMENT TO H.R. 5576, THE TRANSPORTATION, TREASURY, HUD, JUDICIARY, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS ACT FOR 2007. THE AMENDMENT WOULD HAVE PROHIBITED ANY FUNDS FROM BEING USED TO ENTER INTO CONTRACT WITH A CORPORATION CHARTERED IN BERMUDA, BARBADOS, THE CAYMAN ISLANDS, ANTIGUA, OR PANAMA. (ROLL CALL #275; THOMAS, H.AMDT.1031)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: AYE

Against Ending Fees for Using Federal Lands

On Jul. 17, 2003, the House REJECTED (184-241) the DeFazio amendment to H.R. 2691, the Interior Appropriations Act for FY2004. The amendment would have halted recreational fees charged by the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, but would have ensured the extension of National Park Service fees. Rep. DeFazio claimed that the fee program was "just not right. Half the tax is going to bureaucratic overhead, and we don't know where the other half is going because it is not being kept track of." (Roll Call #377, CQ Congressional Quarterly 2003, pg. H-118, H-119; States News Service, Jul. 17, 2003)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: AYE

Against Prohibiting Unfair Credit Card Interest Rate Hikes

On Sep. 10, 2003, the House REJECTED (142-272) the Sanders amendment to H.R. 2622, the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act of 2003. The amendment would have prohibited credit companies from increasing a promised or introductory interest rate because of negative information regarding other credit accounts found on an individual’s credit report. Credit companies would still be allowed to raise interest rates if the individual had been late by 60 or more days in making payments on other credit cards. (Roll Call #495; CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2003, pg. H-148)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: NO VOTE

For Barring States from Passing Tougher Credit Data Laws

On Nov. 21, 2003, the House PASSED (379-49) the Oxley motion to suspend the rules and adopt the conference report on H.R. 2622, the Fair and Accurate Transactions Act. The bill gave consumers new protections against identity theft, including free credit reports annually and a national fraud alert system to minimize damage once a theft has occurred. However, the measure blocked states from setting separate tougher rules on how businesses use, share and report credit data on consumers. (Roll Call #667, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2003, pg. H-202; AP, Nov. 21, 2003)

Rahm Emanuel: AYE

Bobby Rush: NAY

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: NAY

Danny Davis: NAY

Against Increasing Competition among Broadband Providers

On Jun. 8, 2006, the House PASSED (321-101) H.R. 5252, the Communications, Opportunity, Promotion, and Enhancement Act of 2006. The bill, strongly opposed by the cable TV industry, made it easier for telephone companies to compete head-to-head in the video content business with cable operators. "The requirement to negotiate…local franchises, and the patchwork of obligations local franchising authorities impose, are hindering the deployment of advanced broadband networks that will bring increasingly innovative and competitive services to all of our constituents," said Rep. Joe Barton, R-Texas, the bill's sponsor. (Roll Call #241; Congressional Quarterly Weekly, Jun. 8, 2006)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: AYE

Against Restricting Media Monopolies

On Jul. 22, 2003, the House REJECTED (174-254) the Hinchey amendment to H.R. 2799, the FY2004 appropriations act for the Departments of Commerce, Justice, State and Judiciary. The amendment was designed to block a Federal Communications Commission decision supported by the Bush administration that expanded the number of television stations companies could own. It would have prohibited the use of funds to grant a radio or television broadcast station license if the owner also operated a daily newspaper in the same region. It also would have blocked the use of funds, in most cases, to grant a license that would result in a party controlling two television stations in the same market. (Roll Call #407, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2003, pg. H-126, H-127; AP, Jul. 22, 2003)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: AYE

Against Allowing Sellers of “Downed” Animal Meat to be Sued

On Mar. 10, 2004, the House REJECTED (141-276) the Ackerman amendment to H.R. 339, the Personal Responsibility in Food Consumption Act, which protected food manufacturers from lawsuits alleging that their products caused obesity. The amendment would have excluded from protection any business that sells meat from “downed” animals for human consumption; downed animals are those “that, at the point of examination and inspection are unable to stand or walk unassisted.” Because of mad cow disease, the slaughter of downed cattle has been hotly debated in recent years. (Roll Call #51; Thomas, H.AMDT.474; American Health Line, Mar. 11, 2004)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: NO VOTE

Against Diverting Oil Reserves to Hold Down Gas Prices

On May 24, 2005, the House REJECTED (174-253) the Stupak amendment to H.R. 2419, the Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act for 2006. The amendment would have barred the use of funds in the bill to accept oil deliveries to the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. Rep. Stupak said the oil supplies were needed to help moderate high gasoline prices. (Roll Call #209, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2005, pg. H-68; Environment and Energy Daily, May 25, 2005)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: AYE

For Making USA Patriot Act Permanent

On Dec. 14, 2005, the House ADOPTED (251-174) the conference report on H.R. 3199, which made permanent 14 of 16 provisions in the USA Patriot Act that were set to expire at the end of 2005. It also extended for four years two controversial provisions, one that allowed investigators to look at people's library and Internet usage and business, financial and medical records and apply a gag order to those served with search warrants; and another to permit so-called roving wiretaps which follow surveillance targets. The bill also included additional judicial oversight and safeguards against abuse, but Democratic leaders said they did not go far enough. A “yes” was a vote in support of President George W. Bush’s position. (Roll Call #627, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call, pg. H-200; San Francisco Chronicle, Dec. 15, 2005)

Rahm Emanuel: AYE

Bobby Rush: NAY

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: NAY

Danny Davis: NAY

For Intelligence Bill without Surveillance Program Oversight

On Apr. 26, 2006, the House PASSED (327-96) H.R. 5020, the Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2007. The bill dramatically increased intelligence agency spending to more than $40 billion a year (estimated). Democrats expressed outrage that Republicans refused to allow any of their proposed amendments to be considered by the full House. One of the Democratic amendments would have required the National Intelligence Director to submit to Congress information about Americans who had been the subject of surveillance by the National Security Agency; a second stated that all such surveillance would comply with the Constitution; a third would have required the Intelligence Director’s office to provide the intelligence committees with classified updates on Iran's nuclear program every three months. (Roll Call #108; AP, Apr. 27, 2006)

Rahm Emanuel: AYE

Bobby Rush: NAY

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: NAY

Danny Davis: NAY

For Immunizing Telecoms that Provided Warrantless Wiretaps

On Jun. 20, 2008, the House PASSED (293-129) H.R. 6304, the FISA Amendments Act of 2008. The bill shield telecommunications companies from lawsuits arising from the federal government's eavesdropping on phone and computer lines without permission from the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court after the Sep. 11, 2001 attacks. Although the measure called for the Justice Department, Pentagon and intelligence agencies to investigate the wiretapping program, opponents said that nothing in the bill would prevent the government from once again wiretapping domestic phone and computer lines without court permission. A “yes” vote was a vote in support of President George W. Bush’s position. (Roll Call #437, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2008, pg. H-146; AP, Jun. 21, 2008)

Rahm Emanuel: AYE

Bobby Rush: NO VOTE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: NAY

Danny Davis: NAY

For Controversial Border Data Tracking System

On May 9, 2007, the House PASSED (264-160) the Dent motion to recommit H.R. 1684 to the Homeland Security Committee with instructions to report back with language that would allow the Homeland Security Department to authorize the Automated Targeting System to be deployed at the border. ATS scrutinizes a large volume of data related to every individual who crosses U.S. borders, and then automatically assigns a rating to gauge whether an individual may be placed within a risk group of terrorists or other criminals. Civil rights organizations and security experts have opposed ATS citing concerns about privacy, reliability and undue scrutiny. (Roll Call #317, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2007, pg. H-109; AP, May 10, 2007)

Rahm Emanuel: AYE

Bobby Rush: NAY

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: NAY

Danny Davis: NAY

For Gutting Eminent Domain Protection Bill

On Nov. 3, 2005, the House REJECTED (63-355) the Nadler amendment to H.R. 4128, the Private Property Rights Protection Act of 2005, which denied states and localities federal economic development grants for two years if they allowed eminent domain condemnations of private property for private redevelopment. The amendment would have removed the financial penalty provisions of the bill while giving affected property owners the right to sue to block condemnation. (Roll Call #564, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2005, pg. H-178; Bond Buyer, Nov. 4, 2005)

Rahm Emanuel: AYE

Bobby Rush: NAY

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: NAY

Danny Davis: NAY

For Pretrial Detention of Terrorists

On Oct. 8, 2004, the House PASSED (333-84) the Goodlatte amendment to H.R. 10, the 9/11 Recommendations Implementation Act. The amendment created a presumption of pretrial detention of a defendant charged with a terrorist offense if there is probable cause that the defendant committed a terrorist attack. It also gave judges the discretion to impose lifetime supervision of defendants who have been convicted of terrorist offenses. (Roll Call #515, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2004, pg. H-166, H-165)

Rahm Emanuel: AYE

Bobby Rush: NAY

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: NAY

Danny Davis: NAY

Against Allowing Teachers to Keep Spouses’ SS Benefits

On Apr. 2, 2003, the House PASSED (396-28) H.R. 743, which ended a provision in Social Security law that had allowed some teachers to keep their own state pensions and the full Social Security benefits of deceased spouses. The provision had allowed workers not covered by Social Security to easily switch to a job that was covered by the federal program before they retired in order to collect full spousal benefits. The measure primarily affected teachers in Texas. HR 743 also denied Social Security benefits to fugitive felons and to people who violated probation or parole. (Roll Call #102, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2003, pg. H-36, H-37; Houston Chronicle, Apr. 3, 2003)

Rahm Emanuel: AYE

Bobby Rush: NAY

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: NAY

Danny Davis: NAY

For Allowing the Military to Recruit on College Campuses

On Mar. 14, 2006, the House PASSED (347-65) H. Con. Res. 354, which expressed the “continued support of Congress for requiring an institution of higher education to provide military recruiters with access to the institution’s campus and students at least equal in quality and scope to that which is provided to any other employer in order to be eligible for the receipt of federal funds.” (Roll Call #39, H.Con.Res 354, )

Rahm Emanuel: AYE

Bobby Rush: NAY

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: NAY

Danny Davis: NO VOTE

Against Allowing Travel to Cuba for Educational Purposes

On Jun. 14, 2006, the House REJECTED (187-236) the Lee amendment to H.R. 5576, the Transportation, Treasury, HUD, Judiciary, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for 2007. The amendment would have prohibited funds made available in the bill from being used to implement regulations that restricted travel to Cuba for educational purposes. The provision would have applied to U.S. licensed academic institutions. (Roll Call #285; Thomas, H.AMDT.1051)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: AYE

Against Banning Death Penalty in Federal Cases

On Jul. 23, 2003, the House REJECTED (85-339) the Rush amendment to H.R. 2799 the FY2004 appropriations act for the Departments of Commerce, Justice, State and Judiciary. The amendment would have barred the use of funds to carry out the sentencing phase of any trial in which federal prosecutors seek the death penalty. (Roll Call #421, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2003, pg. H-128, H-129)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: AYE

Against Striking Death Penalty from 2006 Court Safety Act

On Nov. 9, 2005, the House REJECTED (97-325) the Scott amendment to H.R. 1751, the Court Security Improvement Act of 2006. The amendment would have eliminated the death penalty authorized in the bill for individuals convicted of killing federal public safety officers, and instead allow a sentence of up to life in prison for the same crime. (Roll Call #583, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2005, pg. H-184)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: AYE

For Expanding List of Gang Crimes Punishable by Death

On May 11, 2005, the House PASSED (279-144) H.R. 1279, which expanded the range of gang crimes punishable by death, established minimum mandatory sentences for some gang crimes, authorized the prosecution of 16- and 17-year-old gang members in federal court as adults, and extend the statute of limitations for all violent crimes from five to 15 years. Democrats who opposed the bill said it put too much emphasis on punishment and neglected prevention. While the bill authorized $387.5 million over the next five years to fight street crimes, opponents said the cost of accommodating new prison inmates alone would exceed $9 billion over the next decade. (Roll Call #168, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2005, H-56; AP, May 12, 2005)

Rahm Emanuel: AYE

Bobby Rush: NAY

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: NAY

Danny Davis: NAY

For Allowing Death Penalty in Terrorism Cases in 2004…

On Oct. 8, 2004, the House PASSED (344-72) the Carter amendment to H.R. 10, the 9/11 Recommendations Implementation Act. The amendment would have changed the federal criminal code to apply the death penalty or life imprisonment for a terrorist offense that results in a person’s death. (Roll Call #514, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2004, pg. H-166, H-165)

Rahm Emanuel: AYE

Bobby Rush: NAY

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: NAY

Danny Davis: NAY

…And Again in 2005

ON JUL. 21, 2005, THE HOUSE PASSED (362-66) THE CAPIRO AMENDMENT TO H.R. 3199, THE PATRIOT ACT REAUTHORIZATION BILL. THE AMENDMENT AUTHORIZED A MANDATORY LIFE SENTENCE WITH THE POSSIBILITY OF THE DEATH PENALTY FOR INDIVIDUALS WHO COMMIT A TERRORIST ATTACK AGAINST A MASS TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM IN THE U.S. THAT RESULTS IN THE DEATH OF A PERSON. (ROLL CALL #405, CQ PRESS, CONGRESSIONAL ROLL CALL 2005, PG. H-124)

Rahm Emanuel: AYE

Bobby Rush: NAY

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: NAY

Danny Davis: NAY

Against States’ Rights to Legalize Medical Marijuana in ’03…

On Jul. 23, 2003, the House REJECTED (152-273) the Hinchey amendment to H.R. 2799, the FY2004 appropriations act for the Departments of Commerce, Justice, State and Judiciary. The amendment would have shielded users of medical marijuana from federal prosecution in nine states where it had been legalized, including Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Nevada, Oregon and Washington. "It is a travesty for the federal government to send agents into my state and throw people in a cage for doing something that people in my state say is legal," said Rep. Dana Rohrabacher, who supported the measure. House Democrats voted 136 to 65 in favor of the amendment. (Roll Call #420, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2003, pg. H-128, H-129; San Francisco Chronicle, Jul. 24, 2003)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: AYE

…And Again in 2004…

ON JUL. 7, 2004, THE HOUSE REJECTED (148-268) THE FARR AMENDMENT TO H.R. 4754. THE AMENDMENT WOULD HAVE PROHIBITED THE USE OF FEDERAL FUNDS TO PREVENT IMPLEMENTATION OF STATE LAWS AUTHORIZING THE USE OF MEDICAL MARIJUANA. (ROLL CALL #334, CQ PRESS, CONGRESSIONAL ROLL CALL 2004, PG. H-122, H-123)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: AYE

…And Again in 2006

ON JUN. 28, 2006, THE HOUSE REJECTED (163-259) THE HINCHEY AMENDMENT TO H.R. 5672. THE AMENDMENT PROHIBITED THE USE OF FUNDS FROM BEING USED TO PREVENT THE STATES OF ALASKA, CALIFORNIA, COLORADO, HAWAII, MAINE, MONTANA, RHODE ISLAND, NEVADA, OREGON, VERMONT, OR WASHINGTON FROM IMPLEMENTING STATE LAWS AUTHORIZING THE USE OF MEDICAL MARIJUANA. (ROLL CALL #333; THOMAS, H.AMDT.1144)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: AYE

For Eliminating Diversity Visa Program

On Dec. 16, 2005, the House PASSED (273-148) the Goodlatte amendment to H.R. 4437, the Border Protection, Antiterrorism, and Illegal Immigration Control Act of 2005. The amendment eliminated the diversity visa program, which made available 50,000 permanent resident visas annually, drawn from a random selection of entries from people who meet eligibility requirements from countries with low rates of immigration into the United States. Opponents argued that the program was susceptible to fraud and could be a way for terrorists to enter the country. (Roll Call #653, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2005, pg. H-208; AP, Dec. 16, 2005)

Rahm Emanuel: AYE

Bobby Rush: NAY

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: NAY

Danny Davis: NAY

Against Limiting Ex-Im Bank Loans on Oil Field Projects

On Jun. 9, 2006, the House REJECTED (178-228) the Sanders amendment to H.R. 5522, the Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act for 2007. The amendment would have limited the use of funds by the Export-Import Bank of the United States to approve an application for a long-term loan or loan guarantee with respect to an oil or gas field development project. (Roll Call #247; Thomas, H.AMDT.1005)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: AYE

Against Regulating Hunting in Federal Heritage Areas

On Oct. 24, 2007, the House PASSED (344-71) the Bishop motion to recommit H.R. 1483, which established new national heritage areas. The motion instructed the National Resources Committee to report the measure back immediately with language that would prevent the federal government from regulating hunting and fishing in the designated heritage areas. (Roll Call #995; Land Letter, Oct. 25, 2007)

Rahm Emanuel: AYE

Bobby Rush: NAY

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: NAY

Danny Davis: NAY

Against Saving Federal Prison Job Programs

On Sep. 14, 2006, the House REJECTED (77-339) the Scott amendment to H.R. 2965, a bill designed to eliminate the competitive edge given to prison factories in contracts with the federal government. The amendment would have allowed Federal Prison Industries to continue performing noncompetitive contracts with federal agencies. Federal Prison Industries was the government corporation that employed prisoners in the Bureau of Prisons. The prison factories produced more than 80 goods and services, including office furniture, stationery, military gear and goggles. Opponents of the bill said it would deprive prisoners of a chance to learn job skills that could help them once they leave prison. (Roll Call #441; Congressional Quarterly Weekly, Sep. 15, 2006)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: AYE

For Homeland Security Funding Despite Security Criticisms

On Oct. 6, 2005, the House ADOPTED (347-70) the conference report on H.R. 2360, the Homeland Security Appropriations Act for Fiscal 2006. The bill appropriated $31.9 billion in fiscal 2006 for the Homeland Security Department and related agencies, an increase of $1.1 billion over the previous year. Critics complained that DHS had fallen short on several fronts, from its lagging response to Hurricane Katrina to inadequate security at chemical plants and ports that could be targets of terrorist attacks. Urban lawmakers argued that the spending bill shortchanged mass-transit security in the wake of bus and subway bombings in London in the summer of 2004. (Roll Call #512, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2005, pg. H-162; Frontrunner, Oct. 7, 2005)

Rahm Emanuel: AYE

Bobby Rush: NAY

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: NAY

Danny Davis: NAY

Against Striking Exception from Ban on Internet Gambling

On Jun. 10, 2003, the House REJECTED (186-237) the Sensenbrenner amendment to H.R. 2143, a bill banning the use of credit cards to bet at illegal offshore Internet casinos. The amendment would have deleted an exemption for “any lawful transaction with a business licensed or authorized by a state.” (Roll Call #254, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2003, pg. H-82, H-83)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: AYE

Amendment Would Have Deleted Protection for Horse Betting

SUPPORTERS SAID THAT PASSING THE OFFSHORE GAMBLING BAN WITHOUT THE EXEMPTION WOULD DEVASTATE THE HORSE RACING INDUSTRY, WHICH RELIES HEAVILY ON CREDIT CARD TRANSACTIONS, AND ARGUED THAT STATES ALWAYS HAVE HAD THE RIGHT TO REGULATE GAMBLING WITHIN THEIR OWN BORDERS. OPPONENTS SAID THE LEGISLATION'S BROAD LANGUAGE OPENED THE DOOR TO U.S.-BASED INTERNET GAMBLING.

"A carve-out for horses and dogs and lotteries and jai-alai and Lord knows what else means that people will be able to use the Internet and use their credit cards and place bets and lose a whole lot of money," said House Judiciary Chairman James Sensenbrenner, R-Wis. (AP, Jun. 11, 2003)

Against Lifting Mandatory Minimum for Sex Offender Registrants

On Sep. 14, 2005, the House REJECTED (106-316) the Inglis amendment to H.R. 3132, the Children’s Safety Act of 2005. The amendment would have eliminated the mandatory minimum sentences of five years in prison for failing to register as a sex offender or making false statements during registration. Legal defense experts said that the mandatory minimum sentence would “ensnare people who are in good faith attempting to comply with the registration requirements, which are somewhat vague and complex.” (Roll Call #468, CQ Press, Congressional Roll Call 2005, pg. H-146; AP, Sep. 14, 2005)

Rahm Emanuel: NAY

Bobby Rush: AYE

Jesse Jackson, Jr.: AYE

Danny Davis: AYE

................
................

In order to avoid copyright disputes, this page is only a partial summary.

Google Online Preview   Download