The event, which has become a huge success, featured several bands from throughout the area competing for the top prize. Democrats were hoping that even in defeat, the votes would let them grab the political high-ground on a pair of issues that are widely popular with voters. Their goal was to cast Republicans as more covetous of tax cuts than of helping senior citizens or students. Republicans fired back that there was enough room in the budget to both cut taxes and extend Medicare coverage to prescriptions. And they said that before adding another benefit to the health-insurance program for the elderly, lawmakers should secure its solvency.
Seniors deserve better.
The budget sets tax and spending totals but leaves details for later legislation. The House approved a similar spending plan on March 24. President Clinton's signature is not required. Though they have yet to write specific legislation, Republicans would bar coverage for higher-income people while President Clinton and Democrats prefer universal coverage. The vote was 51-49 for the prescription drug provision.