Big Challenges Ahead for New Congress

With the mid-term elections fast approaching, many believe the balance of power in both the Senate and the House is in question.  And with so many seats in Congress to be determined on November 2nd, much attention is focused now on political campaigns. 

The American people understand that going to the polls - expressing your voice at the ballot box - is critically important - important for our democratic republic and important as a new Congress convenes to grapple with some of the most challenging issues facing America. 

First, as you know, the Democrat Party holds significant majorities in both chambers of Congress.  In the Senate, they hold a 59-41 advantage after factoring in the two Independents who caucus with them.  This means that 10 seats would need to change from Democrat to Republican for the Republicans to take over the majority.    In the House, the Democrats enjoy a 77 seat advantage, which means that it would take a net flip of 39 seats for Republicans to win the majority. 

With President Obama in the White House for another two years, these elections will determine whether Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid continue to guide Congress.  As you know, these leadership positions are significant as the next Congess continues to deal with vital issues affecting all Americans.

One issue that will be front-and-center will be the newly enacted health care law. While Democrats are prepared to provide full implementation of the law, many Republicans are campaigning on a message of repealing it entirely.  While a full repeal would not be possible until at least 2013 after the next presidential election, there are a number of things Republicans could do to hinder its implementation.  If Republicans take control of either chamber, look for them to attempt to de-fund critical aspects of the law, as well as enact restrictions on funding for abortions.

Next, the current Congress left town without passing any of the 13 bills that fund the federal government.  Further, they failed to address the pending tax increase that is scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2011.  The incoming Congress will have to quickly decide how to address the tax issue, or virtually every American will see dramatically increased taxes in 2011.

These are just a few of the critical issues in play as Americans prepare to exercise their right to vote. You've heard us say it before:  Elections have consequences.  As you know, we do not endorse or oppose candidates for public office.  But, we do provide information about the issues.  And, we will continue to do that as this election draws near.

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