Obama and the Senate democrats are also pushing for an extension of the unemployment benefits during the lame duck session. By the way, Obama can't pass the extension of unemployment benefits all by himself. Apparently, some people think he has that power. He needs Congress and they need to do it during the lame duck or else it's not likely to get done with the new stock of republicans, most of whom oppose extending unemployment benefits.
With unemployment benefits expected to lapse this week, 27 Senate Democrats are calling for a one-year extension of the program.
"As our nation continues to battle high unemployment rates, we must act immediately to continue vital safety-net coverage for those most in need," the lawmakers said Monday in a letter to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) and Senate Finance Chairman Max Baucus (D-Mont.).
Lawmakers are requesting an extension through the end of 2011, identical to what the White House is seeking. The Hill
