Pence Denounces 'Horse Trading' on Democrat Cap and Trade Bill

Pence Denounces "Horse Trading" on Democrat Cap and Trade Bill

"The only thing worse than a national energy tax on every American is a national energy tax that favors the few at the expense of the many."

APRIL 24, 2009

Washington, DC - U.S. Congressman Mike Pence, Chairman of the House Republican Conference, made the following statement today in response to a report that exceptions are being carved-out to the Democrats' cap and tax bill in order to win votes at the House Energy and Commerce Committee for a national energy tax:

"The American people deserve an open and honest debate over energy legislation not the backroom deals and politics as usual that are being reported about the Democrats energy bill. Although Democrats have proposed a bill that includes no numbers, according to independent estimates their cap and trade legislation could cost every American household $3,128 per year.

"Recent reports that Democrats are ‘horse trading' emission allowances to this national energy tax in exchange for votes is troubling. The only thing worse than a national energy tax on every American is a national energy tax that favors the few at the expense of the many. It is time for Democrats in Congress and this Administration to come clean with the American people on the real costs of their proposal."

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For additional information, contact:

The House Republican Conference Press Office at (202) 226-9000 or
Matt Lloyd (matt.lloyd@mail.house.gov)
Mary Vought (mary.vought@mail.house.gov)