Washington, D.C.
Vermont Independent Senator Bernie Sanders took to the floor of the United States Senate -- for more than 8 straight hours on Friday, December 10th -- to denounce the tax cut deal for millionaires and billionaires struck by the White House with the Republican opposition. Referred to by some as a “filibuster”, Sanders day-long speech was an historic indictment and conviction of the corrupt two-party system and the wealthy and financial elites who dominate every aspect of our economy and Congress. "There is a war going on in this country, and I am not referring to the wars in Iraq or Afghanistan. I am talking about a war being waged by some of the wealthiest and most powerful people in this country against the working families of the United States of America, against the disappearing and shrinking middle class of our country," said Sanders as he began his marathon presentation.
Working people all across the country would do well to review the video and transcript of the historic speech. As Senator Sanders repeated often during his presentation, the current economic crisis was generated – and is being prolonged – by the policies of greed and lawlessness which permeate our corporate, financial, and political institutions today.
The blockbuster speech comes as both the House of Representatives and Senate will vote on the tax cut deal in the coming week. The ongoing “lame duck” session of Congress has turned into yet another disaster for Congressional Democrats, as they have failed so far to organize a coherent defense as the Republican and corporate forces prepare expanded attacks on all fronts.
Commenting on Senator Sanders speech, UE General Secretary-Treasurer Bruce Klipple said, “Senator Sanders is to be commended and thanked by all working people for this courageous act. He stood on the floor of the Senate and told the truth about the corruption and corporate crime which saturates our economy and politics. He has thrown down the glove to both major parties and all of corporate America. I urge all UE members and working people to review Sanders remarks at this critical time in our history. Our nation is hanging in a precarious position where we can either save it from destruction or see it torn apart and looted by the corporations, the banks, and their political front men. We stand ready to fight alongside Senator Sanders in the major battles which are now upon us, and we stand ready to defend him from the avalanche of attacks and smears which he will be subjected to as a result of his brave speech on the floor of the Senate.”
The Sanders presentation may also be watched at the C-SPAN web page.