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Tuesday, August 4, 2009
REACTION FROM MIDLANDS SENATORS

Source: Omaha World-Herald

With the cash for clunkers program running on fumes, U.S. senators from Nebraska and Iowa on Monday were weighing whether to extend the program.

Sen. Tom Harkin, D-Iowa, was the only Midlands senator to support the initial funding for the program. Harkin said Monday that before he supports an extension, he wants to see an income limit on those who can receive the credit.

“Why are we letting people who make a million dollars a year get $4,500 to buy a new car?” Harkin said. “It doesn’t make sense.”

Sen. Ben Nelson, D-Neb., said he voted against the program the first time because it was supplemental funding that went straight to the national deficit. Nelson said Monday that he would take a look at the funding source for the proposed extension before deciding how to vote. He said philosophically he understands the arguments for and against the program.

“If you want to stimulate the economy, you want current spending, but there is some concern about taking a lot of used cars off the market, driving up the cost of used cars,” Nelson said.

Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, said he voted against the first round of funding because it was supplemental funding. He said he would consider extending the program if supporters can find the money for it.

“Under normal circumstances, it wouldn’t even be worth a spit in the ocean, but in times of crisis I’m willing to look at it,” Grassley said.

Sen. Mike Johanns, R-Neb., said he was open to the idea of extending the program, but that he continues to have serious concerns about it. “Where do you stop?” Johanns said. “That’s the problem. ...Why not ovens? Why not motorcycles? Harley Davidson’s having a tough time. Well, why wouldn’t you encourage the purchase of Harley Davidsons?”

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