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Congress’ Dismal Approval Rating tied to Reid’s Do-Nothing Approach

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Congress' Dismal Approval Rating tied to Reid's Do-Nothing Approach

The Senate needs to act and provide real leadership

(Washington, D.C.) – A poll conducted by Gallup last week shows that Congress' approval rating has stayed near historic lows since last November, currently hovering at 13 percent, and signals a vulnerability for Democrats in the upcoming midterm elections. Individuals have noted that the inaction of the Senate has played a large part in coloring people's perception of the institution. A recent NBC/WSJ poll found that while voters held Congressional Republicans in low regard, they slightly preferred a Republican controlled Congress.  That same survey showed that 71 percent of Americans think the country is headed in the wrong direction.

The lack of action on the immigration crisis at the southern border is the latest on a string of legislative actions that the Senate has failed to take on since the start of the 113th Congress. Among other notable efforts propelled by the House and enjoying bipartisan support are the many jobs bills and domestic energy development proposals. Out of the 163 legislative proposals that have become law, 75 percent have originated in the House, and that's not counting the other 340 that have been passed by the House but failed to reach the Democratic-controlled Senate floor.

Daniel Garza, Executive Director of The LIBRE Initiative released the following statement:

"Leaders on both sides should act in accordance with what improves societies and the lives of every American. That means advancing an agenda that unleashes the private sector, honors the dignity of every individual and seeks consensus in a true bipartisan spirit. The abysmal approval rating of this Congress has less to do with what party is in control than it does with the rampant failures of leadership on display for the American people.

The only word to describe the status quo is unacceptable. The Senate's unwillingness to take decisive action on legislative proposals that would propel the American economy and enable individuals to prosper, while taking to the Senate floor to demonize Americans who express concern about the economic trends we all face, point to Senator Reid's office being a mere political extension of the White House. People demand leadership and need action from Washington, starting with the 43 job bills that are currently gathering dust in the Senate leader's desk." 

For interviews with a LIBRE representative, please contact: Brian Faughnan, 703-678-4581 or Steven Cruz, 202-578-6173.

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