OMB Watch has published an op-ed, "The Ultimate Special Interest," in today's issue of tompaine.com. The op-ed delves into the details behind today's House vote on the budget reconciliation measure. The bill not only includes "draconian cuts" to human needs services, but when taken with the reconciliation tax bill it actually raises the deficit, completely defeating the GOP's argument that the bill is needed in order to combat massive spending.

Late last night House GOP leaders removed language from the budget reconciliation bill on both drilling in Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and allowing for offshore oil drilling. Both provisions were widely opposed by House GOP moderates, and the move was made in an effort to pick up votes for the bill, which cuts mandatory spending by $54 billion over the next five years. The provisions were stripped after pressure from the moderates, twenty-six of whom sent a letter to the leadership November 8, arguing their position.

The House will be voting tomorrow on the $54 billion budget reconciliation measure. The vote is expected to be close, as a number of moderate Republicans have voiced their concerns over cutting Medicaid, including the ANWR provision, and/or not effectively cutting the deficit by passing the bill along with a proposed tax reconciliation measure. All Democrats are opposed to the bill. You need to call your representatives today and talk to them about voting against the budget reconciliation bill. You can reach them by calling 1-800-426-8073.

Grassley's $68.8 billion tax package will face tough opposition in the Senate Finance Committee, and there is a chance the measure will be stalled in committee due to the opposition of Sen. Olympia Snowe (R-ME). Snowe specifically objects to the extension of the tax cut in dividends, and views the inclusion, along with other Democrats, as unnecessary. If Snowe votes with the Democrats, the measure will stall in committee. Ranking member Max Baucus (D-MT) said he doubts Grassley has the votes to approve the package. New York Times: Tax Proposal By G.O.P. Would cut $70 Billion (11.9.2005)