Kirk Votes Against Jobs Bill He Praised

What a difference a day makes.

Just one day after he said he was "inclined" to support the measure, Rep. Mark Kirk on Tuesday voted against legislation that would help states pay for teachers and health care.

The $26 billion legislation was approved largely along party lines, and President Barack Obama signed it immediately.

Speaking Monday at The Chicago Council on Global Affairs, the Republican nominee for Illinois governor said he would support the bill designed to prevent teachers from being laid off.

"I'm inclined to vote for that legislation," he said.  "As a Republican moderate, my view is we shouldn't add to the deficit. This legislation does make a number of cuts ... that make it deficit-neutral. And it would keep teachers in the classroom. I will read further details, but I expect to be supporting this."

To his credit, he did clarify that he would "remain someone who will look at each piece of legislation on its own terms."

Still, Democrats pounced.

Kirk later defended his vote:

The legislation was approved by a vote of 247-161.  One Republican voted in favor.  Three Democrats voted against it.

Contact Us