Democrats blast Republicans for blocking jobless relief

Sens. Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) and Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) on Monday criticized their Republican counterparts for refusing to extend unemployment benefits to out-of-work Americans.

Republicans have contested the extension since its cost is not offset. Paygo rules require a bill be paid for unless it is for an emergency. Democrats claim the economic downturn has made the extension an emergency and offsets are not needed. 

"Blocking unemployment insurance isn't just bad policy or bad political strategy, it is unfair and inhumane," Schumer told reporters. "Those blocking this extension say they want the spending offset, but that ignores the fact that unemployment extensions have always been considered as emergency spending."

The Senate this evening is slated to vote on a motion allowing debate on extending unemployment benefits, as well as extending other federal programs.