The vote -- 234 to 188 -- in Congress' lame duck session was a largely symbolic one boosted by Democrats, still in the majority, who sought to force Republicans to vote against a tax cut. Republicans, who want an extension of the lower rates at all income levels, framed the vote as one that would raise taxes on small-business owners who create jobs.
After a White House meeting Tuesday, a bipartisan group continues to work on a compromise that could potentially extend all tax rates on a short-term basis. /Los Angeles Times
