In the meantime, Obama encouraged Members to talk up the legislative accomplishments they produced while they were in the majority and to debunk GOP assertions of class warfare when they talk about overhauling the tax system to increase rates for high-income earners.
“This is one of the biggest things I’m going to be pushing against this year, that somehow this is class warfare,” he pledged. As he concluded to applause, Obama acknowledged the tough votes House Democrats have taken in the past, including the health care vote that many Democrats singled out as the primary blame for their lost seats in 2010. This time around, Obama pledged to be by their side.
“You guys have had my back at some very tough times. I’m going to have your back as well,” he said. “And together we’re going to move this country forward.”
House Democratic Caucus Chairman Xavier Becerra and Rep. Joseph Crowley, vice chairman of the House Democratic Caucus, address a news conference immediately after the closed caucus meeting.
Roll Call has launched a new feature, Hill Navigator, to advise congressional staffers and would-be staffers on how to manage workplace issues on Capitol Hill. Please send us your questions — anything from office etiquette, to handling awkward moments, to what happens when the work life gets too personal. Submissions will be treated anonymously.
