Protests Over Fiscal Cliff Impasse

A Democratically-orchestrated day of protests in the local offices of Republican lawmakers Friday was aimed at sending a message:Solve the budget impasse.

The “day of action” included demonstrations outside the Duluth office of Republican Congressman Chip Cravaack and the Superior office of Republican Sean Duffy.Superior organizer Jackie Halberg was one of a half dozen protesters who want to see President Obama’s plan to continue Bush-era tax breaks for middle income Americans, but discontinue the cut for wealthy people.

Halberg says the action was not confrontational with Duffy’s staff.

“We just went in to let them know who were were and why we were here and had a pleasant conversation and we’re just waiting to see what unfolds here in the session,” she says.

Halberg saysshe’s optimistic a deal can be reached between Congressional Democrats and Republicans before reaching the so-called “fiscal cliff” is in January.But they’ll continue until a deal is made.

“We’re just going to continue with our strong message and be persistent,” she says.”These actions are taking place all over the country today.So hopefully, we’ll send a strong message.”

Duffy spokesman John Gentzel says his boss supports tax reform as a way to generate more revenue by closing loopholes and limiting deductions.But quoting Gentzel: “Don’t be fooled: the President’s so-called ‘balanced approach’ right now is tax hikes, tax hikes, tax hikes.Where are the spending cuts?”