House Majority Leader Eric Cantor Opposes Deal

By Alan with comments January 1, 2013 17:03

Congressman Cantor of Virginia’s opposition hurts chances or fast passage.

Members said no decisions have been made about how to proceed. They were told leaders would discuss the input of rank-and-file members and gather the group again later Tuesday to discuss a plan to move forward.

They said Cantor and House Speaker John A. Boehner (R-Ohio) mostly listened to members, who expressed grave doubts about the deal because it would raise taxes without cutting spending.

Rep. Jeff Flake (R-Ariz.) said Cantor “forcefully” expressed his opposition during the closed door meeting. Boehner did not take a position, indicating he was not happy but wanted to listen to the views of the conference.

Rep. Spencer Bachus (R-Ala.) said he believed a “consensus” was developing that the GOP should amend the Senate’s plan to attach additional spending cuts. “I would be shocked if the bill did not go back to the Senate,” he said.