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Following are the U.S. Senate votes used to indicate candidates' stances on the issues. Votes which include "VoteMatch Usage" are scored as VoteMatch and SenateMatch quiz responses. Those without a VoteMatch usage are included only on each candidate's main issues page.
Abortion
Senate BillVote descriptionVoteMatch UsageCandidate Voting
Vote number 2003-51 banning partial birth abortions except for maternal life
on Mar 12, 2003 regarding bill S.3
Results: 		S. 3 As Amended; Partial-Birth Abortion Ban Act of 2003. Vote to pass a bill banning a medical procedure, which is commonly known as "partial-birth" abortion. Those who performed this procedure would then face fines and up to two years in prison, the women to whom this procedure is performed on are not held criminally liable. This bill would make the exception for cases in which a women's life is in danger, not for cases where a women's health is in danger. Voting N counts for 2 points on VoteMatch question 1: Abortion is a woman's right. Democrats: YES 16; NO 29
Republicans: YES 48; NO 4
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 2000-134 maintaining ban on Military Base Abortions
on Jun 20, 2000 regarding bill S 2549
Results: Amendment killed, 50-49 		Vote on a motion to table [kill] an amendment that would repeal the ban on privately funded abortions at overseas military facilities. Voting N counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 1: Abortion is a woman's right. Democrats: YES 2; NO 43
Republicans: YES 48; NO 6
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1999-340 banning partial birth abortions
on Oct 21, 1999 regarding bill S. 1692 Partial Birth Abortion Ban
Results: Y)63; N)34; NV)3 Bill Passed		 This legislation, if enacted, would ban the abortion procedure in which the physician partially delivers the fetus before completing the abortion. [A NO vote supports abortion rights]. Voting N counts for 2 points on VoteMatch question 1: Abortion is a woman's right. Democrats: YES 14; NO 31
Republicans: YES 49; NO 3
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1999-148 disallowing overseas military abortions
on May 26, 1999 regarding bill S. 1059 Motion to table Murray Amdt #397
Results: Y)51; N)49 Motion to Table Agreed to		 The Murray amdt would have repealed current laws prohibiting overseas U.S. military hospitals and medical facilities from performing privately funded abortions for U.S. service members and their dependents. Voting N counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 1: Abortion is a woman's right. Democrats: YES 2; NO 43
Republicans: YES 48; NO 6
Independents: YES 0; NO 0

Budget & Economy
Senate BillVote descriptionVoteMatch UsageCandidate Voting
Vote number 2000-55 prioritizing national debt reduction below tax cuts
on Apr 5, 2000 regarding bill S Con Res 101
Results: Tabled 52-48 		Vote to table [kill] an amendment that would increase the amount of the budget that would be used to reduce the national debt by $75 billion over 5 year. The debt reduction would be offset by reducing the tax cut in the budget framework from $150 billion Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 11: Make Income Tax Flatter & Lower. Democrats: YES 1; NO 44
Republicans: YES 51; NO 4
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1998-314xxx $500B Omnibus spending bill
on Oct 21, 1998 regarding bill H.R. 4328 Conference Report on H.R. 4328
Results: Y)65; N)29; NV)6 Conf Rpt Agreed to		 Passage of a $500 billion-plus omnibus spending bill for 1999. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 0; NO 0
Republicans: YES 0; NO 0
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1997-92 1998 GOP budget
on May 23, 1997 regarding bill H. Con. Res. 84 H. Con. Res. 84 as amended
Results: Y)78; N)22 CR Agreed to		 Approval of the 1998 GOP Budget which would cut spending and taxes. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 37; NO 8
Republicans: YES 41; NO 14
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1997-24 Balanced-budget constitutional amendment
on Mar 4, 1997 regarding bill S. J. Res. 1 S. J. Res. 1
Results: Y)66; N)34 Joint Resolution Defeated		 Approval of the balanced-budget constitutional amendment. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 11; NO 34
Republicans: YES 55; NO 0
Independents: YES 0; NO 0

Civil Rights
Senate BillVote descriptionVoteMatch UsageCandidate Voting
Vote number 2002-147 adding sexual orientation to definition of hate crimes
on Jun 11, 2002 regarding bill S.625
Results: 		Motion to Invoke Cloture on S. 625; Local Law Enforcement Enhancement Act of 2001. The bill would expand the definition of hate crimes to incorporate acts committed because of a victim's sex, sexual orientation or disability and permit the federal government to help states prosecute hate crimes even if no federally protected action was implicated. If the cloture motion is agreed to, debate will be limited and a vote will occur. If the cloture motion is rejected debate could continue indefinitely and instead the bill is usually set aside. Hence a Yes vote supports the expansion of the definition of hate crimes, and a No vote keeps the existing definition. Three-fifths of the Senate, or 60 members, is required to invoke cloture. Voting Y counts for 2 points on VoteMatch question 3: Sexual orientation protected by civil rights laws. Democrats: YES 49; NO 1
Republicans: YES 5; NO 42
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 2001-300 loosening restrictions on cell phone wiretapping
on Oct 11, 2001 regarding bill S1510
Results: Motion agreed to, 90-7 		Motion to table (kill) the amendment that would provide that in order to conduct roving surveillance, the person implementing the order must ascertain that the target of the surveillance is present in the house or is using the phone that has been tapped. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 45; NO 5
Republicans: YES 45; NO 2
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 2000-136 expanding hate crimes to include sexual orientation
on Jun 20, 2000 regarding bill S.2549
Results: Adopted 57-42 		Vote on an amendment that would expand the definition of hate crimes to include gender, sexual orientation and disability. The previous definition included only racial, religious or ethnic bias. Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 3: Sexual orientation protected by civil rights laws. Democrats: YES 44; NO 1
Republicans: YES 13; NO 41
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1998-93HR ending the set-aside of 10% of highway funds for minority- a
on Apr 1, 1998 regarding bill HR 2400
Results: Rejected 194-225 		Vote on an amendment to repeal the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise [DBE] Program, which requires no less than 10% of highway construction projects funded by the federal government to be contracted to businesses owned by minorities & women Voting N counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 2: Require companies to hire more women & minorities. Democrats: YES 0; NO 1
Republicans: YES 3; NO 0
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1998-23 setting aside 10% of highway funds for minorities & women
on Mar 6, 1998 regarding bill S.1173
Results: Tabled 58-37 		Vote to table, or kill, an amendment to repeal the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise [DBE] Program, which requires no less than 10% of highway construction projects funded by the federal government to be contracted to 'disadvantaged business enterprises' Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 2: Require companies to hire more women & minorities. Democrats: YES 43; NO 1
Republicans: YES 15; NO 36
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1997-275 ending special funding for minority & women-owned business
on Oct 23, 1997 regarding bill S.1173 Motion to invoke cloture
Results: Y)48; N)52 Cloture Motion Rejected		 This legislation would have abolished a program that helps businesses owned by women or minorities compete for federally funded transportation. Voting N counts for 2 points on VoteMatch question 2: Require companies to hire more women & minorities. Democrats: YES 0; NO 45
Republicans: YES 48; NO 7
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1996-280 prohibiting same-sex marriage
on Sep 10, 1996 regarding bill HR 3396
Results: Bill passed, 85-14 		The Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA): Vote to prohibit marriage between members of the same sex in federal law, and provide that no state is required to recognize same-sex marriages performed in other states. Define 'marriage' as 'between one man and one wo Voting N counts for 2 points on VoteMatch question 3: Sexual orientation protected by civil rights laws. Democrats: YES 31; NO 14
Republicans: YES 53; NO 0
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1996-281 prohibiting job discrimination by sexual orientation
on Sep 10, 1996 regarding bill S. 2056 Employment Non-Discrimination Act
Results: Y)49; N)50; NV)1 Bill Defeated		 Would have prohibited job discrimination based on sexual orientation. Voting Y counts for 2 points on VoteMatch question 2: Require companies to hire more women & minorities. Democrats: YES 41; NO 4
Republicans: YES 8; NO 45
Independents: YES 0; NO 1
Vote number 1996-281 prohibiting job discrimination by sexual orientation
on Sep 10, 1996 regarding bill S. 2056 Employment Non-Discrimination Act
Results: Y)49; N)50; NV)1 Bill Defeated		 Would have prohibited job discrimination based on sexual orientation. Voting Y counts for 2 points on VoteMatch question 2: Require companies to hire more women & minorities. Democrats: YES 41; NO 4
Republicans: YES 8; NO 45
Independents: YES 0; NO 1
Vote number 1995-600 Amendment to prohibit flag burning
on Dec 12, 1995 regarding bill S. J. Res. 31 Flag Desecration Bill
Results: Y)63; N)36 Joint Res. Defeated		 Approval of a constitutional amendment which would prohibit desecration or burning of the U.S. flag. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 13; NO 32
Republicans: YES 49; NO 4
Independents: YES 1; NO 0
Vote number 1995-317 banning affirmative action hiring with federal funds
on Jul 20, 1995 regarding bill HR 1854
Results: Rejected, 36-61 		Vote to disallow any funds in the Legislative Appropriations bill from being used to award, require, or encourage any Federal contract, if the contract is being awarded on the basis of the race, color, national origin, or gender of the contractor. Voting N counts for 2 points on VoteMatch question 2: Require companies to hire more women & minorities. Democrats: YES 3; NO 41
Republicans: YES 34; NO 18
Independents: YES 0; NO 0

Corporations
Senate BillVote descriptionVoteMatch UsageCandidate Voting
Vote number 2001-236 restricting rules on personal bankruptcy
on Jul 17, 2001 regarding bill HR 333
Results: Bill passed, 82-16 		Vote to pass a bill that would require debtors able to repay $10,000 or 25 percent of their debts over five years to file under Chapter 13 bankruptcy (reorganization and repayment) rather than Chapter 7 (full discharge of debt). (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 36; NO 14
Republicans: YES 47; NO 2
Independents: YES 0; NO 0

Crime
Senate BillVote descriptionVoteMatch UsageCandidate Voting
Vote number issues2000-B requiring DNA testing in every death penalty case
on Jul 2, 2000 regarding bill issues2000-B DNA for death penalty questionnaire
Results: (issues2000 questionnaire)		 If the Senate were to vote on a bill that required DNA testing in every murder/homicide would you support such a measure in order to alleviate wrongful death sentences? Voting N counts for 2 points on VoteMatch question 8: Death Penalty. Democrats: YES 0; NO 0
Republicans: YES 0; NO 0
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number issues2000-C Three Strikes law
on Jul 2, 2000 regarding bill issues2000-C Three Strikes questionnaire
Results: (issues2000 questionnaire)		 If the Senate were to vote on a bill requiring a "three strikes" law, would you support such a measure? Voting Y counts for 2 points on VoteMatch question 9: Mandatory "Three Strikes" Sentencing Laws. Democrats: YES 0; NO 0
Republicans: YES 0; NO 0
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1999-139 $1.15 billion per year to continue the COPS program
on May 20, 1999 regarding bill S.254
Results: Rejected 48-50 		Vote on an amendment to authorize $1.15 billion per year from 2000 through 2005 to continue and expand the Community Oriented Policing Services program. $600 million of the annual funding is marked for hiring additional officers [up to 50,000] Voting N counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 9: Mandatory "Three Strikes" Sentencing Laws. Democrats: YES 44; NO 0
Republicans: YES 4; NO 50
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1996-66 limiting death penalty appeals
on Apr 17, 1996 regarding bill S.735
Results: Tabled 64-35 		Vote to table, or kill, a motion to send the bill back to the joint House-Senate conference committee with instructions to delete the provisions in the bill that would make it harder for prisoners given the death penalty in state courts to appeal Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 8: Death Penalty. Democrats: YES 13; NO 32
Republicans: YES 51; NO 1
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1996-46 limiting product liability punitive damage awards
on Mar 21, 1996 regarding bill H. R. 956 Conference Report on H.R. 956
Results: Y)59; N)40; NV)1 Conf Rpt Agreed to		 Approval of a limit on punitive damages in product liability cases. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 12; NO 33
Republicans: YES 47; NO 6
Independents: YES 0; NO 1
Vote number 1996-64HR allowing Habeus Corpus appeals in capital cases
on Mar 14, 1996 regarding bill HR 2703
Results: Rejected 135-283 		Vote on an amendment to delete provisions in the bill that would make it harder for prisoners who have been given the death penalty in state courts to appeal the decision on constitutional grounds in the federal courts ['Habeas Corpus']. Voting N counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 8: Death Penalty. Democrats: YES 1; NO 2
Republicans: YES 1; NO 2
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1995-612 restricting class-action lawsuits
on Dec 22, 1995 regarding bill H.R. 1058 H.R. 1058 passage over veto
Results: Y)68; N)30; P)1 Veto Overridden		 Restriction of class-action security lawsuits. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 20; NO 25
Republicans: YES 48; NO 4
Independents: YES 0; NO 1
Vote number 1995-270 repealing federal speed limits
on Jun 20, 1995 regarding bill S. 440 Motion to table Lautenberg Amdt #1428
Results: Y)64; N)36 Motion to Table Agreed to		 Repeal federal speeding limits. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 14; NO 31
Republicans: YES 49; NO 5
Independents: YES 0; NO 1
Vote number 1994-126 mandatory prison terms for crimes involving firearms
on May 19, 1994 regarding bill HR.3355
Results: Passed 51-47 		Vote on the motion to instruct conferees on the bill to insist that the conference report include Mandatory prison terms for the use, possession, or carrying of a firearm or destructive device during a state crime of violence or drug trafficking Voting Y counts for 2 points on VoteMatch question 9: Mandatory "Three Strikes" Sentencing Laws. Democrats: YES 17; NO 26
Republicans: YES 30; NO 11
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1994-106 rejecting racial statistics in death penalty appeals
on May 11, 1994 regarding bill S 1935
Results: Amendment passed, 58-41 		Vote to express that the Omnibus Crime bill [H.R. 3355] should reject the Racial Justice Act provisions, which would enable prisoners appealing death penalty sentences to argue racial discrimination using sentencing statistics as part of their appeal. Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 8: Death Penalty. Democrats: YES 17; NO 28
Republicans: YES 36; NO 5
Independents: YES 0; NO 0

Drugs
Senate BillVote descriptionVoteMatch UsageCandidate Voting
Vote number issues2000-F Drugs
on Jul 2, 2000 regarding bill Drugs
Results: 		(Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 0; NO 0
Republicans: YES 0; NO 0
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1999-360 increasing penalties for drug offenses
on Nov 10, 1999 regarding bill S.625
Results: Passed 50-49 		Vote to increase penalties on certain drug-related crimes. The amendment would specifically target the manufacturing or trafficking of amphetamines & methamphetamines and possession of powder cocaine, and set stronger penalties for dealing drugs Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 19: Drug use is immoral: enforce laws against it. Democrats: YES 3; NO 42
Republicans: YES 47; NO 6
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1996-244 spending international development funds on drug control
on Jul 25, 1996 regarding bill HR 3540
Results: Amendment adopted, 51-46 		Vote to add an additional $53 million (raising the total to $213 million) to international narcotics control funding, and pay for it by taking $25 million from international operations funding and $28 million from development assistance. Voting Y counts for 2 points on VoteMatch question 19: Drug use is immoral: enforce laws against it. Democrats: YES 3; NO 42
Republicans: YES 48; NO 4
Independents: YES 0; NO 0

Education
Senate BillVote descriptionVoteMatch UsageCandidate Voting
Vote number 2001-103 funding smaller classes instead of private tutors
on May 15, 2001 regarding bill S1
Results: Amendment rejected, 48-50 		Vote to authorize a federal program aimed at reducing class size. The plan would assist states and local education agencies in recruiting, hiring and training 100,000 new teachers, with $2.4 billion in fiscal 2002. This amendment would replace an amendme Voting N counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 7: Parents Choose Schools via Vouchers. Democrats: YES 48; NO 0
Republicans: YES 0; NO 50
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 2001-99 funding student testing instead of private tutors
on May 10, 2001 regarding bill S1
Results: Amendment adopted, 50-47 		Vote to pass an amendment that would authorize $200 million to provide grants to help states develop assessment systems that describe student achievement. This amendment would replace an amendment by Jeffords, R-VT, which would allow parents of under-per Voting N counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 7: Parents Choose Schools via Vouchers. Democrats: YES 48; NO 1
Republicans: YES 2; NO 46
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 2001-69 spending $448B of tax cut on education & debt reduction
on Apr 4, 2001 regarding bill H Con Res 83
Results: Amendment adopted, 53-47 		Vote to reduce the size of the $1.6 trillion tax cut by $448 billion while increasing education spending by $250 billion and providing an increase of approximately $224 billion for debt reduction over 10 years. Voting N counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 11: Make Income Tax Flatter & Lower. Democrats: YES 49; NO 1
Republicans: YES 4; NO 46
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number issues2000-D allowing School Prayer
on Jul 2, 2000 regarding bill issues2000-D School Prayer questionnaire
Results: (issues2000 questionnaire)		 If the Senate were to vote on a bill that allowed for student organized prayer in school, would you support such a measure? Voting Y counts for 2 points on VoteMatch question 4: Teach moral standards In Public Schools. Democrats: YES 0; NO 0
Republicans: YES 0; NO 0
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 2000-33 Educational Savings Accounts
on Mar 2, 2000 regarding bill S.1134
Results: Passed 61-37 		Vote to pass a bill that would permit tax-free savings accounts of up to $2000 per child annually to be used for public or private school tuition or other education expenses. Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 7: Parents Choose Schools via Vouchers. Democrats: YES 9; NO 35
Republicans: YES 52; NO 2
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1999-121 declaring that memorial prayers and religious symbols at sch
on May 18, 1999 regarding bill S.254
Results: Passed 85-13 		Vote to declare that erecting religious symbols and praying on public school campuses as part of a memorial service does not violate the First Amendment to the Constitution, and to provide legal assistance to any government entity defending such a case. Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 4: Teach moral standards In Public Schools. Democrats: YES 7; NO 1
Republicans: YES 7; NO 0
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1999-35 allowing more flexibility in federal school rules
on Mar 9, 1999 regarding bill S. 280 Motion to Invoke cloture on Jeffords Amdt #31
Results: Y)55; N)39; NV)6 Cloture Motion Rejected		 This vote was a motion to invoke cloture on a bill aimed at allowing states to waive certain federal rules normally required in order to use federal school aid. [A YES vote implies support of charter schools and vouchers]. Voting Y counts for 2 points on VoteMatch question 7: Parents Choose Schools via Vouchers. Democrats: YES 0; NO 39
Republicans: YES 55; NO 0
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1998-169 education savings accounts
on Jun 24, 1998 regarding bill H.R. 2646 H.R. 2646 Conference Report
Results: Y)59; N)36; NV)5 Conf Rpt Agreed to		 This Conference Report approved tax-sheltered education savings accounts. Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 7: Parents Choose Schools via Vouchers. Democrats: YES 8; NO 34
Republicans: YES 51; NO 2
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1997-260 school vouchers in DC
on Sep 30, 1997 regarding bill S. 1156 DC Appropriations Act
Results: Y)58; N)41; NV)1 Cloture Motion Rejected		 This legislation would have amended the DC spending measure, imposing an unconstitutional school voucher program on the District. Voting Y counts for 2 points on VoteMatch question 7: Parents Choose Schools via Vouchers. Democrats: YES 4; NO 40
Republicans: YES 54; NO 1
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1996-231 $75M for abstinence education
on Jul 23, 1996 regarding bill S 1956
Results: Motion to waive rejected, 52-46 		Vote to retain a provision of the Budget Act that funds abstinence education to help reduce teenage pregnancy, using $75 million of the Maternal and Child Health Block Grant Program. Voting Y counts for 2 points on VoteMatch question 4: Teach moral standards In Public Schools. Democrats: YES 3; NO 42
Republicans: YES 48; NO 4
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1994-236 requiring schools to allow voluntary prayer
on Jul 27, 1994 regarding bill S.1513
Results: Rejected 53-14 		Cut off federal funds to school districts that deny students their right to constitutionally protected voluntary prayer. Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 4: Teach moral standards In Public Schools. Democrats: YES 6; NO 38
Republicans: YES 35; NO 7
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1994-85HR giving federal aid only to schools allowing voluntary prayer
on Mar 23, 1994 regarding bill HR 1804
Results: Rejected 195-232 		Vote on the motion to send the conference report [final version] of the bill back to the conference committee to have language added that would not permit any federal aid to schools that do not allow voluntary prayer. Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 4: Teach moral standards In Public Schools. Democrats: YES 0; NO 4
Republicans: YES 2; NO 0
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1994-34 national education standards
on Feb 8, 1994 regarding bill H.R. 1804 Goals 2000: Educate America Act
Results: Y)71; N)25; NV)4 Bill Passed		 Approval of national education standards. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 43; NO 0
Republicans: YES 17; NO 24
Independents: YES 1; NO 0

Energy & Oil
Senate BillVote descriptionVoteMatch UsageCandidate Voting
Vote number 2003-212 targeting 100,000 hydrogen-powered vehicles by 2010
on Jun 10, 2003 regarding bill S.14
Results: 		Dorgan Amdt. No. 865; To require that the hydrogen commercialization plan of the Department of Energy include a description of activities to support certain hydrogen technology deployment goals. Part of S 14 Energy Omnibus bill; this vote would pass an amendment that would call for the Department of Energy to set targets and timelines to maintain the production of 100,000 hydrogen-powered vehicles by 2010, and 2.5 million vehicles annually by 2020. It also would call for the department to set targets for the sale of hydrogen at fueling stations. The bill would require the Energy secretary to submit a yearly progress report to Congress. Voting Y counts for 2 points on VoteMatch question 18: Spend Resources to Stop Global Warming. Democrats: YES 46; NO 1
Republicans: YES 21; NO 31
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 2003-59 removing consideration of drilling ANWR from budget bill
on Mar 19, 2003 regarding bill SConRes 23
Results: 		Boxer Amdt. No. 272.; To prevent consideration of drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in a fast-track budget reconciliation bill. S Con Res 23 Budget resolution FY2004: Vote to pass an amendment that would strike (remove) language in the resolution that would permit oil drilling and exploration in part of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) in Alaska. [Voting No favors drilling for oil in ANWR]. Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 18: Spend Resources to Stop Global Warming. Democrats: YES 43; NO 5
Republicans: YES 9; NO 43
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 2002-71 drilling ANWR on national security grounds
on Apr 18, 2002 regarding bill S.517
Results: 		Motion to Invoke Cloture on the Murkowski Amendment No. 31323; To create jobs for Americans, to reduce dependence on foreign sources of crude oil and energy, to strengthen the economic self determination of the Inupiat Eskimos and to promote national security. Would allow gas and oil development in a portion of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge if the president certifies to Congress that production in the area is in the nation's security and economic interests (qwhich Prsident Bush would). If the cloture motion is agreed to, debate will be limited and a vote will occur. If the cloture motion is rejected debate could continue indefinitely and instead the bill is usually set aside. A yea vote for this bill was one in favor of drilling in the reserve. Three-fifths of the total Senate (60) is required to invoke cloture. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 5; NO 45
Republicans: YES 41; NO 9
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 2002-47 replacing CAFE standards within 15 months
on Mar 13, 2002 regarding bill S.517
Results: 		Levin Amendment No. 2997; To provide alternative provisions to better encourage increased use of alternative fueled and hybrid vehicles. Vote to pass an amendment that would remove the Corporate Average Fuel Economy standard (CAFE) and instead establish a new automobile efficiency standard in 15 months. Congress could veto any CAFE increase and would be allowed to increase the standard if no changes are made with 15 months. The bill would overhaul the nation's energy policies by restructuring the electricity system and providing for $16 billion in energy-related tax incentives. Voting N counts for 2 points on VoteMatch question 18: Spend Resources to Stop Global Warming. Democrats: YES 19; NO 31
Republicans: YES 43; NO 7
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 2000-58 preserving budget for ANWR oil drilling
on Apr 6, 2000 regarding bill S Con Res 101
Results: Tabled 51-49 		Vote to preserve language in the Fiscal Year 2001 Budget Framework that assumes $1.2 billion in revenue from oil exploration in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge [ANWR] in Alaska. Voting N counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 18: Spend Resources to Stop Global Warming. Democrats: YES 4; NO 41
Republicans: YES 47; NO 8
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1999-275 keeping CAFE fuel efficiency standards
on Sep 15, 1999 regarding bill H.R. 2084 Gorton Amdt # 1677
Results: Y)40; N)55; NV)4 Amdt Rejected		 Senators Feinstein (D-CA) and Bryan (D-NV) introduced a resolution expressing the sense of the Senate towards ending CAFE Standards. Senator Gorton motioned to table this amendment. [A YES vote is considered pro-business]. Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 18: Spend Resources to Stop Global Warming. Democrats: YES 34; NO 9
Republicans: YES 6; NO 46
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1999-171 defunding renewable and solar energy
on Jun 16, 1999 regarding bill S. 1186 Motion to table the recommital
Results: Y)60; N)39; NV)1 Motion Agreed to		 In June of 1999, Senator Jeffords (R-VT) was prepared to offer an amendment which would have added $62 million to the Energy Department solar and renewable energy programs. This action was blocked by Senator Reid (D-NV). Voting N counts for 2 points on VoteMatch question 18: Spend Resources to Stop Global Warming. Democrats: YES 19; NO 25
Republicans: YES 41; NO 14
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1997-42 approving a nuclear waste repository
on Apr 15, 1997 regarding bill S. 104 Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1997
Results: Y)65; N)34; NV)1 Bill Passed		 Approval of the interim nuclear waste repository. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 12; NO 32
Republicans: YES 53; NO 2
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1994-255 do not require ethanol in gasoline
on Aug 3, 1994 regarding bill H.R. 4624 Departments of Veterans Affairs and Housing and Urban Development, and Independent Agencies Appropriations Act, 1995
Results: Y)50; N)50; VP decided YES Table Motion Agreed to		 Funding a mandated percentage of market share for the use of ethanol in gasoline, to be funded b reducing NASA budget b $39 million.. Voting N counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 18: Spend Resources to Stop Global Warming. Democrats: YES 24; NO 21
Republicans: YES 18; NO 25
Independents: YES 0; NO 1

Environment
Senate BillVote descriptionVoteMatch UsageCandidate Voting
Vote number 2001-6 confirming Gale Norton as Secretary of Interior
on Jan 30, 2001 regarding bill Confirmation vote
Results: Confirmed, 75-24 		Vote to confirm the nomination of Gale Norton as Secretary of Interior. [Ms. Norton generally favors conservative or libertarian stances on the environment.] Voting N counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 18: Spend Resources to Stop Global Warming. Democrats: YES 25; NO 24
Republicans: YES 50; NO 0
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1999-272 more funding for forest roads and fish habitat
on Sep 14, 1999 regarding bill H.R. 2466 Motion to table Bryan Amdt. #1588
Results: Y)54; N)43; NV)3 Table Motion Agreed to		 The Bryan Amdt (D-NV) offered an amendment to raise funding levels for Forest Service road maintenance and wildlife and fisheries habitat management programs. Senator Craig (R-ID) motioned to table this amendment. [A YES vote is considered pro-business]. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 8; NO 36
Republicans: YES 46; NO 7
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1998-29 transportation demo projects
on Mar 12, 1998 regarding bill S. 1173 McCain Amdt #1726
Results: Y)78; N)22 Amdt Agreed to		 McCain amendment to the transportation reauthorization bill (S. 1173) would require that funding for demonstration projects be covered by their respective state allocations instead of being funded individually in the transportation bill. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 28; NO 17
Republicans: YES 50; NO 5
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1997-242 reducing funds for road-building in National Forests
on Sep 17, 1997 regarding bill HR.2107
Results: Rejected 51-49 		Vote on an amendment to cut the $47.4 million provided for Forest Service road construction by $10 million, and to eliminate the purchaser credit program [which provides credits to timber companies to offset what they owe the government]. Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 18: Spend Resources to Stop Global Warming. Democrats: YES 40; NO 5
Republicans: YES 9; NO 46
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1994-326 continuing desert protection in California
on Oct 8, 1994 regarding bill S. 21 California Desert Protection Act of 1993
Results: Y)68; N)23; NV)9 Cloture Agreed to		 Invoking cloture on the California desert protection bill. ["Invoking cloture" means "ending the discussion and calling a vote." A NO vote in this case would continue discussing whether to terminate the existing program, and hence is considered pro-business and/or anti-environment]. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 42; NO 1
Republicans: YES 14; NO 22
Independents: YES 1; NO 0
Vote number 1994-117 requiring EPA risk assessments
on May 18, 1994 regarding bill S. 2019 Safe Drinking Water Act Amdt.s of '94
Results: Y)90; N)8; NV)2 Amdt Agreed to		 Require risk assessments of new EPA regulations. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 40; NO 5
Republicans: YES 40; NO 2
Independents: YES 1; NO 0

Families & Children
Senate BillVote descriptionVoteMatch UsageCandidate Voting
Vote number issues2000-A V-chip on every television
on Jul 2, 2000 regarding bill issues2000-A V-Chip questionnaire
Results: (issues2000 questionnaire)		 If the Senate were to vote on a bill that called for a V-chip on every television made/sold, would you support such a bill? (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 0; NO 0
Republicans: YES 0; NO 0
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1999-114 restricting violent videos to minors
on May 13, 1999 regarding bill S.254
Results: Tabled 60-39 		Vote to kill an amendment that would prohibit the distribution of violent video programming to the public during hours when children are reasonably likely to comprise a substantial portion of the audience. Voting Y counts for 0 points on VoteMatch question 4: Teach moral standards In Public Schools. Democrats: YES 19; NO 25
Republicans: YES 41; NO 14
Independents: YES 0; NO 0

Foreign Policy
Senate BillVote descriptionVoteMatch UsageCandidate Voting
Vote number 2002-116 enlarging NATO to include Eastern Europe
on May 17, 2002 regarding bill HR.3167
Results: 		H.R. 3167; Gerald B. H. Solomon Freedom Consolidation Act of 2001, To endorse the vision of further enlargement of the NATO Alliance. Vote to pass a bill that would support further expansion of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, authorize military assistance to several eastern European countries and lift assistance restrictions on Slovakia. Voting Y counts for 2 points on VoteMatch question 17: Continue Foreign Aid to Russia, Israel, & others. Democrats: YES 48; NO 0
Republicans: YES 37; NO 6
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 2000-242 killing a bill for trade sanctions if China sells weapons
on Sep 13, 2000 regarding bill HR.4444
Results: Tabled 65-32 		Vote to table [kill] an amendment that would require sanctions against China or other countries if they were found to be selling illicit weapons of mass destruction. Voting N counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 14: Link Human Rights to trade with China. Democrats: YES 35; NO 9
Republicans: YES 30; NO 23
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1999-312 cap foreign aid at only $12.7 billion
on Oct 6, 1999 regarding bill H.R. 2606 H.R. 2606 Conference Report
Results: Y)51; N)49 Conf Rpt Agreed to		 Adoption of the conference report on the 2000 Foreign Operations Appropriations Bill provided $12.7 billion for foreign aid programs in 2000. Voting N counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 17: Continue Foreign Aid to Russia, Israel, & others. Democrats: YES 0; NO 45
Republicans: YES 51; NO 4
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1998-201 limiting the President's power to impose economic sanctions
on Jul 15, 1998 regarding bill S. 2159 Motion to table the Lugar Amdt #3156.
Results: Y)53; N)46; NV)1 Motion to Table Agreed to		 To kill a proposal limiting President Clinton's ability to impose economic sanctions on foreign nations. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 25; NO 18
Republicans: YES 27; NO 28
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1998-112 limiting NATO expansion to only Poland, Hungary & Czech
on Apr 30, 1998 regarding bill NATO Expansion Treaty #105-36 NATO Expansion limit-Warner Amdt. #2322
Results: Y)41; N)59 Amdt Rejected		 This amendment would have limited NATO Expansion to only include Poland, Hungary and the Czech Republic. Voting N counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 17: Continue Foreign Aid to Russia, Israel, & others. Democrats: YES 17; NO 28
Republicans: YES 24; NO 31
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1998-44 $17.9 billion to IMF
on Mar 26, 1998 regarding bill S. 1768 McConnell Amdt #2100
Results: Y)84; N)16 Amdt Agreed to		 Would provide $17.9 billion for the International Monetary Fund. Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 17: Continue Foreign Aid to Russia, Israel, & others. Democrats: YES 43; NO 2
Republicans: YES 41; NO 14
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1996-22 Strengthening of the trade embargo against Cuba
on Mar 5, 1996 regarding bill H.R. 927 Conference Report on H.R. 927
Results: Y)74; N)22; NV)4 Conf Rpt Agreed to		 Strengthening of the trade embargo against Cuba. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 26; NO 18
Republicans: YES 47; NO 4
Independents: YES 1; NO 0
Vote number 1994-5 ending Vietnam embargo
on Jan 27, 1994 regarding bill S. 1281 For. Reltns. Auth. Act FY 94 & 95
Results: Y)62; N)38 Amdt Agreed to		 Ending U.S. trade embargos on the country of Vietnam. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 38; NO 7
Republicans: YES 18; NO 25
Independents: YES 0; NO 1

Free Trade
Senate BillVote descriptionVoteMatch UsageCandidate Voting
Vote number 2002-130 extending free trade to Andean nations
on May 23, 2002 regarding bill HR.3009
Results: 		HR3009 Fast Track Trade Authority bill: To extend the Andean Trade Preference Act, to grant additional trade benefits under that Act, and for other purposes. Vote to pass a bill that would enlarge duty-free status to particular products from Colombia, Bolivia, Peru, and Ecuador, renew the president's fast-track authority and reauthorize and increase a program to make accessible retraining and relocation assistance to U.S. workers hurt by trade agreements. It would also approve a five-year extension of Generalized System of Preferences and produce a refundable 70 percent tax credit for health insurance costs for displaced workers. Voting Y counts for 2 points on VoteMatch question 13: Support & Expand Free Trade. Democrats: YES 24; NO 25
Republicans: YES 42; NO 5
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 2001-291 granting normal trade relations status to Vietnam
on Oct 3, 2001 regarding bill HJRES51
Results: Passed, 88-12 		Vote to grant annual normal trade relations status to Vietnam. The resolution would allow Vietnamese imports to receive the same tariffs as those of other U.S. trading partners. Voting N counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 14: Link Human Rights to trade with China. Democrats: YES 48; NO 2
Republicans: YES 40; NO 10
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 2001-275 removing common goods from national security export rules
on Sep 6, 2001 regarding bill S149
Results: Bill passed, 85-14 		Vote to provide the president the authority to control the export of sensitive dual-use items for national security purposes. The bill would eliminate restrictions on the export of technology that is readily available in foreign markets. Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 13: Support & Expand Free Trade. Democrats: YES 48; NO 2
Republicans: YES 37; NO 12
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 2000-251 permanent normal trade relations with China
on Sep 19, 2000 regarding bill HR.4444
Results: Passed 83-15 		Vote to give permanent Normal Trade Relations [NTR] status to China. Currently, NTR status for China is debated and voted on annually. Voting N counts for 2 points on VoteMatch question 14: Link Human Rights to trade with China. Democrats: YES 37; NO 7
Republicans: YES 46; NO 8
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 2000-98 expanding trade to the third world
on May 11, 2000 regarding bill HR.434
Results: Adopted 77-19 		Vote to expand trade with more than 70 countries in Africa, Central America and the Caribbean. The countries would be required to meet certain eligibility requirements in protecting freedoms of expression and associatio Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 13: Support & Expand Free Trade. Democrats: YES 30; NO 13
Republicans: YES 47; NO 6
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1999-53xxx China in WTO
on Mar 18, 1999 regarding bill S.544 Motion to table Specter Amdt #77
Results: Y)71; N)21 Motion to Table Agreed to		 This motion would kill an amendment that would prohibit U.S. support for China's admission into the WTO (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 0; NO 0
Republicans: YES 0; NO 0
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1997-294 renewing 'fast track' presidential trade authority
on Nov 5, 1997 regarding bill S 1269
Results: Motion passed, 68-31 		Vote to proceed to the bill which establishes negotiating objectives for trade agreements, and renews 'fast track' trade authority for the President, which allows Congress to adopt or to reject a proposed trade agreement, but not to amend it. Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 13: Support & Expand Free Trade. Democrats: YES 26; NO 18
Republicans: YES 42; NO 12
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1997-292xxx fast track trading authority
on Nov 4, 1997 regarding bill S. 1269 Motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to the Nuclear Waste Policy Act.
Results: Y)69; N)31 Cloture Agreed to		 Authorizing President Clinton to make fast-track trade pacts with foreign nations. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 0; NO 0
Republicans: YES 0; NO 0
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1995-158 imposing trade sanctions on Japan for closed market
on May 9, 1995 regarding bill S Res 118
Results: Resolution adopted, 88-8 		Resolution supporting sanctions on Japanese products if car parts markets don't open up; and seeking sharp reductions in the trade imbalances in car sales and parts through elimination of restrictive Japanese market-closing practices. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 41; NO 3
Republicans: YES 46; NO 4
Independents: YES 0; NO 0

Government Reform
Senate BillVote descriptionVoteMatch UsageCandidate Voting
Vote number 2002-54 banning "soft money" contributions and restricting issue ads
on Mar 20, 2002 regarding bill HR.2356
Results: 		Vote on passage of H.R. 2356; Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act of 2002 (Shays-Meehan bill, House equivalent of McCain-Feingoldf bill). Vote to ban “soft money” contributions to national political parties but permit up to $10,000 in soft money contributions to state and local parties to help with voter registration and get-out-the-vote drives. The bill would stop issue ads from targeting specific candidates within 30 days of the primary or 60 days of the general election. Additionally, the bill would raise the individual contribution limit from $1,000 to $2,000 per election for House and Senate candidates, both of which would be indexed for inflation. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 48; NO 2
Republicans: YES 12; NO 38
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 2002-38 require photo ID (not just signature) for voter registration
on Feb 27, 2002 regarding bill S.565
Results: 		Motion to Table Schumer Amdt. No. 2937; To permit the use of a signature or personal mark for the purpose of verifying the identity of voters who register by mail, and for other purposes. Voting Yes would kill the amendment. The amendment would allow a signature to identify voters who register by mail, instead of requiring showing photo identification or other proof of residence before being allowed to vote. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 0; NO 49
Republicans: YES 46; NO 2
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 2001-64 banning campaign donations from unions and corporations
on Apr 2, 2001 regarding bill S.27
Results: Bill passed, 59-41 		Vote to ban soft money donations to political parties and forbid corporate general funds and union general funds from being spent on issue ads. The bill would increase the individual contribution limit to candidates from $1,000 to $2,000. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 47; NO 3
Republicans: YES 12; NO 38
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1999-260 continuing funding for the National Endowment for the Arts
on Aug 5, 1999 regarding bill H.R. 2466 Motion to table Smith Amdt #1569
Results: Y)80; N)16; NV)4 Motion to Table Agreed to		 This table motion would end debate on an amendment aimed at funding for the National Endowment for the Arts. Support for the motion to table is a vote for NEA funding. [YES to table means supporting the NEA; NO means defunding the NEA]. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 43; NO 0
Republicans: YES 37; NO 16
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1998-174xxx ending some agricultural subsidies
on Jun 25, 1998 regarding bill S. 2057 Inhofe Amdt #2981
Results: Y)48; N)45; NV)7 Amdt Agreed to		 Senator Inhofe (R-OK) offered an amendment to the 1999 Agriculture Appropriations bill to end government funding for agricultural market access and market promotion. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 0; NO 0
Republicans: YES 0; NO 0
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1998-16xxx supporting McCain-Feingold campaign finance reform
on Feb 26, 1998 regarding bill S. 1663 Motion to invoke cloture on the McCain Amendment #1646
Results: Y)51; N)48; NV)1 Cloture Motion Rejected		 Cloture to end debate on the McCain-Feingold plan to overhaul campaign finance laws. [Voting FOR cloture (a YES vote) is voting FOR campaign finance reform.] (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 0; NO 0
Republicans: YES 0; NO 0
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1997-267 favoring 1997 McCain-Feingold overhaul of campaign finance
on Oct 7, 1997 regarding bill S. 25 Campaign Finance Reform Bill
Results: Y)53; N)47 Cloture Motion Rejected		 Support of the campaign finance bill proposed by Senators McCain (R-AZ) and Feingold (D-WI). (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 45; NO 0
Republicans: YES 8; NO 47
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1996-56 Approving the presidential line-item veto
on Mar 27, 1996 regarding bill S. 4 Conference Report on S. 4
Results: Y)69; N)31 Conf Rpt Agreed to		 Approval of the presidential line-item veto authority. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 19; NO 27
Republicans: YES 49; NO 4
Independents: YES 0; NO 1
Vote number 1995-339 banning more types of Congressional gifts
on Jul 28, 1995 regarding bill S. 1061 Murkowski Amdt to S. 1061
Results: Y)39; N)60; NV)1 Amdt Failed		 To exclude certain items from the Congressional Gift Ban. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 8; NO 37
Republicans: YES 30; NO 23
Independents: YES 1; NO 0

Gun Control
Senate BillVote descriptionVoteMatch UsageCandidate Voting
Vote number 1999-134 background checks at gun shows
on May 20, 1999 regarding bill S. 254 Lautenberg Amdt #362
Results: Y)50; N)50; VP decided YES Amdt Agreed to		 Require background checks on all firearm sales at gun shows. Voting N counts for 2 points on VoteMatch question 10: Absolute right to gun ownership. Democrats: YES 44; NO 1
Republicans: YES 7; NO 48
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1999-118 more penalties for gun & drug violations
on May 14, 1999 regarding bill S. 254 Hatch Amendment #344
Results: Y)48; N)47; NV)5 Amdt Agreed to		 The Hatch amdt would increase mandatory penalties for the illegal transfer or use of firearms, fund additional drug case prosecutors, and require background check on purchasers at gun shows. [A YES vote supports stricter penalties]. Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 9: Mandatory "Three Strikes" Sentencing Laws. Democrats: YES 1; NO 40
Republicans: YES 46; NO 8
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1999-118 more penalties for gun & drug violations
on May 14, 1999 regarding bill S. 254 Hatch Amendment #344
Results: Y)48; N)47; NV)5 Amdt Agreed to		 The Hatch amdt would increase mandatory penalties for the illegal transfer or use of firearms, fund additional drug case prosecutors, and require background check on purchasers at gun shows. [A YES vote supports stricter penalties]. Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 9: Mandatory "Three Strikes" Sentencing Laws. Democrats: YES 1; NO 40
Republicans: YES 46; NO 8
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1999-111 loosening license & background checks at gun shows
on May 11, 1999 regarding bill S.254
Results: Tabled 51-47 		Vote to table or kill a motion to require that all gun sales at gun shows be completed by federally licensed gun dealers. Also requires background checks to be completed on buyers and requires gun show promoters to register with the Treasury. Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 10: Absolute right to gun ownership. Democrats: YES 2; NO 41
Republicans: YES 49; NO 6
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1998-216 maintaining current law: guns sold without trigger locks
on Jul 21, 1998 regarding bill S 2260
Results: Motion passed, 61-39 		Vote to table [kill] an amendment to make it unlawful for gun dealers to sell handguns without providing trigger locks. Violation of the law would result in civil penalties, such as suspension or revocation of the dealer's license, or a fine. Voting Y counts for 2 points on VoteMatch question 10: Absolute right to gun ownership. Democrats: YES 9; NO 36
Republicans: YES 52; NO 3
Independents: YES 0; NO 0

Health Care
Senate BillVote descriptionVoteMatch UsageCandidate Voting
Vote number 2003-262 $40 billion per year for Medicare prescription drug benefit
on Jun 26, 2003 regarding bill S.1
Results: 		S. 1 As Amended; Prescription Drug and Medicare Improvement Act of 2003. Vote to pass a bill that would authorize $400 billion over 10 years to create a prescription drug benefit for Medicare recipients beginning in 2006. Seniors would be allowed to remain within the traditional fee-for-service program or seniors would have the option to switch to a Medicare Advantage program that includes prescription drug coverage. Private insurers would provide prescription drug coverage. Private Insurers would engage in competitive bidding to be awarded two-year regional contracts by the Center for Medicare Choices under the Department of Health and Human Services.Enrolled seniors would pay a $275 deductible and an average monthly premium of $35. Annual drug costs beyond the deductible and up to $4,500 would be divided equally between the beneficiary and the insurer. Beneficiaries with incomes below 160 percent of the poverty level would be eligible for added assistance. Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 5: More Federal Funding for Health Coverage. Democrats: YES 35; NO 11
Republicans: YES 41; NO 10
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 2002-201 allowing importation of Rx drugs from Canada
on Jul 31, 2002 regarding bill S.812
Results: 		S. 812, as amended; Greater Access to Affordable Pharmaceuticals Act of 2002. Vote to pass a bill that would permit a single 30-month stay against Food and Drug Administration approval of a generic drug patent when a brand-name company's patent is challenged. The secretary of Health and Human Services would be authorized to announce regulations allowing pharmacists and wholesalers to import prescription drugs from Canada into the United States. Canadian pharmacies and wholesalers that provide drugs for importation would be required to register with Health and Human Services. Individuals would be allowed to import prescription drugs from Canada. The medication would have to be for an individual use and a supply of less than 90-days. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 49; NO 1
Republicans: YES 29; NO 20
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 2001-220 allowing patients to sue HMOs & collect punitive damages
on Jun 29, 2001 regarding bill S1052
Results: Bill passed, 59-36 		Vote to provide federal protections, such as access to specialty and emergency room care, and allow patients to sue health insurers in state and federal courts. Economic damages would not be capped, and punitive damages would be capped at $5 million. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 50; NO 0
Republicans: YES 9; NO 36
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 2001-65 funding GOP version of Medicare prescription drug benefit
on Apr 3, 2001 regarding bill H Con Res 83
Results: Amendment adopted, 50-50; VP decided YES 		Vote to pass an amendment that would make up to $300 billion available for a Medicare prescription drug benefit for 2002 through 2011. The money would come from the budget's contingency fund. The amendment would also require a Medicare overhaul. Voting N counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 5: More Federal Funding for Health Coverage. Democrats: YES 1; NO 49
Republicans: YES 49; NO 1
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 2000-144 including prescription drugs under Medicare
on Jun 22, 2000 regarding bill HR.4690
Results: Rejected 53-44 		Vote to establish a prescription drug benefit program through the Medicare health insurance program. Among other provisions, Medicare would contribute at least 50% of the cost of prescription drugs and beneficiaries would pay a $250 deductible Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 5: More Federal Funding for Health Coverage. Democrats: YES 42; NO 1
Republicans: YES 2; NO 52
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1999-202 limiting self-employment health deduction
on Jul 13, 1999 regarding bill S. 1344 Santorum Amdt #1234
Results: Y)53; N)47 Amdt Agreed to		 The Santorum (R-PA) amdt would effectively kill the Kennedy Amdt (D-MA) which would have allowed self-employed individuals to fully deduct the cost of their health insurance on their federal taxes. Voting N counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 5: More Federal Funding for Health Coverage. Democrats: YES 0; NO 45
Republicans: YES 53; NO 2
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1999-76xxx increasing funds for Medicare prescriptions
on Mar 25, 1999 regarding bill S. Con. Res. 20 Motion to waive Snowe Amdt #232
Results: Y)54; N)44; NV)2 Motion Rejected		 The Snowe (R-ME) Amdt would allow the Medicare prescription drug benefit program to be paid for by an increase in tobacco taxes. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 0; NO 0
Republicans: YES 0; NO 0
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1998-161 increasing tobacco restrictions
on Jun 17, 1998 regarding bill S. 1415 Motion to invoke cloture on a modified committee substitute to S. 1415
Results: Y)57; N)42; NV)1 Cloture Motion Rejected		 This cloture motion was on a bill which would have increased tobacco restrictions. [YES is an anti-smoking vote]. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 43; NO 2
Republicans: YES 14; NO 40
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1998-10 banning human cloning
on Feb 11, 1998 regarding bill S. 1601 Motion to invoke cloture on motion to proceed to S. 1601
Results: Y)42; N)54; NV)4 Cloture Motion Rejected		 This cloture motion was in order to end debate and move to consideration of legislation banning human cloning. [A YES vote opposes human cloning]. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 0; NO 42
Republicans: YES 42; NO 12
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1997-113 Medicare means-testing
on Jun 24, 1997 regarding bill S. 947 Motion to table the Kennedy Amdt #440
Results: Y)70; N)20 Motion to Table Agreed to		 Approval of means-based testing for Medicare insurance premiums. Voting N counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 5: More Federal Funding for Health Coverage. Democrats: YES 21; NO 24
Republicans: YES 49; NO 6
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1996-72 medical savings acounts
on Apr 18, 1996 regarding bill S. 1028 Kassebaum Amdt #3677
Results: Y)52; N)46; NV)2 Amdt Agreed to		 Vote to block a plan which would allow tax-deductible medical savings accounts. Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 5: More Federal Funding for Health Coverage. Democrats: YES 46; NO 0
Republicans: YES 5; NO 46
Independents: YES 1; NO 0

Homeland Security
Senate BillVote descriptionVoteMatch UsageCandidate Voting
Vote number 2002-249 establishing the Homeland Security Department
on Nov 19, 2002 regarding bill HR.5005
Results: 		H.R. 5005, as amended; Homeland Security Act of 2002. Vote to pass a bill that would join 22 agencies into a new cabinet-level Homeland Security Department with the responsibility to protect domestic security. The new Department would include the following agencies: the Coast Guard, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Customs Service, the Secret Service and the Transportation Security Administration. It would split the Immigration and Naturalization Service between immigration enforcement and citizen services, both agencies would be placed under the new The President would be given the ability to exempt some employees from collective bargaining units for national security reasons. The department would also be given the ability to make changes to personnel rules but would set up a process for unions to make an objection to and negotiate on those changes. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 0; NO 0
Republicans: YES 0; NO 0
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1999-325 adopting the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty
on Oct 13, 1999 regarding bill Treaty Document #105-28 Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty
Results: Y)48; N)51; P)1 Resolution of Ratification Rejected		 Adoption of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty would ban nuclear weapons testing six months after ratification by the 44 nations that have nuclear power plants or nucelar research reactors. Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 16: Reduce spending on Missile Defense ("Star Wars"). Democrats: YES 44; NO 0
Republicans: YES 4; NO 51
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1999-147 allowing another round of military base closures
on May 26, 1999 regarding bill S.1059
Results: Failed 60-40 		Vote on an amendment to allow one round of military base closures beginning in 2001 as determined by an independent panel. Voting N counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 15: More Spending on Armed Forces Personnel. Democrats: YES 23; NO 22
Republicans: YES 17; NO 38
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1999-149 cutting nuclear weapons below START levels
on May 26, 1999 regarding bill S. 1059 Motion to table Kerrey Amdt #395
Results: Y)56; N)44 Motion to Table Agreed to		 The Kerrey (D-NE) amdt would strike bill language requiring that U.S. strategic nuclear forces remain at START I levels through the end of fiscal 2000 unless Russia ratified START II. Voting N counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 16: Reduce spending on Missile Defense ("Star Wars"). Democrats: YES 4; NO 41
Republicans: YES 52; NO 3
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1999-51 deploying National Missile Defense ASAP
on Mar 17, 1999 regarding bill S 257
Results: Bill passed, 97-3 		Vote that the policy of the US is to deploy a National Missile Defense system capable of defending against limited ballistic missile attack as soon as it is technologically possible, and to seek continued negotiated reductions in Russian nuclear forces. Voting N counts for 2 points on VoteMatch question 16: Reduce spending on Missile Defense ("Star Wars"). Democrats: YES 42; NO 3
Republicans: YES 55; NO 0
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1999-26 military pay raise of 4.8%
on Feb 24, 1999 regarding bill S.4
Results: Passed 91-8 		Vote to pass a bill to authorize a military pay raise of 4.8% in 2000 and annual pay increases through 2006 of 0.5% above the inflation rate. The bill would also provide additional incentives to certain enlisted personnel who remain on active duty. Voting Y counts for 2 points on VoteMatch question 15: More Spending on Armed Forces Personnel. Democrats: YES 39; NO 5
Republicans: YES 52; NO 3
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1998-262 deploying missile defense as soon as possible
on Sep 9, 1998 regarding bill S 1873
Results: Cloture motion rejected, 59-41 		Vote to limit further debate and proceed to a bill that would require the U.S. to deploy as soon as possible an effective National Missile Defense system capable of defending against a limited ballistic missile attack. Voting N counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 16: Reduce spending on Missile Defense ("Star Wars"). Democrats: YES 4; NO 41
Republicans: YES 55; NO 0
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1998-180 prohibiting same-sex basic training
on Jun 25, 1998 regarding bill S. 2057 Byrd Amdt #3011
Results: Y)39; N)53; NV)8 Amdt Rejected		 Byrd Amdt (D-WV) that would prohibit same-sex military barracks and basic training. Voting N counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 2: Require companies to hire more women & minorities. Democrats: YES 8; NO 32
Republicans: YES 31; NO 20
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1997-287 favoring 36 vetoed military projects
on Oct 30, 1997 regarding bill S. 1292 Line Item Veto Cancellation bill
Results: Y)69; N)30; NV)1 Bill Passed		 Overturning line-item vetoes of 36 military projects vetoed by President Clinton. Voting Y counts for 2 points on VoteMatch question 15: More Spending on Armed Forces Personnel. Democrats: YES 27; NO 18
Republicans: YES 42; NO 12
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1997-51 banning chemical weapons
on Apr 24, 1997 regarding bill S. Res. 75 Resolution of ratification of the Chemical (Comprehensive) Weapons (Convention) Ban
Results: Y)74; N)26 Resolution of Ratification Agreed to		 Approval of the chemical weapons ban. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 45; NO 0
Republicans: YES 29; NO 26
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1996-157 considering deploying NMD, and amending ABM Treaty
on Jun 4, 1996 regarding bill S 1635
Results: Motion rejected, 53-46 		Vote to consider establishing a policy requiring the deployment of a national missile defense system by the end of 2003. The bill would also urge discussions with Russia to amend the ABM Treaty to allow deployment of the system. Voting N counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 16: Reduce spending on Missile Defense ("Star Wars"). Democrats: YES 0; NO 46
Republicans: YES 52; NO 0
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1995-397 1996 Defense Appropriations
on Sep 5, 1995 regarding bill S. 1087 Defense Approps Bill FY 96
Results: Y)62; N)35; NV)3 Bill Passed		 Approval of the 1996 Defense Appropriations bill. Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 15: More Spending on Armed Forces Personnel. Democrats: YES 13; NO 31
Republicans: YES 48; NO 4
Independents: YES 1; NO 0

Immigration
Senate BillVote descriptionVoteMatch UsageCandidate Voting
Vote number 1998-233 allowing more foreign workers into the U.S. for farm work
on Jul 23, 1998 regarding bill S.2260
Results: Passed 68-31 		Vote to create a national registry containing names of U.S. workers who want to perform temporary or seasonal agricultural work, and to require the Attorney General to allow more foreign workers into the U.S. for farm work under H-2A visas. Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 12: Immigration helps our economy-encourage it. Democrats: YES 14; NO 31
Republicans: YES 54; NO 0
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1998-141 visas for skilled workers
on May 18, 1998 regarding bill S. 1723 The American Competitiveness Act
Results: Y)78; N)20; NV)2 Bill Passed		 This bill expanded the Visa program for skilled workers. Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 12: Immigration helps our economy-encourage it. Democrats: YES 27; NO 18
Republicans: YES 51; NO 2
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1997-111 limit welfare for immigrants
on Jun 24, 1997 regarding bill S.947 Motion to table Kennedy Amdt #429
Results: Y)59; N)41 Motion to Table Agreed to		 This amendment would have restored food stamp benefits to the children of legal immigrants Voting N counts for 2 points on VoteMatch question 12: Immigration helps our economy-encourage it. Democrats: YES 9; NO 36
Republicans: YES 50; NO 5
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1996-432HR limiting immigrant benefits & controlling borders more tight
on Sep 25, 1996 regarding bill HR 2202
Results: Adopted 305-123 		Vote to adopt the conference report of a bill to change immigration policy, including hiring more Border Patrol Agents, increasing penalties for document fraud and alien smuggling, and limiting public assistance for immigrants, among other provisions. Voting N counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 12: Immigration helps our economy-encourage it. Democrats: YES 2; NO 1
Republicans: YES 3; NO 0
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1994-348HR prohibiting Illegal Immigrants from Receiving FEMA Benefits
on Jul 22, 1994 regarding bill HR 3838
Results: Passed 220-176 		Prohibit illegal immigrants from receiving benefits under the FEMA's Food and Shelter program unless the president declares a national disaster. Voting N counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 12: Immigration helps our economy-encourage it. Democrats: YES 2; NO 2
Republicans: YES 2; NO 0
Independents: YES 0; NO 0

Infrastructure
Senate BillVote descriptionVoteMatch UsageCandidate Voting
Vote number 1998-296 Internet sales tax moratorium
on Oct 2, 1998 regarding bill S.442
Results: Tabled 66-29 		Vote against allowing states to require companies who do business in their state solely by phone, mail, or the Internet to collect state sales taxes. [Current law does not require companies to collect sales taxes where the customer is out of state] Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 11: Make Income Tax Flatter & Lower. Democrats: YES 18; NO 23
Republicans: YES 48; NO 6
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1996-8 telecomm deregulation
on Feb 1, 1996 regarding bill S. 652 Conference Report on S. 625, the
Results: Y)91; N)5; NV)3 Telecommunications Competition and Deregulation Act of 1995		 Deregulation of the telecommunications industry. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 39; NO 4
Republicans: YES 51; NO 1
Independents: YES 1; NO 0

Jobs
Senate BillVote descriptionVoteMatch UsageCandidate Voting
Vote number 2001-15 repealing Clinton's ergonomic rules on repetitive stress
on Mar 6, 2001 regarding bill S J Res 6
Results: Resolution passed, 56-44 		Vote to pass a resolution to give no enforcement authority to ergonomics rules submitted by the Labor Department during the Clinton Administration. These rules would force businesses to take steps to prevent work-related repetitive stress disorders (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 6; NO 44
Republicans: YES 50; NO 0
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1999-356 killing an increase in the minimum wage
on Nov 9, 1999 regarding bill S. 625 Motion to table Kennedy Amdt #2751
Results: Y)50; N)48; NV)2 Motion to Table Agreed to		 The Kennedy (D-MA) Amdt would have increased the minimum wage by $1 an hour over two years, to $5.65 an hour beginning Jan. 1, 2001. The Kennedy Amdt would have also provided $9.5 billion in tax cuts over five years. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 0; NO 44
Republicans: YES 50; NO 3
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1997-68 allowing workers to choose between overtime & comp-time
on May 15, 1997 regarding bill S. 4 Motion to invoke cloture on a Committee amdt to S. 4
Results: Y)53; N)47 Cloture Motion Rejected		 This bill would have allowed workers to choose between overtime and compensatory time. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 0; NO 45
Republicans: YES 53; NO 2
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1996-19 replacing farm price supports
on Feb 7, 1996 regarding bill S. 1541 Agriculture Market Transition Act of 1996
Results: Y)64; N)32; NV)4 Bill Passed		 Replaces farm price supports with seven years of annual fixed payments. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 19; NO 26
Republicans: YES 44; NO 6
Independents: YES 1; NO 0

Principles & Values
Senate BillVote descriptionVoteMatch UsageCandidate Voting
Vote number issues2000-G Principles & Values
on Jul 2, 2000 regarding bill Principles & Values
Results: 		(Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 0; NO 0
Republicans: YES 0; NO 0
Independents: YES 0; NO 0

Social Security
Senate BillVote descriptionVoteMatch UsageCandidate Voting
Vote number 1999-236 using the Social Security Surplus to fund tax reductions
on Jul 30, 1999 regarding bill S.1429
Results: Tabling motion passed 55-45 		Vote on a motion to table (or kill) the motion to recommit the bill to the Senate Finance and Claims Committee with instructions directing the committee to "correct the fact that the bill uses" Social Security surpluses for tax breaks. Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 6: Privatize Social Security. Democrats: YES 0; NO 7
Republicans: YES 6; NO 0
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1999-90 Social Security Lockbox & limiting national debt
on Apr 22, 1999 regarding bill S. 557 Motion to invoke cloture on Amdt #254 to S. 557
Results: Y)54; N)45; NV)1 Cloture Motion Rejected		 This vote limited debate on the amendment offered by Sen. Abraham (R-MI) that would have created a Social Security "lockbox" and establish limits on the public debt. [A YES vote was for a lockbox]. This vote failed because 3/5 of the Senate did not vote. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 0; NO 44
Republicans: YES 54; NO 1
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1998-464HR putting 90% of any budget surplus toward Social Security
on Sep 25, 1998 regarding bill HR 4578
Results: Passed 240-188 		Vote to pass a bill to establish a 'Protect Social Security Account' to place 90 percent of any annual budget surpluses until a reform measure is enacted to keep Social Security solvent long-term. Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 6: Privatize Social Security. Democrats: YES 0; NO 1
Republicans: YES 3; NO 0
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1998-120 allowing Roth IRAs for retirees
on May 6, 1998 regarding bill H.R. 2676 Roth Amdt #2339
Results: Y)56; N)42; NV)2 Amdt Agreed to		 Senator Roth (R-DE) offered this amendment to the IRS Restructuring and Reform Act to allow people older than 70.5 with incomes over $100,000 to move funds from an Individual Retirement Account into a Roth IRA. Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 6: Privatize Social Security. Democrats: YES 2; NO 42
Republicans: YES 54; NO 0
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1998-56 allowing personal retirement accounts
on Apr 1, 1998 regarding bill S.Con.Res.86
Results: Passed 51-49 		Vote on an amendment expressing the sense of the Senate that the Finance Committee should consider legislation to use the federal budget surplus to establish personal retirement accounts as a supplement to Social Security. Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 6: Privatize Social Security. Democrats: YES 2; NO 43
Republicans: YES 49; NO 6
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1996-140 deducting Social Security payments on income taxes
on May 22, 1996 regarding bill S Con Res 57
Results: Amendment rejected, 43-57 		Vote on an amendment to establish an income tax deduction for Social Security taxes paid by employees and the self-employed. Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 6: Privatize Social Security. Democrats: YES 2; NO 44
Republicans: YES 40; NO 13
Independents: YES 0; NO 0

Tax Reform
Senate BillVote descriptionVoteMatch UsageCandidate Voting
Vote number 2003-196 $350 billion in tax breaks over 11 years
on May 23, 2003 regarding bill HR.2
Results: Bill passed 50-50; VP decided Yes 		H.R. 2 Conference Report; Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003. Vote to adopt the conference report on the bill that would make available $350 billion in tax breaks over 11 years. It would provide $20 billion in state aid that consists of $10 billion for Medicaid and $10 billion to be used at states' judgment. The agreement contains a new top tax rate of 15 percent on capital gains and dividends through 2007 (5 percent for lower-income taxpayers in 2007 and no tax in 2008). Income tax cuts enacted in 2001 and planned to take effect in 2006 would be accelerated. The child tax credit would be raised to $1,000 through 2004. The standard deduction for married couples would be double that for a single filer through 2004. Tax breaks for businesses would include expanding the deduction that small businesses could take on investments to $100,000 through 2005. Voting Y counts for 2 points on VoteMatch question 11: Make Income Tax Flatter & Lower. Democrats: YES 2; NO 46
Republicans: YES 48; NO 4
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 2002-94 $15 billion in energy-related tax incentives
on Apr 25, 2002 regarding bill HR.4
Results: 		H.R. 4, as amended; Energy Policy Act of 2002. "Securing America's Future Energy" (SAFE) Act of 2001. Vote to pass a bill that would reform the electricity system, overhaul the nation's energy policies, and make available approximately $15 billion in energy-related tax incentives. It would promote the use of alternative energy and call for utilities to increase their dependence on renewable fuels. It would also regulate that within the next 15 months to two years, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to establish a new CAFE standard. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 0; NO 0
Republicans: YES 0; NO 0
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 2001-165 cutting taxes by $1.35 trillion over 11 years
on May 23, 2001 regarding bill HR 1836
Results: Bill passed, 63-38 		Vote to pass a bill that would reduce all income tax rates and make other tax cuts totaling $1.35 trillion over 11 years. The bill would increase the standard deduction for married couples subject to the 15% bracket to double that of singles by 2005 Voting Y counts for 2 points on VoteMatch question 11: Make Income Tax Flatter & Lower. Democrats: YES 12; NO 38
Republicans: YES 50; NO 0
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 2001-112 reducing marriage penalty instead of cutting top tax rates
on May 17, 2001 regarding bill HR 1836
Results: Amendment rejected, 44-56 		Vote to expand the standard deduction and 15% income tax bracket for couples. The elimination of the "marriage penalty" tax would be offset by reducing the marginal tax rate reductions for the top two rate bracket Voting N counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 11: Make Income Tax Flatter & Lower. Democrats: YES 42; NO 8
Republicans: YES 2; NO 48
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 2001-114 increasing tax deductions for college tuition
on May 17, 2001 regarding bill HR 1836
Results: Amendment rejected, 43-55 		Vote to increase the tax deduction for college tuition costs from $5,000 to $12,000 and increase the tax credit on student loan interest from $500 to $1,000. The expense would be offset by limiting the cut in the top estate tax rate to 53%. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 42; NO 7
Republicans: YES 1; NO 48
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 2000-215 eliminating the 'marriage penalty'
on Jul 18, 2000 regarding bill HR.4810
Results: Passed 61-38 		Vote on a bill that would reduce taxes on married couples by increasing their standard deduction to twice that of single taxpayers and raise the income limits on both the 15 percent and 28 percent tax brackets for married couples to twice that of singles Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 11: Make Income Tax Flatter & Lower. Democrats: YES 8; NO 37
Republicans: YES 53; NO 1
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 2000-197 phasing out the estate tax ("death tax")
on Jul 14, 2000 regarding bill HR 8
Results: Bill passed 59-39 		Vote on a bill that would eventually eliminate the tax imposed on estates and gifts by 2010 at an estimated cost of $75 billion annually when fully phased in. Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 11: Make Income Tax Flatter & Lower. Democrats: YES 2; NO 6
Republicans: YES 5; NO 2
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1999-313 across-the-board spending cut
on Oct 6, 1999 regarding bill S. 1650 Nickles Amdt #1889
Results: Y)54; N)46 Amdt. Agreed to		 The Nickles (R-OK) Amdendment would express the sense of the Senate that Congress should adopt an across-the-board cut in all discretionary funding, to prevent the plundering of the Social Security Trust Fund (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 0; NO 45
Republicans: YES 54; NO 1
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1999-230 $792B tax cuts
on Jul 29, 1999 regarding bill S. 1429 Motion to waive Congressional Budget Amendment in regards to the Gramm Amdt #1405
Results: Y)46; N)54 Motion Rejected		 This vote was on a motion to waive the Congressional Budget Act against the Gramm (R-TX) amendment which would reduce taxes by $792 billion over 10 years by reducing all income tax rates by 10%, effectively eliminating the so-called "marriage penalty". Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 11: Make Income Tax Flatter & Lower. Democrats: YES 0; NO 45
Republicans: YES 46; NO 9
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1998-71 requiring super-majority for raising taxes
on Apr 2, 1998 regarding bill S Con Res 86 Kyl Amdt #2221
Results: Y)50; N)48; NV)2 Amdt Agreed to		 Senator Kyl (R-AZ) offered an amendment to the 1999 budget resolution to express the sense of the Senate on support for a Constitutional amendment requiring a supermajority to pass tax increases. Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 11: Make Income Tax Flatter & Lower. Democrats: YES 1; NO 43
Republicans: YES 49; NO 5
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1998-55 FY99 tax cuts
on Apr 1, 1998 regarding bill S Con Res 86 Motion to waive CBA Re: Coverdell Amdt. # 2199
Results: Y)38; N)62) Motion Rejected		 Senator Coverdell (R-GA) offered an amendment to the 1999 budget resolution to reduce revenues by $101.5 billion over the next 5 years, to provide middle-class tax reflief Voting Y counts for 2 points on VoteMatch question 11: Make Income Tax Flatter & Lower. Democrats: YES 0; NO 45
Republicans: YES 38; NO 17
Independents: YES 0; NO 0

War & Peace
Senate BillVote descriptionVoteMatch UsageCandidate Voting
Vote number 2002-237 authorizing use of military force against Iraq
on Oct 11, 2002 regarding bill H.J.RES.114
Results: 		H.J.Res. 114; Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq Resolution of 2002. The administration would be required to report to Congress that diplomatic options have been exhausted before, or within 48 hours after military action has started. Every 60 days the president would also be required to submit a progress report to Congress. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 29; NO 21
Republicans: YES 48; NO 2
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1999-98 allowing all necessary forces and other means in Kosovo
on May 4, 1999 regarding bill S. J. Res. 20 Motion to table S. J. Res. 20
Results: Y)78; N)22 Motion to Table Agreed to		 Majority Leader Trent Lott motioned to kill the resolution that would have authorized the president to "use all necessary forces and other means," in cooperation with U.S. allies to accomplish objectives in Yugoslavia. Voting Y counts for 0 points on VoteMatch question 17: Continue Foreign Aid to Russia, Israel, & others. Democrats: YES 32; NO 13
Republicans: YES 46; NO 9
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1999-57 authorizing air strikes in Kosovo
on Mar 23, 1999 regarding bill S.Con.Res 21
Results: Adopted 58-41 		Vote to adopt a resolution to authorize the President to conduct military air operations and missile strikes in cooperation with NATO against Yugoslavia (Serbia and Montenegro). Voting Y counts for 0 points on VoteMatch question 17: Continue Foreign Aid to Russia, Israel, & others. Democrats: YES 42; NO 3
Republicans: YES 16; NO 38
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1995-331 ending the Bosnian arms embargo
on Jul 26, 1995 regarding bill S. 21 Bosnia Herzegovina Self-Defense Act of '95
Results: Y)69; N)29; NV)2 Bill Passed		 Ending the Bosnian arms embargo. (Not used in VoteMatch) Democrats: YES 21; NO 23
Republicans: YES 48; NO 5
Independents: YES 0; NO 1

Welfare & Poverty
Senate BillVote descriptionVoteMatch UsageCandidate Voting
Vote number 1996-262 welfare block grants
on Aug 1, 1996 regarding bill H.R. 3734 Conference Report on H.R. 3734
Results: Y)78; N)21; NV)1 Conf Rpt Agreed to		 Replacement of federal welfare guarantee with block grants to the states. Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 20: Allow churches to provide welfare services. Democrats: YES 24; NO 21
Republicans: YES 53; NO 0
Independents: YES 1; NO 0
Vote number 1996-383HR replacing welfare entitlements with work rules
on Jul 31, 1996 regarding bill HR 3734
Results: Adopted 328-101 		Vote to adopt a bill to reform the welfare system by ending the entitlement nature of welfare, giving states control over most welfare programs; limiting welfare benefits; requiring most adult recipients to work; & limiting welfare for legal immigrants. Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 20: Allow churches to provide welfare services. Democrats: YES 1; NO 1
Republicans: YES 1; NO 0
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1996-218 eliminating block grants for food stamps
on Jul 23, 1996 regarding bill S 1956
Results: Amendment adopted, 53-45 		Vote to not allow states the option of getting food stamp funds as a block grant administered by the state, rather than as a federal program, if they meet certain criteria. Voting N counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 20: Allow churches to provide welfare services. Democrats: YES 46; NO 0
Republicans: YES 6; NO 45
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1996-208 allowing state welfare waivers
on Jul 19, 1996 regarding bill S.1956
Results: Rejected 55-43 		Vote on a procedural motion to allow consideration of an amendment to express the Sense of Congress that the president should approve the waivers requested by states that want to implement welfare reform. Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 20: Allow churches to provide welfare services. Democrats: YES 2; NO 41
Republicans: YES 52; NO 1
Independents: YES 0; NO 0
Vote number 1995-443 welfare overhaul
on Sep 19, 1995 regarding bill H.R. 4 Contract w/ America (Welfare Refm)
Results: Y)87; N)12; NV)1 Bill Passed		 Approval of an overhaul on the federal welfare system. Voting Y counts for 1 points on VoteMatch question 20: Allow churches to provide welfare services. Democrats: YES 34; NO 11
Republicans: YES 52; NO 1
Independents: YES 1; NO 0

                                                                                                                                                                               
  

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