Congress Reaches Compromise on Taxes & Benefits (2010)
In 2010, President Obama signs a major tax and unemployment bill after long debate in Congress. The law extends the Bush-era tax cuts for two more years, continues unemployment benefits for 13 months, reduces payroll taxes, and brings back a modified estate tax. Democrats and Republicans disagreed on how much the wealthy should pay, but ultimately reached a compromise to...
The Repeal of ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’
In December 2010, President Barack Obama signed the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” ending the 17-year policy that forced gay and lesbian service members to hide their identity. The repeal required certification from military leadership and included a 60-day waiting period before taking effect. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand played a key role in advancing the vote, continuing her rising influence...
