The Senate today voted to pass a new GI Bill, that allows veterans to attend college for free. The GI Bill before did not cover the entire cost of college but, now the bill gives money to veterans that pays for the most expensive public school in the state. In other words, a veteran from North Carolina can attend UNC at Chapel Hill for free.
The bill passed 75-22. One would assume that in a state with major military bases and one with senators who often cite "supporting the troops" as reasoning for extending the war in Iraq that North Carolina's two senators, Sen. Dole and Sen. Burr, would be vocally approving this bill. However, they both voted against it.
Sen. Burr along with South Carolina Sen. Graham, cosponsored an amendment supported by Presidential candidate Sen. McCain. This amendment was a tiered increase in benefits for longer service. Basically, the longer you serve, the more money you get. That sounds terrific and would be if not for a few glaring shortfalls. First, the Graham/Burr/McCain Bill does not account for the different prices of education in different states meaning those veterans who live in states with a higher cost for education are forced to go into debt to pay for college. Also, the Graham/Burr/McCain Bill does not account for the service of those in the National Guard or for Reservists. These soldiers have also served in Iraq and Afghanistan, often for multiple tours and they are left out.
The hypocrisy with that amendment. As one term Senators, which I believe that both Burr and Dole should be (Dole is up for election in November, Burr's term is up in 2010), our senators are given the same benefits package as Senators who have served for decades. Also, as residents (term applied loosely to Dole) of North Carolina, I am sure both senators are aware of the Teaching Fellows program, in which eligible students are given a free college education, if they promise to teach in North Carolina for 4 years.
These rogue Senators have the right to their opinion and the right to attempt to amend legislation. But, once their amendment was defeated, they decided to not support our troops. There is no amount of spin that can change that. Earlier in the month, the House passed this bill and after conference the bill will be sent to the president, who has said he will veto the bill. If you are curious how your Congressman voted I am pleased to say that 12 out of the 13 Representatives from North Carolina voted for the bill, with 6th District Congressman Howard Coble being the dissenter.
Bottom Line?
Democrats support the troops. Some Republicans do, but not the President, not the Presidential candidate, and not the Senators from North Carolina among others.
Rabbit
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