Senate : Democrats praises Senate vote while top Republicans blast it . Wednesday 's votes were primarily about political positioning in the heat of the 2012 election season , as well each party 's opening bid in what is sure to be a frenzied legislative negotiating session this autumn . Senate passes a Democratic tax plan while rejecting the Republican alternative . GOP wants to extend Bush - era tax cuts for all ; Democrats want $ 1 income ceiling . Neither plan is expected to win full congressional support .
Senate : Democrats praises Senate vote while top Republicans blast it . Senate passes a Democratic tax plan while rejecting the Republican alternative . GOP wants to extend Bush - era tax cuts for all ; Democrats want $ 1 income ceiling . Neither plan is expected to win full congressional support .