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The Leahy-Schumer Act
President Gore had wanted to implement his economic vision since the day he entered office. "A grand plan" he frequently stated. "I hope to be remembered for my economic efforts."

Communicating his desires to Veteran Democratic Senator Patrick Leahy of Vermont (the other Vermont Senator, Jim Jeffords, joined the Democratic party, giving the Democrats the slim majority of 50 + 1 (Vice President Graham's vote) in the Senate. With the Democratic party in charge of the Senate, and with a little bit of compromises here and there, Senators Leahy and Schumer were able to pass the Leahy-Schumer Act, which raised income taxes, lowered corporate taxes, raised punishments for tax and corporate fraud, and ended major tax loopholes in the system.


(Senators Leahy and Schumer in their later political careers, having a discussion. They were two of the three most influential voices in the new Democratic party.)


There was much anger amongst many in the upper echelons of society. "I'm fine with high corporate taxes; I could just ship the jobs elsewhere!" was a sentiment that was popular. Amongst those in high society who opposed the new Act was Senator Ted Stevens of Alaska. He frequently discussed the situation on the golf courses with his friends, stating:

"Gore's administration is out to get you. We have to stop him."


Stevens knew that time was the best strategy, as time would past, presenting itself an opportunity. Unfortunately, he would not have to wait long.

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