Oakland Congresswoman: Democrats Won't Budge In Fiscal Cliff Negotiations

OAKLAND (KCBS) – There's little sign of movement in Washington in negotiations over the fiscal cliff and a Bay Area member of Congress said Democrats won't budge on their economic principles.

Union members and local Democrats rallied at Eastmont Mall in Oakland on Monday, to send their message loud and clear to Congressional Republicans.

KCBS' Doug Sovern Reports:

"No cuts in benefits to millions of Americans who depend on Social Security, Medicare and don't forget Medicaid," said Congresswoman Barbara Lee.

Lee said she knows most Americans agree with President Obama and the Democrats on this one.

Assemblymember Nancy Skinner joined her in calling for maintaining the current tax rates on all but the richest 2 percent of Americans and letting their tax cut expire.

"Congress, stop being Scrooge. Do the right thing," Skinner said.

Lee said she's cautiously optimistic the deal will get done before the New Year's deadline.

"We're going to stay there as long as it takes. To make sure first that we protect Medicare, Social Security and Medicaid," Lee said. "And to make sure these Bush-era tax cuts for the 2 percent are ended."

Republicans insist they won't go along with higher taxes on the rich, unless there are changes in those federal benefit programs.

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