The American people have sent a message to Washington that they expect their leaders to avert crippling tax increases while also getting serious about reining in wasteful spending. Heeding the call, the House approved bipartisan legislation in August to avert the Fiscal Cliff. Unfortunately, however, the President and Senate Democrats appear more interested in scoring cheap political points and peddling scare tactics about the debt limit than in achieving a solution. With just a few precious days remaining before year’s end, I am hopeful that Senator Reid will finally listen to the American people, put politics aside and extend critical tax relief for hardworking families.