Effect of Recent Elections on the Proposed Home Star Program

Here’s a breakdown of the legislators in Washington who have had a major role in the proposed Home Star legislation (“Cash for Caulkers”), and how they fared in recent elections on November 2nd.

Rep. Peter Welch, D-VT – Sponsored the House bill on Cash for Caulkers.  Welch won his third term to the House on November 2nd.  He said that job creation will be his top priority during this term.  He serves on the House Energy and Commerce Committee.

Senator Jeff Bingaman, D-NM – Sponsored the Senate bill on Cash for Caulkers.  Senator Bingaman was not up for re-election, but will be in 2012.

Senator Lindsey Graham, R-SC – Co-sponsored the Senate Cash for Caulkers bill.  Senator Graham was not up for re-election, but will be in 2014.

Senator Mark Warner, D-VA – Co-sponsored the Senate Cash for Caulkers bill.  Senator Warner will also be up for re-election in 2014.

Senator Harry Reid, D-NV - Introduced the Cash for Caulkers bill before the Senate on July 28, 2010.  Reid won with 50.2% of the vote over challenger Sharron Angle, who had 44.6% of the vote.

So, all the key players of the Home Star legislation are still in Washington.  However, the Republicans now control the House of Representative and made gains in the Senate.  The question now remains will President Obama and the legislators listed above still push for the Home Star program?