U.S. Rep. Zack Space (D-Dover) was one of seven Ohio representatives to vote in favor of the bailout bill yesterday. Space said in a statement that he was disappointed the bill didn’t pass.

“We are at a crossroads in America, and I am truly dispirited that, today, Congress could not political differences aside and rise to the occasion of averting what may well be an economic disaster,” Space said, adding that the bill’s failure may result in bank failures, bankruptcies and job loss.

However, the bill was not perfect.

“We had a bill that was, admittedly, imperfect, but one that included safeguards for American taxpayers, including stringent oversight, regulation of CEO compensation, and the real possibility that we will be able to return money to the American taxpayers over the long haul,” he said.

Space’s opponent for the 18th Congressional District, Fred Dailey (R-Mt. Vernon) blasted Space for voting in favor of the bill.

“This stop gap measure to save Wall Street billionaires doesn't do enough to help Southeast Ohio families and businesses now or protect taxpayers from having to support future bailouts,” he said in a statement. “In addition to provisions geared towards Wall Street bankers, the bill also increased America's federal debt ceiling by $1.3 trillion. That figure represents an additional $600 billion above the proposed price tag of the entire bailout package.
 
Dailey also attacked Space and the Democratic leadership for opting to recess until Thursday. Democrats said they are in recess to honor the Jewish holiday of Rosh Hashanah.
 
"They have once again failed to help this country when we need it most. While credit is drying up and average Americans are having trouble paying their bills, Congress unveils a bill that won't help us, takes a vote, and then decides to take a break before the problem is solved,” he said.