Nevada delegation divided on bailout package

The bipartisan rift that helped doom Monday's U.S. House vote on the proposed $700 billion financial sector bailout split Nevada's congressional delegation, a division also seen in many states coast-to-coast.

U.S. Rep. Jon Porter (R-Henderson) voted in support of the bill while emphasizing in a statement that he did not approve the original version of the legislation.

"The economic indicators show that we are on the verge of a national and international financial collapse," Porter said in a statement. "I believe the time for leadership is now, which is why I supported this legislation. I am convinced that this was the right thing to do for Nevada and our country. I voted to protect taxpayers and to stabilize our economy.

U.S. Reps Shelley Berkley (D-Las Vegas) and Dean Heller (R-Carson City) both voted against the bill. According to the Las Vegas Sun, Berkley -- who flew out immediately after the vote to celebrate the Jewish holiday -- wanted the bill to contain more strict limits on executive pay and increased oversight in order to ensure the protection of taxpayers.

In a direct contrast to Porter, Heller told the Reno Gazette-Journal that the bill would not have a positive effect for Nevadans.

"I cannot with good conscience put Nevada's taxpayers on the hook for the foolish excesses of Wall Street," Heller said. "This legislation will not help Nevada's middle-class families, small businesses, or economy."