We're going to spend a whole boatload of money that won't have much useful effect to massage the ideological egos of Republican congressmen and senators. Because, you know, Republicans have proved they're so good with money!
See, here's the thing. This is exactly the sort of thing for which Obama should be expending political capital. He should go on TV, explain why the Republican tax cuts won't work, and ask people to contact their representatives and insist that they support his plan.
That's what leadership is.