Some Illinois lawmakers are weighing in on the fight over President Barack Obama’s jobs bill.

Last week, a piece of the bill that would have funneled millions to state and local governments to help them avoid teacher and firefighter layoffs did not get the support it needed to pass the U.S. Senate. The chamber split 50-50 on the vote, failing to receive the 60 votes needed to overcome a Republican filibuster.

Democratic Senator Dick Durbin criticized Republicans for not coming up with a jobs solution of their own.

“If they’re just going to say no in the hopes that they can defeat Barack Obama, that’s a heavy price for 14 million unemployed Americans to pay,” said Durbin.

Many Republicans have criticized the president for not seeking a compromise. Three Democrats sided with Republicans in voting down the measure.