On the recordJanuary 19, 2010
Mr. Speaker, our national debt is setting new records each week, and Washington cannot ignore it any longer. Unless we take action, the debt could bring our recovery to a standstill, and raise interest rates for our families. Allowing excessive spending to continue is not an option. In 2010, we must draw the line and put fiscal discipline at the top of our agenda. This Congress should develop and execute a plan to start paying down the debt and ensure sustainable spending levels for the long term. We can and should continue smart investments that create jobs, develop our critical infrastructure, and help new industries grow. But at the same time, we have to start cutting waste and demanding efficiency. Government programs should be actively searching for ways to do more with less. And if they won't, Congress has to step up and do it for them. ____________________