On the recordMarch 28, 2012
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, this session of Congress represents a unique opportunity in history to accomplish something great. The pending sequester, the overwhelming number of tax provisions set to expire, and the threat of growing debt must force us to make decisions. Inaction is not an option. The amendment before us today is more than just a set of numbers. It's a pathway forward. It's a solution. The Progressive Caucus developed the solution by listening to what the American people want. They want shared responsibility and prosperity. They want us to protect the social safety network. They want basic fairness. They want fiscal sanity. That is exactly what this plan provides. First and foremost, we focused our attention where it is needed the most: job creation. This proposal is estimated to create 3.3 million jobs over the next 2 years because it uses every single tool in the Federal Government's arsenal: One, direct and local hire programs; two, targeted tax incentives; and, three, widespread domestic investments. Instead, the Republican budget relies on trickle-down voodoo economics that haven't worked before and won't work now. Projections show that the GOP plan would kill 4.1 million jobs in the next 2 years alone. Americans deserve proven solutions, a growing economy, and financial security for themselves and their loved ones. The Progressive Caucus is listening: We invest in America now and lay the foundation for a globally competitive future.…
