William C. Baker: “I think a short history lesson is in order, especially after the previous speeches. First of all, in the private sector…”

“I think a short history lesson is in order, especially after the previous speeches. First of all, in the private sector the cost-of-living increase in medicine is only going up 3 rac{1}{2} to 4 percent, but in the Government sector Medicare is going up 10 rac{1}{2} percent. We have to fix it. I think a short history lesson is in order. Last November the American people staged a revolt. With one election the people changed its Government. The liberal philosophy of more and more government had been totally rejected. The people voted for less government, less taxes and regulation, and firm leadership from Congress. During the first 100 days House Republicans enacted the Contract With America in which we clearly stated that government had to take a back seat to common sense. Congress went on record for lower taxes, serious welfare reform, and a real balance budget. Mr. Speaker, the next few weeks will be the fruition of that contract. We on this side of the aisle clearly heard the voices of the people on November 8. Republicans have the political courage to address the Medicare crisis. We will keep our promises to rein in Federal spending, we will eliminate the failed welfare state, and we are going to cut capital gains tax to create more jobs. In other words, the Republicans will give the American people what they want, limited government and more individual responsibility.”