Patricia Schroeder: “Mr. Speaker, last night, in an eloquent State of the Union Address, President Clinton asked Americans to forge a new…”

“Mr. Speaker, last night, in an eloquent State of the Union Address, President Clinton asked Americans to forge a new covenant based on inalienable rights and solemn responsibilities. The President urged Members of this body to work together to pass welfare reform, tax relief, and reduce wasteful spending. He also emphasized the need to balance the budget. We agree. But, like the President, we're here to draw the line. We will not balance the Federal budget on the backs of seniors. We will not cut Social Security and Medicare to balance the budget. Senior citizens built this country. They have worked hard, raised families, fought wars, and forged strong communities. Our senior citizens have lived up to their responsibilities. And, they have earned the right of a decent and dignified retirement. We need a leaner, not a meaner Government. That's where Democrats and Republicans part company. While the Speaker has promised to spare Social Security, the Republican balanced budget amendment shows Social Security no mercy. Instead, the Republicans have put forth the Flanagan fig leaf resolution we now have before us. This resolution does nothing to protect Social Security--it has no force of law. It does not ensure we will achieve a balanced budget that does not attack Social Security, because it does not guarantee a constitutional bar against cuts in Social Security benefits.”