On the recordSeptember 21, 2021
If we don't pass this CR and disaster relief supplemental, we will have a cascade of nightmare occurrences. The Federal Government and so many programs that help our constituents will simply shut down. The United States will default on its debt, causing widespread economic catastrophe, and leave us a ``permanently weaker Nation,'' as Secretary Yellen said. Millions of Americans will not receive emergency assistance to help rebuild from recent hurricanes, wildfires, droughts, and blizzards. Afghan evacuees will not receive urgent humanitarian assistance. The National Institute of Standards and Technology will not receive the $22 million in this bill to investigate the Surfside building collapse that happened in my district. We cannot abandon all these must-pass priorities for the American people. Republicans voted for a debt ceiling three times under Trump, and this proposed increase would pay for debts that his administration incurred. Americans have been through enough in the last 18 months. Now is not the time to hold our economy hostage and tear vital strands from our safety net. Too many children, seniors, and working families are counting on the stability we have begun to secure in recent months. Republicans must not play politics with our Nation's fiscal stability. Too many Americans would get hurt. We must pass this CR. The alternative is catastrophic. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairwoman DeLauro, Speaker Pelosi, and Mr.…





