On the recordOctober 16, 2013
Once again the GOP has threatened the full faith and credit of the United States. Rejecting all warnings from top economists and business leaders, some of my Republican colleagues have actually claimed that default would be good for our economy; but the truth is, when you spin the GOP wheel of misfortune, everyone loses. How would a GOP default that deprives seniors of Social Security checks be good for our economy? How would a GOP default that pits foreign investors against America's disabled veterans be good for our country? How could ruining the U.S. Treasury bond status as the world's safest asset and hiking interest rates on American families be good for our economy? How could stopping payments for the doctors and nurses who care for Medicare beneficiaries be good for our economy? Mr. Speaker, the answer is that it can't be. The Treasury can't pick and choose which commitments to honor, nor should it have to. When you spin the GOP wheel of misfortune, there are only losers. Americans are disgusted when reckless games are played with our economic future. Be responsible, finally. Today, vote to reopen the government and prevent a default. ____________________
