Political Quotes

“In terms of Social Security, the person who made the point that a balanced budget amendment is the basic protection that is needed by the Social Security system was the chief actuary for the Social Security System for 23 years. I point out, second, that the Reid amendment Social Security portion is fine for the surplus, but starting in the year 2024, Social Security goes into a deficit. It provides absolutely no protection for anyone 35 years of age or younger. That is something to keep in mind. In terms of people saying now the Simon amendment is dead, that is probably the weakest argument I can think of for voting against an amendment. The question should not be what its status is--and I am not about to give up. I think the point made by Senator McCain is that we just have to keep fighting this battle--but the question is on the merits. Finally, Senator Bumpers asked two questions because I had yielded to Senator Specter and was not able to answer at the time. He says: If Congress miscalculates revenues or spending and this becomes apparent by the middle of the year and the budget becomes or is about to become unbalanced and the Congress is unable to muster 60 percent to waive, what happens? Several things. First, we have to pass implementing legislation so we have procedures. I would suggest that we aim for a 1-percent surplus.”