Jasper Packard: “we surely have come a long way. After 2\1/ 2\ years, the Republican Congress and the Democratic administration have…”

“we surely have come a long way. After 2\1/ 2\ years, the Republican Congress and the Democratic administration have finally agreed on a plan to balance the budget and provide for America's future. But it was neither the Democrats nor the Republicans who emerged the victors in the budget battle. It was the American people. Hard-working, tax-paying citizens have finally won a major victory. Tax relief has become a reality because the American people have spoken loudly and we have listened. Last year, both Republicans and the President made campaign promises which included tax relief for working Americans and a balanced budget for America's future. After 2\1/2\ years, we can be proud to say that together we have fulfilled our promises to the people. A balanced budget which includes significant tax relief is in hand. This is the first balanced budget in a generation and the first tax relief in 16 years. Mr. Speaker, today, we can all rest easy knowing that the President and the Congress were able to work together to provide a brighter future for all Americans. Partisan politics were pushed aside; the people emerged as the big winners. The specifics of our budget agreement will put more money in your pockets. Reductions in the capital gains tax, a child tax credit, educational tax credits, and a decrease in the estate tax rate will help all Americans live out the American dream.…”