Mike Pence: “Since last summer, I have urged this Congress to take action to prevent a tax increase that would affect every American…”

“Since last summer, I have urged this Congress to take action to prevent a tax increase that would affect every American in January of next year. So I rise with a heavy heart this morning to simply announce to my colleagues that I believe the short-term tax deal negotiated by the White House and congressional leaders is a bad deal for taxpayers, will do little to create jobs, and I cannot support it. Despite the fact that last November the American people did not vote for more deficits, more stimulus or more uncertainty in the Tax Code, that is just what this lame duck Congress is about to give them. You know, Madam Speaker, there is a reason why article I, section 7 of the Constitution says that all bills for raising revenue are to originate here in the House of Representatives. It is because our Founders believed that, when it comes to the people's taxes, the people's House should always lead. If the process is wrong, then the policy is wrong. We perpetuate the uncertainty. It is built into our Tax Code. Uncertainty is the enemy of our prosperity, and frankly, we can provide assistance to families struggling in this economy by making the hard choices to pay for it without adding to the national debt. The American people have spoken. Let's say no deal to this tax deal, and get a better deal out of this Congress 3 weeks from today.”