Andy Barr: “Last week was a great and important beginning to a new way of doing the people's business in Washington. In a…”

“Last week was a great and important beginning to a new way of doing the people's business in Washington. In a record-breaking first day of the session, we demonstrated that unlike the politicians who merely talk the talk, we walk the walk. We have put the brakes on the tax raisers, cut committees and staff, and taken the steps necessary to bring this House under the same laws that govern the conduct of the citizens who sent us here. For the first time in decades, this House is being brought into order. Now, Mr. Speaker, we must set to work immediately to bring the Government's fiscal house in order. Our Nation suffers under a multitrillion-dollar debt. Each and every dollar of that debt had its source in this House, which under the Constitution is the only body authorized to initiate spending bills. The interest to finance this public debt approaches $250 billion each year, which is enough to fund the entire current defense budget of the country. This fiscal irresponsibility is about to stop, Mr. Speaker. The balanced budget amendment, which is a critical provision of the Contract With America, will be taken up by this body shortly. There is not a moment to lose in doing all we can to assure its swift consideration and passage. Our future, and, more important, the future of our children and grandchildren, depend upon our ability to deliver on this promise to America.”