Political Quotes

“I oppose the amendment. It would trigger an automatic CR if Congress doesn't pass appropriations bills or a CR. I understand the Senator's goal, but I oppose the amendment for three reasons: One, the amendment is really about cutting; it is not about keeping the government open. It includes an automatic CR with a 1- percent cut every 90 days, which means it would be compounded--these would be compounded cuts by compounded interest--if the Congress does not pass an appropriations bill. So a cut every 90 days would be a 1- percent cut, and then the following 90 days another 1 percent. The amendment gives up Congress's constitutional responsibility. If we go on auto pilot, it gives the major power of the purse, which is mandated in the Constitution, to OMB and Cabinet officers--essentially nonelected political appointees. I don't think the Congress or the American people want to give the power of the purse to nonelected political appointees. Also, I agree we need to get back to regular order. Madam President, because I disagree with this amendment, I move to table the Portman amendment and ask for the yeas and nays. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there a sufficient second? There appears to be a sufficient second. There is a sufficient second. The question is on agreeing to the motion. The clerk will call the roll. The assistant bill clerk called the roll. ____________________”