On the recordDecember 17, 2013
Mr. President, I take this time to talk about the budget agreement that was negotiated by Senator Murray and Congressman Ryan and the work they did, but I first wish to relate to my colleagues conversations I had with numerous Marylanders over this past weekend-- people I didn't know who came up to me and said how pleased they were that Congress was on the verge of getting something done--something that will make a difference in our budget over the next 2 years. They were pleased that Democrats and Republicans were actually able to reach a compromise and that we were actually able to get our business done in some regular order. They were hopeful that it would not only make a difference in the budget of our Nation this year and next, but that it was a sign that Democrats and Republicans were prepared to work together to do the people's business. They were pleased this was truly bipartisan--a real compromise--something we haven't seen enough of in this Congress. The American people understand that the Congress is controlled--the House by Republicans and the Senate by Democrats. They understand that. What they do not understand is how we have not been able to get together and compromise on our differences in order to move forward on the important issues of our time. They are very encouraged by this action. So I intend to support the final vote on the budget agreement, and I hope my colleagues will support this agreement.…





