"I am very nervous that another round of cuts will mean that we are not able to keep or attract the kind of quality staff."
"I think all of you know well the issues that have been debated in the House."
"What I would ask the committee to consider is that the Budget Committee not be penalized for its history of frugality."
"the fundamental crunch comes with making the political choices."
"every one of the proposals that you have put forward... presumes fundamental political choices about how we are going to get there."
"our Congressional rules on Congressional process, are like flashing yellow lights, and like stop signs."
"I do think there are some measures, budget process measures, that can help improve the process."
"the only thing that stands between divided government that works for the country and dysfunctional government is the willingness to compromise."
"the PAYGO rule that has been in effect during different periods has played a useful, even though limited, role in trying to prevent the deficit from getting even worse."
"Above all recognize that our Constitution requires a willingness to compromise"
"we have to increase revenues beyond current policy if we want to avoid very deep cuts."