I do seek reconsideration of policies that have not worked, of policies that were projected to grow the economy, bring the deficit down and make us a healthier, wealthier country. Frankly, the policies that we pursued in 2001 through 2006, and actually through 2009 because we couldn't change policy although we were in charge of the House and the Senate, we couldn't override a Presidential veto--again, not contrition, but recognition that the policies did not work. Benjamin Franklin said, It's not a good thing to be penny wise and pound foolish. I tell my friend that he and his colleagues from 2001 and 2006--I think he voted for each one of these--voted for over $2 trillion in unfunded spending. That is the real problem. The gentleman is probably prepared to support, as I am--he and I will probably vote together, I hope, on a supplemental that provides for funding our troops. That won't be paid for. We will expect our children and grandchildren to pay for that. Mr. Obey has suggested a tax to pay for this war. If it is worth fighting, if it's worth protecting this generation, it is worth paying for.
Editor's note · Context
The speaker is addressing the need to reconsider ineffective economic policies and the implications of unfunded spending.
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