Political Quotes

“Mr. Chairman, we have problems with budgets projections. It should be obvious to everybody how far off our projections are 1 year in advance, let alone 2 years in advance. Two years ago, CBO projected a $70 billion deficit for the year 2000. The current estimate is that there will be a $170 billion surplus. That is a $240 billion difference. Budget inflation. Agencies will deal with uncertainty in two year budgets by padding their budget request. This will result in more spending. Mr. Chairman, Congress has had annual Federal budgets since 1789. Our present budget problems have nothing to do with annual budgets. Our present budget problems have to do with the willingness of Members to take the time to make the effort to oversee and review spending bills in the United States Congress. When it comes to giving taxpayers their money's worth, whether the budget is 2 years or 1 year, there will be no difference unless there is a willingness of Members to review programs that need to be reviewed. I urge Members to vote against this amendment.”