On the recordMarch 21, 2013
I want to thank the Senators who joined me today as we work to advance a smart, balanced approach for meeting our country's fiscal challenges. The time is ripe for common ground on a budget plan to move the economy forward. While I don't know if we will have that bipartisan plan in the next few days, I think we will get a budget through this Chamber which will pave the way for the kinds of bipartisan negotiations we need to have. We need to keep this country moving, and moving in the direction we need. When I go out there and talk to small companies throughout my State, they want us to get something done. They want to have consistency so we are not playing green light, red light with the Tax Code; that they know exactly where they stand. I think they all acknowledge everyone is going to have to sacrifice a little here. I think they acknowledge we are going to have to do something which makes a difference and not just speak about it anymore. We have not only the opportunity but the responsibility to find common ground on a deficit reduction plan which will help build a stronger, more resilient framework for economic renewal so families and businesses have the certainty they need. I think we know neither party is going to get everything it wishes, but this doesn't mean we can put our heads in the sand and pretend this isn't happening. I truly appreciate my Republican colleagues. When we meet behind closed doors and speak about this, they have a willingness to compromise.…
