Gilbert Gutknecht: “I don't know if I would be happier if Americans are watching this debate, or if they are not watching the debate. I am…”

“I don't know if I would be happier if Americans are watching this debate, or if they are not watching the debate. I am an auctioneer and it sounds almost like an auction: no matter how much we spend it is not enough. But here is something I think all Members need to be aware of. Next year the taxpayers are going to generously provide this Congress and this Federal Government with a 12 percent increase in revenue. Over the next 5 years, the estimate is it will be at least an increase averaging 5.4 percent per year. Now that is at a time when we expect the inflation rate will be somewhere less than 3 percent. In other words, revenue to the Federal Government will be almost double what we project the inflation rate to be. And Americans watching at home are asking a simple question: Why can't you live within your means? And that is what this budget is about. That is what this debate is about. And I think Americans watching at home must be wondering, how in the world, why is it with a 12 percent increase next year and a 5\1/2\ percent increase averaging over the next 5 years, why can't you figure it out to live within your means? Mr. McGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.”