RUSS CARNAHAN: “Last night our Republican colleagues scheduled an empty vote on the debt ceiling, a political stunt with no serious…”

“Last night our Republican colleagues scheduled an empty vote on the debt ceiling, a political stunt with no serious plan. Last week, the majority leader tried to use a natural disaster as political leverage in their ideological fight over the budget. And last month and again today, Republicans propose ending Medicare as we know it to pay for tax giveaways for millionaires and giant oil companies. I'm holding another town hall meeting tomorrow, telephone town hall, with my constituents to talk about these issues and what our national priorities should be. The Republican extreme ideological war is a disturbing trend, using national emergencies, the full faith and credit of the United States, and our seniors' health care as if they're bargaining chips. The American people and the Missourians I represent deserve better. It's time to come together like adults to find serious solutions to our complex problems. And it's time to stop threatening Medicare, important institutions, our national credit, and the national commitment to lend a hand to those in need, and especially those suffering through natural disasters. We can solve this without trying to scare markets or scare seniors. Let's get serious about reducing our deficit and growing jobs. ____________________”