Frank Lautenberg: “However, I do disagree that we require a supermajority. The fact of the matter is, to project that far in…”

“However, I do disagree that we require a supermajority. The fact of the matter is, to project that far in advance--again, I said it earlier in a discussion, that we are working with estimates. We are looking at a particular point in time, the condition of our economy, the condition of the revenue stream that we get from, really, an ebullient marketplace and high tax collection. That has given us revenues that make the balanced budget a reality, to permit the tax cuts that have been established. Again, we each take a little bit of time for editorial comment to say--with which I disagree. I do agree with the portion that is devoted to the middle class and devoted to education. But it cannot be only my way. I regret that, but that is life and the reality. Mr. President, I hope we will be able to defeat this amendment. I think it does violate the agreement as we understand it.”