On the recordMarch 2, 2011
we have worked for weeks now in moving forward on this funding measure for the country. What Democrats have said for weeks now is that we are committed to working with all sides to find a middle ground that helps us move forward and move toward a fiscally responsible budget for the rest of the year. Our priorities are twofold: One, keeping the country running so essential services do not get interrupted--and certainly they should not be interrupted--at a time we can least afford it; and, two, equally as important, we need to lay the groundwork with a budget that invests in what works and cuts what doesn't. We have to begin to bring down the deficit without forfeiting our future. This has not been an easy process. But we need to set aside partisan motivations and remember we work for the American people, not our political parties.
