James Whittier Parker: “when I first came to this body in 1989, I was not in favor of a balanced budget amendment. Since that time, I have…”

“when I first came to this body in 1989, I was not in favor of a balanced budget amendment. Since that time, I have reached the conclusion that the only way that the U.S. Congress will exercise true fiscal responsibility is through a balanced budget mechanism that forces us to reduce spending and set new budget priorities. For 6 years, I have listened to the opponents of a balanced budget amendment say that we should exercise our current constitutional responsibility, and achieve deficit reduction through the regular authorization and appropriation process. And yet, we don't do it. I have listened for the last few weeks, and today, as the opponents say that we should tell the American people where the cuts are going to be made before we pass a balanced budget amendment. If you support a balanced budget, if you support deficit reduction, that argument is irrelevant. No one is disputing the fact that this amendment will require painful cuts. But, that is what the American people are demanding. True, many people may not be aware what a balanced budget will mean in terms of cuts in programs. But, the people want reduced Government spending and an end to deficit spending. It is time for us to give the people what they want. The Barton-Geren amendment is the most fiscally conservative proposal before us--which is why I support it. I urge you to show courage, and do what the people demand. I believe that today we will finally pass a balanced budget amendment.”