Political Quotes

“I think this is an historic opportunity for the Senate to get this job done right, to get this job done on a bipartisan basis. I do not think anyone doubts how this vote on the majority leader's proposal is going to turn out, today. I believe we could have an alternative ending, however, that would benefit the American people, that would ensure that we get real fiscal discipline, and at the same time provide long-term security for generations of Americans to come. That is why I am hopeful that today we will have an opportunity to vote on a measure that is identical to that offered by the majority leader save for one difference. The alternative constitutional amendment to balance the budget would simply bar the use of the Social Security surplus or Social Security taxes for balancing the Federal budget. Mr. President, and colleagues, it is clear that both political parties--let me emphasize--both political parties have in the past used that Social Security surplus to mask the overall Federal deficit. I think that has to end. I think that the amendment, the alternative described today, would give us an opportunity on a bipartisan basis to tackle this issue responsibly and end it once and for all. It is time to close this road show and give the people what they want.”