Political Quotes

“I thank the chairman for yielding. Absent congressional action, interest rates on student loans will double from 3.4 to 6.8 percent on July 1. It's not that far away. We need both parties and both Chambers working on solutions now. We can't afford more last-minute, backroom deals and political brinksmanship. The Smarter Solutions for Students Act is a commonsense approach. This bill prevents the rate hike from happening and ends what has become an annual debate within Congress on how to set the rates for student loans. This bill puts in place a rate that is more predictable and affordable. It builds on a proposal put forward by President Obama in his fiscal year 2014 budget request. Now, both these proposals move to a market-based interest rate, not one set by politicians in Washington. We have a responsibility to America's youth to put forward a long-term plan for college affordability. This bill is a good first step. It will offer students the lowest possible rates for higher education by ensuring the solvency of these important loan programs. And I encourage my colleagues to join in support of this bill.”