Jason Altmire: “I urge my colleagues to oppose the motion. I yield back the balance of my time.”

Social Security, Medicare, and veterans' benefit programs represent an agreement between citizens and the federal government.

I wasn't sure if the gentleman was planning to transition into another topic as he draws to a close.

The passage of last summer's Budget Control Act sent a strong, bipartisan message to the country that we are serious about reducing our deficit.

Absolutely, I would agree. I had a chance to chat with them earlier today, and there is no group that should stand ahead of our Nation's veterans when it comes time to making Federal funding decisions, so I'm glad that they are joining us…