Ben Bernanke: “an increasing share of losses have arisen from prime mortgages that were originally fully documented with significant…”

Yes, my suggestion to Congress is to consider possibilities that involve somewhat less restraint in the near term and more action to make sure that we are on a sustainable path in the long run.

Our mission as set forth by the Congress is a critical one: to preserve price stability; to foster maximum sustainable growth in output and employment; and to promote a stable and efficient financial system that serves all Americans well…

It would be very concerning for financial markets and, I think, for the general public if the United States didn't pay its bills.

Congress needs to do whatever it takes to address the economic crisis.