On the recordDecember 31, 2012
Madam Speaker, at midnight tonight, our Nation is scheduled to fall off the fiscal cliff, because the Augusta Chronicle editorial of December 2 is correct: It's that stubborn adherence to big spending that's powering the momentum toward the fiscal cliff. And halting big spending is what's going to stop it. Over the past year, House Republicans have passed effective bipartisan legislation to prevent the entire fiscal cliff. Unfortunately, these bills remain stalled in the Senate graveyard. This fact makes it very clear that House Republicans have addressed this issue, and Speaker John Boehner is holding firm for fiscal responsibility. With only a few hours to go, it's my hope the Senate will accept one of the House proposals and send legislation back to the House, which will attempt to tackle Washington's out-of-control spending, extend tax cuts for all Americans, and prevent the devastating defense budget cuts before it is too late and hundreds of thousands of jobs are destroyed. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. Congratulations, Jay Pierson, for your years of service. ____________________
