Joe Wilson: “when American families face difficult times, they set priorities. Today the United States is fighting a war and facing a…”

“when American families face difficult times, they set priorities. Today the United States is fighting a war and facing a slow economy. These are difficult times, and they call for clear priorities. President Bush and Republicans have done just that. In March, Republicans in the House, led by the gentleman from Illinois (Speaker Hastert), passed the President's budget plan that clearly outlined spending priorities. We are keeping our commitment to education, Social Security, Medicare and, most importantly, national defense and homeland security. But Democrats have offered no plans and have set no priorities. The only clear message coming from them is let us spend more. We must focus on what we need, not what we want. The American people have been consistent in making the economy their top concern. The President and respected Alan Greenspan have said that the way to promote a strong economy is to control government spending. The President and Republicans have presented a responsible budget that meets our Nation's priorities. It is time for the Democrats to get on board.”