Political Quotes

“This is from the Washington Post, late January: In an analysis of the U.S. debt last week, S&P analysts said the unthinkable could occur unless U.S. officials take action. They go on to say: U.S. officials must act quickly to control government deficits or face slower growth and even more difficult choices in the future, the International Monetary Fund said Thursday in a report criticizing the tepid U.S. response to its rising debt. Admiral Mullen, Chairman of Joint Chiefs: I believe that our debt is the greatest threat to our national security. Secretary Hillary Clinton, Secretary of State: Secretary of State Hillary Clinton waded into the nation's fiscal debate Wednesday, calling the expected $1.3 trillion U.S. deficit ``a message of weakness internationally.'' Clinton says the deficit is a national security threat. It was $1.3 trillion when she said that in September. The projected deficit now is $1.6 trillion-plus. Secretary Geithner said the same. We have had a debate. We had 10 Democrats defect from the Democratic bill that did nothing, saying we needed to go further. We had two Republicans defect. One Independent defected, probably thought it was cutting too much. But the majority of Members seemed to be saying we need to reduce more. I suggest that our leaders get together. If there is a disagreement about where the reductions ought to occur, so be it. Let's work that out. But we need to reduce spending significantly. The House number is a minimal amount.…”