Richard K. Armey: “I rise in support of the Scarborough amendment to curtail funding for Executive Order 13083, President Clinton's efforts…”

“I rise in support of the Scarborough amendment to curtail funding for Executive Order 13083, President Clinton's efforts to grab power from the states in the name of "federalism." Ronald Reagan had it right. In 1987, President Reagan reaffirmed the principles of federalism--that powers not explicitly given to the federal government are reserved for the States and individuals. The specifically enumerated federal powers that are designed to limit Washington's power is the very cornerstone of our fundamental liberties. It is at the heart of what the American people expect from Washington--respect for their rights to know what's best for them--without Washington interference. Unless we preserve a healthy balance between the States and the federal government, we risk the creation of a government that is beyond control, one insulated from the will of the people. It is for that reason that our Constitution lays out enumerated powers of the federal government--powers given to it only by the people in the nation. It was the genius of the founders--a way to ensure that no leader pandered away the wealth and resources of the nation. In fact, a central theme of our 1994 "Contract with America" was the return of power to the States and the revival of federalism. The nation responded, with overwhelming enthusiasm.…”