Congress Has Neglected Deficit, Energy Prices

With little more than a month left in the current session, the Congress still has much work to do on critical domestic issues.  Coming back from an August work period, we find our nation struggling under the weight of a tremendous deficit and skyrocketing energy prices.  This Majority in Congress has so far neglected these issues, failing to take meaningful action that would address these extraordinary burdens.

Currently, our nation’s deficit stands at over $8.5 trillion dollars, which translates into over $28,000 per citizen.  The U.S. continues to borrow from countries like China, Japan, and Saudi Arabia to finance our debt.  Yet, the Administration continues to enact huge tax cuts for the wealthiest 1% of Americans, while proposing cuts to vital programs in education, healthcare, and the like.  That is why I support restoring fiscal discipline by eliminating unnecessary tax cuts for the wealthiest 1% of Americans and restoring the pay-as-you-go budget rules that required Congress to eliminate one dollar in spending in one program for every dollar it increases another program.

Skyrocketing energy prices have created significant hardship for millions of Americans.  These high prices are now beginning to affect the cost of other goods, from groceries to office furniture, as they cut into the bottom line of every business.  Much of the problem has to do with unfair energy trading, which puts money in the pockets of big oil companies and pushes your prices ever higher.  I have introduced legislation that would return the government’s ability to police this trading, and ensure that the price you pay at the pump reflects the real value of gasoline.

Congress has important work ahead that has a very real impact on the lives of every American.  I will continue to work diligently to provide solutions to the needs and challenges we face both at home and abroad. 

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