Issue Position: Budget & Fiscal Responsibility

Issue Position

Issue Position: Budget & Fiscal Responsibility

"It is the highest impertinence and presumption, therefore, in kings and ministers to pretend to watch over the economy of private people, and to restrain . . . They are themselves always, and without any exception, the greatest spendthrifts in the society." Adam Smith

The federal government should exercise fiscal responsibility in carrying out its budget. As a member of the Senate Budget Committee, I strongly support reigning in federal spending and taking decisive steps to reduce the national debt. That's one reason I found the quote from Adam Smith to be so pertinent; the federal government simply must find ways to control spending and use federal tax dollars in an appropriate manner.

I will continue to work with my colleagues in the Senate to ensure greater accountability in the budget and appropriations process. With the pending retirement of the baby boomer generation, strains on the budget will only continue. We must seek ways to save now - by investing in the programs that work and by addressing those that do not. Savings now could make all the difference in the years to come.

As I review the budget each year with my colleagues in the Budget Committee, I will be sure to keep these priorities in mind. I welcome your views on this important issue. Please contact me with your thoughts and input.

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