"The Focus is on a Real Plan for Real Solutions"

Statement

Below are segments of the remarks delivered by Congressman James Lankford (R-OK) during today's House Budget Committee markup of the FY 2012 Budget -- "The Path to Prosperity: Restoring America's Promise".

"The question that I bring to the table, and all of us bring, is, "When are we going to get serious as a nation and deal with the national debt?' This is not a partisan issue; this is an American issue. One party didn't bring this all to the table, both parties did. But we both have to be able to work together to resolve it. Democrats and Republicans have appropriated money for projects and programs designed to help America but they have also created a situation where the leaders of today are saying, "Times are tough. I think I'll make it easier on me by making it tougher on my children and my grandchildren.' And that is not a way for us to run a country and be able to lead."

"I know some people have said that this budget is "extreme.' And I have to tell you that I agree. It is extremely overdue…This budget is focused on promoting growth, protecting critical government functions, cutting out inefficiencies, and getting us on the course to pay off the debt. The focus is on a real plan for real solutions."

"Mr. Chairman, we've been spending money to bailout our economy saying, "Someday, we'll pay this down.' This budget just says, "That someday is today.'"

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