Issue Position: Fiscal Responsibility

Issue Position

Our country's national debt is a significant burden that threatens our long-term prosperity. If we do not address our deficits in a responsible way, they will likely force draconian cuts to federal programs that support the livelihood and security of millions of Americans. Our ongoing debt accumulation creates a level of uncertainty that hinders investment and stymies economic growth.

The path to sustained economic stability and expansion requires addressing our deficits. I believe that we must confront this challenge by coming together to develop a balanced approach that includes both spending cuts and revenue increases.

The federal government can take a lesson from small businesses and working families across the country who understand that it is unsustainable to spend more money than you have. However, we must also recognize that not all cuts are wise, just or advised. While it is essential that we balance the budget, we cannot do so on the backs of the most vulnerable.

It is essential that Congress utilize the fiscal-year 2014 budget debate for to establish a renewed sense of financial responsibility. I am committed to finding a balanced approach to address the national debt. By coupling targeted spending reductions with an appropriate amount of revenue increases, we can reduce the deficit without instituting crippling budget cuts that disproportionally impact the elderly, students or the poor.

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