Washington, DC -- Congressman Kenny Marchant today issued the following statement in regards to the $700 billion financial bailout proposal:  

"On September 29, 2008, I voted against the Paulson Plan to address the crisis in our nation’s economy. The process that led to consideration of this legislation was hurried and closed to alternative ideas from conservative members of Congress.

I was uncomfortable voting for a bill that left the American taxpayers at considerable risk. When dealing with a crisis like this, the process needs to be open and transparent. This process was not open, punished the taxpayer, and rewarded those that were responsible for the crisis. I remain committed to working with my colleagues to pass a free-market alternative that protects the taxpayer and allows our economy to not only survive, but thrive. 

I heard from almost 2,000 of my constituents across the 24th District – many for the first time. The resounding message sent to me was to slow down and work on a free-market solution that protects the taxpayer."

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