Statement Regarding the FY2011 Continuing Appropriations Bill

“This vote is a crucial first step in addressing the fiscal and economic threat facing our Nation and future generations of Americans. While I appreciate that the proposed spending cuts, if adopted into law, will ultimately have an impact on programs at the local level, it is imperative that we recognize that our Nation will spend $1.5 trillion more than we take in this year, our national debt exceeds $14 trillion and we are borrowing more than 40 cents on every dollar we spend. The days of burdening future generations with unsustainable levels of debt must come to an end. In the weeks and months ahead, Congress must further engage the American people about the difficult challenges facing our country and chart a course for the future that restores fiscal responsibility in Washington, restores confidence in our economy and puts our nation back on the path to prosperity.”