April 13, 2011

Manchin's Statement on President Obama's Speech on Reducing the Deficit

Washington, D.C. -- U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) issued the following statement today after President Obama delivered a speech on reducing the nation’s debt:

“While I am encouraged to see the President acknowledge the dire condition of our fiscal problems, no partisan proposal – from either Democrats or Republicans – will solve our nation’s problems or put our fiscal house in order.

“Although the President raised many important fiscal issues, I will continue to strongly oppose efforts to hike taxes on American families and small businesses making $250,000. Before we ask middle class families, or any American, for more of their hard-earned money, we need to first show them that their government can spend their money wisely. We haven’t done that yet.

“As these debates about our budget continue, one thing is clear: I’ve heard from countless West Virginians who don’t want to keep writing the government a blank check drawn against their children’s future. So let me also continue to be clear about my position on the debt ceiling. I strongly believe we must adopt a long-term, responsible and realistic fiscal plan that reflects our values and defines priorities, or I will vote against raising the debt ceiling.”

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