Knowing your interest in budget matters, I wanted to let you know that the House of Representatives voted to pass a half-trillion dollar spending bill that is both late and over-budget. I strongly opposed the measure. At such a high cost, and coming immediately after passing a trillion dollars in spending earlier this month, this bill will continue the pattern of spending money we don't have at the expense of our children and grandchildren. At a time of fiscal crisis in the United States, this bill increases spending by 8% over last year's levels. This ongoing spending spree is being conducted under the misguided belief that massive government deficit spending can bring about economic prosperity.

While people all across the country are tightening their belts and making tough decisions, I believe Congress needs to live up to its responsibilities. This is why I have joined the call for a freeze in spending increases and I will continue to urge Congress to do so while we get our fiscal house in order.