DENVER – U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette (CO-1) issued the following statement following the announcement that the Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction has been unable to reach an agreement by their deadline of November 23rd.  

“While I join Americans in expressing disappointment that the 12-member Super Committee was unable to fulfill its task of developing a deficit reduction plan, all is not lost. The time has now come for Congress as a whole to fulfill its responsibility to the American people and come together to develop and pass a balanced approach to reducing our national deficit and growing our economy. 

“A broad range of economists and the American people understand that reducing the deficit will require a combination of responsible spending cuts, that do not place undue burdens on those who can afford it the least, and adjustments to our tax code, that ensure low-income and middle-class Americans have the same opportunities as the wealthiest among us.  It is time for their leaders to understand that as well. 

“Congress must end the political gamesmanship that has overwhelmed this session and prevented us from accomplishing important work for the American people. I’m certain my colleagues from both sides of the aisle agree, and will finally focus on a balanced approach that includes the cuts, investments, and revenue enhancements that are essential to America’s ability to reduce our deficit, and ultimately compete in the 21^st century global marketplace.”  

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