CONCORD, NC – Representative Larry Kissell (NC-08) voted in favor of H. J. Res. 2 today, legislation Kissell cosponsored to provide a balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution. The measure failed in the House by a vote of 261-165, shy of reaching the two-thirds majority needed for passage.

“Working families throughout our district have to balance their budgets to get by every week, and it’s about time Congress did the same thing,” said Kissell. “We must reign in out-of-control spending and reduce our nation’s debt. It’s beyond time for Washington to begin to show some fiscal responsibility, just like our working families must. I was proud to cosponsor this Balanced Budget Amendment, and I’ll do absolutely everything I can to fight to bring this bill back to the floor and ensure its passage.”

While the measure failed to pass the House, Kissell has called on his colleagues to stop playing politics with our nation’s future.

“For far too long, people have played politics and games with the economic wellbeing and future of our nation, and this is a perfect example of just that,” added Kissell. “It’s time for folks in Congress to understand that we can’t continue on the path we’re on. With a debt of over $15 trillion, we jeopardize our national security and standing in the world. I refuse to play games with our clear responsibilities to our nation and our nation’s families.”