Federal Budget and Spending
Principles
- Reduce spending to live within our means
- Balance the budget
- Reform government programs and eliminate waste
Government does not have a revenue problem—it has a spending problem. Federal spending is out-of-control and must be reduced so the government can live within its means. The federal government is on an unsustainable path—currently spending about 25% of the gross-domestic-product (GDP), the highest since World War II. This number is projected to reach 40% over the next 30 years. All the while, we have accumulated a national debt that is projected to exceed $17 trillion by the end of the year. Without action, this debt will threaten the future prosperity of our nation.
Projected Spending vs. Projected Revenue
The House of Representatives has actively pursued a balanced, pro-growth agenda of lowering spending, reforming our tax-code, and addressing the major drivers of the deficit—entitlement programs. These programs need comprehensive reform to ensure they are available for future generations. Over the last two years, the House has curbed government spending and implemented over $2.3 trillion in future deficit reduction.
To address our government’s spending problem, I supported the FY 2014 House Budget resolution, which will balance the budget in 10 years and reduce spending by nearly $5 trillion. The measure also includes a plan to preserve Medicare for future generations. The resolution establishes a cap on total spending as a percentage of the economy in order to ensure that future spending does not grow out of control.
While I am committed to reducing government spending, I believe that we must replace the indiscriminate sequester with targeted spending cuts and program reforms, especially given the impact on San Diego’s defense industry. That is why I twice voted to replace sequestration with responsible spending cuts.
I have opposed every unconditional increase in our nation’s debt limit. Going forward, it is crucial that the House and Senate pass a budget that will put our country on the path to prosperity. In order to balance the budget, I cosponsored and voted for a Constitutional Amendment to require that the federal budget is balanced.
What are your thoughts on reducing government spending?
Where would you cut spending and get our country on the path to a balanced budget? Do you know any examples of wasteful federal spending? Click here and let me know—your ideas can become legislation.
Resources for you:
- The House Budget Committee provides a wealth of data on the mounting debt crisis and steps being taken to address it.
