U.S. Congressman Blake Farenthold (TX-27) issued the following statement today after the House voted on the Senate proposal that keeps decreased spending levels, requires income verification for Obamacare subsidies, reopens the government, and raises the debt ceiling.
“While I am relieved the Senate proposal allows the country to pay its bills, keeps agreed upon spending levels and requires people to verify their income when seeking subsidies under Obamacare, it did not go far enough in solving our financial crisis to win my support.
“Over the past 16 days, the House has offered proposal after proposal to end the government shutdown, and give the American people the same exemptions from Obamacare that the President gave to his allies and members of Congress.
“The Senate and the President refused to negotiate with the House on any of these proposals, prolonging the government shutdown, driving us to the brink of default, and making this whole situation as painful as possible for political gain.
“I remain committed to making sure America doesn’t default on our debts, but believe we must cut up the credit card and find ways to grow our economy first. We are the greatest nation in the world and defaulting on our debts threatens that standing. But instead of identifying long-term ways to decrease spending, the plan passed Wednesday night protects the status quo in Washington. That’s what disappointed me about the proposal, and that’s why I ultimately could not support it.”
