Budget

Fiscal policy should not be determined by political brinksmanship. Instead, we should use the normal budget order to determine our fiscal priorities. A balanced approach is the only solution to our challenges. We should combine targeted spending reductions with strategic revenues from reducing tax loopholes. An all-cuts approach hurts key priorities like education and national defense, hampering our economic recovery. As we negotiate a solution to our budget challenges, everything must be on the table, including spending cuts, revenues and entitlement reforms. I am committed to finding common ground on reforms and adjustments that strengthen the economy over the long-run.

As a member of the Senate Budget Committee, I was proud to help Congress pass a two-year budget agreement in 2013 that offsets the worst effects of sequestration and prevents another needless government shutdown. Thanks to this compromise deal, we were able to restore much-needed certainty for working families and businesses in Virginia and across the nation. Looking ahead, I believe that rigorous debate and compromise are essential to putting our nation on a sustainable fiscal path and protecting the investments that are critical to our future.