Sen. Warner’s Statement on Pres. Obama’s Budget

The following press release is from Mark Warner. I completely agree with him that “This problem cannot be solved simply by focusing on cuts to non-defense discretionary spending, which is only 12% of the budget.” So, how about we start by repealing the idiotic, unaffordable Bush tax cuts, at least for people making $250,000 a year (but probably for everyone), save ourselves $4 TRILLION over the next decade, then talk about cuts of various sorts.

“The President’s budget shows a willingness to cut spending on programs he cares about. It also demonstrates there is only so much that can be achieved in a one-year budget when the problem is a significant, long-term structural imbalance in our country’s budget.

“That’s why I am continuing to work with a bipartisan coalition of senators who are willing to step-up to tackle our budget deficit and debt challenges.  Every day that we delay making these tough choices, we add an average of $4 billion to the national debt.

“This problem cannot be solved simply by focusing on cuts to non-defense discretionary spending, which is only 12% of the budget. Increased revenues and economic growth by themselves will not get us there, either. That’s why we must have a grown-up discussion about spending cuts, tax reform, and necessary changes to entitlement programs, including Social Security and Medicare.

“This is the only way we will  put our nation back on a responsible fiscal path that allows us to be competitive as we move forward.”