Dear Friend,
Late on Friday night we were successful in passing a spending bill that keeps the government open and continues to cut spending. After a long fight, House Republicans successfully negotiated over $40 billion in Washington spending cuts for this year, just months after President Obama asked Congress for a spending "freeze." This debate is about reducing the size of government and living within our means, just as American families have done across the country. These cuts represent the first step to taking our nation off the path to national bankruptcy and giving employers the confidence they need to expand their businesses.
The spending bill agreed to on Friday ensures that our troops will continue to be paid. As a veteran, a US Representative, and citizen of the United States, I strongly believe that the well being of our troops and their families must come before politics. As a nation, we must provide the necessary resources for the brave men and women who risk their lives every day in defense of our freedom.
Given our trillion dollar deficit and skyrocketing debt we must examine every area of government and look for ways to cut spending and improve efficiency. At my first Economic Development, Public Buildings and Emergency Management Subcommittee hearing in February I proposed a civilian BRAC commission that could reduce our federal footprint and save tax payers billions of dollars. At a Subcommittee hearing on Wednesday, the Obama Administration fully agreed to the five principles behind my civilian BRAC commission legislation that improves the overall management and controls related to federal properties and committed to working with me on the issue. I am looking forward to working with the Subcommittee and the Administration in the coming months to move a bipartisan bill through Congress to eliminate waste in government and save taxpayer dollars.
Today in Fresno we had a Water and Power Subcommittee field hearing on the man-made drought in California. Even in wet years such as this one, farmers in the Central Valley are still not receiving 100% of the water they deserve. During the field hearing, we heard from water managers, farmers, and the Obama Administration about how reduced water allocations put in place by the Administration are destroying the Valley. It was evident by the attendance at the hearing that solving California's water crisis is a priority of Central Valley farmers. Each witness provided valuable insight that will help Congress determine what new legislation is needed to rectify the situation and create jobs in the Central Valley.
Finally, Congratulations to Agnes Jenkins who was our 1,000th person to sign up for our newsletter! Make sure that you stay up to date with my activity as well on facebook, twitter and my website.
Sincerely,
JEFF DENHAM
United States Representative
And 4 days later Congressman Denham voted to destroy Medicare as we know it. For shame! Why did you do that, Congressman? It's not necessary. My budget, http://www.mjbarkl.com/usbudget.pdf strengthens Medicare AND balances this year. Of course, mine doesn't take Medicare dollars from the poor and middle class and use them to fund tax cuts for the rich. Does Congressman Denham represent you? If you're wealthy like he is. --Mike
ReplyDeleteInteresting budget proposal. Thanks for your readership.
ReplyDelete