Floor Statements

Madam Chair, I move to strike the last word.

I first want to thank the committee, and in particular the chairman of the subcommittee, for the good work he's done on the bill overall. But I support the gentleman from Utah's amendment. Any Member of Congress can do this in their district. You're at any group giving any speech and you say, Do you think maybe there's a little redundancy, maybe a little duplication, maybe a little overlap in the Federal Government? And the whole audience begins to laugh and everyone raises their hand because they get the joke.

In fact, we just had a hearing in the Subcommittee of Oversight dealing with regulation and overspending and the GAO was in there and they had done a study and we asked them, How many different means- tested social welfare programs are there? And they said, Well, we really can't give you a number because we can't tell; it's so ridiculous in government. But there are over a hundred.

They couldn't even tell us. But what they did tell us was there's a lot of redundancy, a lot of duplication, a lot of overlap. The gentleman from Utah's amendment just seeks to deal with that and says, Look, it recognizes a couple of facts. It recognizes that, yes, there is redundancy, but also we're broke. In fact, it's not we're going broke. We are broke. And we have to cut some spending, just like every single family, every single small business in this country has had to do over the last several years.

Remember some of the numbers because at some point something has to give. And we've got to be willing to cut spending. We've got a $14 trillion national debt. We've run trillion-dollar deficits for the last 3 years in a row. The three largest deficits in American history have been in the last 3 years, and $200 billion we're paying each year in interest. Right now, interest rates are at lowest levels--historically low levels. They're going to go up.

Something has to give. And the gentleman from Utah has a basic amendment which says, Let's reduce the spending in five programs that the Federal Government doesn't need and, frankly, cannot afford. And it would save the taxpayers of this great country $1.8 billion at a time when we're going broke. Some people would say we are broke.

So this is a commonsense amendment, something we should do. It builds on the good work that the gentleman from Georgia is getting ready to speak on, the gentleman from Georgia, who's the chairman of the committee, has already done. But it builds on their good work and respects the taxpayers.

I would urge a ``yes'' vote on the amendment.

With that, I yield back the balance of my time.

Madam Speaker, more than two months after stating that our military action in Libya would be over in ``days, not weeks,'' President Obama has yet to explain to the American people what our mission in Libya is, how it will be conducted, and when it will be completed. He has failed to explain how our military involvement in Libya fits with our policy interests in the Middle East and northern Africa. Most importantly, he has ignored his constitutional responsibility to uphold federal law by choosing not to acquire authorization from Congress for our involvement there.

That is why I cosponsored Mr. Turner's resolution disapproving of the President's actions, and that is why I joined my House colleagues today in demanding action from the President.

The President must follow the law and seek approval for this military action from Congress. In doing so, he must explain some basic facts, such as whether the removal of Moammar Qaddafi is part of the mission, how stability will be promoted in the region if Qaddafi is removed from power, and who among the anti-Qaddafi forces in Libya should be supported in the event that he is removed.

Instead of following the clear path of seeking congressional approval as outlined in federal law, the President unilaterally escalated our military efforts in Libya after assuring us they would be scaled back. Now, some in the Obama administration are saying we should put boots on the ground in support of further NATO actions. This is the opposite of what the President promised and contrary to the will of the House.

Congress appropriately shows a certain deference to the commander-in- chief when it comes to national security decisions, as we must always have the ability to quickly respond to threats to our sovereignty and our interests around the world. Further, Congress must not direct troop movements or set timelines for our military operations, as such decisions should be left to our highly skilled commanders on the ground. But our deference is contingent upon the President respecting the Founders' intent for the primary role of Congress in providing for our defense and security needs. It does not change the fact that the President is obliged to seek congressional approval and to explain how our mission in Libya is vital to our national security.

The brave men and women in our armed forces, as always, are performing their duties with the greatest expertise and professionalism of any military in the world. The issue at hand is the failure of the President to seek congressional approval required by law, and the failure of the President to tell Congress and the American people the details of our mission.

The American people will always stand with those who seek freedom and self-determination. Today's vote reaffirms that it is vital the President obey the rule of law in doing so.

Offered By: Mr. Jordan

Amendment No. 49: At the end of the bill (before the short

title), insert the following:

Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the last word.

Let me thank the committee, particularly the subcommittee chair, for their hard work on this legislation and the number of bills that will come from the Appropriations Committee. We do appreciate that.

Look, the gentleman from Indiana is right. Let's just remember some of the numbers: $14 trillion national debt; $1.6 trillion deficit this year. That's following 2 previous years of running record annual deficits. A $220 million deficit for the month of February we had earlier this year, a record monthly deficit. And over $200 billion we pay in interest each year just to service that record debt built up by these record deficits. And most importantly, just remember 6 weeks ago Standard & Poor's said the future credit rating, the outlook for America's credit, is now negative for the first time in 70 years.

So something's got to give here, guys. We can't keep doing the same old, same old, and expect some different result. We are spending way more than we're taking in. Every family, every small business owner, everyone in America knows you can't do that. We've got to stop.

The Federal Government is doing the equivalent of a family making $50,000 spending $85,000 a year. Making $50,000 a year, spending $85,000. And we're not

just doing it one time because we're investing in something that's going to have a return. We are not just doing it one time for starting a business or putting a kid through school. We're doing it year after year after year, and somehow we think that's all going to work out. It's not going to work out. And the American people understand it. And they expect tough decisions. They expect the kind of thing that Mr. Rokita is bringing forward in his amendment today. And that's why I rise to support this amendment.

What this would do is actually consistent with what the Republican Study Committee budget brought in front of this body earlier this year. We think it makes sense. And if you remember, that budget that we brought forward actually gets to balance within the budget window. The only budget brought forward that actually balances within the 10-year timeframe, something the American people expect of their Members of Congress. Something the American people expect Congress to do.

So I applaud the gentleman from Indiana for his amendment, and would urge a ``yes'' vote.

I yield back the balance of my time.

Offered By: Mr. Jordan

Amendment No. 49: At the end of the bill (before the short

title), insert the following:

Mr. Speaker, I am honored to commend to the House the outstanding achievements of three high school students from my congressional district.

Earlier this month, Lima Senior High Performance Based School seniors Michael Fisher, Casey Reed, and John Willamowski won first place in the Financial Literacy category at the 2011 DECA International Career Development Conference. They joined more than 15,000 DECA students, advisors, and alumni at this four-day international competition--DECA's highest level of competition--in Orlando, Florida.

Their team project, Common Cents, was judged the best from among 160 entrants in that category. As part of their project, they partnered with Lima's Superior Federal Credit Union to teach financial literacy to area kindergarteners. They also coordinated financial education activities at their high school. Their project earned second place in statewide competition, qualifying the team for the international contest.

Michael, who serves as state DECA president, will attend the University of Mount Union in the fall to study sports medicine. Casey plans to continue his education at The Ohio State University, where he will major in business. John looks forward to studying political science and history at Ohio Northern University. I wish them every success in the future and commend them for their hard work--and salute the efforts of their advisor, Chrissy Frobose, who helped them prepare for the national competition.

Mr. Speaker, all of Ohio can take great pride in the performance of these three scholars, who are excellent role models for their peers. They are ideal examples of all that is right in our educational system today, and are to be commended for their outstanding achievement.

Mr. Speaker, I am honored to commend to the House the outstanding contributions of Dr. Kendall L. Baker. Dr. Baker is retiring after more than 11 years as president of Ohio Northern University.

Dr. Baker was chosen to serve as Ohio Northern's tenth president in 1999. From the earliest days of his tenure, he earned the respect of students, faculty, and staff for his dedication to their success. In the last 11 years, he has overseen the addition of several academic degree programs, implemented plans that have resulted in steady enrollment increases, and helped undertake a $100 million construction and renovation campaign. ONU has benefited greatly from his passion and his managerial skills.

Prior to his time at ONU, Kendall Baker was president of the University of North Dakota for 7 years. Previously, he served as dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Ohio's Bowling Green State University and subsequently as provost and vice president for academic affairs at Northern Illinois University. A graduate of the University of Maryland and Georgetown University, he began his teaching career as a political science professor and department head at the University of Wyoming.

Dr. Baker's commitment to academics and collegiate athletics is a shining example to everyone in the field of higher education. He is past chairman of the board of the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities in Ohio, current president of the Ohio Athletic Conference, and co-chairman of the Ohio Foundation for Independent Colleges' Marketing Committee.

Ken has long been recognized as an expert in the field of comparative politics. He is the author of several books and papers on German politics during the Cold War. Additionally, he has moderated televised political debates for a local network station.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the people of Ohio's Fourth Congressional District, I offer my congratulations to Dr. Kendall Baker on a long and distinguished academic career. I wish him and his family every success as they move to a new chapter in their lives.

Mr. Speaker, I always appreciate the opportunity to share positive stories about young people in my congressional district who overcome adversity. Today, I am pleased to share the stories of six such individuals.

Ashley Martin, Clear Fork High School. Ashley refuses to allow achondroplasia and diabetes to get in the way of working toward her goals to her fullest potential. She is very active in school and community activities--including 4-H, through which she has shown animals at the county fair and competed for Fair Queen. A National Honor Society member, she excels academically even while holding a part-time job. Ashley plans to attend Ohio Northern University and pursue her dream of becoming a pharmacist.

Benjamin Studer, Crestview High School. Ben has endured many surgeries and countless physical therapy sessions since his premature birth. He has triumphed over every challenge and setback through the years and lives independently in a group home. Ben is very active athletically, enjoying horseback riding, swimming, and riding his four- wheeler. In addition, he has worked for Richland Newhope Industries in the summer. His strength, determination, and compassion toward others are an inspiration to all who know him.

Keaton Fuller, Lexington High School. Keaton has earned an A/B average throughout his high school career despite needing some extra help in English and math courses. His enthusiasm, work ethic, and passion for learning have earned the respect of his teachers and peers. Even while maintaining this outstanding academic record and participating in the boys' track team, he works part-time at a car wash and runs his own lawn-mowing business. Keaton plans to attend North Central State College and one day become a physical therapy assistant.

Ian Pasheilich, Madison Comprehensive High School. Ian has worked through many autism-related difficulties throughout his life. He maintains a positive attitude as he deals with this disease and with the side effects of the medications he must take daily. He has earned the admiration of his teachers and fellow students for his perseverance and his high grade point average. Outside the classroom, Ian enjoys attending school sporting events, has starred in a number of school plays, and likes to engage in debates on politics, history, and literature.

Lauren Short, Mansfield Senior High. School. Lauren has shown immense strength and courage in dealing with the tragic deaths of her mother, stepfather, brother, and sister in a fire last year. Earlier this year, she lost her grandmother and great-grandfather as well. Despite these heartbreaking events, she has remained focused on her short- and long- term goals. Lauren, who has already taken her state board exams in cosmetology, plans to continue her education and become a certified massage therapist.

Luke Armstrong, Ontario High School. Despite the many challenges presented by cerebral palsy with spastic quadriplegia, Luke's attitude reflects his tremendous inner strength. He refuses to accept failure as an option, dedicating himself to his studies and his love of sports. His family and friends appreciate his outstanding sense of humor, independent spirit, and optimism--even in the face of the extensive physical therapy sessions he has undergone throughout his life. Luke plans to attend Wright State University upon graduation.

Mr. Speaker, the Rotary Club of Mansfield, Ohio, will present these six students with the McGowan Courage Award on May 17. I am proud to join the Rotary in acknowledging their significant achievements and wishing them continued success in everything they do.

I thank the gentleman from Texas, the distinguished chair of the Judiciary Committee.

Look, life is precious, life is sacred, and government should protect that basic fact. It is not some grant from government. It is a gift from God. Our founders understood that when they talked about the creator giving us this inalienable right, and the fact that we live in the greatest Nation in history and our tax dollars are used to destroy the life of unborn children is just plain wrong.

This bill corrects that. This bill is what the American people want, and this bill is consistent with this great Nation, founded on life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. That is why it should pass and that is why I am a proud sponsor and urge a ``yes'' vote on the legislation.

I thank the gentleman for yielding.

And I want to thank all the members of the Republican Study Committee, Mr. Chairman, for their work on this budget. I also want to thank Chairman

Ryan for the work on his budget and the committee's work there too, and in particular, the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Garrett), the gentleman from South Carolina (Mr. Mulvaney), and the gentleman from California (Mr. McClintock) for their work in putting this together.

The RSC budget, as the gentleman from New Jersey has mentioned, keeps tax rates low because we believe in economic growth; starts the process of saving Medicare and Social Security; protects national defense, which, after all, is that area we are supposed to constitutionally spend taxpayer dollars on.

But most importantly, what the Republican Study Committee budget does is it balances. It does what every single family, ever single small business owner, every single State government and local government has to do: it actually puts forth a budget that balances, lives within your means, doesn't spend more than you take in, gets to balance within a definable period of time. That is why we think this is appropriate, particularly when you think about the fiscal situation our Nation is in.

So I stand here in support of the budget and commend the gentleman from New Jersey for the great work that he has done.

Madam Speaker, I was absent from the House Floor during rollcall 229 earlier today. Had I been present, I would have voted ``nay.''

Mr. Speaker, I was absent from the House Floor during five rollcall votes taken on Thursday, March 17.

Had I been present, I would have voted ``aye'' on rollcalls 189, 190, and 192, and ``no'' on rollcalls 191 and 193.

Mr. Speaker, I was absent from the House Floor during two rollcall votes taken on Thursday, March 3.

Had I been present, I would have voted ``aye'' on rollcalls 161 and162.

Mr. Speaker, I was absent from the House Floor during last night's rollcall votes on H.R. 394, H.R. 347, and H.R. 368. Had I been present, I would have voted in favor of each of those bills.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of a brave Ohio soldier, Corporal Nathan B. Carse, who on February 8 was killed in action near Kandahar Province in Afghanistan.

Nathan was the pride of Allen East High School in Lima, Ohio. He earned degrees from Louisiana State University and Capital University, where he was a standout linebacker for the Capital Crusaders.

Serving a critical role in post-Katrina New Orleans, Nathan left his career in engineering and volunteered to serve his country, entering active military duty in February 2010. He deployed to Afghanistan with the 2nd Engineer Battalion, 176th Engineer Brigade in September 2010.

Nathan is survived by a loving family, including his mom, Janis; his sisters, Kristin and Megan; and four dear nephews.

Those who knew Nathan best described him as a happy, generous, hardworking man whose optimistic attitude brought a smile to people's faces and had a positive impact on their lives.

He courageously served in defense of his family, his community, his state, and his nation. Every American family lives under the blanket of safety he helped provide. For this, our nation owes him and his family a great debt of gratitude.

Nathan will be deeply missed. But the strength of his character, and the courage he demonstrated through his service, will live on.