Cole Statement on Introduction of House GOP Budget

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04), a member of the House Committee on the Budget, released the following statement after Chairman Tom Price led the committee in releasing “A Balanced Budget for a Stronger America.” The blueprint for fiscal year 2016 would balance the budget in less than 10 years, cut spending by $5.5 trillion, repeal Obamacare, reform entitlements like Medicare and Medicaid and present real solutions to grow the economy.

“In households across the United States, many families already understand that getting out of debt and staying out of debt requires a budget,” said Cole. “Like the countless families who recognize the importance of setting spending limits and living within their means, Republican members of the House Budget Committee today recommended that the federal government follow the same example. Under the responsible plan unveiled today, I am pleased that the budget actually balances, reins in spending, repeals the president’s unworkable healthcare law and reforms entitlement programs.

“With more than $18 trillion in debt that continues to grow, the hard decisions cannot be left for another day, month or year—even another president or Congress. In order to guarantee the American dream for our children and grandchildren in the years and decades ahead, we must acknowledge our grave situation and set out a course for economic recovery. The Republican budget reflects that commitment to future generations.

“It is important to note, however, a budget is only a plan. It is not the law. Entitlement reform, tax reform and spending restraints will require bipartisan and bicameral negotiation and compromise. And the president will hardly be an innocent bystander in all this. This budget is an important step – but only a first step – in an ongoing journey that will have many twists, turns and surprises along the way,” concluded Cole.

To read the plan announced today, click here.

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Contact:Sarah Corley (202) 225-6165