Press Releases

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-1) today called on Congress to remain in Washington, DC, to complete its work on critical items with looming deadlines. Wittman specifically addressed the threat of “sequestration,” which under current law proposes to cut an additional $500 billion from the defense budget, negatively affecting the country’s national security and estimated to cost over 200,000 jobs in Virginia.

Wittman gave the following statement on the House Floor:

“Mr. Speaker,

After today, Congress completes its business till September without finishing critical items, leaving many sectors across the country uncertain about their fiscal future.

Looming defense cuts – or sequestration – still hang over the Congress as unfinished business.

I am extremely disappointed that Congress is leaving town without addressing such pressing issues, and with so little time scheduled in the rest of this legislative year.

Many Americans in America’s First District are frustrated with Washington’s lack of action and accomplishment as the country struggles to rebound from these tough economic times.

Virginians – and all Americans – have the right to be upset with such irresponsible procrastination.

Sequestration threatens our country’s national security – and sends the wrong message to the American people and to the world about our commitment to defend this great nation in the future.

Congress should stay in Washington to finish the business of the people. I am prepared to stay in Washington as long as it takes. These issues are too important to wait.”

Floor speech link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JyeTHYtv9qE&feature=g-upl

Congressman Rob Wittman represents the First District of Virginia. He serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Armed Services Committee where he is the Chairman of the Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee.

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