November 18, 2011: Wittman Votes to Bring Accountability in Federal Spending; Supports Balanced Budget Amendment

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-1) today supported the effort for a Balanced Budget Amendment to the Constitution. The U.S. House of Representatives debated H.J. Res. 2, the Balanced Budget Amendment, the first consideration of such a measure in 16 years. The bill, supported 261-165, did not reach the required two-thirds majority for passage.

"The goal of the Balanced Budget Amendment is simple: to require this country to spend only what it brings in," Wittman said. "Unfortunately, Washington, DC, has proven reckless and irresponsible in its spending. In the same week that the country surpassed a staggering $15 trillion in debt, Congress could not even aspire to balance the budget. Because of the country's debt, our economy suffers and our children face an enormous barrier to the American Dream if this situation is not remedied. Families sit down together to make tough decisions about their budgets; Congress and the federal government should be no different. A Balanced Budget Amendment is needed to bring accountability to Washington's out-of-control spending. I was proud to support this measure but deeply disappointed that the House failed to put this important accountability measure in place."

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