Joe Wilson

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, this morning's announcement of an increase in the unemployment rate indicates yet again that the President's economic policies are failing American families. The out-of-control spending is killing small business job creation. Sadly, more than 14 million people are still without jobs, and the average price of gasoline is almost $4 a gallon. The President pledged to reduce unemployment to 8 percent and failed. He pledged to skyrocket energy costs and he succeeded. This is a failure of leadership on job creation and gas cost. American families are at risk. Earlier this week, the President asked Congress to increase the debt limit by $2.4 trillion with no meaningful reforms. Reforms are needed because American families need jobs. The President's request was defeated in a bipartisan vote. House Republicans presented the ``Cut and Grow'' congressional plan. It's a commonsense plan: first cut spending, then the economy will grow. That's how to create jobs. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. I am honored to be here with the newly elected freshman member of the First District of South Carolina, Tim Scott. I appreciate his leadership on the Rules Committee. The people of South Carolina are very proud of his service. The people of the First District of South Carolina are noted for their strong support of the military. They elect Members to Congress like Tim Scott who work for a strong military, a strong national defense in the tradition of Ronald Reagan, of peace through strength. In the First District, the Congressman has the Citadel, the military college of South Carolina; the Charleston Air Force Base, the Naval Weapons Station, SPAWARS. In fact, I actually grew up there adjacent to a U.S. Coast Guard base, so we know the value of a strong military. Personally, in fact, Congressman Scott's brother was the Command Sergeant Major at Landstuhl, one of the largest military hospitals in the world in Germany. Through his Army experience and family connection, we know that Tim Scott is for a strong military and understands as I do how important it is that military force should only be used when it is in America's vital interests. I have the perspective of being the son of a World War II veteran, a Flying Tiger. I served 31 years in the Army National Guard. I have four sons currently serving in the military. I want our military to be used properly. When the President is right, as he was to follow the advice of General David Petraeus to add troops, the surge in Afghanistan, the resulting success that we see in Afghanistan today, we're happy to support him. But this resolution is very important, because we have not seen from the President of the United States, there has been a failure of leadership in regard to explaining why military forces are being used in Libya. I'm very pleased with the resolution. The key point that the American people need to know is declaring that the President shall not deploy, establish, or maintain the presence of units and members of the United States Armed Forces on the ground in Libya. To put troops on the ground, I believe, is highly irresponsible. A case has not been made of why this is in America's vital interests. We know there is great conflict as to who the rebels are. What are these rebels? Are these al Qaeda elements that are attacking the Qadhafi forces? The Qadhafi forces themselves? What would happen if we got involved with troops on the ground? These issues need to be resolved on behalf of the American military, on behalf of the American people, and we urge through this resolution that the answers be provided to the American people, to the American military, to our allies, why are we there? What is America's vital interest? And so I urge support of the rule and commend the freshman Congressman from South Carolina for his leadership.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I am grateful to announce that on June 21st, the oratorio, A Melancholy Beauty, will premier at 8 p.m. at the Kennedy Center in Washington (Concert Hall). The oratorio is a choral-orchestral work for mixed choir, children's choir, symphony orchestra, soloists, narrator, folk vocal ensemble, and indigenous folk instruments. It is dedicated to the Rescue of Bulgaria's 49,000 Jews by ordinary citizens during the Holocaust of World War II. The oratorio traces this event chronologically through the language of music in seven movements. Songs of Life is an international music festival that reenacts the heroic deeds of little-known events by composing and performing choral- orchestral works for those who have not yet had a voice to sing their song. On the 65th anniversary of the rescue of Bulgaria's Jews, the 1st edition of Songs of Life debuted in four cities of Israel and Bulgaria featuring ``Sacred Service'' by Ernest Bloch with the participation of the Sofia Philharmonic Orchestra, The Raanana Symphonette Orchestra, choirs from Israel, Bulgaria, Canada, and America. A Melancholy Beauty ``echoes a thank you, paying tribute to the brave Bulgarian people and offering a source of inspiration, hope and change for people everywhere today,'' said Kalin Tchonev, who together with his wife, Sharon, founded Songs of Life in 2008. No Bulgarian Jews went to the concentration camps during World War II. ``This oratorio could not be timelier, when people and nations are burning bridges instead of building them. It inspires its performers and audience to stand up for justice and acceptance in the face of bigotry and hatred.'' The oratorio was composed by the award-winning Bulgarian composer Georgi Andreev, who combines classical choral-orchestral music with traditional rhythms and folk styles rarely encountered today. The motet was composed by internationally renowned cantor and composer, Charles David Osborne, while a team of writers penned the libretto, including lyricist Scott Cairns and contributing author Aryeh Finklestein. ``A Melancholy Beauty is a major choral-orchestral oratorio that brings 300 superb choristers and instrumentalists to the stage in an unparalleled music celebration,'' Sharon Tchonev said. This moving oratorio will be conducted by internationally acclaimed choral director Maestro Henry H. Leck. The festival includes performances by the Indianapolis Children's Choir; the Tel Aviv Chamber Choir, Israel; the Philip Kutev National Folklore Ensemble, Bulgaria; the Victor Valley College Singers and the Master Arts Chorale, CA. The oratorio will be accompanied by the National Philharmonic in the Washington and New York performances and by the Boston Modern Orchestra Project in Boston. This coming together of musicians from countries impacted by these crucial events ``is intended to redefine freedom and harmony through the power of music,'' Sharon Tchonev said. Songs of Life invites people to pay tribute to victims and survivors and to speak out against intolerance today by attending one of the following performances of A Melancholy Beauty: The Citi Performing Arts Center, Wang Theatre, Thursday, June 23, 2011, 7:30 PM; Boston, The Avery Fisher Hall, Lincoln Center, Sunday, June 26, 2011, 3 PM; New York City.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, on Tuesday night, the people's House spoke loud and clear: No debt limit increase without real spending cuts to promote job growth. Liberals wanted to increase the debt limit by $2.4 trillion with no meaningful reforms. At a time when the Federal Government is borrowing 42 cents of every dollar it spends, the last thing Americans want to do is raise the government's borrowing limit recklessly killing jobs. Liberals in Congress need to attach real cuts to any increases they are seeking. That means for every dollar proposed to increase the debt limit, there should be one dollar in cuts. It makes sense. Tuesday night's vote of 318-97-7 shows that the House is overwhelmingly in agreement with this debt limit increase being denied. Over 80 Democrats joined with the 237 Republicans to vote against the President's debt ceiling request. Adding more debt to our economy handicaps small business job creation and aggravates our country's debt crisis even further. This is a direct risk to senior citizens with the value of the dollar being put at risk. It's a threat to students who could be faced with overwhelming debt in the future. In conclusion, God bless our troops and we will never forget September 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, over 750 days have passed since the Senate passed a budget. Now, liberals in Congress are leading the charge to increase the current debt limit. The Federal Government officially reached its $14.3 trillion debt limit in May. America's finances are now borrow, tax, and spend--killing jobs. Congress should not raise the debt limit without making serious changes in the way the Federal Government spends money. Recklessly raising the debt ceiling without exercising fiscal restraint will lead to a lower international credit rating, higher borrowing costs, and an increase in the cost of the Nation's imports. This is a threat to senior citizens by risking the value of the dollar. It's a threat to young people, saddling them with overwhelming debt. Washington must change its way, which is now killing jobs. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, today I return from a meeting of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly in Varna, Bulgaria, where the U.S. delegation was chaired by Congressman Mike Turner, accompanied by Mike Ross, Jo Ann Emerson, and Jeff Miller. We were welcomed by the former Mayor of Varna, Hristo Kirchev, who is a champion of freedom and democracy in a nation which, since 1990, has evolved from the chains of communist totalitarianism to being a vibrant free market democracy today. Parliamentarians from NATO's 28 member nations and delegations, from Russia to Montenegro, were briefed on issues critical to promoting democracy in the world. Secretary General Anders Rasmussen presented a clear report on NATO's progress in Iraq and Afghanistan, while encouraging civil society movements in North Africa. Prime Minister Boyko Borisov of Bulgaria gave a stirring promotion of a missile defense system for Europe. Bulgaria is a valued partner of America. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, it was an honor to have Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu speak to a joint session of Congress yesterday. Israel is one of our country's closest allies, and the partnership shared between our two countries is vital in achieving peace and stability in the Middle East. The Prime Minister is correct that reinstatement of the 1967 borders makes the country indefensible. I am grateful to the American Israel Public Affairs Committee for two tours of Israel, where I saw the strategic importance of the Golan Heights to stop Hezbollah and I learned of the inhumanity of rocket attacks by Hamas on Sderot. Israeli families are vulnerable to cowardly murderers. Israel should not be forced to negotiate with those who refuse to acknowledge its right to exist. The United States must remain committed to Israel to promote peace and democracy in the Middle East. I look forward to continuing to work with Israel in promoting peace, freedom, and stability. Ronald Reagan was right: peace through strength. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. I thank the gentleman for yielding me time. Congratulations, Mr. Chairman, on your leadership--achieving a 60-1 favorable vote on the bill that we are considering this evening. As we begin, we are grateful for the professionalism of our military forces in killing the mass murderer Osama bin Laden. It was a proud day for all Americans, especially for our military, their families and veterans, that justice was achieved. The military personnel provisions of the National Defense Authorization Act of 2012 are the product of an open, bipartisan process. Some of the more important personnel provisions are the following: A 1.6 percent increase in military basic pay; A revised policy for measuring and reporting unit operations tempo and personnel tempo, reflecting the committee's continuing concern about stresses on the force, especially at a time when we must continue our resolve for victory in the current mission requirements. Another important initiative is the reform of the military recruiting system to include graduates of home schooling, charter schools and virtual schools. I see military service as opportunity and fulfilling, and these are extraordinary patriots. The bill also clarifies the legal authority for the administration and oversight of Arlington National Cemetery. I believe the bill is strong in the multiple provisions dealing with sexual assault, child custody, mental health, traumatic brain injury, and posttraumatic stress disorder. In conclusion, I want to thank Ranking Member Susan Davis and her staff for their contributions and support of this process. We have benefited from an active and informed and dedicated set of subcommittee members. Their recommendations and priorities are clearly reflected in the bill. Additionally, I appreciate the dedicated Military Personnel Subcommittee staff: John Chapla, Jeanette James, Mike Higgins, Craig Greene, Debra Wada, and Jim Weiss. I also want to thank congressional Military Legislative Assistant Brian Eisele and Military Fellow Marine Captain Sam Cunningham.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, the 371st Infantry Regiment was formed in August 1917 and consisted of African-American draftees mostly from South Carolina and white officers. After training at Camp Jackson, the unit arrived on the Western Front in April 1918. It was placed under the command of the French Army because of their desperate need for new troops, and because of racial tensions within the U.S. army. The 371st soldiers were given French equipment and reorganized to fit the French army structure. They spent the spring of 1918 training in French tactics and units. The 371st was then thrown into the ``Final Offensive'' of the Great War in September. Though fighting well, they suffered heavy casualties: over 1,000 men out of 2,384 were lost in eight days. On September 28, 1918, just six weeks before the end of World War I, Corporal Freddie Stowers (21) of Sandy Springs, SC was killed, leading the remnants of his company to capture German positions after an ambush. After feigning surrender the Germans opened up with machine gun and mortar fire, instantly destroying over half of the company. Stowers rallied the survivors and led them to knock out one machine gun nest, and though mortally wounded, urged them on to capture a second trench line to stop the threat and cause heavy enemy casualties. His commanding officer recommended him for the Medal of Honor. Vice-Admiral Moreau, on behalf of the French Government, decorated the regimental colors on January 27, 1919, in Brest. The 371st won the French Legion of Honor and the Croix de Guerre. The American Distinguished Services Cross was awarded to ten officers and twelve enlisted men. Upon the 371st Regiment's return to Columbia, SC, the community worked together to fundraise for a reception honoring the soldiers. The event was held on February 29, 1919 at Allen University. The two flags of the 371st Regiment were presented to the community during the reception. These flags are part of the South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum's collection. With the war over, the unit was disbanded and the achievements of the 371st quickly faded. Fortunately, this was not the end of the story. The Medal of Honor nomination for Freddie Stowers languished for 70 years but in 1988, several members of Congress began campaigning on behalf of African-American World War I soldiers not properly recognized. Stowers became the first African-American soldier from World War I to earn the medal.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I submit the following remarks regarding my absence from votes which occurred on May 12, 2011 and May 13, 2011 due to attending my son Hunter T. Wilson's Army commissioning and graduation in Industrial Engineering at Clemson University. Listed below is how I would have voted if I had been present. Roll Number 315--Tsongas of Massachusetts Amendment No. 5--nay; roll Number 316--Brown of Florida Amendment No. 6--nay; roll Number 317-- Thompson of California No. 7--nay; roll Number 318--Inslee of Washington No. 8--nay; roll Number 319--Motion to Recommit with Instructions, H.R. 1231, ``Reversing President Obama's Offshore Moratorium Act''--nay; roll Number 320--On Passage of H.R. 1231, ``Reversing President Obama's Offshore Moratorium Act''--aye; roll Number 321--H. Con. Res. 50, providing for adjournment of the House-- aye. Roll Number 322--H. Res. 264, Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 754) to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2011 for intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the United States Government, the Community Management Account, and the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System, and for other purposes--aye; roll Number 323--Mike Rogers of Michigan Amendment--aye; roll Number 324--Gibson of New York Amendment--aye; roll Number 325-- Hinchey of New York Amendment--nay; roll Number 326--Carney of Delaware Amendment--nay; roll Number 327--Reed of New York Amendment--aye; roll Number 328--Motion to Recommit with Instructions, H.R. 754, the ``Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2011''--nay; roll Number 329--On Passage of H.R. 754, ``Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2011''--aye.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, in the last 2 years, the price of a gallon of gasoline has more than doubled. During his campaign, the President promised to skyrocket energy costs, and that's exactly what has happened. House Republicans are leading the way in implementing a sound domestic energy plan aimed at reducing gas prices. This plan seeks to expand domestic energy production while creating jobs here in America. Republicans in the House have successfully passed the Restarting American Offshore Leasing Now Act. This bill provides immediate relief at the gas pump while creating jobs for Americans. It will increase domestic energy production and create jobs by conducting oil and natural gas lease sales. House Republicans are addressing the need for more immediate relief from rising prices at the pump along with the long-term vision of a domestic energy policy. We need to work together for an all-of-the- above American energy plan. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. My sympathy to the family of Richard Bryan Wilson, a dedicated patriot from Columbia, South Carolina.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I am happy to acknowledge a constituent of mine, Mr. Richard ``Dick'' Ryan was recently named the 2011 Dealer of the Year by the American Truck Dealers, ATD, division of the National Automobile Dealers Association, NADA, and Heavy Duty Trucking magazine during the annual ATD Convention and Expo in Phoenix, Arizona. This award recognizes excellence in dealership performance, industry leadership, civic contributions and community service. Mr. Ryan is President and Chief Executive Officer of Carolina International Trucks based in Columbia, South Carolina. The dealership sells medium and heavy-duty International Trucks, IC Buses and Mitsubishi Fuso medium-duty trucks. Since his purchase in the early 1990s, Carolina International Trucks has grown to eight locations including four in South Carolina-- Columbia, Greenville, Florence and Charleston--and is one of South Carolina's leading truck dealers. Under his leadership, the dealership's sales grew from $25 million to $100 million and its leasing business has doubled over the past 10 years. Every year since he became President/CEO, the dealership has been profitable. Mr. Ryan has assisted his fellow dealers by working on the International Truck Dealer Council and Dealer Advisory Board. He also served as Chair and Vice-Chair of the Idealease Board of Directors, leading the organization through an executive management transition and reshaping its strategic direction. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to represent Mr. Richard Ryan and his employees at Carolina International and ask that you and other Members of Congress join me in congratulating him for this recent honor and for his effort on behalf of his customers, his fellow business owners and all South Carolinians.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I am happy to acknowledge the 2011 Education Finance Council Capitol Hill Day. This event brought state agency and not for profit student lenders from across the country to Washington, DC. In my home state of South Carolina, the South Carolina Student Loan Corporation has provided higher education access and completion programs for thousands of students in the Palmetto state since its inception in 1973. Nationwide, state agency and not for profit student loan organizations offer college access and completion programs including-- financial literacy programs, scholarships, grants and low cost supplemental loans--to students, families, and high schools in their states, at no cost. For nearly twenty years the Education Finance Council has been the strong voice in Washington for state agency and not for profit student lenders. Mr. Speaker, I commend the work these entities are doing to increase the number of college graduates in our country.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, the National Labor Relations Board has filed a complaint against the Boeing Corporation to stop thousands of jobs at the currently built 1.2 million square foot production facility in South Carolina. This is the second line for 787 jetliners which are so popular due to 20 percent less fuel use than any other airplane of its size. Manufacturing employees locate in South Carolina due to the welcoming climate provided by the right-to-work laws, with trained workers educated at world-class technical colleges. Boeing has a right to contract to work where it's in the best interest of its shareholders and workers. I appreciate Governor Nikki Haley leading the defense of our workers against the Obama administration's attack. I am grateful Attorney General Alan Wilson is recruiting fellow attorneys general across America to protect jobs. South Carolina is fortunate to have America's youngest Governor and America's youngest attorney general energetically standing up for freedom of American workers. Welcome to Washington Adjutant General Bob Livingston, former 218th commander in Afghanistan, with Legislative Liaison Matt Nichols. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, this week's historic election in Canada brought to power a conservative majority for Parliament. By winning a full majority of the 167 conservative seats, Prime Minister Stephen Harper will now have 4 years of uninterrupted government. Plans to create jobs without increasing taxes and paying down the national deficit are top priorities of this new majority. The relationship of Canada and South Carolina has been strong for many years. This year marks the 50th annual Canadian-American Days Festival at Myrtle Beach, which celebrates the partnership between our citizens. We welcome Canadian vacationers. We are grateful that former South Carolina Speaker of the House, David Wilkins of Greenville, served as the United States Ambassador to Canada from 2005 to 2009. Canada is our leading trade partner, which I know firsthand and appreciate, with the Michelin Tire Corporation of Lexington producing earthmover tires for recovery of oil sands resources in Alberta. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to be removed as a cosponsor of H.R. 1081.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, last night the President hailed the success of Navy SEALs to achieve the death of mass murderer Osama bin Laden. Bin Laden declared war on America and British citizens years ago by serving as the architect for terrorist attacks worldwide that culminated with the September 11 attacks that killed nearly 3,000 innocent civilians on American soil. His death is a testament to the resolve of our professional military, counterterrorism and intelligence officials to achieve ultimate victory over terrorism. Their combined sacrifice and commitment played a pivotal role in closing this chapter of the global war on terrorism. The entire Nation will be forever indebted for their service which promotes victory and peace. American families still face many threats of extremist challenges in places like Afghanistan and Iraq, which bin Laden identified as the central fronts in the global war on terrorism. Bin Laden's death does not end the war, but it does serve as evidence that the American forces can penetrate the heart of the most extreme terrorist organizations and bring their leaders to justice worldwide. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Thank you, Father Dan Coughlin, for your service. Mr. Speaker, as Americans know, today is the annual Tax Day, April 15. I bring this up because, finally, the President has joined in the discussion of our country's dangerous deficits. On Wednesday, he announced his scheme to reduce the out-of-control deficits his administration promoted--raising taxes--proving yet again that liberals still look to the tax man to solve their inability to manage a budget. Americans do not want this. The tea party is correct: taxed enough already, T-E-A. Raising taxes on small businesses does nothing but kill jobs while keeping unemployment levels above 9 percent. Liberals miss the point: The Federal Government does not have a revenue problem; it has a spending problem. Cutting spending and borrowing needs to be the topic of discussion. Raising taxes does not. House Republicans continue to lead the way to limit spending. Courageous Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan has presented a commonsense plan which brings current reckless spending under control. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, having just ended a decades long conflict in which the government finally defeated terrorist forces within its borders, the Republic of Sri Lanka recently celebrated its second New Year at complete peace. In his New Year address, President Mahinda Rajapaksa stated celebrating the New Year is a ``time when all enjoy the freedom achieved in our Motherland. Therefore, this New Year will help bring a renewal in spirit and new expectations to the people about future progress.'' I would like to wish a happy new year to the 250,000 Sri Lankan- Americans, along with the 21 million citizens of Sri Lanka, a dynamic nation of South Asia. During this time of national reconciliation, I look forward to a new era of Sri Lankan-American relations built on economic, strategic, and political cooperation between our two democratic societies.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I submit the following: A A man A man of grace Our Lord, upon this place Had so placed As a true reflection of His face All in this temple of democracy's faith This shrine our forefathers had so embraced For America was founded on such faith For no other experiment has since been raised For Father Dan, you were a pioneer As America's first Catholic chaplin so here To spread the word, upon each morning heard To council and to inspire, lifting hearts higher All for our Nation's leaders, you never tired As an instrument of our Lord's heart Oh how you fine faith, has so done its part To bring a Congress through storms and dark All but with, the light of your fine heart And our Lord's word, casting out the dark And we will miss your kind warm face And your inspiring call to God, on each new day And your warm heart, filled with such grace Forever, in our hearts you shall hold a place For your blessings bestowed upon us all Answering our Lord's call, call to faith For such people, Heaven so holds a place For such men of grace In honor of father Dan Coughlin, and all of the hearts you have touched over the years . . . bless you--Albert Carey Caswell.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, remarkably, the reliably Democratic Washington Post, in a lead editorial last week, quoted Senator Barack Obama in 2006 as saying, ``The fact that we are here today to debate America's debt limit is a sign of leadership failure. Washington is shifting the burden of bad choices today onto the backs of our children and grandchildren.'' Today, President Obama is warning that the debt limit must be passed or there will be economic Armageddon. Sadly, it is more clear than ever that reckless government borrowing is out of control with the President proposing a nightmare of endless borrowing. For a debt limit increase, there should be real reforms to end out- of-control spending. Former Senator Phil Gramm of Texas pointed out that Republicans agree that families and nations should always honor their debts; but in so doing, they should also make sure they don't pile up new debt. For Congress, it means passing budget reforms that impose hard and enforceable limits on new spending and debt. Republicans and Democrats should work together truly to protect senior citizens, younger generations, and to create jobs. Specific reforms are needed to protect American families. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, our Nation is standing at a crossroads. The government can continue to mortgage America's future by reckless borrowing, which is a threat to the young people of our country, it's a threat to our senior citizens, or we can limit the growth of government. We are facing a government shutdown today, as liberals are driving our Nation to a permanent economic shutdown. Dr. Skeet Burris is correct. Yesterday, the House passed a bill funding the troops and military families for the rest of the year. Senate Democrats have yet another opportunity to pass a budget. They have had 48 days to act but have refused. Yesterday, liberals laughed and mocked Republican Leader Eric Cantor when he warned of bankruptcy, but Eric was standing up for freedom in the best Virginia tradition. We face a shutdown today because the liberal majority in the House last year failed to pass a budget. The new Republican majority did pass a budget 48 days ago, but the liberal majority in the Senate failed to act. Citizens should call liberals and demand they pass a budget today. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, Democrats in Congress are still setting up roadblocks to prevent a budget for this fiscal year. Trying to conceal reckless spending, the liberal majority in the last Congress refused to pass a budget, threatening jobs. Rather than mortgaging the future like the previous Congress, House Republicans sent a commonsense budget to the Senate 47 days ago. This plan limits spending in order to promote job growth. Now we have liberals in the Senate refusing to pass the budget. This is failed leadership. Democrats in Washington are out of touch with everyday Americans and would rather play the blame game than offer real solutions. The liberal House majority last year failed to pass a budget. The new conservative House passed a budget, but the liberal Senate majority has failed to pass a budget. Liberals are clearly risking government shutdown. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, this is an important week for American families. The continuing resolution expires Friday. Liberals are clearly responsible for a possible government shutdown. The American people know spending is out of control with a record deficit in February of $223 billion. Borrowing from creditors overseas is $5 billion a day, putting American jobs at risk. Senior citizens are threatened with their savings and Social Security becoming worthless. Young people are being burdened with crushing debt which will lead to oppressive taxation. How did this week arise? The budget for this year was not adopted by the liberal House last year. The continuing resolution for this year was passed by the new conservative House but has not been adopted by the current liberal Senate. Speaker John Boehner has fought for the Pledge to America which the voters supported last November with a record of over 63 liberals being defeated. Senate liberals have been revealed scheming inflammatory name-calling of Republican Whip Kevin McCarthy, instead of good faith negotiations. I hope this week the Senate liberals put politics aside and do what is right for commonsense government. We cannot mortgage the future to happiness. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, Democrats in the Senate should work with the Republicans to act on the continuing resolution. House Republicans successfully passed a bill over 40 days ago, and Senate Democrats have still not acted. Liberals in the Senate claim to have a plan of their own. Rather than voting on this plan, Senate Democrats have resorted to petty political gamesmanship. Conservatives won the election in November. The American people spoke clearly, they want to put a halt to reckless spending. This is the conservative position in Congress. Any compromise should incorporate views of the American people. The Tea Party has made a difference. While liberals are encouraging a government shutdown, conservatives in Congress have passed a bill that would avoid this event. Leaders are expected to make tough decisions in difficult times. Continuing with one-line gimmicks to curry political favor is another political ploy in Washington that shows liberals are just out of touch with America. The American people know that reckless borrowing is a threat to American families. Young people know that debts are being passed to them. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.