Press Releases

Washington, D.C. –Today, Congresswoman Sewell (D-AL) issued the following statement after voting for the Budget Control Act of 2011.

“Today, I voted in favor of the Budget Control Act of 2011.  While it is not a perfect bill, this bipartisan measure prevents this nation from going into default and protects Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security – essential programs relied upon by our nation’s seniors and middle class families.  The bill that passed today removes the cloud of economic uncertainty from our global markets and ensures that this nation will meet its fiscal obligations.  I voted in favor of this bill not because I am a Democrat, but because I believe in the Full Faith and Credit of the United States.

Legislation is the art of compromise and there are plenty of provisions in this bill that are unsettling.  The drastic cuts coupled with no revenues I believe threatens our economic recovery.  However, the bill does provide a significant down payment on our nation’s debt and creates a process for reducing the deficit.

As we continue working toward strengthening the economy, the burden cannot simply fall on our seniors, students, middle class families and the most vulnerable. The solution must include shared sacrifice from us all.

Ultimately, allowing America to default on its obligations was simply not an option.

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Contact:   Allison Abney;  (202) 225-2665;  Allison.abney@mail.house.gov