Member of the House Budget Committee, Representative Tom McClintock from California’s 5th District, addressed the committee regarding the budget reconciliation bill. His remarks highlighted both disappointment and optimism about the proposed legislation.
Rep. McClintock acknowledged some dissatisfaction among Republican colleagues due to missed opportunities for reform in the bill. He cited Benjamin Franklin’s wisdom on collective decision-making, noting that perfection cannot be expected from a group effort but emphasized the importance of working towards common good despite imperfections.
He argued that “the common good is clearly served by this bill, with all its imperfections and disappointments.” McClintock stressed the urgency of implementing tax and regulatory relief measures to revive the American economy, predicting potential significant growth reminiscent of Reagan’s era if action is taken promptly.
The congressman described this legislation as a first step towards fiscal reform rather than an endpoint. He indicated plans to continue working on further reforms with future budget acts and reconciliation bills, emphasizing the need for initial progress to pave the way for subsequent improvements.
Quoting Lincoln, McClintock urged his colleagues to move beyond idealistic pursuits for better solutions and focus on practical actions: “It is not can any of us IMAGINE better – but can we all DO better?” He called upon Congress to act decisively in order to ensure prosperity and stability for future generations.
###
