MSNBC "First Look" - Transcript

Interview

Maryland Congressman Chris Van Hollen, Ranking Member of the House Budget Committee, today appeared on MSNBC to discuss deficit reduction and the Federal Aviation Administration shutdown. Video of the interview is available here and the transcript is below.

THOMAS ROBERTS, MSNBC: So, with the debt deal signed, debate is turning to the so-called "Super Committee" charged making the tough calls on spending cuts in Washington D.C. Congressman Chris Van Hollen joins me to talk about that. Sir, is there optimism from you for this "Super Committee," maybe to be even squashed before the members are picked, six from each side?

REP. CHRIS VAN HOLLEN: Well, I can't say whether there's optimism or not. The "Super Committee" will only function if members come to it from both sides with an open mind. We have already heard from our Republican colleagues that revenue is not on the table. And clearly that's going to make it impossible for the "Super Committee" to function. But they will have to face this choice. Are they more interested in protecting special interest tax breaks like those for big oil companies, or the defense of the United States and national security? Because if this "Super Committee" does not come up with a way to reduce the deficit there will be very big, big, big cuts in the area of defense. And so hopefully we can all come to the table and sanity and balance will prevail.

ROBERTS: I want to get your thoughts on the FAA furloughs because it's been a big talker throughout the day and the fact that Congress is leaving for the next five weeks to talk jobs when they go back to their constituents. Thousands, though, were trying to financially survive through what the country is suffering through now. When we talk about the FAA furloughs though, was there a way to get this done before everyone left the Hill?

VAN HOLLEN: I think there was. I think it's scandalous that we left -- the Congress left -- before resolving this issue. Everyone is talking about jobs and the economy and yet by heading out of here before we resolve this issue, as you pointed out, there are a lot of people who are out of work in addition to losses throughout the construction industry, which is which is already facing 20% unemployment. It's unacceptable. And I share everyone's anger out there that this was left unresolved on the table.

ROBERTS: How does everyone walk by Secretary Ray LaHood and look him in the face?

VAN HOLLEN: Well, I don't think they can. This is an example of where Congress totally failed. With respect to the big bargain, the bargain that helped avoid default, you can like it or not like it. But the fact of the matter is Congress got its work done but the FAA is exhibit A of how the system is dysfunctional and that is a terrible blight on the Congress.

ROBERTS: Congressman Chris Van Hollen, nice to see you this morning. Thank you.

VAN HOLLEN: Good to see you.

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