Hoyer Remarks at Press Conference Calling on Congress to Avert the Sequester

Statement

Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-5) delivered remarks today at a press conference this afternoon urging the House to stay in session to reach agreement on a deal to avert the sequester. Below is video and excerpts of his remarks:

"Republicans would have us return to our districts with nothing to show our constituents, notwithstanding the fact we have been here for six weeks this year, who are deeply concerned about how the sequester will make their lives more difficult and their communities less safe.... That would be extremely irresponsible, and we are urging them to stay and keep the House in session. We are calling on them to stay and work with us in pursuit of a balanced solution…"

"Yesterday Senate Democrats offered an alternative plan that is balanced and will turn off the sequester… Representative Chris Van Hollen of the Budget Committee offered an alternative as well, as I said. Speaker Boehner and Leader Cantor ought to allow it to come to the Floor - they have not yet."

"The American people ought to send us a message, and to House Republicans: "no deal, no break.'"

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