Topeka-Capital Journal Op-Ed: Call for Restraint

Op-Ed

Topeka-Capital Journal Op-Ed: Call for Restraint

Call for Restraint

by Rep. Lynn Jenkins

Topeka-Capital Journal

I ran for Congress because I was concerned with the fiscal policies coming out of Washington. In my estimation, Republicans missed an incredible opportunity to grow our economy by reining in spending, keeping taxes low and controlling debt. Unfortunately, since the election, Democrats have used their unchecked power to take spending, taxing, borrowing and regulating to record levels, and I'm convinced these policies are slowing our economic recovery.

Last November, Americans sent a clear message - they wanted change from their elected officials. I heard from Kansans loud and clear that they wanted accountability, transparency and, most of all, for Washington politicians to respect their tax dollars.

President Obama inherited a mess, but instead of taking positive steps to create jobs, since January we've seen Washington embark on a spending spree with taxpayer dollars. Whether it's the $787 billion stimulus, trillions in bailouts or the $3.55 trillion budget, Congress and the administration have barreled forward with reckless spending.

From George Washington to George W. Bush, our nation's public debt rose to nearly $6 trillion, but under the policies enacted by this administration, that debt is set to triple to $18 trillion in 10 short years.

Prime time press conferences do not hide the facts that since January our nation's debt has skyrocketed by more than $1 trillion and that our debt to countries like China increases each day. The deficit is growing, jobs are being lost, and now the administration is trying to hide the facts by delaying the release of the regular mid-summer budget update.

As a certified public accountant, former state treasurer and a mother of two teenagers, I am convinced that we don't need more secrecy. We need accountability now more than ever. That is why this week I will introduce the Debt Accountability Act, which will require Congress to vote and acknowledge how legislation we pass will impact our children's bank accounts.

Kansans know that you cannot spend money you don't have. Congress must learn this lesson. By requiring members of Congress to acknowledge the budget impact of the votes they take, they will have the opportunity to clearly stand on the side of fiscal restraint or fiscal neglect. I am hopeful this legislation will bring needed transparency to the legislative process and will restore fiscal accountability when we need it the most.

- Read the Debt Accountability Act

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