McConnell Cites Lack of Urgency in Fiscal Cliff Talks, Reaches Out to Vice President

Statement

U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell made the following remarks on the Senate floor today regarding the status of the fiscal cliff negotiations:

"My office submitted an offer to the majority leader last night at 7:10 pm and offered to work through the night to find common ground. The majority leader's staff informed us they would be getting back to us this morning at 10 a.m.-- despite our obvious time crunch. It's now 2 p.m. and we've yet to receive a response to our good-faith offer.

"I'm concerned with the lack of urgency here. There's far too much at stake for political gamesmanship.

"We need to protect American families and businesses from this looming tax hike. Everyone agrees that action is necessary.

"In order to get things moving, I have just spoken with Sen. Reid. I also placed a call to the Vice President to see if he could help jump start the negotiations on their side. The Vice President and I have worked together on solutions before and I believe we can again.

"I want my colleagues to know that we'll keep everyone updated.

"The consequences of this are too high for the American people to be engaged in a political messaging campaign. I'm interested in a result here. And I'm willing to work with whomever can help.

"There is no single issue that remains an impossible sticking point - the sticking point appears to be a willingness, an interest, or courage to close the deal.

"I'm willing to get this done but I need a dance partner."

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