Kuster to Congress: Convene Bipartisan Budget Conference Now

Statement

Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) today reiterated her call on House leadership to move the budget process forward by convening a bipartisan budget conference so that Congress can reach a balanced agreement that's focused on growing the economy, creating jobs, and strengthening the middle class. In April, Kuster led a bipartisan group of new Representatives in urging House leadership to meet with the freshman class to discuss their vision for the federal budget. Despite repeated calls for action, Congress has already missed its legal deadline of April 15 to pass a final budget.

"Granite Staters don't expect their elected officials to agree on everything, but they do expect us to compromise and find common ground where we can -- particularly when it comes to addressing our nation's fiscal challenges," Kuster said. "Instead of giving into gridlock and stopping the budget process in it tracks, both parties need to work together on a balanced, bipartisan solution that will grow the economy, help create jobs, and strengthen the middle class.

"Right now, that means that Speaker Boehner should name conferees and bring both parties to the negotiating table so that we can reach a balanced agreement. The House and Senate have both voted on budget proposals, the President has put forward his own plan, and the deadline to produce a final deal has already come and gone. Now is the time to engage in a full, open debate about our priorities so that we can find responsible solutions to our nation's fiscal challenges.

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