>Washington, Jan 27 –
Rep. Scott Garrett (R-NJ) released the following statement regarding President Obama’s meeting with House Republicans today:
“I thank President Obama for his efforts to reach out to Republicans in the conversation about how best to stimulate our economy. The discussion centered on many Republican-offered suggestions, such as tax cuts for small businesses. While he did not embrace any of the ideas offered, I look forward to additional opportunities to share our pro-growth ideas with the president so we can work together to find a solution to the current economic crisis.
“My main concern with this bill is that some Members of Congress are seeking this opportunity to institute major spending projects that are not at all stimulative. We will stimulate the economy by allowing American businesses to grow and create jobs, and allowing American taxpayers to keep more of their money in their wallets.
“The proposed plan on which we will begin debate today includes $200 million to re-sod the National Mall, $600 million for Federal vehicles and $1.3 billion to upgrade the IT systems for various State and Federal agencies. Now, some of the projects listed in this bill are certainly worthy of government funding, but let’s not masquerade these projects as a stimulus. Stimulus is not an excuse to expand government programs. Stimulus means the economy will grow. Stimulus means people will be employed. Stimulus means we empower taxpayers, rather than burden future generations of Americans with unbridled debt.”
Scott Garrett