Graves: Speaker’s bill didn’t go far enough

Legislation proposed by Speaker of the House John Boehner, R-Ohio, did “not match the size of the problem we face” one of two Georgia Congressmen who voted against the measure said.

“As always, I cast this vote based on my conscience, constituents, and country,” U.S. Rep. Tom Graves, R-Ga., said in a statement. “It’s long past time to fundamentally change Washington and reform our federal government into a responsible servant of the taxpayers. … I cannot approve of a debt limit increase without a sincere solution for our spending-driven debt crisis.

“Despite the Speaker’s hard work and good intentions, it’s clear to me that the policy before the House today does not match the size of the problem we face,” Graves added. “This bill immediately gives President Obama a $900 billion increase in the debt ceiling, but only provides $7 billion in savings for the American people next year. The addition of a balanced budget amendment is a welcome change, but it is triggered only after the debt limit is increased. America needs a plan for long-term success, not a compromise for short-term comfort.”

Graves said he still supports the so-called Cut, Cap and Balance approach.

“It’s time to pass a policy that marginalizes the federal government so the private sector can expand and create the jobs our country desperately needs,” Graves said.