[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 12 (Friday, January 20, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E145]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


       HOLDING OUR FEET TO THE FIRE--THE BALANCED BUDGET AMENDMENT

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                            HON. RON PACKARD

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, January 20, 1995
  Mr. PACKARD. Mr. Speaker, several months ago I joined my Republican 
colleagues to sign a contract with the American people to give them 
less government, less taxes, and less spending. As part of our new 
covenant we also promised the American people a more open and 
accountable Government.
  We have invited radio talk show hosts to the Capitol to communicate 
to their listeners exactly what it is we are doing to keep our 
promises. I am excited to report that they are taking us up on our 
invitation.
  I want to welcome southern California radio talk show host Roger 
Hedgecock and almost 200 of his listeners who traveled at their own 
expense, more than 3,000 miles to hold our feet to the fire and make 
sure that we work to pass the Barton balanced budget amendment.
  I am heartened to see such a devoted group of citizens travel so far 
to enjoy a more open and accountable Congress committed to keeping its 
word.
  They understand a balanced budget amendment will fundamentally change 
the way Government works. They know that this amendment is the only way 
to ensure that their children and grandchildren will not be saddled 
with a Federal debt which is currently tipping the scales at more than 
$4.5 trillion.
  The American people know that it is time for the Federal spending 
beast to change its eating habits. As with any healthy diet, discipline 
is key. The balanced budget amendment imposes just that kind of 
control.
  Anyone who has ever been on a diet knows that the key to success is 
resisting the temptation to cheat. The three-fifths rule in the Barton 
amendment will help Congress resist the temptation to cheat by making 
it more difficult to raise taxes on hard working Americans. It will 
make it tougher for Congress to continue its unhealthy spending habits.
  I urge my colleagues to support the Barton amendment and Roger 
Hedgecock's listeners to continue holding our feet to the fire.


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