[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 51 (Monday, March 20, 1995)]
[Senate]
[Page S4197]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         WAS CONGRESS IRRESPONSIBLE? THE VOTERS HAVE SAID YES!

  Mr. HELMS. Mr. President, for about 3 years I have been making daily 
reports to the Senate regarding the exact Federal debt as of the 
previous day.
  We must pray that this year, Federal spending will finally begin to 
be reduced. Indeed, if we care about America's future, Congress simply 
must face up to its responsibility to balance the Federal budget.
  As of the close of business Friday, March 17, the Federal debt 
stood--down to the penny--at $4,841,551,787,157.03, meaning that on a 
per capita basis, every man woman, and child in America owes $18,378.61 
as his or her share of the Federal debt.
  It's important to note, Mr. President, that the United States had an 
opportunity to begin controlling the Federal debt by implementing a 
balanced budget amendment to the Constitution. Unfortunately, the 
Senate did not seize their first opportunity to control this debt--but 
rest assured they will have another chance during the 104th Congress.
  If the Senate does not concentrate on getting a handle on this 
enormous debt, their constituents are not likely to overlook it 2 years 
hence.


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