[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 13 (Wednesday, February 5, 1997)]
[Senate]
[Page S994]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       THE VERY BAD DEBT BOXSCORE

  Mr. HELMS. Mr. President, at the close of business yesterday, 
Tuesday, February 4, the Federal debt stood at $5,300,797,430,319.62.
  Five years ago, February 4, 1992, the Federal debt stood at 
$3,797,723,000,000.
  Ten years ago, February 4, 1987, the Federal debt stood at 
$2,232,429,000,000.
  Fifteen years ago, February 4, 1982, the Federal debt stood at 
$1,038,710,000,000.
  Twenty-five years ago, February 4, 1972, the Federal debt stood at 
$423,427,000,000 which reflects a debt increase of more than $4 
trillion--$4,877,370,430,319.62--during the past 25 years.
  Mr. President, I suggest the absence of a quorum.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered.
  The clerk will call the roll.
  The legislative clerk proceeded to call the roll.
  Mr. BYRD. Madam President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for 
the quorum call be rescinded.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER (Ms. Collins). Without objection, it is so 
ordered.
  Mr. BYRD. Madam President, I ask unanimous consent to proceed for not 
to exceed 6 minutes prior to the calling up of the amendment.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered. The 
Senator from West Virginia.
  Mr. BYRD. I thank the Chair. Madam President, I shall speak out of 
order.

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