[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 141 (Friday, October 9, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1989]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         PUT PARTISANSHIP ASIDE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. KAREN McCARTHY

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 8, 1998

  Ms. McCARTHY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to stress the importance of 
the work that this Congress needs to complete before we adjourn. We 
will be making a momentous decision today, and each one of us must 
reflect carefully on that decision. However, we also have several 
critical issues still facing us, and we must focus on these concerns 
and fulfill our responsibility to the American people.
  We must pass a budget. Tomorrow marks the last day of the continuing 
resolution signed by the President. We are facing the threat of a 
government shutdown. As we all know, a government shutdown means no 
veteran benefits, Social Security benefits, or student loan funds.
  The American people deserve access to excellent and affordable health 
care. If people do not have good medical care, they may suffer severe 
consequences, and sometimes, even death. I urge the House leadership to 
work with my Democratic colleagues to find a solution to the managed 
care dilemma.
  We must protect Social Security first and ensure the financial 
security of our retirees now and into the future. We must resist the 
temptation to use Social Security funds for anything but the long-term 
solvency of this important, successful, and needed program.
  Again, I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to put 
partisanship aside and work together to complete the work that we have 
to do. The American people elected us to this body to serve in their 
best interest and uphold the principles of democracy. Let us break down 
the wall that exists in the aisle of this hall and work together to 
address the issues before us.

                          ____________________