DeGette Statement On Vote To Reopen Government And Avoid Default

WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette (CO-1) tonight issued the following statement regarding her vote to reopen the federal government and avoid defaulting on our nation’s debt. The bill passed the House tonight by a vote of 285 – 144, and it now goes to President Obama for his signature.

“The bill I voted for tonight is far from perfect, but it fulfills our most basic obligations to keep the federal government running and pay our nation’s bills. While it was the eleventh hour, I am pleased the House Republican Majority decided to end the partisan games and avoid devastating our economy. Unfortunately, in the past 16 days, collateral damage has already been done. Since the government shut down, our economy has lost billions of dollars, while 800,000 hard-working Americans were furloughed, fearful they would not be able to pay their bills and uncertain of how to support their families. The looming threat of defaulting on our debts caused uncertainty in the markets and a loss of confidence around the globe.

“Nonetheless, tonight I am glad we avoided even greater financial disaster, as the Republican Leadership fulfilled their most basic obligation, finally allowing a vote on this legislation.

“With passage we now have the time to work together on a bipartisan, bicameral budget that is fiscally responsible and pays for the needs of our country. As we negotiate common-sense, reasonable budget solutions, I particularly look forward to eliminating the blunt instrument of the sequester that has been a drag on our nation’s economy for months.

“Now is our opportunity for the grand bargain we have been talking about for far too long; one which solidifies our recovery while ensuring our long-term economic strength, and one which gives our business community the certainty they require to help our nation thrive and grow. I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle in the coming weeks to avoid another crisis and to secure America’s strength for the 21st century.”