NEWS FROM THE FLORIDA DEMOCRATIC PARTY

For Immediate Release: August 1st, 2011
Contact: Brannon Jordan, (850) 222-3411

Florida Democratic Party Chairman Rod Smith’s Statement In Support of Debt Agreement

Last night, President Obama announced that Congressional leaders have reached a compromise to raise America’s debt ceiling and begin to set our fiscal house in order.  That agreement will prevent the United States from defaulting on its debt for the first time in history, an event that would have had catastrophic consequences for our economy.  Following the announcement of that agreement, Florida Chairman Rod Smith issued the following statement:

“This agreement is a victory for Floridians. President Obama and Democratic leaders in Congress know that a failure to raise America’s debt ceiling would be irresponsible and reckless, and that it would have a catastrophic impact on our nation’s economic recovery.  Meeting our nation’s obligations and avoiding default is imperative.  The compromise President Obama announced last night will accomplish just that.  The people of Florida and Americans across the country appreciate President Obama’s leadership in protecting Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security, while establishing a path towards balanced deficit reductions that includes revenue increases.

“But make no mistake, there is still more work to do.  We need to make sure this legislation becomes law.  I have no doubt that the people of Florida and America will stand with the President and Congressional leaders who are willing to make the tough choices to get our fiscal house in order without compromising the things we all care about, like education, health care, and investing in our country’s future.

“President Obama’s leadership throughout this process has been tremendous, and I know that the President will continue to work tirelessly on behalf of all Americans.  He said from the very beginning that he was not afraid to tackle the difficult issues confronting our nation, and his dedication to achieving an agreement on this challenge is a testament to his strong and resolute leadership.”

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