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Budgeting is basic (Rep. Mac Thornberry)

by Rep. Mac Thornberry (R-Texas) - 06/14/10 8:06 PM ET

If there has ever been a time when a budget is necessary, it is now. Since President Obama took office, non-defense discretionary spending has increased by more than 84 percent. This year alone, the federal government is borrowing 40 cents of every dollar it spends, and it looks like it will spend at least $1 trillion more than it takes in over the next ten years.

Failing to even attempt to pass a budget confirms the worst that people feel about Washington. And it’s no wonder. Not even trying to pass a budget is abdicating the responsibility to make decisions that are an essential part of governing, which is why people sent us here in the first place.

In Washington there is a lot of talk about leadership. A great place to demonstrate some is on the issue of spending. A budget is the first step, especially in the people’s House.

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