Biden hits Ryan for requesting money from economic stimulus package

Vice President Biden hit Rep. Paul Ryan (R-Wis.) in their debate Thursday for requesting money from the 2009 economic stimulus bill he has criticized. 

Biden brought up two letters that he said the GOP vice presidential nominee wrote to him that requested funds from the stimulus for companies in Wisconsin. 

{mosads}”I am not allowed to show letters, but go on our website. He sent me two letters saying ‘by the way, can you send me some stimulus money for companies in Wisconsin?’ ” Biden said. “I love that, ‘this is such a bad program’ and he writes me a letter, writes the Department of Energy a letter saying we want money because it will create growth and jobs, in his words.”

Ryan acknowledged asking for the money but countered that millions had been spent on green energy programs in Finland and China, using money borrowed from China.

“Was it a good idea to borrow all this money from places like China to give the money to these special interests?” Ryan asked.

Biden said that there was no cronyism involved in the $840 billion 2009 stimulus bill, and he added that GOP congressional investigations had found no evidence. 

Ryan argues that the stimulus added to the budget deficit, but did little to help the economy, noting high unemployment. 

The discussion ended with Biden jabbing: “Any letter you send me, I’ll entertain.” 

“I appreciate that Joe,” Ryan retorted.