Harkin a Yes, Grassley a No on debt limit hike/reopening gov’t deal

Earlier today Senator Tom Harkin (D-Cumming, IA) signalled his support of today’s deal to end the government shutdown and raise the nation’s debt limit for a few months.  Read about/listen to Harkin’s conference call with Iowa reporters here.

This evening Senator Chuck Grassley (R-New Hartford) voted against the deal. He released the following statement:  “There’s been a lot of talk about the negative impact of not raising the debt limit, but there’s too little focus on the negative consequences of ignoring the $17 trillion debt.  Government spending has exploded since 2008, increasing the national debt by $6 trillion.  Obamacare is a drag on the economy and hurting workers’ ability to find full-time jobs.  Yet the President refuses to lead for fiscal responsibility, both short and long term, even with a government shutdown.  This agreement raises the debt limit with no action on the debt.  It’s a missed opportunity for forcing action to limit government and increase economic opportunities.  America needs the President to roll up his sleeves and work with members of Congress to address the long-term fiscal problems of our country.  Our grandkids depend on it.”