Congressional Republicans Unveil 'Pledge to America'

Seeking to capture the spirit of the Contract With America that propelled their party to control the U.S. House in 1994 for the first time in 40 years, Republicans unveiled the Pledge to America Thursday. Their hope -- the goal behind the strategy -- is to pick up control of Congress in Novembers elections. Just like 1994, in the aftermath of Bill Clintons attempt to pass national health-care legislation, Republicans are taking aim at the size and scope of government and health-care laws.

Speaking at the Tart Lumber Co., a small business based in Sterling, Va. outside of Washington, House Republicans, led by House Minority Leader John Boehner of Ohio, released the Republican plan.

Across America, the people see a government in Washington that isnt listening, doesnt get it, and doesnt care, said Boehner. Today, that begins to change.

This new governing agenda, built by listening to the people, offers plans to create jobs, cut spending, and put power where it belongs: in the hands of the people, added Boehner. 'A 'Pledge to America' offers a new way forward that hasnt been tried in Washington; an approach focused on cutting spending instead of accelerating spending, and eliminating uncertainty for the private-sector innovators and entrepreneurs who create jobs. These are the solutions the American people are demanding, and Speaker Pelosi and Majority Leader Reid should act on them before Congress adjourns for the fall.

The 21-page document focuses on economic issues but also touches on social and defense issues.

"The need for urgent action to repair our economy and reclaim our government for the people cannot be overstated, pledged the Republicans. With this document, we pledge to dedicate ourselves to the task of reconnecting our highest aspirations to the permanent truths of our founding by keeping faith with the values our nation was founded on, the principles we stand for, and the priorities of our people. This is our 'Pledge to America.'"