Vern Buchanan Backs Shutdown and Debt Ceiling Agreement

U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan, R-Fla., voted on Wednesday night to pass the Senate plan to raise the debt ceiling and end the federal shutdown. Buchanan said allowing the federal government to default on the national debt would have dire consequences.

Jeopardizing the full faith and credit of the United States by defaulting on our obligations was not an option, said Buchanan There is no question that we need to reduce spending and balance the budget, but not by degrading Americas credit rating and destroying our credibility.

Final passage at the eleventh hour came at a cost of weakened public confidence in Washingtons ability to manage the nations affairs, Buchanan added. For too long both parties have turned a blind eye to our countrys budgetary mess. Its time we put an end to the irresponsible spending policies and enacted long-term policies that will keep the American dream alive for future generations.