As part of an effort to tackle our nation’s $15 trillion debt, House Republicans brought to the floor a balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution (H.J.Res.2). Unfortunately, due to pressure from the Democrat Leadership the measure failed. Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA) voted for the balanced budget amendment.

"This week our nation’s debt surpassed $15 trillion totaling more than 95 percent of GDP, which is currently higher than at any point in our history. Spending more, taxing more and borrowing more are not solutions for job creation or economic growth," Royce said.

Royce added, "It is time Washington broke its habit of out-of-control spending and this balanced budget amendment would’ve forced the hand of Congress to do just that. Unfortunately, the Democrat leadership made it clear this week they would rally their members to oppose this measure."

In 1995, the same version of a balanced budget amendment received support from Republicans and Democrats – some Democrats that are currently serving in Congress. In fact, Democrat Whip Steny Hoyer told reporters this week, "As someone who supported the 1995 balanced budget amendment, let me say that at this point in time I would not support it." Since Mr. Hoyer cast his vote for the balanced budget amendment sixteen years ago, $10 trillion has been added to the nation’s debt.

"America’s future generations deserve more than debt and bloated bureaucracies. I will continue to make hard choices and fight to cut spending," Royce said.

NOTE: "I wish it were possible to obtain a single amendment to our Constitution. I would be willing to depend on that alone for the reduction of the administration of our government; I mean an additional article taking from the Federal Government the power of borrowing." – Thomas Jefferson, 1798

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