WASHINGTON, D.C.–The budget compromise in Washington that could prevent another government shutdown from happening passed easily in the U.S. House, 332-94. Mississippi Republicans voted for the bill. The lone Mississippi Democrat voted against it.
“This agreement is a small step in the right direction,” said Rep. Alan Nunnelee. “For the first time in years, we are reducing the deficit by addressing mandatory spending, the real driver of our debt crisis, and doing so without raising taxes. While I would have preferred bigger reforms, the Democrats who control the Senate and White House would not go along without another huge, job-killing tax increase.
“Furthermore, the uncertainty caused by Washington lurching from one crisis to another has damaged our economy and shattered the public’s confidence in Washington’s ability to govern. Setting a budget for the next two years will help alleviate some of this uncertainty and allow Congress to focus on jobs, economic growth, and the fight against Obamacare.”
The deal was worked out by Rep. Paul Ryan (R-Wis.) and Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.) and up for a vote in the Senate that could come as early as next week.
Nunnelee, and Reps. Greg Harper and Steven Palazzo were three of 169 Republicans who voted for the bill. Sixty-two Republicans voted against it.
Rep. Bennie Thompson was one of only 32 Democrats who voted against the bill. Voting yes were 163.
When it comes to a vote in the Senate, the measure is expected to pass, but without a yes vote from Roger Wicker, who said he will not support the bill because it would cut retirement benefits to the military.
It was unclear what stance Sen. Thad Cochran plans to take.
