These are the successes of the American people. Washington is certainly responsible for promoting sound economic policies, but it's across America that the economic growth we enjoy finds its life and future. We must be certain that the programs we initiate and sustain in this city serve those who are creating the economic growth and surpluses that bless our nation. That is the measuring rod I'm using to assess the President's budget. Unfortunately, measured against that standard, the President's budget does not do this to the degree that it should.
Debt reduction is too slim.
Real tax cuts are too few. Reforms to the tax code are too timid. And new spending is far too high. I am also disappointed that the President did not use his budget to introduce new comprehensive proposals for Social Security reform. Few times have conditions been so ripe to build a strong foundation for a promising future.