The reckless spending habits in Washington are a huge drag on our economy and a real curse for future generations. No hardworking North Dakotan would run up massive credit card debt to buy a new house, expensive clothes, fancy trips, and a new car—only to leave the bill for their kids to pay. But that’s exactly what the federal government is doing. Last year alone, our nation spent roughly $70,000 every second, piling on debt that will eventually fall on the shoulders of our children and grandchildren.
North Dakotans understand the importance of living within their means, and it’s time Washington does the same. I am supporting efforts to balance the budget, root out waste, fraud, and abuse, and bring greater transparency to federal spending. This problem has been ignored for far too long. Congress has failed for decades to follow a disciplined, balanced budgeting process. I will work with my colleagues to change that record and put us on a course to erase the deficit and debt.