WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Tom Udall (D-NM) issued the following statement on today's vote to pass the remaining budget for fiscal year 2011:
"I certainly don't agree with everything in this budget resolution but it's the best agreement that could be reached in order to prevent a government shutdown and the major economic damage it would cause. New Mexico has a one of the highest percentages of federal employees in the nation, including families who continue our state's strong tradition of military service. They deserve better than for Congress to add more stress and uncertainty in their lives by refusing to pass a budget for this fiscal year that's already six months overdue.
"It's time to turn the page on this chapter of spending negotiations, which accounts for only 12 percent of our entire budget, and focus on the other pieces contributing to the long-term challenges facing our nation; such as rising Medicare and Medicaid costs and tax cuts for millionaires. I have no doubt that we'll have serious points of disagreement in this effort, but it's clear from this process that the only way we can move forward is with shared sacrifice."
