Delaware Congressional Delegation on solving the sequester [video]

Delaware’s three members of Congress see some light at the end of the tunnel and maybe some compromise in Washington following the sequester cuts.

As more and more impacts of the sequester cuts come to light, all three Democratic members of Delaware’s Congressional delegation believe this rough patch in American politics could soon lead to a bigger agreement that would set the nation up for economic growth. 

“I know that these short-term crises, the on-again off-again sort of back and forth of it isn’t very reassuring or encouraging,” says Senator Chris Coons.  “But we are steadily making progress.”  He says hopeful of a two or three month window of opportunity that could open once the Senate and House each pass a budget.  “There’s a very real possibility that we’ll get this so-called “big deal” done, that’s eluded us and will set the country on a very positive path that will grow the economy again.”

Senator Tom Carper says for that to happen, President Obama has to take the lead.  “He’s got to lead, and I think he knows that.  I think he’s reaching out to Republicans and providing the leadership that we need.  But it’s just not up to a legislative body to take this on by themselves without the President.”  

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Delaware’s lone Representative John Carney says he’s seen a change in his colleagues on the other side of the aisle since the 2012 election.  “I think people heard from their constituents back home, ‘Cut it out.  Stop this partisan bickering, get something done.’  And the first thing to get done is to pass a budget, which is something we haven’t done in some time.”

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Senators Carper and Coons along with Congressman Carney sat down together for an interview about the sequester that will air on WHYY’s First this Friday at 5:30 and 11 p.m.

 

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