May 27, 2010

Larson speaks out against 'wasteful' engine



Press release from U.S. Rep. John Larson, the East Hartford Democrat whose 1st District includes Bristol:
LARSON SPEAKS ON FLOOR AGAINST F-35 EXTRA ENGINE
Stands with President, Sec Gates and Military in opposing wasteful program
Washington, DC – Congressman John B. Larson (CT-01) made the following statement on the floor in support of the Pingree Amendment to strip funding for the wasteful and unnecessary F-35 Extra Engine Program from the Defense Authorization Act. (As prepared for delivery.)
“All across America families are tightening their belts - making-do with less. They expect the same from Congress. Imagine their utter frustration when they hear Congress is pushing forward an unwanted and unnecessary $3 billion program.
“Only in Washington, DC could a company that lost the competition in the private sector, and already controls 88% of the military engine market, come seeking a government-directed subsidy and call that competition. I guess competition in this town means buying two of everything with taxpayers’ money.
“The Marines, the Navy, and the Air Force have all said they don’t want it. They don’t need it. The President has called this program an example of the ‘unnecessary defense programs that do nothing to keep us safe.’ Why are we moving ahead with it?
“If we can’t cut spending here, where can we cut it? If we don’t make tough choices to rein in wasteful spending now, when will we make them?
“This is about whose side you’re on. Are you on the side of excessive spending? Or, are you on the side of saving taxpayer money and supporting our troops?”
*******
Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com

No comments: