Discussions Focus on Accountability and Transparency in New Government Spending

Washington, DC – Last night, Congressman Joe Baca (D-Rialto) and other members of the fiscally conservative Democratic Blue Dog Coalition met with President Obama at the White House to discuss details of the upcoming Economic Recovery package, and the need for long-term fiscal reform, including ways to balance the budget and bring much-needed accountability to the federal government. 
 
“Yesterday’s discussion with President Obama was a great chance to talk about our nation’s need for fiscal responsibility,” said Rep. Baca.  “After being handed a $5.6 trillion surplus by President Clinton, President Bush has given our nation trillions of dollars in deficit and debt.  President Obama understands the urgency of our current situation, and that all new government spending we create most come with the greatest standards of transparency and accountability.”

Rep. Baca joined the Blue Dog Coalition upon first coming to Congress in 1999.  The fiscally conservative Democratic Blue Dog Coalition was formed in 1995 with the goal of representing the center of the House of Representatives and appealing to the mainstream values of the American public.  The Blue Dogs are dedicated to a core set of beliefs that transcend partisan politics, including a deep commitment to the financial stability and national security of the United States.  Currently there are 49 members of the Blue Dog Coalition.

“As Congress continues the debate on the economic recovery package, we must remember the very real effects this crisis is having on America’s families, neighborhoods, and communities,” concluded Rep. Baca.  “I appreciate President Obama taking the time from his busy schedule to meet with me and the other Blue Dog Democrats.  After our meeting with the President, I am more confident than ever that we can work together to get our economy moving in the right direction again and fix our long-term budgetary woes.”