Biggert: Debt Deal "Not Perfect" but "Part of the Solution"

Obama signed a last-minute debt ceiling bill Tuesday, averting a default. 

The U.S. Senate passed the plan shortly after 11 a.m. CST with a 74-26 vote. Sixty votes were required for passage. 

The House of Representatives passed the measure by a 269-161 vote Monday. 

According to CNN, "Obama praised the deal moments after the Senate passed it, calling the measure 'an important first step for ensuring that as a nation we don't live beyond our means.'"

U.S. Representative Judy Biggert (R-Hinsdale) issued the following statement Monday after the House approved the bill:
 
“It’s been a long, tough negotiation, but the end result is a solid compromise that will help put this economy on a stronger path. It will give Americans the peace of mind they deserve by preventing a default, cutting spending, and holding Congress and the President accountable for spending decisions down the road. Most importantly, it doesn’t raise taxes or give the President a blank check.
 
It’s not perfect, but this deal will be part of the solution -- not part of the problem.  By placing real controls on the debt, we can restore confidence in the economy and generate job growth.  That has to be our number one priority, and I appreciate that a majority of my colleagues were willing to do what’s right for the American people and for the economy.”

voted for the measure in the Senate Tuesday. 

“The best way to achieve economic stability, reassure our allies and strengthen financial markets is by tackling our unsustainable spending trend,” Kirk said. “This deal is a balance of immediate cuts and a promise of long-term reforms, coupled with a strong backstop.” 

U.S. Representative Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) released this statement Monday night: 

“Tonight’s agreement prevents a default on our nation’s debt and will give our economy the certainty it needs as it continues to recover from a historic recession. 

This deal is not perfect, nor the deal many of us would have made ourselves, but in the end and after weeks of partisan differences, both sides have come together and compromised to avoid an economic catastrophe.

This agreement will begin the process of reducing our deficits and ensuring our long term recovery. But over the next weeks and months, we must do all that we can to make certain that a balanced and fair process follows that protects the most vulnerable in our society.”