New Year, New Opportunities
The 111th Congress has adjourned for the last time, something known in legislative-speak as Adjournment Sine Die. In Latin it means "without another day." For many Americans, that news comes with a sigh of relief.
There is little doubt that in the past two years, Congress passed some far-reaching legislation, whatever you may think of its merits. We have talked about those pieces of legislation in this space throughout the past two years and my views are well-known.
Next year though can be different. There will be a new Speaker of the House and many new members of both parties. I believe the message voters sent in November has been heard.
I hope that Congress will take serious steps to address our national deficit and national debt. We simply cannot continue to spend money we do not have and pass the debt on to our children. Congress must make the tough decisions to rein in federal spending.
I also want to get Congress off the backs of small businesses. It is those entrepreneurs and innovators who create the jobs that our economy desperately needs. Yet, many of the laws passed this last year made it harder for small businesses to start, grow and create jobs. Government does not create jobs, but we can set the table for economic growth with common sense policies.
I'm optimistic about the next Congress. However that is for another day. For now, I want to wish you and your family a Happy New Year and a prosperous 2011.
Sincerely,
Sam Graves