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As the clock ticks down to August 2nd,
I want to remind everyone within the sound of my voice what really is at stake.
This very moment
millions of seniors across this great country
worry that their next Social Security check might not come to them
on Wednesday.
Middle-class families wonder whether their retirement accounts will be wiped out
by an economic collapse brought on by default on this nation’s debt.
Active military personnel
including many who are risking their lives for our great nation
worry whether they will receive their paycheck.
Associated Press reported that Admiral Mike Mullen,
chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff,
visited with troops serving in Afghanistan
yesterday. The soldiers Admiral Mullen
talked with
asked about military strategy
or how our troop
drawdown in Afghanistan would affect them. No.
They asked whether they would get paid if
Republicans forced the United States government
to stop paying its bills.
Mr. President, this is really unacceptable.
A country as rich and powerful as ours, men and women with bombs going off around
them,
shouldn’t worry whether this country will leave them high and dry.
This afternoon I asked those who said they would never compromise on any terms
who their stubbornness will really hurt:
Seniors, soldiers, and others.
I’ve spoken with the Vice President this morning,
in fact, a couple of times.
He’s hopeful -
of course we have to be hopeful-
that we’re close to agreeing with Republican leaders.
The framework of this agreement is based on
new ideas and some old ideas.
After speaking with Republican Leader Mitch McConnell this morning
we are cautiously optimistic.