Eric Cantor Calls On Senator Reid To Stop Playing Politics With FEMA Disaster Relief

Eric Cantor Calls On Senator Reid To Stop Playing Politics With FEMA Disaster Relief

“There are people who are suffering in a big way right now, and they need to know that FEMA and the disaster relief monies will be there for them. We are told that FEMA will run dry and the Disaster Relief Fund will have no money by next week. That is why the House acted. The President made his request for the Disaster Relief Fund, we doubled that request and did it in a responsible manner and sent it over to the Senate. Harry Reid now says he won't take that bill up. Harry Reid is arguing with himself. This is why people don't like Washington.

"We have the money in the bill, it's there in a responsible manner, let's get the money to the people that need it. Harry Reid is now talking about perhaps bringing up a clean CR without disaster relief funding. If that happens, FEMA will run out of money and it will be on Harry Reid's shoulders because he won't act. The bill is there in front of him. The Senate should take the bill up and get the people the disaster relief they need. You're also going to hear from two of our freshmen from Pennsylvania whose districts are most hard hit as far as people really suffering and who need the money.

Q & A:

“The intention for us is to complete the TRAIN Act and to finish business of the day. The point is this: there is no brinksmanship, Harry Reid is holding a bill up with no reason but for politics. Again, this is why the people just don't have the respect for this institution and this town anymore. You heard the stories, people need the money. The money is in the bill, the emergency disaster request from the President is funded and then some, times two, and so there's no reason that Harry Reid is holding this up other than politics. Let’s get on with it and get the people their money.”

House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-VA) Remarks at GOP Stakeout September 23, 2011

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John Boehner Eric Cantor Letter to President Obama FULL TEXT

John Boehner Eric Cantor Letter to President Obama FULL TEXT

In Letter to President Obama, Speaker Boehner & Leader Cantor Highlight Jobs Bills Stalled in Democrat-Led Senate, Areas for Potential Bipartisan Cooperation

WASHINGTON, DC (Sep 6) House Speaker John Boehner (R-OH) and Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-VA) sent the following letter to President Obama today highlighting several House-passed jobs bills that remain stalled in the Democrat-led Senate and outlining potential opportunities for Congress and the White House to work together this fall on jobs. You can find a printable PDF version of the letter by clicking here.

Dear Mr. President:

We have read with great interest recent news stories describing the “jobs plan” you intend to unveil this week. We were particularly heartened by comments from individuals in your Administration indicating a desire to find areas of common ground that can be implemented in divided government.

We understand that many in your party want to build on the $800 billion stimulus bill that you proposed (and the Democratic Congress passed) as the best method for improving the economy. As you know, we argued at the time that a large, deficit-financed, government spending bill was not the best way to improve our economic situation or create sustainable growth in employment. Given the current unemployment and deficit numbers, we believe our concerns have been validated.

House Republicans have worked throughout the year to implement the Pledge to America, our governing agenda focused on removing government barriers to private-sector job creation, and later this year built on the Pledge by putting forth an expanded jobs agenda, our Plan for America’s Job Creators. Our new majority has passed more than a dozen pro-growth measures to address the jobs crisis. Aside from repeal of the 1099 reporting requirement in the health care law, however, none of the jobs measures passed by the House to date have been taken up by the Democrat-controlled Senate. For your consideration, attached is a list of those jobs-related bills passed by the House that Leader Reid has thus far refused to consider.

Last week we also announced a legislative calendar for the fall with a heavy focus on repeal of excessive, job-destroying regulations and the pursuit of pro-growth tax relief. American employers are seeking relief from the excessive federal regulation that is hampering job creation across our country. As we all know, some regulations are necessary to help keep Americans safe and to protect our citizens’ rights. But there are also regulations that unnecessarily increase costs for Americans, for job creators, and for taxpayers, preventing our economy from creating new jobs. Small businesses, which are the primary engine of job creation in our economy, too often bear the brunt of excessive regulation. Your administration has publicly listed a total of 219 new regulatory actions under consideration for the upcoming year, each of which would have an estimated cost to our economy of $100 million or more. Early last week, in response to our request, you disclosed that seven of these regulations would have an estimated economic cost of more than $1 billion each, with a potential combined cost of more than $100 billion in a single year. While we appreciate your announcement on Friday asking the EPA to withdraw its new draft ozone standards, we believe it is critical to not stop there, and instead act to further reduce this cumulative regulatory drag of uncertainty on economic growth and job creation. Our hope is that both parties can work together in the coming weeks to reduce excessive regulation that is hampering job growth in our country. To facilitate such efforts, we hope that prior to your address to a Joint Session, you will disclose the cost estimates for the remaining 212 new regulatory actions planned by your administration.

While we each sincerely believe that our own policy prescriptions for economic recovery are what is best for the country, neither of us is likely to convince the other in a manner that results in the full implementation of those policies. While it is important that we continue to debate and discuss our different approaches to job creation, it is also critical that our differences not preclude us from taking action in areas where there is common agreement. We should not approach this as an all or nothing situation.

For example, it is our understanding that you may propose an infrastructure initiative as part of your jobs plan. We are not opposed to initiatives to repair and improve infrastructure, and believe there are reforms that can be implemented that would improve their effectiveness in a manner that supports economic growth. Current law requires that states set-aside 10 percent of their surface transportation funds for transportation enhancements, which must be used for items such as establishment of transportation museums, education activities for pedestrians and bicyclists, acquisition of scenic easements, historic preservation, operation of historic transportation facilities, etc. While many of the initiatives funded by this mandatory set-aside may be worthy projects, eliminating this required set-aside would allow states to devote more money to the types of infrastructure programs you are advocating without adding to the deficit. We believe such a reform would be consistent with your statement last week that we should “reform the way transportation money is invested, to eliminate waste, to give states more control over the projects that are right for them.”

In light of your recent comments, we are also hopeful that there is an opportunity for bipartisan agreement on a proposal to expedite the permitting process for construction projects. For example, moving to concurrent rather than sequential reviews by federal agencies and setting time limits for reviews could greatly speed up the approval process and get more projects underway faster.

The press has also reported that you are looking at reforms to our unemployment system to assist those that have been or are at risk of being unemployed for an extended period of time. Reportedly your administration is looking at the “Georgia Works” program as a potential model.

As you may recall, we suggested adoption of a “Georgia Works” type program during our discussion of efforts to help the economy back in December of 2009 (White House meeting on December 9th and subsequent letter on December 22nd). We continue to stand ready to work with you to implement common-sense reforms in this area.

Another area for potential bipartisan cooperation on job creation is trade. Americans have been waiting for years for the White House to advance the three pending trade agreements with Colombia, Panama, and South Korea, which collectively would, according to your Administration’s own estimates, support the creation of 250,000 jobs. Expanding markets for U.S. small businesses and manufacturers is critical to create new American jobs. The House is ready – and has been ready – to pass these free-trade agreements, in tandem with separate consideration of Trade Adjustment Assistance legislation, as soon as you send them to Congress. Further delay of these bipartisan job-creating trade bills is, in our view, unacceptable.

These reforms alone are not a substitute for a comprehensive pro-growth jobs agenda, such as the one House Republicans have put forth and continue to implement. But they are potential areas for common ground.

Obviously achieving bipartisan agreement on these and other initiatives requires more than just one side declaring a proposal to be “bipartisan.” It requires that we work together. As such, we would suggest that prior to your address to Congress you convene a bipartisan, bicameral meeting of the Congressional leadership so that we may have the opportunity to constructively discuss your proposals.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,

John A. Boehner Eric Cantor
Speaker Majority Leader

Attachment: Bills Passed by the House of Representatives that Have Not Been Considered by the Democrat-Controlled Senate

The Reducing Regulatory Burdens Act (H.R. 872), which would halt duplicative federal regulations on farmers and small business owners that are impeding job creation.

The Energy Tax Prevention Act (H.R. 910), which would stop the federal bureaucracy from imposing a job-destroying national energy tax.

The Clean Water Cooperative Federalism Act (H.R. 2018), which would restrict the federal government’s ability to second-guess or delay a state’s permitting and water quality certification decisions under the Clean Water Act once the EPA has already approved a state’s program, preventing approval process delays that cost jobs and leave businesses hampered by uncertainty.

The Consumer Financial Protection & Soundness Improvement Act (H.R. 1315), which would increase consumer protection and government accountability by eliminating the ability of Dodd-Frank’s unelected Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Director to unilaterally carry out regulations that hurt job growth.

The Restarting American Offshore Leasing Now Act (H.R. 1230), which would help to address high gas prices and support the creation of new American jobs by increasing offshore energy production.

The Putting the Gulf of Mexico Back to Work Act (H.R. 1229) and the Reversing President Obama’s Offshore Moratorium Act (H.R. 1231), which would help to put thousands of Americans back to work by ending the de facto moratorium on American energy production in the Gulf of Mexico in a safe, responsible and transparent manner by setting firm timelines for considering permits to drill.

The Jobs and Energy Permitting Act of 2011 (H.R. 2021), which would streamline the permit process for American energy production to help lower prices and create tens of thousands of new jobs.

The North American-Made Energy Security Act (H.R. 1938), which would require the federal government to make a determination by a date certain on whether or not it will allow the Keystone XL pipeline expansion, which is projected to directly create 20,000 jobs and support the creation of thousands more, to move forward.

A Budget for Fiscal Year 2012 (H.Con.Res. 34). With Washington’s failure to control spending hurting job creation in America, the House has passed its budget, while the Senate has not yet considered a budget of its own.

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Congressman Eric Cantor (VA-07) today issued the following statement regarding the August jobs report

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Eric Cantor (VA-07) today issued the following statement regarding the August jobs report:

"These numbers show that America is still facing a jobs crisis. Millions upon millions of Americans remain out of work – some for far too long of a time – and we must work to foster an environment that makes it easier for small businesses and entrepreneurs to grow and create jobs. For the past eight months, House Republicans have been squarely focused on common sense proposals to create jobs and grow the economy. We put forward our Plan for America’s Job Creators including specific proposals to spur economic growth, and our fall legislative agenda will focus on repealing unnecessary job-destroying federal regulations that are stifling the ability of businesses small and large to grow and hire. Unfortunately, aside from more-of-the-same failed stimulus spending and tax increases on working families and small businesses, Congressional Democrats have not offered any solutions to our nation’s jobs crisis. And while the House has passed nearly a dozen pro-growth bills, the Senate refuses to act on any of these job creating measures.

"Next week, President Obama will finally unveil his latest jobs plan, and I believe there will be areas where we can work together to produce real results that will help job creators get people back to work. The President is expected to include infrastructure investment in his plan. The Administration’s previous attempts at this didn’t produce the expected results, and we must be mindful not to repeat the mistakes of the past. But we would agree with President Obama’s suggestion earlier this week to give states more control over infrastructure projects and eliminate wasteful spending through reforms to current law, which will boost economic growth without increasing spending. For example, eliminating the requirement that states must set aside 10 percent of federal surface transportation funds for transportation museums, education, and preservation would allow states to devote these monies to high-priority infrastructure projects, without adding to the deficit. Reforming the unemployment system is another area of commonality where we can assist those in need and help get unemployed Americans back to work. In fact, in December of 2009, we presented a jobs plan to President Obama suggesting the “Georgia Works” program as a potential model for getting Americans back to work, and we stand ready to work with him if there is interest in implementing a similar program on the federal level.

"With a stalled economy and millions of Americans out of work, we must come together and unite behind the notion that we want to grow this economy, put in place policies that allow small businesses expand and hire, and let America be the country where businesses and families can go out and earn their success. The President says he wants to put job creation first and put politics aside. We agree. It is a two way street, and if the President is willing to roll up his sleeves and join us in helping get Americans back to work, we are ready to work together."

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Sep 02, 2011 CONTACT: Megan Whittemore (202) 225-7440

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Eric Cantor: We Must Get Our Fiscal House In Order Without Raising Taxes VIDEO

WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-VA) today called on President Obama to release the details of his “grand plan” that he proposed for a debt limit increase:

“Today we will continue meetings at the White House to try to find consensus surrounding the debt limit. Though none of the plans being discussed right now could garner the 218 votes needed for House passage, we have found areas of agreement. I am glad the President has finally agreed that Medicare as we know it will be bankrupt within 10 years unless we do something about it, and I am glad he has agreed that we need to address our debt crisis now. As we move forward in this debate, I would ask that we work in earnest on these areas of commonality instead of demanding that areas of agreement are tied to items of fundamental disagreement like raising taxes. The President refuses to compromise on the repeal of ObamaCare, and House Republicans refuse to raise taxes, so both have been ruled out. Further, the simple reality is that tax increases cannot pass the House, and the constant demand for them makes coalescing around any increase in the debt limit less likely.

"Currently, there is not a single debt limit proposal that can pass the House of Representatives, but I believe the path forward is to focus on what we can agree upon, and though it doesn’t go as far as our budget, House Republicans can likely agree with the general spending cuts and entitlement changes in the ‘big deal’ proposed by the President. That isn’t everything that we want, as the President’s proposal appears to be around $3 trillion in spending cuts, compared to the reforms and the more than $6 trillion in cuts House Republicans supported in the Ryan budget. I also believe that the President should release the basic framework and details of his spending cuts so that both Republicans and Democrats can make well informed decisions about something of this magnitude. To date, we have not seen the details of his plan and we must be able to – the stakes are too high for anything less."

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Eric Cantor Remarks On Cantor-Hoyer Resolution On Middle East Peace VIDEO TEXT

Madam Speaker, we call today on Hamas and the Palestinian Authority to renounce the path they have set in planning to announce statehood in the upcoming United Nations session.

By threatening to side step the principles of the Oslo Accords, the Palestinian Authority is beginning to dismantle the framework of future peace process agreements.

We have seen the death and destruction that Hamas perpetrated against both Israeli civilians and the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip. Yet Hamas refuses to accept responsibility for its actions or reign in terrorists called to strike at the heart of the Israeli people.

Today, we ask and call upon the Palestinian Authority return to the negotiating table and join the Israelis in direct discussions to end this conflict. Furthermore, we call on the leadership of the Palestinian Authority to renounce the violence Hamas condones and teaches to its followers.

This resolution, Madam Speaker, directs the Palestinian Authority to be responsible actors on the world stage and to return to negotiations.

For far too long, the Palestinian Authority has not acted on behalf of its people. Corruption has caused many to discredit its legitimacy. The people of the region deserve an honest broker that accepts and respects the state of Israel.

Israel has stood by America in its fight against extremist ideology. Madam Speaker, we stand by Israel as our most valued ally in a region in need of more who respect freedom of speech and the free assembly of people, a region that must follow the example set by Israel in its work and promotion of human progress.

It is time for the Palestinian Authority to accept a peaceful solution to this conflict and teach their children that violence is never the answer to their problems. The Palestinian Authority must understand that peace is only achievable when they are willing to recognize the legitimacy of Israel to exist as a Jewish a state. And, they must understand that the solution to this conflict will only come through direct negotiations with the Israelis and not by circumventing the peace process through international parliamentary gimmickry.

House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-VA) Floor Remarks July 6, 2011

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Eric Cantor Face the Nation VIDEO

Harry Smith spoke with House Majority Leader Rep. Eric Cantor (R-Va.) on making the certain budget cuts necessary to provide aid to the tornado stricken Joplin, Mo., his support for Medicare reform, a recent jobs bill proposal, and the 2012 GOP presidential candidates

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Eric Cantor Weekly Republican Address TEXT PODCAST VIDEO 05/28/11

Podcast of the address: Download MP3 for PODCAST || FULL TEXT TRANSCRIPT BELOW. || Download Video MPEG Video || MP4 Video

“Hello, I’m Eric Cantor, House Majority Leader from the 7th District of Virginia. “I’m happy to be with you this Memorial Day, as we spend time with family and friends in festive gatherings and thoughtful ceremonies to honor those brave Americans who gave their lives in service to our country.

It is their sacrifice that has kept America free and strong. Let us pay them tribute by renewing our resolve to promote lasting peace and liberty across the globe.

“As we spend time with family this weekend, our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Joplin, Missouri, Oklahoma City, and other areas of our country that are facing unthinkable circumstances and terrible tragedy. Please know that Congress stands ready for a request for funding from President Obama to ensure that the resources are available to help these communities rebuild and recover.

“Americans have a rich history of standing tall in tough times and going the extra mile to propel ourselves forward. Whether it was the American Revolution, the Industrial Revolution or the Internet Revolution: we are unique in our ability to apply creativity, intellect and leadership to solve any problem.

“Now we face new obstacles as this country finds itself at a crossroads. Before us is a choice about who we want to be as a country:

“Do we want a future with more taxes and more government? Or do we want to see more growth and more jobs?

“We saw the former when Democrat –controlled Washington enacted the nearly trillion-dollar stimulus program which drove up our debt and failed to get people back to work. And it took a sweeping Republican electoral victory to stop President Obama, Leader Reid, and Leader Pelosi from imposing one of the largest tax increases in America history.

“Now, as the summer of 2011 approaches, far too many our family members, neighbors and friends are still out of work.

“To be strong, to lead, to grow, and to empower people - here’s what we’ve got to do.

“We’ve got to shift from a government that smothers new jobs and business growth to one that nurtures an environment for getting people back to work and back to what Americans do best: innovate, compete and lead.

“That’s why Republicans promised to focus on jobs in our Pledge to America and have been committed to economic growth and jobs since Day One. Beginning in January we adopted a two-track strategy we call ‘Cut and Grow.’

“The first part – ‘Cut’ – is obvious. We know that Washington has to stop spending money we don’t have and manage the money we do spend more wisely. Families are tightening their belts and sticking to a budget - and Washington should, too.

“But we also understand that cutting alone isn’t enough to address our debt crisis or get people back to work. We must also ‘Grow.’

“For too long, Washington has relied on gimmicks or government-knows-best solutions. No more.

“Now, more than ever, our nation needs small businesses and entrepreneurs to get people back to work.

“That’s why this week we continue to build on the Pledge to America and our work over the past five months by unveiling our plan to help the nation’s job creators grow the economy and start hiring.

“Our plan for America’s job creators injects a dose of commonsense, pro-growth economic policies to give our businessmen and women the tools they need to get the for-hire signs back in their windows again.

“First, we must fix the tax code and remove loopholes and giveaways to special interests. We achieve that by reducing the overall tax rate to no more than 25% for businesses and individuals – including small business owners. This makes the tax code simpler, flatter, and more fair.

“We’ll increase competitiveness for American manufacturers. The more that businesses export, the more they produce. The more they produce, the more workers they need. This means more available jobs. By enacting agreements with Colombia, South Korea, and Panama, which have been held up by President Obama, we can create hundreds of thousands of jobs. There is no excuse for delaying trade agreements that create jobs at home while our foreign competitors are making them.

“Next we will stop and repeal any onerous regulations that are barriers to growth and prosperity.

“Last week in my hometown of Richmond, I held a forum with job creators and business owners from all over Virginia. They made it clear to me that Washington is stopping them from innovating and hiring more workers by pursuing hundreds of onerous and unnecessary regulations.

“Frankly, this Administration’s regulators have gone on an ideological offensive against businesses that is costing our country billions of dollars and countless jobs. Yet this same Administration is telling America’s businessmen and women to create more jobs.

“Small business owners and entrepreneurs tell me that they want government to work WITH them rather than AGAINST them. Smart regulations are fine, as long as they help steer businesses into the black rather than into a tangle of red tape.

“Of course the summer months bring family travel and no doubt they are feeling the pain at the pump. So are small business owners, who are coping with crippling energy costs. Yet America lacks a realistic national energy strategy that will truly meet our country’s needs in the 21st Century.

“We cannot wait for this Administration or the Democrat-led Senate to act – they have had ample time and done nothing.

“So Republicans will take immediate action through our American Energy Initiative by passing bipartisan legislation to expand energy exploration and maximize domestic production. This will help create American jobs, grow our economy, and enhance our security.

“All of these elements will help encourage growth and long-term economic stability. By putting in place policies that encourage businesses to expand, innovators to innovate, and allows leaders to lead we will not only begin to put our budget on a path to balance, but we’ll get Americans working again.

“This Memorial Day, we are reminded that the true grit of Americans is passed from one generation to the next, so long as government remains limited and opportunity remains unlimited, through free markets and a fair playing field.

“Americans will out-work, out-hustle and, yes, ‘out-innovate the rest of the world.’

“Individual initiative in the private sector has been and always will be the source of America’s prosperity provided we don’t stifle it.

“In America, our parents taught us and their parents taught them that, ‘No matter who you are, no matter where you come from, everyone’s got a fair shot, not guaranteed success but the opportunity to work hard and get ahead.’

“Our history is rich with people who achieved greatness through hard work, thrift and faith without interference from an overbearing, over-burdensome government.

“Let’s get Washington out of the way. Let’s give our nation’s businessmen and women what they need to succeed. Let’s make sure that people out of work can find a job. And let’s get this great country back on the right track.

“If you have a spare moment, I’d encourage you to read more about our plan to create jobs at gop.gov/jobs. Thank you.”

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Eric Cantor delivered the following remarks after Prime Minister Netanyahu addressed a joint session of Congress 05/24/11 VIDEO

Majority Leader Eric Cantor Welcomes Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Washington, D.C. – Yesterday morning, Prime Minister Netanyahu addressed a joint session of Congress. House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-VA) delivered the following remarks at a press conference following the address:

“Mr. Prime Minister, welcome, I think we heard today the tremendous challenges that the people of Israel face, the existential threat that they face in the Middle East, as do we. I think you heard today the resounding bipartisan support for the U.S. - Israel relationship to remain strong and will continue.”

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Eric Cantor the President's approach undermines our special relationship with Israel and weakens our ally’s ability to defend itself.

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Washington, DC – House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-VA) today issued the following statement in reaction to President Obama’s speech on Middle East policy: "Today, the President outlined his hopes for Mideast peace – a goal that we all share – but failed to articulate a serious plan for achieving this goal. This approach undermines our special relationship with Israel and weakens our ally’s ability to defend itself. The President’s habit of drawing a moral equivalence between the actions of the Palestinians and the Israelis while assessing blame for the conflict is, in and of itself, harmful to the prospect for peace. In reality, Israel - since its creation - has always proven willing to make the sacrifices necessary for peace, while the Palestinians on numerous occasions have rejected those offers. "This conflict is not about land or Israel’s neighborhoods beyond the Green Line. Three wars were launched against Israel prior to its establishment of new borders in 1967.

By keeping the burden and thus the spotlight on Israel, the President is only giving the Palestinian Authority more incentive to carry on its unhelpful game of sidestepping negotiations and failing to put an end to terrorism. Creating another Palestinian terror state on Israel’s borders is something that none of us want. The White House referred to today’s speech as a ‘Moment of Opportunity,’ and I’m disappointed that the President’s remarks missed both the moment and the opportunity.”

TEXT CREDIT: Eric Cantor || Majority Leader ||

House Majority Leader Eric Cantor tonight issued the following statement regarding the news that Osama Bin Laden has been killed:

Leader Cantor Statement On Death Of Osama Bin Laden WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-VA) tonight issued the following statement regarding the news that Osama Bin Laden has been killed: “Nearly a decade ago, in the days after 9/11, President Bush said, 'Whether we bring our enemies to justice or bring justice to our enemies, justice will be done.' Tonight, we've learned that justice has been done. The man with the blood of more than 3,000 Americans on his hands, the man who forced us to begin to think the unthinkable - is now dead. "Families who lost loved ones at the hands of Bin Laden and his terrorist organization have grieved for far too long and this sends a signal that America will not tolerate terrorism in any form.

The men and women of our armed forces and intelligence community have fought valiantly for the last decade and this is a major victory and testament to their dedication. I commend President Obama who has followed the vigilance of President Bush in bringing Bin Laden to justice. While this is no doubt a major event in our battle against terrorism, we will not relent in our fight against terror and our efforts to keep America safe and secure.”

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Eric Cantor Discusses Budget, Debt Limit & Tax Reform VIDEO

On the Debt Limit: “America pays its bills. Everybody agrees that we've got to pay our bills. I don't think that comes at the exclusion of trying to fix the problem. We are in a debt crisis. The markets, global investors, the American people are expecting us to deliver on our commitment that we're going to change the spending crisis in Washington. So, together with the debt limit vote there has to be some real reforms, and I mean real, not the typical Washington, kick the can down the road stuff, but real things that can produce savings and actually begin to change the way that the culture works.”

On Tax Reform: “In a reformed tax code, what we are saying is lower rates, broaden the base, and get rid of the special interest loopholes. Each year what happens, in the crony capitalist spirit, is that industries go to Washington and try to get an advantage in the tax code. We want to stop that. Now, can you stop it right now? No. But we want to make sure we put in place ways to go about affecting real tax reform to bring down rates. We want to grow this economy again. We want to grow this economy so you do have increased revenues while you're trying to hold down the spending side.”

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Eric Cantor today issued the following statement regarding the Biden led deficit commission and the upcoming debt limit debate

Washington, D.C. – House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-VA) today issued the following statement regarding the Biden-led deficit commission on which he will serve, and the upcoming debt limit debate: “Earlier this week, S&P downgraded the United States’ long-term credit rating as a result of irresponsible spending practices, further highlighting the need to act immediately and take serious and binding steps to get our fiscal house in order. That is why it is so important that the latest iteration of the President’s fiscal commission be a serious and sincere effort to manage down our debt and foster long-term economic growth, and not serve as yet another arena for political theater.

For this commission to succeed, the President must agree to work with us in earnest. Going in, we need a clearly defined mission and a targeted purpose to be accomplished within a specific and binding timeframe. Our economy, global markets, job creators and families cannot afford to wait for the White House and Democrats to drag their feet when it comes to reducing our nation’s debt and deficit; we need real results immediately to make Washington begin to live within its means and get people back to work.

“With the debt limit window fast approaching, House Republicans have made clear that if the President and our Democratic colleagues refuse to accept serious reforms that immediately reduce federal spending and end the culture of debt in Washington, we will not grant their request for a debt limit increase. As the Washington Post pointed out, ‘the looming debt limit votes offers an opportunity to accomplish some real deficit reduction.’ We cannot afford to sit idly by and blindly raise the debt limit without binding and real spending reforms that will guarantee we don’t continue these bad spending practices in the future.”

April 20, 2011 Contact: Laena Fallon202-225-4027

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Eric Cantor Statement on Resolution of Disapproval of Net Neutrality Regulations

WASHINGTON, D.C. - House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-VA) today issued the following statement on the passage of a resolution of disapproval of the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) net neutrality regulations:

"Today, the House took an important step to bring down the FCC’s harmful and partisan plan to regulate the Internet. These regulations give the government unwarranted authority to control broadband networks which ultimately will hinder a thriving industry, harm competition and stifle innovation. Under Republican leadership, the House is focusing on ending anti-growth government regulations, and I thank the House Energy and Commerce Committee and Chairmen Upton and Walden for leading the charge against the FCC's attempt to regulate our nation's broadband industry. Broadband networks are more critical than ever to the success and expansion of the private sector, and we will continue to pursue policies that encourage businessmen and women to innovate and expand to ensure their long-term success. The passage of this resolution is part of House Republicans' pro-growth agenda to give business people in this country the chance to grow, innovate and compete so that people can get back to work."

TEXT CREDIT: Eric Cantor || Majority Leader ||

IMAGE CREDIT: EricCantor

Eric Cantor Where Is The President? VIDEO

House Majority Leader Eric Cantor:

“My question to you is where’s the president?”

“We continue to hear from him and the White House that we’re going to meet you half way.”

Majority Whip Kevin McCarthy:

“They came down with a big car load of people,” “They had a meeting. The vice president is the main negotiator. The vice president is not even in the country today. We have less than a week-and-a-half to go. You ask the press secretary at the White House, ‘well who’s the lead negotiator with the vice president gone?’ Can’t tell you that.”

TEXT CREDIT: Politico GOP Escalates W.H. Attacks Jake Sherman March 9, 2011

VIDEO CREDIT: EricCantor

President Obama touts the failed stimulus for masking state budget woes

President Obama touts the failed stimulus for masking state budget woes.

You can connect with Majority Leader Eric Cantor through the social media accounts that are listed below. They'll help you stay informed about what's happening in Congress and allow you to join the conversation about how our nation can remain the land of prosperity and opportunity.

Social media is revolutionizing the way we communicate, so join the conversation about our country's future and make your voice heard today by connecting with Leader Cantor on any of these platforms:

Twitter: http://twitter.com/GOPLeader
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/EricCantor
Digg: http://digg.com/EricCantor
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/EricCantor
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/HouseChamber

VIDEO CREDIT: EricCantor

TEXT CREDIT: Eric Cantor Majority Leader

Today's 02/08/11 legislative schedule for the House of Representatives

Today's 02/08/11 legislative schedule for the House of Representatives.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 8TH

On Tuesday, the House will meet at 2:00 p.m. for legislative business. Votes will be postponed until 6:30 p.m.

One Minute Speeches

Legislation Considered Under Suspension of the Rules:

1) H.R. 514 - Bill Summary & Status 112th Congress (2011 - 2012) H.R.514 To extend expiring provisions of the USA PATRIOT Improvement and Reauthorization Act of 2005 and Intelligence Reform of Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 relating to access to business records, individual terrorists as agents of foreign powers and roving wiretaps until December 8, 2011 (Sponsored by Rep. James Sensenbrenner / Judiciary Committee)

Special Order Speeches

COMMITTEE ACTIVITY OF THE DAY

Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution Hearing on
“H.R. 3 Bill Summary & Status 112th Congress (2011 - 2012) H.R.3, the No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act” (Tuesday, February 8th at 4:00 p.m.)

TEXT and IMAGE CREDIT: Eric Cantor || Majority Leader ||

Eric Cantor MEET THE PRESS 01/23/11 VIDEO TEXT TRANSCRIPT

Eric Cantor MEET THE PRESS 01/23/11 January 23, 2011 VIDEO TEXT TRANSCRIPT

MR. GREGORY: Good morning. This weekend, the president has offered up a preview of his State of the Union address in an online video to his supporters. The focus of his address, the president says, will be "making sure the economy is working for everybody." And with us this morning for his first appearance here as House majority leader, Congressman Eric Cantor of Virginia.

Welcome back to MEET THE PRESS.

REP. ERIC CANTOR (R-VA): Good morning, David.

MR. GREGORY: Everybody's talking about the State of the Union address, and the president is already previewing it. This is a portion of the message that he will deliver on Tuesday. Watch.

(Videotape, yesterday)

PRES. BARACK OBAMA: And so my principle focus, my number one focus, is going to be making sure that we are competitive, that we are growing, and that we are creating jobs not just now, but well into the future. And that's what is going to be the main topic of the State of the Union.

(End videotape)

MR. GREGORY: Being competitive, in his mind, also means some additional targeted spending in some areas to make America competitive, as well as cuts, as well as dealing with the deficit. Here is the headline in The New York Times this morning, the way they describe it: "Obama to Press Centrist Agenda in His Address. A Retooled Presidency. Balancing Deficit Cuts with New Spending to Create Jobs."

Is that a vision you can support?

REP. CANTOR: David, you know, I'm, I'm really interested to see and hear what the president has to say. I, I, I think he's got a real chance to lead here. But the question is, did he listen and has he learned from the last election? I think that the vision the president laid out over the last two years is one very much focused on increasing government spending and trying to spawn action from a Washington-based perspective. And, and what the people have said is, "Enough. We've got to shrink government, we've got to cut spending, and we need to really look to the private sector to grow jobs."

MR. GREGORY: But he's saying, he's saying now there's got to be a combination of some spending to keep America competitive, and also cuts dealing with the deficit. Is that a vision you can support?

REP. CANTOR: What we've said is our Congress is going to be a cut and grow Congress; that we believe we've got to cut spending, we've got to cut the regulations that have stopped job growth.

MR. GREGORY: Right.

REP. CANTOR: When the president talks about competitiveness, sure, we want America to be competitive. But then when he talks about investing, I think even someone from the White House this week had said that this is going to be a cut and invest White House. We want to cut and grow. Because when we, we hear invest, when--from anyone in Washington, to me that means more spending. And any...

MR. GREGORY: Right. Well, well, let's just be clear. You don't believe that there's a balance that you have to get right in terms of investing in the economy to help it innovate, to become more competitive. That's not a vision you agree with.

REP. CANTOR: David, where--what I would say is the investment needs to occur in the private sector.

MR. GREGORY: Not by government.

REP. CANTOR: And, and for too long, and for too long now there's been uncertainty on the part of investors.

MR. GREGORY: Right. OK, well, let's, let's pick up where Republicans have left off. Cut and grow, that's the mantra. You campaigned on a pledge to America last September, and this is a part of what you said, it was very clear: "We will roll back government spending to pre-stimulus, pre-bailout levels, saving us at least $100 billion in the first year alone and putting us on a path to balance the budget and pay down the debt." And then you came into office and you said, "Well, we're not going to hit that $100 billion figure." And here was the headline on Friday in The Washington Post: "GOP bloc in the House calls for deeper cuts," and the sub-headline: "Campaign pledge divides the party." You're arguing about just how much to spend. I thought this was already worked out.

REP. CANTOR: David, let, let's step back a minute and look at sort of the whole sort of continuum of the spending challenges. We're, we're going to really have three bites at the apple here as far as approaching reducing spending and the size of Washington. As far as the mess in the past, we're going to have this debt limit increase vote that will come, and that is dealing with the rampant spending that's been in place in this town for some time that's gone on overdrive in, in the last couple years.

MR. GREGORY: And I'll get to the debt limit, but this is a targeted question.

REP. CANTOR: But as far as the decisions that we make now, it is about the continuing resolution vote that will come up in the next month or so, al right?

MR. GREGORY: Right. But $100 billion, or not $100 billion?

REP. CANTOR: And, and we've committed to say $100 billion in reductions, which brings spending down to '08 levels.

FULL TEXT TRANSCRIPT Meet the Press transcript for Jan. 23, 2011

TEXT and VIDEO CREDIT: msnbc.com

Eric Cantor Weekly Republican Address TEXT PODCAST VIDEO 01/07/11

Podcast of the address: Download MP3 for PODCAST || FULL TEXT TRANSCRIPT BELOW. || MPEG File || MOV File (FULL HD) ||

Weekly Republican Address: Cantor Highlights New Majority’s Efforts to Repeal Job-Killing Health Care Law & Replace It With Better Solutions

Washington (Jan 7)

Delivering the Weekly Republican Address, House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-VA) highlights the new majority’s efforts to focus on the people’s priorities of cutting spending and creating jobs, including taking the first steps to repeal the job-killing health care law and replace it with common-sense reforms that will lower costs and protect jobs. In the address, Leader Cantor highlights a report the new majority released yesterday that documents the job-killing and budget-busting impact of the health care law. Leader Cantor is in his sixth term representing Virginia’s 7th Congressional District.

“Hi, I’m Eric Cantor from the 7th District of Virginia and the Majority Leader for the 112th Congress. This week, the transition of power in the United States Congress took place and John Boehner was elected Speaker of the House. We know that we have been given a golden opportunity to listen, lead, and deliver results.

From the start, I think you’ll see that our actions will define us as the ‘cut and grow’ majority. We are going to cut spending and cut job-killing government regulations while growing the economy and private-sector jobs. We will abide by a three part rule:

“Each day, we will come to work asking: one, ‘Are our actions focused on job creation and the economy?’ two, ‘Are our actions focused on cutting spending?’ and three, ‘Are our actions focused on shrinking government while protecting and expanding liberty?’ If not, why are we doing it?

“It is in this spirit that we’ve opened Congress by cutting our own operating budgets by five percent. Our next step is to fulfill our pledge to repeal the $1 trillion job-killing health care law that was rammed through Congress last year by the previous majority – despite the public outcry against it.

“This week I joined Speaker Boehner and other key Republicans in releasing a new report that documents how the health care law is destroying jobs and piling up more debt. It makes a compelling case for taking immediate action to repeal ObamaCare and replace it with reforms that will lower costs and protect jobs. At a time when we need to do everything in our power to encourage job creation, the health care law hangs around the necks of businesses small and large, causing them to not hire new workers – or worse, be forced to let current employees go. Just as harmful, businesses that would currently be hiring more employees are re-evaluating their decisions and in some cases sitting on large piles of cash. With each day that ObamaCare remains law and continues to engulf our health care system, this destructive pattern continues and too many Americans remain without a job.

“It has now been 10 months since ObamaCare was signed into law. And it is telling that the more Americans learn about it, the more discouraged they are by its harmful effects. The law is fundamentally flawed because it enables federal bureaucrats to come between patients and their doctors, limiting choices. And because of its mandates, ObamaCare has already caused the cost of health care to increase, while forcing some Americans to give up the health care they have even if they like it.

“Despite claims of reducing deficits and saving taxpayer dollars, the new law is riddled with budget gimmicks that double count savings, offset six years of benefits with 10 years of tax increases, and rely on cuts to Medicare and tax increases to fund a new entitlement. The non-partisan Congressional Budget Office works hard to provide accurate accounting, but they are only able to score the legislation put in front of them – even if it includes budget gimmicks and fiscal shell games designed to hide its true cost. The reality is that this trillion-dollar, new government entitlement will lead to one-size-fits-all care and put our country on a path to bankruptcy.

“Republicans care about health care. We simply disagree that excessive government regulation and sweeping mandates on individuals and businesses are the right way to go about it. The status quo is unacceptable, and we understand that the key to real health care reform is to lower costs and improve access. That is why after the House passes repeal of ObamaCare, we’ll begin a two-step process of conducting continued oversight of the continued harm that it is doing to our economy and our health care system, as well as beginning work on a new vision to improve our healthcare system without bankrupting our country.

“We will provide Americans with the mainstream solutions they were denied when Democrats used dubious procedural tactics to jam through the bill along strictly partisan lines.

“Looking ahead, the best boost that Congress can provide to the economy is to send a credible signal that we are serious about cutting spending and eliminating job-killing regulations. Our surging debt burden hangs over the economy like a dark cloud, waiting to unleash a storm of inflation, higher taxes and higher borrowing costs upon businesses and families. Only when the cloud is lifted can we get on the path to long-term growth.

“America stands at a crossroads, and the decisions we make today will determine the type of country that we leave to our children and grandchildren. We face some very tough decisions and the coming weeks and months will not be easy, but it’s time to make government accountable to the people. For years, families have been doing more with less, while government has been doing less with more.

“We will work each and every day to reverse that trend so that America can return to opportunity, responsibility, and success.”

VIDEO and IMAGE CREDIT: EricCantor

TEXT CREDIT: Speaker of the House John Boehner Contact H-232 The Capitol Washington, DC 20515 P (202) 225-0600 F (202) 225-5117

AUDIO/VIDEO CREDIT: The House Republican Conference - Digital Communications visual.media@mail.house.gov 202-225-5439

Eric Cantor @GOPLeader Now Live on Twitter As 112th Congress Set to Open

WASHINGTON, DC – For the 112th Congress, Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-VA) and his office can now be found on Twitter as @GOPLeader.

In addition, the Office of the Majority Leader presents a new Facebook page – House Chamber – to provide updates on the House of Representatives' floor schedule in real-time. Here's a full run-down of where you can connect with Cantor on the web:

Twitter: Leader Cantor will take over the account once held by Speaker-elect John Boehner (R-OH), who will now tweet as @SpeakerBoehner. Majority Whip-elect Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) will takeover @GOPWhip. Additionally, Cantor's press office will be tweeting as @CantorPress.

Facebook: Americans can "Like" House Chamber on Facebook and receive the House's weekly and daily floor schedule, as well as schedule updates in real-time throughout the day as Congress debates and votes on legislation to address the major challenges confronting our nation.

Website: This is your news hub for the latest information from the Office of the Majority Leader, including the Majority Leader blog, the House floor calendar and schedule, and YouCut, the program which allows Americans to have a voice in determining which spending cuts they'd like to see Congress make and which has received over 2.5 million votes. Leader Cantor’s Virginia constituents can still visit Cantor.House.gov for help with constituent services and information on legislation in Congress

YouTube: Experience the latest videos from the Majority Leader, including floor speeches, news clips, and our video news releases designed to give you the latest information on what's going on in Congress

Social media is revolutionizing the way we communicate, and these platforms will continue to help people stay informed about what's happening in Congress and allow them to join the conversation about how our nation can remain the land of prosperity and opportunity.

TEXT CREDIT: Eric Cantor || Majority Leader ||

Eric Cantor Statement on Self-Imposed Congressional Budget Cuts

WASHINGTON, DC – House Republicans have introduced - and posted online - the text of a resolution in PDF format to reduce the operating budgets of House committees, leadership offices, and individual member offices.

These budget cuts will save taxpayers an estimated $35 million in the first year alone. The resolution is expected to be voted on by the full House on Thursday, January 6th. Today, Congressman Eric Cantor (VA-07) issued the following statement in support of this effort:

“Federal spending is out of control, and that’s why we will begin the new Republican Majority by cutting our own Congressional operating budgets. For too long, families and small businesses across America tightened their belts while the federal government continued its spending spree. That federal spending spree will stop with the new Republican Majority. This self-imposed cut to our own operating budgets in the House will save American taxpayers more than $35 million right away and I hope that federal agencies across the spectrum will follow suit and find ways to cut their own budgets. If not, we’re happy to do it for them.” ###

TEXT and IMAGE CREDIT: Eric Cantor (R-VA) :: Republican Whip FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 4, 2011 CONTACT: Megan Whittemore (202) 225-7440 DC Office | 329 Cannon House Office Building | Washington, D.C. 20515 p: 202-225-2815 | f: 202-225-0011