Congressman Scott DesJarlais (TN-04) issued the following statement after the Senate passed the two week, short-term Continuing Resolution (CR) introduced by House Republicans and passed in the House on Tuesday, March 1st.

“I’m pleased that the Senate has taken a first-step in cutting spending by passing the House Republicans’ short-term Continuing Resolution that will save American taxpayers $4 billion and prevent a government shutdown. 

“It’s my hope that Senate Majority leader Harry Reid and President Obama have finally realized that they must stop their reckless government spending spree and work with Republicans to get our nation’s fiscal house in order before bankrupting the country. We can’t keep kicking the can down the road. The time for action is now, and the Continuing Resolution represents an opportunity to set the precedent for establishing fiscally responsible budgets.

“While I’m disappointed that the Senate has yet to pass House Republicans’ original Continuing Resolution that would have saved American taxpayers $100 billion this year, I’m glad that we are still on track for achieving substantial budget cuts for the remainder of fiscal year 2011. Moving forward, I hope that we can count on Senate Democrats to continue working across the aisle with Republicans and not impede further efforts to cut spending.

“Getting our nation’s debt crisis under control is a top priority of mine in Congress and I hope that today’s vote in the Senate is a sign that Democrats are willing to show leadership and join us in making these tough spending decisions.”