Congress failing at basic spending job, says lawmaker

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Rep. Greg Lopez took a strong stance against Congress’s habitual use of continuing resolutions (CRs) during his appearance on “Saturday Agenda,” describing it as a clear indication of legislative failure.

The Colorado Republican and House Budget Committee member expressed deep concern over Congress’s inability to properly manage federal finances through normal budgetary processes.

I cannot support a continuing resolution that does not consider our nation's growing $36 trillion debt and removes the debt ceiling, creating an open check book for Congress to spend more money it already doesn't have.

My statement on the CR: pic.twitter.com/dAnb1Z8z0A

— Rep. Greg Lopez (@RepGregLopez) December 20, 2024

“Anytime you talk about a continuing resolution or omnibus, what that means is that Congress has failed to do its basic job,” Lopez said. “We are in a financial crisis, and yet we keep kicking the can down the road without making tough decisions.”

Despite backing from former President Trump and provisions for disaster aid and farmer assistance, Lopez opposed the recent CR. He pointed to the rushed nature of the process, citing the $9 billion submarine construction allocation as an example of expenditures requiring more thorough evaluation.

“I’m not saying submarine funding is wrong,” Lopez clarified. “But we didn’t have the opportunity to truly discuss every detail of the bill. We’re spending money we don’t have, borrowing every day, and heading down a slippery slope.”

The congressman referenced findings from the Congressional Budget Office revealing ongoing funding of 1,200 expired programs, costing $516 billion annually, with some dating back to 1980.

“We need to stop doing continuing resolutions,” Lopez stated. “The Budget Act of 1974 made it clear—there are 12 appropriation bills that make up the budget. Congress needs to debate and approve these instead of relying on CRs and omnibus packages.”

While acknowledging that addressing government waste won’t completely resolve the deficit, Lopez emphasized it as a crucial starting point. He expressed concern about the financial burden being passed to future generations.

Tonight, with a full heart and gratitude to the people who elected me, my family, and my staff, I bid farewell to the United States House of Representatives. pic.twitter.com/S2WF94IrFO

— Rep. Greg Lopez (@RepGregLopez) December 19, 2024

Regarding House Speaker Mike Johnson’s position, Lopez acknowledged internal party tensions while maintaining optimism.

“There is some discussion about a vote of confidence on the speaker,” Lopez said. “He’s a good man, but herding 218 Republicans to align is a tough job. He needs to engage more with members and get their input before making decisions.”

Lopez ended on a positive note about the House’s future direction. “But I think, you know what? It’s going to be a very interesting 119th Congress. I think at the end of the day, I’m confident we’re going to we’re going to make the right decision as to who the speaker is going to be,” he said.