This past week, the Washington Journal spent part of its program examining the budget debate. The Journal focused on a deficit-reducing proposal released by the bi-partisan National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform, last December.
The plan, called "The Moment of Truth," cuts $4 trillion by cutting spending, raising revenue, and reforming entitlements.
Monday, former U.S. Representative and Budget Committee Chair John Spratt (D-SC) and member of the commission appeared. He presented an overview of the goals and proposals set forth by the commission. He also explains the commission’s proposals for capping discretionary spending through 2020, and cutting security and non-security discretionary spending.
Tuesday, Marilyn Werber Serafini, Special Correspondent with Kaiser Health News came on the show. She discussed the proposals by the Commission on achieving health care savings, largely through changes in the Medicare and Medicaid programs.
Wednesday, Kate Brannen, Congressional Correspondent with Defense News discussed how the proposals by the Commission impact defense and security spending.
Thursday, Alice Rivlin, member of the commission and former Office of Management and Budget director under President Clinton, spoke about the Commission's proposals to national tax policy.
Friday, Andy Stern, a member of the Commission and former head of the Serive Employees International Union (SEIU) spoke about the commission's proposal to keep social security solvent for the next 75 years. Stern said he was worried about the commission's proposal to raise the retirement age to 69. He said working that long is not easy for everyone.