GOP House member challenges Senate to pass cuts

[March 19, 2011]  WASHINGTON (AP) -- A newly elected Republican congresswoman says senators should confront President Barack Obama on his veto threat and approve $61 million in spending cuts.

Freshman Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler (JAY-mee Her-REH-ra BUT-ler) of Washington state issued the challenge in the Republicans' radio address Saturday. She said senators should "step up" and follow the House to rein in federal spending.

But the House bill does not have enough support to pass the Senate. It's unclear what progress can be made toward compromise with Congress headed on a 10-day vacation.

Beutler accused Obama of staying on the sidelines instead of offering a long-term spending plan.

And she blamed an "army of lobbyists" in Washington for blocking efforts to address the country's debt. She said gridlock is preventing the job creation the country needs.

[Associated Press]

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