Cooper Demands Budget Compromise

WASHINGTON—U.S. Rep. Jim Cooper (TN-5) this week urged Congressional negotiators to put aside their differences and find agreement in crafting a budget.

Joining leadership of the Blue Dog Coalition and three moderate Republicans, Cooper sent a letter to Sen. Patty Murray and Rep. Paul Ryan, budget committee chairmen for their respective chambers. By Jan. 15, Congress must pass a bill that would fund federal agencies for the rest of fiscal year 2014, which began Oct. 1.

"It is our duty to put the needs of our country ahead of any political party," the letter states. "We stand ready to work with you on a bipartisan solution that solves our nation's fiscal problems."

The group sent the letter just days before lawmakers are scheduled to leave town and begin a lengthy holiday break. Cooper also recently cosponsored "No Budget, No Vacation," which would stop Congress from adjourning for the holidays unless the House approves a budget plan.

"Deadlines work," Cooper said. "Congress should, too."

No Budget, No Vacation is just the latest in a series of reform efforts Cooper has supported in the House. Those include his successful No Budget, No Pay proposal, which became law earlier this year, albeit in a weaker form than the original bill. Cooper also supports the Stop Pay for Members Act, which would prevent Members of Congress from getting paid if lawmakers default on the nation's debt.