Wisconsin’s Congressional delegation split Wednesday on a bill suspending the U.S. debt ceiling, which passed the House of Representatives on a 285 to 144 vote.
Congressman Ron Kind (D-WI) was among those who voted for the bill, which sets aside the legal debt ceiling through May so the government can borrow money as needed to meet its current spending obligations. The La Crosse Democrat says he supported the measure because he believes the economy does not need more uncertainty at this time.
AUDIO: Rep. Ron Kind (:16)
Kind says allowing the U.S. to default on its financial obligations would have caused global economic problems. While the La Crosse Democrat says he does not like a short time extension that “kicks the can down the road,” it was the best option at this time.
Kind, Congressmen Sean Duffy (R-WI), Paul Ryan (R-WI) and Reid Ribble (R-WI) all voted for the bill. Republicans Jim Sensenbrenner and Tom Petri (R-WI) joined Democrats Gwen Moore (D-WI) and Mark Pocan (D-WI) in voting against the measure.
The U.S. Senate has indicated it will pass the measure and could vote on it as early as next week.
Brian Winnekins, WRDN