President Barack Obama on Friday repeatedly urged House Republicans to pass a bill averting a government shutdown as well as authorize a raise in the federal debt ceiling, warning lawmakers that they were threatening America’s credit as well as setting a dangerous precedent for future administrations.
“My message to Congress is this,” Obama said. “Do not shut down the government, do not shut down the economy, pass a budget on time, pay our bills on time. Refocus on the everyday concerns of the American people.”
Obama further called on “extremists” in the House who were threatening to “burn the house down” to see reason and pay the bills Congress has already incurred.
“I will not negotiate over Congress’ responsibility to pay the bills that have already been racked up,” Obama added. “Voting for the treasury to pay America’s bills is not a concession. It is not a favor to me.”
