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Congressman Adam Smith released the following statement on the budget agreement:
"Today, the world lost one of its most cherished leaders. While Nelson Mandela, the man, is now gone, his legacy will endure. He will forever be a source of inspiration for those who struggle against racial oppression and injustice around the world. He was a pioneer for freedom and equality and had the bravery to love his opponents as much as his supporters.
House Armed Services Committee Ranking Member Adam Smith made the following statement after a short-term deal to halt Iran nuclear ambitions was struck:
"The deal announced today is a positive step in the right direction and I applaud the Administration for making progress on this important national security issue. It is vital that we prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon in a peaceful way.
"I am glad to see that Congress has agreed to legislation that ends the shutdown and keeps our nation from defaulting on our obligations, but this all should have been avoided. Republicans didn't have the votes, yet still used the threat of a shutdown and default to try and force policies on Democrats that we cannot support. This approach to governance was doomed to fail from the beginning.
"It is critical that Congress pass a bill that allows the United States Government to operate. The consequences of a long-term government shutdown are dramatic and unacceptable. Twice, the Senate has passed a clean funding measure to avoid this shutdown, but House Republican leadership refuses to give House Members an opportunity to vote on it.
If a funding bill is not passed by 12am EST, the government will shutdown. A shutdown could have numerous effects in Washington State and across America. Social Security checks and benefits will continue to go out (although new applications could experience delays) and veterans' hospitals will remain open. However, many federal agencies will be closed, thousands of workers in the state will be furloughed, and financial supports for small businesses can be put on hold.