Read Democratic Leader Jeffries’ Full Letter On Debt Ceiling Crisis And Discharge Petition

In a letter addressed to his colleagues on Wednesday, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries underscored the significance of President Biden’s bipartisan meeting aimed at resolving the impending debt ceiling crisis. Jeffries emphasized the criticality of averting a default crisis and safeguarding the nation’s creditworthiness.

“In the next few weeks, at the reckless urging of former President Trump, we confront the possibility that right-wing extremists will intentionally plunge our country into a default crisis,” stated House Minority Leader.

The letter also discussed the potential filing of a discharge petition as a precautionary measure, while urging fellow members to prioritize the interests of the American people.

Jeffries’ letter, shared widely among lawmakers, demonstrated the importance of immediate action in tackling the looming debt ceiling issue.

The full text of the letter can be accessed here:

Dear Colleague:

Yesterday, President Joe Biden convened an important bipartisan meeting with House and Senate legislative leaders to discuss the urgent need to avoid a catastrophic default on our nation’s debt. During the meeting, we reiterated our position that America must always pay our bills. We also made clear that addressing the debt ceiling must be accomplished without gamesmanship, brinksmanship and the extreme imposition of painful spending cuts that will hurt everyday Americans.

In the next few weeks, at the reckless urging of former President Trump, we confront the possibility that right-wing extremists will intentionally plunge our country into a default crisis. Emerging from the White House meeting, I am hopeful that a real pathway exists to find an acceptable, bipartisan resolution that prevents a default.

However, given the impending June 1 deadline and urgency of the moment, it is important that all legislative options be pursued in the event that no agreement is reached. Accordingly, later on this morning, Budget Committee Ranking Member Brendan Boyle will file a discharge petition to provide a vehicle that may be necessary to protect the full faith and credit of the United States.

It is imperative that Members make every effort to sign the discharge petition today, which will be available at the Clerk’s desk on the House Floor beginning at 10 a.m. As always, thank you for your leadership and unity of purpose in continuing to put people over politics.

Sincerely,

Hakeem Jeffries

Democratic Leader