Getting out in front of a vote in the U.S. House of Representatives on H.CON.RES.9, a resolution “denouncing the horrors of socialism,” the New Democratic Coalition caucus on Feb. 1 issued a news release saying it “strongly rejects socialism—period.”
It added, “House Republican leaders should set aside political games and join us as we work to grow our economy for all Americans.”
In a tweet linking to the release, New Dems said, “Our private sector leads the global economy. Every American has the opportunity to realize their individual dreams and reach their full potential.
“While the GOP is bringing forward hollow messaging bills, New Dems are ready to tackle the real challenges facing our nation.”
‘Breaking Through Gridlock’
New Dems describes itself as a caucus “made up of 96 forward-thinking Democrats who are committed to pro-economic growth, pro-innovation, and fiscally responsible policies,” its membership is “committed to breaking through gridlock to deliver results for Americans.”As reported in The Epoch Times, the hearing “became a civil and intense discussion and debate on the merits of capitalism and free enterprise and the evils and destructive influence of a system of state and public-owned means of production, and also the horrors of totalitarian regimes.”
The resolution had been introduced by Rep. Maria Salazar (R-Fla.) and House Majority Leader Steve Scalise of Louisiana.
The suggestion, in the release, that House GOP members “set aside political games and join us as we work to grow our economy for all Americans,” echoes the tone of commentary that House Committee on Rules ranking member, Rep. Jim McGovern (D-Mass.) offered at yesterday’s hearing.
“I mean this is what the majority is wasting our time on? This is what the majority is wasting the American people’s time on?” asked McGovern. “A non-binding resolution that does absolutely nothing?
“After months and months of bragging about how this majority is going to address all these issues that are important to the American people, here we are debating a non-binding resolution about socialism?”
McGovern said the resolution was a “smokescreen” to provide the GOP cover for positions it held that are unpopular with the American people.
In his testimony at the hearing, which followed those statements by McGovern, Rep. Patrick McHenry, (R-N.C.), chair of the Financial Services Committee, countered the notion that the resolution and hearing were a waste of time.
McGovern said that a resolution was needed even if in America there was widespread understanding of the pain and ruin that socialism has caused.
“So why do we need a resolution? Great question,“ said McHenry. ”Well, the failed model of socialism continues to rear its ugly head, even in the 21st century. Even in our country built on freedom and individual liberties. And I fear that some have learned nothing yet forgotten nothing.
“In an attempt to address social issues, those on the far left have taken an approach that more closely mirrors the Communist Chinese Party’s actions of recent date than the proven free-market solutions that make America the envy of the world.”
