During the past week, heads of Federal agencies appeared before the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee to defend proposed budgets for fiscal 2024.

Testimony was submitted by:

• Randy Moore, Head of the U.S. Forest Service
• Michael Reagan, Administrator of the EPA
• Xavier Becerra, Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services
• Catherine Tai, U.S. Trade Representative

Congressional activities continue on a business-as-usual basis despite the failure of the House to raise the debt ceiling. The parochial political stance expressed by some representatives threatens the fiscal stability of our Nation. A default, unthinkable six years ago, would be devastating to agriculture, industry and the financial system. The clock is ticking. Appropriate action is required by the White House and Congress.