RUSH TRANSCRIPT (pdf 92k)
Providing for the Common Defense:
The First Duty of the ‘Super Committee’
About the Coalition for the Common Defense
The Coalition for the Common Defense is an alliance of like-minded individuals and organizations who believe that without provision for the “common defense,” as articulated by the Founders, the freedom that has allowed unprecedented opportunity and prosperity to flourish in this country would soon be imperiled. In this new age of budgetary cuts, the Coalition rejects the false choice between military strength and economic health contending that economic prosperity depends on a strong national defense. Through a series of events and strategic partnerships, the coalition is calling on elected officials, candidates for office and others who share our commitment to the common defense to uphold these principles. We must return the United States to sensible fiscal principles without sacrificing our national security. A full statement of principles can be located here. The Coalition of the Common Defense can be found online at www.forthecommondefense.org.
Information
Location: Capitol Visitor Center, Room CVC 268
Entry: The main entrance to the Capitol Visitor Center is located on First Street between Independence Avenue and Constitution Avenue, across the street from the U.S. Supreme Court, down the stairs.
Closest metro station: Capitol South (orange/blue line) – make a left onto First Street at the top of the escalators.
Closest public parking: Union Station OR any available metered spots on the Hill.
Security: PLEASE NOTE you will have to go through security to enter the premises. We will open doors for the event at 3:15 p.m., but please allow yourself at least an extra fifteen minutes to clear security. To expedite the process, please remember to remove any electronic or metallic devices from your person. ALSO PLEASE NOTE that you may NOT bring in any food from outside or liquids of any kind (bottled water, perfume, etc.) into the building.
Locating the room: Once you have cleared security, you will see stairs directly in front of you. Take the stairs down one level and make a leftt. You will see a sign that says “U.S. House Meeting Rooms”. Underneath the sign is the appointments desk — simply tell the staff that you are there for the Coalition of the Common Defense briefing.
PLEASE NOTE: You will likely see very long lines outside the Capitol Visitors Center — if you explain to the security guards outside that you are there for a meeting, not for a tour, you will likely be let in ahead of the line. Just mention the room (CVC 268).
You will also likely see very long lines at the bottom of the stairs after you go down from the security level — you do NOT need to stand on those lines. They are for Capitol tours. You may proceed directly to the desk underneath the “U.S. House Meeting Rooms” sign.
For help, you may ask any Capitol Visitor Center staffer — they will be wearing red vests.
