America's national debt reached a new high on Monday after surpassing $31 trillion for the first time, according to the U.S. Treasury Department. While some may blame inflation or increased government spending for the ballooning debt, U.S. Rep. Mo Brooks (R-Huntsville) said the responsibility ultimately falls to voters.

In a tweet expressing frustration over the record-breaking news, Brooks wrote, "USA debt hits $31 TRILLION: $95,000/EACH American man, woman & child. Result: INFLATION, national insolvency &/or bankruptcy. Cause? Americans get what they vote for. Maybe 10% of Congress (3 of 9 in Alabama) financially responsible. Rest are not. BAD!"

The three "financially responsible" congressmen he was referring to were U.S. Reps. Gary Palmer (R-Hoover), Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) and himself, Brooks told 1819 News.

"We consistently vote against spending money we don't have," he said. "[Moore] and I consistently vote against new, bigger government programs we have to borrow money to fund. None of the other six [congressmen] do that."

Brooks said he sees little chance of the United States digging itself out of such a major financial hole, but if there is any hope, it lies with American citizens.

"There is a declining chance America can avoid a national insolvency and bankruptcy and the horrific consequences that will ensue," Brooks said. "To do that, voters must be smarter and wiser. What chance is there of that?"

Brooks called out outgoing U.S. Senator Richard Shelby (R-Tuscaloosa), as well as those who voted for him, for playing a pivotal role in racking up the national debt.

"I challenge anyone to name an elected official more responsible for America's $31 trillion debt than Richard Shelby. I can't," he said. "Alabama voters did that."

Brooks even cast aspersions on former President Donald Trump for expanding the national debt in spite of his campaign promises.

"Even President Trump — to get elected — promised to eliminate our annual deficit. Yet [he] presided over the worst deficit in American history; $3+ trillion in [fiscal year] 2020 alone," Brooks said.

"American voters did that. In sum, we are a Republic, which means voters are, by definition, 100% responsible for the government we get."

To connect with the author of this story, or to comment, email daniel.taylor@1819news.com.

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