A Watertown Republican running for Congress said that, as President Barack Obama's proposed Fiscal 2013 budget was announced today, the president and his allies in Congress "are afraid to make the tough choices" that are so desperately needed to pull our country back from a fiscal abyss.

"They had a chance today to propose a budget that would put our country on a path to more jobs, more growth and more opportunity by getting our nation’s fiscal house in order. Instead, Obama and his team have proposed a budget that is nothing more than political document designed to help them with reelection," said investor and money manager Matt Doheny, who ran unsuccessfully in 2010 for the 23rd Congressional District seat held by Democrat Bill Owens of Plattsburgh.

Obama highlighted his plan's proposals for job creation through job training and infrastructure development. It would raise $1.5 trillion over the next 10 years through tightening up on some corporate tax breaks and from a revised tax structure on unearned income.

The president's proposal would increase taxes on dividend income of the wealthiest Americans, which is now taxed at a lower rate than the earned income of most Americans.

"Obama also suggests no changes to our fundamentally flawed tax system," Doheny's statement said.

"It’s anti-competitive at a time when we can least afford it. The president talks of putting our economy back on track, but then levies punitive taxes on small business and job creators to stifle growth."

Doheny continued, "In addition, Obama used his budget to advocate for yet another $500 billion in military cuts – on top of the $500 billion already scheduled - and two rounds of base closings. This strategy will lessen our readiness to respond to global conflicts and could weaken our economic security.

"I am committed to a strong national defense, and that includes keeping Fort Drum well staffed and well equipped.

"Worst of all, Obama has broken yet another election promise to halve the deficit by the end of his term. He didn’t even try. The president’s proposal calls for adding nearly $11 trillion to our $15 trillion debt.

"We can’t afford the profligate spending of Barack Obama and Bill Owens," Doheny said referring to his main rival for the seat in Congress.

"Their only answer is to raise taxes, increase spending and add to the deficit and debt. I will go to Washington to say 'no more' to Obama and Owens’ spending while promoting policies that create jobs and offer everyone an opportunity for success," the statement concluded.