East Hillsborough Democrats to Light the Night for the Nation

Members of the East Hillsborough Democratic Club will gather at the Tampa office of U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio Sunday, July 31, from 8 to 10 p.m. for a "Save Our Nation" candlelight vigil.

In the final hours before the United States is schedule to go into default, the club is urging people of all parties to come out and stand united for a resolution to the debt crisis.

The federal government has three days left to raise the nation's current $14.3 trillion debt ceiling, according to the Treasury Department. Failure to do so will risk a national default and Americans could face rising interest rates and a declining dollar.

As a result of rising interest rates, mortgages, car loans and student loans could become more expensive. In addition, some financial experts predict a downgrade of America's credit rating and a potential stock market crash.

Democrats and Republicans in Congress are trying to hammer out an agreement that would reduce the nation's debt while increasing the debt limit.

"We urge everyone to llight a candle with us leading into the eve of the default deadline, and the devastating economic consequences that would follow," said club President Angie Angel. "Our voices will be heard, and hopefully our light will be seen all the way to Washington, D.C."

Rubio's office is located on the campus of the University of South Florida at 3802 Spectrum Blvd. Candles will be provided to those attending.

"With economic uncertainty looming, and cuts to Medicare, Social Security, Medicaid, Pell Grants, Social Services on the table, this is it," said Angel. "Tuesday will decide the future direction of our country."

The event is being coordinated by the Florida Consumer Action Network, tim@fcan.org. 

For information, contact Angel at EHCDClub@yahoo.com.