“Any budget that the House passes should create jobs, invest in our schools and communities, and provide pathways out of poverty.  The short-term budget that the House passed today accomplishes none of these goals, and that’s why I voted against it.  Republicans want to cut $4 billion in critical funding to millions of people across the nation – particularly those in our neediest and most vulnerable communities.  And Republicans were willing to take us to the brink of a government shutdown to get their way.

“I have always believed that budgets are moral documents.  This Republican budget ignores the needs of low- and middle-income people who are struggling to make ends meet.  It also demonstrates a lack of understanding for how to rebuild our economy.  As an appropriator, I remain committed to crafting a budget agreement for the rest of this year that makes sense and prioritizes aid to those most in need of support.”