Political Quotes

On the recordApril 22, 2026
Republicans' budget resolution would provide another $140 billion for immigration enforcement. With that amount Republicans have proposed, Democrats could fully fund Federal programs for low-income students, fully fund Federal programs for students with disabilities, quadruple Federal funding for afterschool programs, double the Pell grant maximum award, and provide universal free school meals for all students. That is why my amendment with Senator Van Hollen would ensure that, before we give another blank check to ICE and CBP without any guardrails, we ensure funding for free school meals so every child has the nutritious food they need to learn and grow. Republicans could easily do this, but they would rather spend our tax dollars on lawless immigration enforcement and illegal wars. Budgets are about priorities. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this amendment and showing that our Nation's children are worth prioritizing.
Said by
Mazie Hirono
Democratic · Hawaii

Editor's note · Context

Addressing budget priorities related to immigration enforcement and funding for education and nutrition programs.

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