Political Quotes

“Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of this en bloc amendment which includes two of my amendments. The USDA Office of Tribal Relations serves as the vital, single point of contact for our rural communities as they work through what is available for them. As we know, our Tribal communities are rural, and they must have access to the USDA Office of Tribal Relations. My amendment No. 4 would restore funding levels for the USDA Office of Tribal Relations. Separately, my amendment No. 25 would increase funding to USDA Rural Development by $7 million to use these funds to improve its oversight of the Section 515 loan program for Rural Rental Housing. Outrageously, in my district, three of these properties have experienced serious management and maintenance issues. The city of Espanola even condemned a property recently. This has left residents in unsafe conditions. USDA needs the necessary research to make sure its properties are livable. Mr. Chair, while I am in favor of this en bloc, I must state again my opposition to the appropriations bill itself. I previously stood on this floor in opposition to the severe cuts to our rural communities. We must prioritize our rural communities, not cut them to 2007 levels. Mr. Chair, I urge adoption of this amendment, but I am opposed to the bill itself.”