On the recordOctober 3, 2023
I just spent time with my constituents over the weekend, and everywhere I went and announced that the government was going to remain open because of the advocacy of Democrats, there was applause. No matter what party, what affiliation they had, there was applause to recognize that law enforcement would be paid, those at the border would be paid, the supplemental nutrition program that families so desperately need would be provided for, and the women and children program would be provided for. However, at the same time, it is important to take note that we have passed draconian appropriation bills that sizably cut what working families need--the supplemental nutrition program, the WIC program, housing. We cannot continue on this route. We must find a bipartisan pathway to fund this government, recognizing that we do have a deficit created by the past administration and that we have been dug out of poverty because of Biden's American Rescue Plan Act that cities have depended on. These cities relied on large Federal dollars that helped them bridge the gap during the pandemic for rural communities, as well. Madam Speaker, we are getting ready to take a monumental step today. Let's focus on the priorities for the American people. ____________________
