Rep. McCollum Votes Against Ryan Budget Plan, Issues Statement

U.S. Rep. Betty McCollum (D-MN4) on Thursday voted with all other house Democrats against a budget plan put forth by U.S. Rep. Paul Ryan (R-WI1) sent the following statement to Patch:

“Today I voted NO along with every House Democrat, on the GOP-Ryan Budget, which is a disastrous for our economy, our families, and the future of our country.  Imagine, this GOP budget, if it actually became law, would result in two million lost jobs in 2014 alone, according to the Economic Policy Institute.

“Instead of common sense investments, such as growing the economy, creating jobs, and strengthening our families, this Republican budget is harmful.  It lowers taxes on the wealthiest Americans, while 66 percent of the non-defense budget cuts come from programs helping low or moderate income families.  The GOP cuts and guts $3.7 trillion over the next decade from programs like Pell Grants for college students, job training for dislocated workers, nutrition programs for poor children, and healthcare for our most vulnerable citizens. 

“Congress needs to move forward with a balanced approach to address deficit reduction – increased revenues, elimination of special interest tax breaks, smart cuts to failing programs, and investments in growing the economy.”