Thompson Statement on the President’s FY2018 Budget Blueprint
(WASHINGTON) – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, released the following statement on President Trump’s budget blueprint for fiscal year 2018:
“Democrats and Republicans agree: this ‘skinny’ budget is dead on arrival. President Trump's first budget is nothing more than a conservative fantasy to slash government with no rational justification. His budget highlights his obsession with mass deportations and building a border wall while making clear he is more concerned with keeping campaign promises than keeping the country safe and secure. President Trump pretends this budget prioritizes security but all evidence points to the contrary. He devotes all increases in homeland security spending for his border wall and immigrant detention while the rest of DHS is left holding the bag. Let it be clear – the billions dedicated to massive deportations and a wall along our southwest border hold little promise of preventing a terrorist attack.”
“Inexplicably, the President’s budget slashes proven FEMA anti-terrorism grant programs and leaves high-risk surface transportation infrastructure vulnerable by imposing cuts to TSA and law enforcement support programs. The scant information provided today also raises significant questions about how the Coast Guard’s urgent recapitalization needs will be addressed. The President needs to go back to the drawing board before submitting his final budget request and return to Congress with a plan that is realistic, actually keeps us safe, and doesn't decimate the government."
# # #
Media contact: (202) 225-9978
Next Article Previous Article