Lujan Statement on House Republican Budget

Statement

Congressman Ben Ray Luján of New Mexico's Third District released the following statement today following the introduction of House Republicans' budget.

"If it weren't for the fact that this misguided Republican budget reflects that same policies as last year's budget I would think it's nothing more than a bad April Fools' prank. Sadly, House Republicans have introduced a budget plan that again makes deep cuts in areas that are so vital to economic growth -- education, innovation, job training, and more. Gutting investments in scientific research, clean energy, and infrastructure will weaken our economic competitiveness.

"In addition, this budget fails to include one of the best steps that we could take to strengthen our economy -- comprehensive immigration reform. A recent CBO report shows it would reduce our deficit by $900 billion while creating new jobs, increasing wages and expanding economic output.

"Finally, the House Republican budget would end Medicare as we know it by replacing it with a voucher that fails to cover the cost of health care for New Mexico's seniors. It shifts the costs on backs of seniors, leaving them to pay higher out-of-pocket costs.

"We need a budget that makes smart investments that strengthen the middle class and create greater economic opportunity for hard-working Americans. The Republican budget fails on all these accounts."

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