The U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 7617, a spending package for next fiscal year, but it did not receive support from Oklahoma’s Republican members of the delegation. In fact, Congressman Markwayne Mullin couldn’t be there for the vote, but still issued a statement criticizing the partisan legislation the Democrats were pushing through.
“Yet again, Pelosi Democrats are using our appropriations process to push their socialist agenda,” Mullin said. “Rather than working with Republicans to find bipartisan compromise, they packed this bill full of partisan poison pills that ensure it will never become law. Especially during this unprecedented time where our country is hurting, we need to put bipartisan solutions over a political agenda.”
Congressman Frank Lucas contends the House has been here before.
“Once again, my House colleagues and I find ourselves in a similar situation to where we were last week- debating a partisan funding bill ushered in a misguided approach by Speaker Nancy Pelosi and House Democrats,” said Lucas. “Passing the 12 appropriations bills is one of the greatest responsibilities we have as Members of Congress, funding the government and ensuring programs are operational for our constituents’ use- especially in times of need like we currently find ourselves.”
“While some meaningful priorities were included in the package, I continue to express concern at the bloated and budget busting spending that is included. At a time when the federal government is increasing critical spending to combat the economic effects of the coronavirus, Congress must have the foresight to lessen the economic impact for future generations, including remaining fiscally responsible with the American taxpayer’s dollar in future appropriations bills. Moving forward, I hope Congress is able to come together, eliminate partisan policy riders, and pass a bipartisan, fiscally responsible funding bill.”
Congressman Tom Cole is the Vice Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee. He says this measure isn’t going to make it to law.
“Similar to the first set of flawed and partisan appropriations bills brought up by Democrats last week, this second ‘minibus’ is a nonstarter as well. Between the misguided approach in writing the bills, in violation of the Bipartisan Budget Agreement of 2019 with the Trump Administration, and the inclusion of partisan policy provisions, this package will never see the light of day in the Senate or make it to the president’s desk,” said Cole. “Especially in divided government, Congress’ fundamental function of funding the government must be bipartisan. It is my hope that lawmakers can work together in the days ahead and strike a compromise that reflect the priorities of the American people.”
Congressman Kevin Hern also voted against H.R. 7617.
It is getting closer to the deadline to fund the federal government by October 1, with many House Members ready to get back to their home states to campaign.
