This manufactured crisis could have very real and dire consequences
Republicans in Congress have turned their backs on the American people; they are shamelessly holding the country hostage by refusing to raise the debt ceiling without deeply slashing programs that provide support to millions of vulnerable Americans.
The Republicans are blaming this crisis on so-called "reckless spending," when in fact, they are causing it with their political theater. Plus, it's astounding to see them label important programs like SNAP food assistance, education, veterans benefits, and affordable housing assistance as "reckless."
Let's be clear: Republicans didn't complain about raising the debt limit when Donald Trump was in the White House – they did it three times without conditions.
In fact, Donald Trump and his massive tax cuts added $6.7 trillion to the debt between fiscal year 2017 and fiscal year 2020, a 33.1% increase.
The Republicans manufactured this debt ceiling crisis, but it has very real and dire consequences for millions of Americans and our economy. Failure to raise the debt ceiling could result in Social Security and Medicare recipients losing benefits they rely on, and the longer we go without a resolution, the more jobs will be lost.
Republicans can do this because they hold the majority in the House. And unfortunately, the most extreme in their ranks are driving the negotiations.
It’s important to keep in mind that raising the debt ceiling is about paying existing bills, not about future spending. In Congress, I will continue to look for smarter, better ways to run government that do not cut important programs and services. And I'll stand firm with the American people and against this Republican obstructionism.
Thank you for standing with me,
Suzanne
