Reed Statement on CR Funding Bill

WASHINGTON, DC -- Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed issued the following statement:

"President Trump has presided over the two longest shutdowns in American history and that is not a coincidence. People are struggling under the financial burden of his irresponsible and chaotic economic policies. President Trump and Congressional Republicans unilaterally cut nearly $1 trillion from Medicaid in the 'big ugly bill' -- sending our already fragile health care system into decline.

"Make no mistake, every Democrat voted to prevent this Republican health care disaster and every Republican voted to let it happen.

"In addition, the Trump-Republican refusal to prevent these massive premium price shocks across America is a testament to their utter indifference to the plight of everyday Americans.

"Over the last several weeks, I voted seven times to responsibly reopen the government and lower health care costs. But I can't support this bill because it fails to deliver actual relief and doesn't stop the devastating health care price spikes. It is also clear that President Trump will continue to flout the laws passed by this Congress until my Republican colleagues stop supporting him in lockstep.

"People are making decisions today about whether or not they can afford to keep their health insurance. They cannot wait for the Republicans to get serious about a bipartisan solution. They need help now.

"Being healthy should not just be for the wealthy. The fight for health care affordability and access is not a game and it's not about which party wins or loses - it's about who actually listens to the American people and puts their well-being first. It's about doing our jobs and providing real oversight, not just a rubber stamp. Democrats are listening and will continue working to improve people's lives, help save health care, and lower prices."

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