Speaker Pelosi Statement on President Bush’s Fiscal Year 2009 Budget

February 4, 2008 -- Washington, D.C. -- Speaker Nancy Pelosi issued the following statement today in response to President Bush’s Fiscal Year 2009 budget:

“The American people expect our nation’s budget to chart a course that reflects their values and aspirations, makes critical investments in our future and is fiscally responsible. The President’s budget fails to meet those standards.

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“The President’s misguided budget cuts health care for seniors and working families, freezes lifesaving medical research, raises health care costs for veterans, and slashes energy assistance--all at a time of rising prices and a slowing economy. And once again, the President does not fully account for the true cost of the war in Iraq.

“This President has presided over the five largest budget deficits in American history, leaving a legacy of debt to the next generation that will dramatically undermine our nation’s strength.

“Democrats reject the misplaced priorities of the President’s budget, which once again is a step backwards for our nation. The Democratic-led Congress will offer a budget that takes America in a New Direction, making critical investments to strengthen our economy and create jobs, helping Americans struggling with the high costs of health care, energy, and groceries, and working to restore fiscal responsibility.

“While we cannot support the budget the President proposes, Democrats stand ready to work in a bipartisan way to craft a budget that better reflects America’s values and priorities and prepares us for a more prosperous future.”

Source: Speaker Nancy Pelosi