Rutherford Urges Senate Republicans to Oppose Democrats' Omnibus Wish List

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman John Rutherford (FL-04) released the following statement urging Republican Senators to oppose the Consolidated Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2023:

"Over the last two years, Democrats have been on a reckless spending spree, culminating in this massive spending bill being pushed through Congress just days before Christmas. Instead of working with Republicans on the 12 annual appropriations bills through regular order, the Senate Majority ignored the committee process and dropped this colossal bill filled with riders at the last minute. On top of that, Democrats are at it again with their budget gimmicks. By shifting funding to supplemental funding for Ukraine and disaster response, more money is freed up in the base bill to go toward Democrat priorities.

Democrats have already forced billions of dollars through this year in their so-called Inflation Reduction Act, which, instead of providing relief for the American people, has spent billions of dollars on Green New Deal initiatives, socialist bailouts, and a lengthy progressive wish list.

This last minute 4,000-plus-page omnibus offers more of the same. It gives even more money to the IRS, plusses up renewable energy programs, and continues programs expanded through the COVID-19 public health emergency. This is all while failing to fund enhanced border security or provide offsets to new spending.

Ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent to reflect the interests and values of the American people is one of Congress's most important responsibilities. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I am committed to being a good steward of taxpayer dollars and ensuring federal spending reflects our nation's priorities. That is why I urge my Republican colleagues in the Senate to oppose this bill. Next Congress, House Republicans will be able to develop a plan to cut wasteful spending and reduce inflation, while prioritizing border security and our national defense."

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