Philadelphia, March 16, 2017 – City Council President Darrell L. Clarke (5th District) on Thursday released the following statement on the Trump Administration’s 2018 Federal Budget Blueprint:
“President Trump’s budget plan is a declaration of war on low-income people, the middle class, and seniors. Practically every program that exists to strengthen communities and empower people to lead self-sufficient and productive lives – whether through public education or health care – is devastated by the proposed $20 billion in domestic spending cuts.
“Meanwhile, the largest and most expensive military in the world is the runaway winner here. What possible justification is there for zeroing out Meals on Wheels or LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) funding, in this context? Weaker public schools, less support for the disabled, increased homelessness, higher obstacles to college, and a return to unaffordable health care are a recipe for disaster in every community, urban or rural.
“I urge the entire Pennsylvania congressional delegation and Congress to work toward a budget that protects the people they serve. Such a budget must be centered on poverty eradication, not proliferation.”
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Council President Darrell L. Clarke is serving his second term as the President of Philadelphia City Council. He represents Philadelphia’s 5th Council District. More information at phlcouncil.com/DarrellClarke
