Garamendi Statement on Trump’s Big Ugly Bill Passage

Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Representative John Garamendi (D-CA), released the following statement after House Republicans passed President Trump’s “Big Ugly Bill:”

“In the dead of night Republicans have secured the largest heist from working people to the ultra wealthy in American history. President Trump’s so-called ‘Big Ugly’ passed the House of Representatives despite historic opposition from labor, industry, Democrats, and even some Republicans whose own constituents are harmed by this bill.

“This is the worst bill I’ve seen in nearly all my years of public service. It’s disappointing that every California Republican—including Dave Valadao, Kevin Kiley, Tom McClintock, Ken Calvert, Doug LaMalfa, and Young Kim—voted for this monstrosity of a bill, even though over 1.7 million of their own constituents will lose their health care and more than 670,000 will lose access to food assistance. I guess party loyalty and fealty to Trump win out over the well-being of their own districts.

“When the costs of health care, energy, electricity, food, rent, and tax bills skyrocket in the years to come, the American people will remember these Representatives—and Donald Trump—actions here today.

“The country needs to understand that the best way to push back against Trump and the Republicans is to vote them out. If Democrats controlled Congress, I guarantee we would not have passed a bill that kicks nearly 16 million Americans off their health care, takes food out of the mouths of 18 million kids, seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities, or raises taxes on the poor. Our priority would be to throw the corporate and billionaire giveaway in the trash—where it belongs.”

“I’m proud to have stood with my Democratic colleagues in the House and Senate who broke records—filibustering, introducing amendments, and speaking on the floor. I also commend Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who delivered the longest speech in House history, surpassing former Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s record set while opposing Democrats’ Build Back Better relief package. Republicans used their power to block relief for the American people. Democrats used every ounce of ours to try to block harmful, even deadly, cuts to healthcare.”

“In the end, Republicans had the numbers to ram this horrible legislation through today — but I assure you, tomorrow and every day after, we will hold them accountable: in the public square and at the ballot box.”

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