Congressman Garamendi Votes for "Compromise" that at Minimum Protects Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid & Pell Grants

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman John Garamendi (D-Walnut Creek, CA) today voted for legislation to avoid a devastating default that would lead to a recession, hundreds of thousands of lost jobs, and a sharp decline in investor confidence.

Garamendi has consistently held the line on retirement security and student aid, and he is satisfied the legislation protects Social Security, Medicaid, and Pell Grants and avoids cuts to Medicare benefits. He is disturbed that Congressional Republicans insisted on deep cuts to environmental protections, food safety, and some services to help struggling families – cuts Garamendi believes will impede America’s recovery.

"This debt limit deal is not great policy, but it avoids default and protects Social Security, Medicaid, and Pell Grants," Garamendi said. "It also protects Medicare benefits. At least now seniors in my district will still get their Social Security checks, and Medicare and Medicaid are secure."