May 07, 2024

Chairman Aguilar: We have strengthened the economy in the face of constant Republican attacks and obstruction

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, House Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar and Vice Chair Ted Lieu held a press conference on the work of House Democrats to grow the economy and put People Over Politics while Extreme MAGA Republicans propose budget cuts that will harm American families.

CHAIRMAN AGUILAR: Good morning, good morning. 
 
Earlier this morning in Caucus, the Democratic Caucus welcomed Tim Kennedy to our group. His swearing-in was last night, and it was an honor and a joy to hear Representative Joe Morelle introduce him, a longtime friend of Joe’s. We welcomed him and added him to the Homeland Security Committee promptly as a Caucus.
 
Last week, the United States added 150,000 new jobs, bringing the total created under the Biden-Harris Administration to 15 million jobs created. Wages continue to outpace inflation and unemployment has been below four percent for 27 consecutive months. This incredible economic progress has been made possible because of the work of House Democrats putting People Over Politics, working with our Senate counterparts and the Biden-Harris Administration. We have strengthened the economy in the face of constant Republican attacks and obstruction that would hurt workers and make life harder for everyday Americans. 
 
The Republican budget proposal, which is their vision for the country, cuts Social Security and Medicare, raises energy and housing costs and will undo the progress that Democrats have made to bring jobs back from overseas. Our vision for America's future is centered on strengthening economic opportunity and making life easier for working families. The choice cannot be more clear on the agendas that we all stand for.
 
Vice Chair, Ted Lieu.
 
VICE CHAIR LIEU: Thank you, Chairman Aguilar.
 
I also want to welcome Tim Kennedy. He was a State Senator in the Buffalo area. I have a special place in my heart for State Senators. He was sworn in as a Member of Congress, and he's going to be a fantastic Member. We all look forward to working with Congressman Kennedy. 
 
As Chairman Aguilar noted, we have had tremendous job creation. Democrats are putting People Over Politics, and we're focused on creating jobs, lowering costs and defending reproductive freedoms. 
 
What are Republicans focused on? Well, if you look at the legislation they want to put on the House floor, they're focused on refrigerators, and dishwashers and laundry. These are not serious attempts at legislation. And not only are these bills just totally stupid, they are actually harmful. Why do you want to disincentivize our terrific industry from not modernizing appliances? These are stupid, harmful bills. I urge Republicans to get serious with the legislation and work with Democrats on issues that will actually move American people forward.

 
Video of the full press conference and Q&A can be viewed here.

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