Crenshaw: President's Budget Plan Irresponsible, Unbalanced, Harms National Security

Statement

Congressman Ander Crenshaw, Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government and Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, today (2/9) issued the following statement following the President's introduction of the fiscal year 2017 budget:

"Out of the blocks, the President's budget is out of touch with the nation's needs, and that's an understatement. His fiscal year 2017 budget plan increases spending by $2.5 trillion and raises taxes by $3.4 trillion over the next decade - all without ever balancing the budget - and puts national security at risk with proposals that irresponsibly cut defense, and in turn, harm national security.

"I will analyze the details line-by-line, but at first review, object to and will fight against proposed 2017 defense cuts, including plans to decrease Navy Littoral Combat Ship production from three to two, eliminate a Navy Carrier Wing, and institute another BRAC round. My unwavering commitment is to our defense, and the best way to keep America safe is to keep America strong. That means providing our Sailors and Marines with a larger, more highly-advanced fleet and ensuring forces across all branches of the military have the tools they need to protect the nation whenever and wherever they serve.

"When all is said and done, the "power of the purse' lies with Congress, not with the White House. Now, our task is to get to work. We will review this request, make an independent judgment through briefings and hearings, and use the hard-working taxpayer dollars in a responsible manner that keeps every American safe."

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