McConnell Refuses Future Federal Aid to Kentucky, says "Go the Bankruptcy Route'

Press Release

Rather than provide federal resources, Sen. Mitch McConnell said Kentucky should struggle with massive budget shortfalls due to the COVID-19 pandemic and should be able to file for bankruptcy.

McConnell said today in an interview he will refuse to provide money for state and local governments in future coronavirus relief bills that could be used to fund pensions for state workers. Many states' pension crises have worsened as their budgets feel the effects of skyrocketing unemployment and plummeting tax revenues.

"McConnell had no problem giving out-of-state corporations billions, but unlike corporations, everyday Kentuckians don't have lobbyists," the McGrath campaign said. "McConnell telling state and local governments to just go bankrupt means he is telling all the Kentucky teachers, police and firefighters that their pensions aren't worth saving."

McConnell's refusal to send aid to states that face devastating budget shortfalls as a result of this crisis could prolong the recession and create massive cuts and layoffs in every area of state and local governments. The National Governors Association and U.S. Conference of Mayors are calling on Congress to send aid to prevent the shut down of essential services in health care, education, public safety and transportation, and avoid layoffs for teachers, firefighters and police officers.

McConnell's comments put him in direct opposition to President Trump, who said Tuesday that he believes state government aid should be part of the next phase of coronavirus relief.

"Since day one McConnell's priorities have been more about rewarding special interests and his D.C. lobbyist friends than providing for Kentucky's public sector employees during this pandemic," the McGrath campaign said.

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