Rep. Comstock’s statement on Trump Administration’s proposed 2018 budget

Congresswoman Barbara Comstock made the following statement on the administration’s proposed FY 2018 budget:

“As with any budget whether from a Democrat or Republican administration, Congress sets the priorities in the budget process and will appropriate funds accordingly.

“I do support the proposed increases for our nation’s defense, but we have to evaluate as a Congress if we need even more resources to meet the national security threats that face our country. This budget puts an end to the harmful Obama era defense sequestration cuts that not only hampered our military readiness, but also negatively impacted Virginia, leading to zero GDP growth in 2014 and a paltry 0.6% growth in 2015.  As Chairwoman of the Research and Technology Subcommittee, I was also pleased to see support for cyber security within the budget through the Department of Homeland Security and other agencies.  We continue to see elevated cyber threats against our country and we must properly support our national security, homeland security, and defense programs that address cybersecurity.

“The budget also includes the federal government’s commitment to Metro by providing much-needed capital funding.  Earlier this month, in the FY 2017 government funding bill, I was able to work with my colleagues and include the federal government’s statutory obligation to Metro by meeting its $150 million obligation to provide a dollar-for-dollar match in combination with Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia for Metro’s capital budget and this budget continues that commitment. 

“Another priority of mine has always been to look out for our hardworking federal employees.  This budget unfairly burdens our federal employees with benefit and budget cuts.  We cannot balance the federal budget on the backs of our federal workers.  Many of our federal employees work at the CIA, Pentagon, FBI, law enforcement, homeland security and intelligence agencies.  They are dedicated professionals who are working day and night for the American people. 

“Since coming to Congress I have worked to support medical research at the National Institutes of Health, science research, disease prevention, combating the opioid epidemic, Chesapeake Bay cleanup, and more.  Unfortunately, this proposed budget does not reflect those priorities and many of the priorities of my District.  As Congress begins its work on the FY 2018 budget, I will be working with my colleagues and constituents on a budget that reflects those priorities and includes support for these and other important programs that are vital to my District.”