Rep. Soto Statement on House Bipartisan Budget Deal

Washington, D.C. –U.S. Congressman Darren Soto issued the following statement on the House passage of a bipartisan budget deal:

"After five short-term funding measures and now two Republican-controlled government shutdowns, Congress finally passed a long-term budget plan, one that delivers critical aid for millions of people in Florida, Puerto Rico, California, Texas, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This funding specifically provides relief to Central Florida and Puerto Ricans who are still reeling from the Hurricanes.

"I voted for this budget plan because it was the best choice for our district. This was, however, an agonizing decision. I am enraged that Speaker Ryan intentionally pit DREAMers against Central Floridians and Puerto Rican evacuees who need disaster relief immediately. This should have never happened.

"Without question, Republicans chose not to give DREAMers a chance by refusing to bring a vote on bipartisan legislation to the floor. The GOP, who controls the House, the Senate, and the White House, showed the irresponsible and insensitive way they govern.

"The fight for our DREAMers is not over – the dream lives on."

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