news

WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman Paul D. Tonko (D-NY) released the following statement strongly opposing the Trump Administration funding freeze on all federal loans, grants, and aid:

“President Trump continues to blatantly ignore the law. His sweeping pause of all federal funding will do nothing but sow chaos while threatening hundreds of billions of dollars that are absolutely essential to our communities. This funding that the President halted drives cancer research, supports childhood learning programs, keeps small businesses afloat, delivers food assistance, and so much more.  Further, these grants have already been approved by Congress — by Republicans and Democrats alike — and signed into law. President Trump is not a king, and he needs to stop acting like one.

“This is an unlawful, and reckless move that will hurt tens of millions. That this pain would be caused so that the Trump Administration can parse through each dollar to ensure the aid aligns with them politically is abhorrent. This funding has been delivered to our communities based on need, not ideology.

“Republicans must stand up for their communities and join us in demanding President Trump immediately rescind this unacceptable and illegal proposal.

“To all those in my district who have questions about the status of their own grant, know that I am closely tracking this issue and will share information with you as we receive it.”