Press Releases

Washington, D.C – Tonight, Rep. Becca Balint (VT-AL) voted no on the Republican Budget. The bill passed 217-215 with all Democrats voting no. The House Republican budget provides $4.5 trillion in tax cuts for the rich but does nothing to lower costs for American families. It increases the deficit while inflicting pain on the most vulnerable, while raising the debt limit by $4 trillion. 

This budget slashes at least $230 billion from food assistance programs at a time when grocery prices remain high. It cuts at least $880 billion from Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act (ACA), threatening coverage for nearly 20 million Americans who rely on the ACA and more than 72 million people who depend on Medicaid—including children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. 157,471 Vermonters enrolled in Medicaid and Chips in 2024, putting nearly a quarter of the state at risk of losing their health care. 

“Republicans have the House, the Senate and the White House and they could be passing legislation to make your life more affordable,” said Rep. Becca Balint. “They could be working to bring down the cost of groceries or prescription drugs or housing. But instead, Trump is shutting down vital programs that protect and support Americans. And Republicans are letting him. All of this is to line the pockets of their billionaire friends with over $4.5 trillion in tax cuts.” 

“Their budget plans to rip healthcare away from over 38 million children, take food assistance from families in need and pull the rug out from Americans who depend on Medicaid. It’s shameful. It’s a kick in the teeth to working people to give the ultra-wealthy another unneeded break.” 

“I want Vermonters to understand this budget is a devastating blow to working Americans. It means people will lose their health care, rural hospitals won’t have the funds they need to keep the lights on, families will have to choose between groceries and insulin. I’m sickened to see Republicans unify around selling out their own constituents.” 

Watch her remarks on the House floor here.   

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