The Congressional Record is a unique source of public documentation. It started in 1873, documenting nearly all the major and minor policies being discussed and debated.
“TRUMP BUDGET AND RURAL AMERICA” mentioning the U.S. Dept of Agriculture was published in the House of Representatives section on pages H4517 on May 24, 2017.
The Department is primarily focused on food nutrition, with assistance programs making up 80 percent of its budget. Downsizing the Federal Government, a project aimed at lowering taxes and boosting federal efficiency, said the Department implements too many regulations and restrictions and impedes the economy.
The publication is reproduced in full below:
TRUMP BUDGET AND RURAL AMERICA
(Mrs. BUSTOS asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute.)
Mrs. BUSTOS. Mr. Speaker, yesterday, President Trump released his budget. And what he has shown is that rural America is just about at the bottom of his list.
His budget is a killer for the Department of Agriculture. The cuts to the rural development program would mean fewer jobs in small towns that are already struggling.
While he promised to ``end the war on the family farmer,'' President Trump slashes funding for the crop insurance program. And in Peoria, his budget would even close the Nation's largest agricultural research lab, a place for ag innovation that is part of the solution for renewed ag economy.
Time and time again, President Trump made a great big promise spelled out on his red ball cap. Now I am left wondering how a budget that would devastate Main Street and our family farmers would make anything great again.
Mr. President, middle America is not just flyover country. We value those who look us in the eye, tell us the truth, and then do what they say they are going to do.
So, President Trump, I ask you: Does your budget live up to what you spelled out on your ball cap?
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Members are reminded to direct their remarks to the Chair.
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