Velazquez on Repubulican SNAP Cuts

Washington, DC – Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) spoke on the House floor today in opposition to H.R. 3102, Republican legislation that would cut the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Following are her remarks:

"Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to the rule and this unconscionable legislation. Make no mistake -- if you support this bill you are voting to take food from the mouths of almost 4 million of our fellow citizens, next year.

"Who are these Americans? Nearly half of them are children. They are seniors. They are our veterans. Is this the way to thank them for their service?

"Mr. Speaker, Congress does not agree on much these days. But I've always assumed we could at least support the idea that in this country no child should go hungry. Have we gone so far that we cannot even find bipartisan support for that? If so, then, we have truly lost our way.

"Is this what my Republican friends call 'compassionate conservatism?' I say to my colleagues – the whole nation is watching. You will be held accountable!

"Vote no on this rule and the shameful underlying bill. I yield back."