FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 13, 2006

CONTACT: Brendan Daly/Jennifer Crider 202-226-7616

Pelosi: Republicans Continue Indefensible Record of Underfunding Homeland Security

Washington, D.C. – House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today on the Emergency Supplemental appropriations bill, which includes funding for the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, homeland security, and Hurricane Katrina recovery.  The bill passed in the House today by a vote of 351 to 67.

“President Bush insisted on spending more than $65 billion to provide for security in Iraq and Afghanistan, but threatened to veto the bill if it provided $2.5 billion to make America safer.  The Rubber Stamp Republican Congress went along without a whimper, continuing its indefensible record of underfunding homeland security.  Democrats fought to add the money already agreed to by the Senate to make critical improvements to our border security and to enhance security in our ports.  Once again, Republicans rejected those efforts.

“Republicans’ misplaced priorities mean America is not as safe it should be.  Democrats have a new direction for the American people – one that will fully implement the recommendations of the 9/11 Commission and make the security of the American people a top priority.”

“ Democrats are united in presenting a New Direction for America, one that will make our nation as strong as its people, one that brings opportunity, security, and prosperity to all Americans. ”

Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi