Clyburn Statement on Emergency War Funding Vote
Thursday, May 15, 2008
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WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today released the following statement after House passage of the Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2008. The legislation consisted of three amendments: the first providing funding for the war; the second, conditions on the war funding; and the third, funding for domestic priorities, including veterans education assistance, Gulf Coast recovery funds and an unemployment benefit extension. A majority of Republicans voted “present” on the first amendment, defeating its passage.
“When it was time to stand with the troops or take a stand against the war, 132 Republicans sat down. They lacked the courage of their convictions to vote up or down on funding for a war they claim to support; instead they voted ‘present.’ I’m disappointed Republicans put politics ahead of our troops and our foreign policy.
“When Republicans had an opportunity to be counted on an improved GI bill that grants full, four-year college scholarships to all veterans, they voted no. And when it was time to vote for a New Direction in Iraq, establishing conditions and accountability, a majority of Republicans said ‘no.’ I’m pleased we were able to pass these provisions despite their obstructionism.
“We also approved a provision to extend 13 additional weeks of unemployment benefits for those who have exhausted the 26 weeks of regular benefits. Again, when it was time to be counted on legislation to help those suffering under a failing economy, a majority of Republicans were proud to vote ‘no.’
"Furthermore, the approved legislation included $5.8 billion to strengthen New Orleans’ levees. But a majority of Republicans voted ‘no,’ taking a clear stand against helping those still recovering from devastating hurricanes.”
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