WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Lynn Jenkins made the following statement after President Obama released his budget proposal for 2010.

“The hard-working families in Kansas have tightened their budgets to make ends meet. I am disappointed President Obama’s budget proposal will increase their financial struggle by raising their taxes and implementing colossal spending programs. His proposal will actually increase the federal deficit to a record $1.75 trillion.

“The President claims that his massive tax increases will only affect the wealthy.  The truth is all Americans including middle class families, small businesses, family farms, retirees, 401(k) holders, and all energy consumers will be hit under President Obama’s budget plan. This is a backwards and fiscally reckless direction, especially in the midst of a recession.

“I was hopeful, that the President would put into action the fiscally responsible rhetoric he put forth during his address to Congress. Reducing the deficit in half by 2013 is a noble goal, but we cannot do it on the backs of hard-working Americans.

The President’s proposed budget will increase total spending to $3.9 trillion in 2009. It also includes increased spending for entitlement programs including $634 billion for a new health reserve fund.  “Record-breaking deficits and an ever growing federal government is not the kind of change Americans asked for last November. President Obama should have focused on growing the economy rather than the size and scope of government.”