For Immediate Release

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Jamaal Bowman, Ed.D. (NY-16) joined Democrats as they voted in favor of a continuing resolution to keep the government funded, avoid a shutdown, and continue to provide funding for lifesaving programs that millions of Americans rely on.  

He released the following statement in response:

“This evening I joined many of my Democratic colleagues in voting for the continuing resolution to avoid a government shutdown. While I have significant concerns with the laddered approach proposed by the Speaker, I decided it was more important to support the effort to keep the government open at currently funded levels without any harmful policy riders. It is clear that even after the last several months of their chaos, Republicans still couldn’t come together as a party to avert a shutdown. Instead, Democrats again demonstrated that our priority is the American people as we saved Republicans from their dysfunction and provided the necessary votes to keep the government open.

Without this continuing resolution, millions of people would be at risk of losing their SNAP benefits, heating assistance, and housing support over the holidays. No one should have to worry about whether they’ll have access to their benefits or if they’ll receive a paycheck while they’re celebrating with their loved ones. As we continue through the budget fight following the passage of the continuing resolution, we must ensure that extreme, catastrophic Republican proposals do not end up in our budget. Millions of Americans are already living paycheck to paycheck, while funding for these lifesaving programs is being threatened by the constant Republican chaos and their proposed draconian cuts. We were sent here by our constituents to fight for the American people, not play political games that perpetuate and exacerbate suffering for children and families, and that’s what I’ll continue to do.”