Schumer Criticizes White House Budget Plans
Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) has expressed strong disapproval of the White House Budget Office’s push to withdraw funds designated for the State Department. He has labeled the proposed actions regarding the International Development Agency (USAID) as “illegal.”
Democratic leaders are sounding alarms that a government shutdown is looming, warning that Trump and Congressional Republicans may be heading towards the September 30 funding deadline without bipartisan support.
In a statement, Schumer remarked, “The administration’s announcement about its plan to advance this so-called ‘pocket withdrawal’ package reflects the refusal of President Trump and Congressional Republicans to engage in bipartisanship this fall. They seem intent on ‘going alone.’”
He further noted, “It’s apparent that neither President Trump nor Congressional Republicans are taking steps to prevent a painful and completely unnecessary shutdown as we approach the funding deadline next month.”
Late Thursday, Trump sent correspondence to Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) advocating for reduced funding.
When Congress reconvenes after their August recess, they will have 45 days to act on funding requests.
The proposal, referred to as “Pocket Retraction,” has drawn attention for potentially wrapping up discussions less than 45 days before the fiscal year ends on September 30.
This strategy hasn’t been seen in almost half a century.
Schumer criticized Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Tune (R-D.) for their unwillingness to meet with him and emphasized the need for discussions involving Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries (NY) in the House to forge a deal by the looming deadline.
The administration’s plan to withdraw nearly $5 billion in funds has already raised eyebrows among Democrats, especially with the fiscal year coming to a close.
Schumer noted, “Speaker Johnson and Leader Tune have repeatedly opted not to engage with Democrats and have shunned discussions about a bipartisan path forward. Meanwhile, President Trump has made it acceptable to bypass Congress with the so-called ‘pocket evacuation’ package.”
He insisted that there was no justification for these measures, urging “rational Republicans” to avoid what he termed “insanity.”
“Republicans shouldn’t just rubber stamp this injustice,” he stated. “Democrats are ready to collaborate with anyone aiming to aid American families, reduce healthcare costs, and protect our communities. However, if Republicans persist in going their own way, Democrats won’t bear the guilt of their actions.”
Some Republicans have also voiced their concerns regarding this move.
Senate Budget Committee Chair Susan Collins (R-Maine) described the administration’s request as a “clear attempt to withdraw allocated funds without Congressional approval,” questioning its legality. She referred to findings from the Government Accountability Office (GAO), stating that such withdrawals are not allowed under the Water Storage Control Act.
