VA House, Senate Dems on Current Budget Negotiations: “Extremists in the MAGA Virginia GOP are holding middle class Virginians hostage by refusing to come to the table”

VIRGINIA HOUSE AND SENATE DEMOCRATS RELEASE STATEMENTS ON CURRENT BUDGET NEGOTIATIONS

RICHMOND, VA – Democratic leaders from the Virginia House and Senate released the following statements slamming Republicans for prioritizing tax cuts over investing in the future of the commonwealth:

“Senate Democrats believe in passing a budget that will invest in our schools, grow our economy, and ensure the wealthiest citizens of our Commonwealth pay their fair share in taxes. It’s disappointing that Republicans favor tax cuts for their wealthy donors over financial stability, and would walk away from the table in the middle of ongoing negotiations. We look forward to continuing our work towards a budget that works for all Virginians and puts our Commonwealth on firm footing for the future,” said Senate Democratic Caucus Chair Mamie Locke.

“Extremists in the MAGA Virginia GOP are holding middle class Virginians hostage by refusing to come to the table,” said Leader Don Scott. “Republicans are content with our schools falling apart and constituents struggling to make ends meet. They’d rather bankrupt the state, giving tax breaks to big corporations instead of giving relief to hardworking families. It’s well past time that they side with their constituents instead.”

“We’ve been clear about what we support,” said Chair Charniele Herring. “We support tax relief for low income and middle-class Virginians. We have to keep our constituents in mind and listen to the hundreds of thousands of families that need us most. That’s what the Democratic amendments stood for and that’s what the Republicans need to come to the table on.”

“The critical investments the Senate has proposed will help build a world-class K-12 education system, make higher education more accessible to more Virginians, and expand access to healthcare, including mental health services throughout the Commonwealth. All of these services are demanded by the people, and I am confident we will ultimately reach an agreement that serves the Commonwealth well. Senate Democrats are ready to get to work on a budget that serves the people of Virginia,” said Senator Creigh Deeds, Senate Budget Conferee.