Virginia Senate Democrats Respond to Governor’s Attempts for a Budget Rewrite: “Farce,” “Shortsighted,” “Campaign-Style Charades,” “Poor Leadership,” “Squandered Opportunity to Authentically Seek Common Ground”

From the VA Senate Democratic Caucus:

Virginia Senate Democrats Respond to Governor’s Attempts for a Budget Rewrite

Richmond, VA – Last night, shortly ahead of the April 8th, 11:59 PM deadline, Governor Youngkin submitted the remaining action on legislation sent to his desk by the General Assembly. In an unprecedented move, the governor has attempted to rewrite the budget with his recommendation of 233 amendments. Members of the Senate Democratic Caucus issued the following statements:

“Governor Youngkin’s so called ‘Common Ground’ budget is a farce. As Senate Finance and Appropriations Chair, I find his amendments to be shortsighted and not in the best interest of the Commonwealth. His budget defies common sense and highlights a significant disconnect that cannot be overlooked,” said Senate Finance and Appropriations Chair L. Louise Lucas.

“In an era that requires visionary leadership to navigate the complexities of our society, Governor Youngkin’s actions have raised questions about his ability to champion the welfare of all Virginians. His evident lack of understanding of Virginia’s budget process, highlighted by his audacious move of submitting 233 budget amendments in an attempt to rewrite it, not only showcases poor leadership but also represents a squandered opportunity to authentically seek common ground,” stated Senate Democrats Caucus Chair, Mamie Locke.

“Governor Youngkin’s attempts to hijack the budget process with an outrageous number of budget amendments- is merely political theater to distract Virginians from the 233 amendments, and it comes at the expense of the welfare of the Commonwealth. Despite the governor’s claims of pursuing a “Common Ground Budget,” Virginians are becoming increasingly exasperated with these continuous campaign-style charades. What they truly desire is authentic leadership that respects the Commonwealth’s rich traditions and constitutional governance. Governor Youngkin’s inconsistency and lack of comprehension to the processes that run our government display a troubling disconnect from the realities of Virginia’s legislative landscape,” said Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell.