Congresswoman Torres Votes Against Republican Continuing Resolution
Opposes Harmful Cuts to National Defense, Social Security and Community Funding
Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Norma J. Torres (D-CA), voted against the Republican-led Continuing Resolution (CR), calling attention to its devastating cuts to essential programs that impact the health of our servicemembers, the security of our nation, the livelihoods of American families, and the well-being of local communities.
Among the most concerning provisions in the CR, Congresswoman Torres pointed out the 57% reduction in funding for the Department of Defense's Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program (CDMRP). This program supports high-impact research that addresses pressing health challenges for servicemembers, including the disproportionately high rates of breast cancer and other conditions that affect military personnel. The CDMRP also plays a pivotal role in advancing military combat casualty care and bolstering defense health programs, making these cuts a direct threat to national security and the health of those who serve our country.
In addition to the critical cuts to defense health research, Congresswoman Torres raised alarm about the gutting of Social Security staff. Already operating at a 50-year staffing low, the Social Security Administration is now facing a potential cut of 7,000 employees, or approximately 12% of its workforce. This bill does nothing to stop the closure of Social Security offices across the country and the further dismantling of services that millions of Americans rely on. The bill will make it harder for people to access the benefits they deserve and earned. Without adequate staffing, there will be no one available to process applications for Social Security benefits, leaving countless Americans without the support they need.
"Cutting funding to lifesaving health research and dismantling Social Security services is unconscionable," said Congresswoman Torres. "These policies do not reflect the needs of our servicemembers, our seniors, or any working American. Instead of cutting vital programs, we should be making investments in the future of our people and our nation."
The Continuing Resolution also fails to include Community Funding Projects, which are essential for strengthening local infrastructure, supporting small businesses, and creating jobs in Congresswoman Torres’ district. The CR is cutting funding that is critical for local San Bernardino food banks like the Community Action Partnership of San Bernardino. The bill neglects to fully fund the Emergency Food Program by $20 million at a time of rising food costs and would leave 25,000 seniors unable to participate in the Commodity Supplemental Food Program.These projects help ensure that communities thrive and that American families are not left behind in a rapidly changing global economy.
"We cannot allow partisan politics to dictate our nation’s future. Congress must stand up for the American people, not cede its power to Elon Musk or President Trump or anyone else," Torres continued. "A short-term CR is necessary to prevent a government shutdown, but it must include provisions that protect our defense, strengthen Social Security, and provide crucial support for local communities. This resolution falls far short of that. We need to commit to fighting for responsible, long-term funding solutions that prioritize the health, safety, and prosperity of all Americans. I will continue to stand up for servicemembers, seniors, and the communities that I represent.”
Any Continuing Resolution legislation to fund the government must carry forward funding under the terms and conditions from the Fiscal Year 2024 bill.
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