Washington, DC (May 23, 2017) Congressman Steve Pearce released the following statement on President Trump's 2018 budget request:

"Our nation's budget has spiraled out of control. Without significant course corrections, we are slated to leave our children and grandchildren with an unsurmountable debt. It is refreshing to see a President diligently attempt to provide our nation with a balanced and sustainable budget. While nowhere near perfect or the final product that will be crafted by Congress, President Trump's proposal forces a much needed conversation on our nation's spending priorities.

First and foremost, this budget boosts defense spending for the safety and security of our nation. As a veteran who served in Vietnam, I know the hardships that come with diminished resources and funding to do the job. So long as we have military personnel in harm's way, we must provide the tools they need to successfully train and fight for our freedoms. The framework released by the President today will provide local New Mexico communities with increased educational flexibility, support Los Alamos National Lab, Sandia National Lab, and WIPP, increase our nation's commitment to combatting opioids, and commits to families first by implementing a paid paternal leave policy.

That is not to say this budget plan is without flaw. There are a number of recommendations within this budget framework that I will be examining much more closely to determine if they will get us to real solutions that our nation needs. We must also remember as we start this process of reeling in our nation's debt and spending, that we cannot do so on the backs of the most vulnerable who are in true need of help. As the House goes through its process for assembling the federal budget, I will continue to fight for the priorities of New Mexico to ensure the needs of rural communities are not forgotten. As a state and as a nation, we will only find real solutions to the challenging financial decisions that we face by working together for a more prosperous future."