WASHINGTON, DC -- U.S. Rep. Harold “Hal” Rogers (KY-05) released the following statement regarding President Trump’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2019.

"President Trump’s proposed budget compliments the diligent work of the Bipartisan Budget Act, calling for much-needed boosts to funding for our nation’s military, border security, infrastructure, rural broadband expansion and efforts to combat the nation’s deadly opioid epidemic. 

"While his plan does support important programs administered by agencies, like the Appalachian Regional Commission, I’m concerned by proposed reductions to resources that provide for economic development in rural areas, such as Eastern Kentucky, where families and small communities are still struggling to rebound from the recession. 

“As Chairman Emeritus of the House Appropriations Committee, I look forward to working with my colleagues to complete responsible federal funding legislation for fiscal years 2018 and 2019."

State and Foreign Operations Proposed Budget

“I firmly believe that strong investments in diplomatic and development programs are an irreplaceable component of our national security. In fact, our most senior military commanders have told us this “soft power” helps prevent the need for military intervention and facilitates operational success when military action is necessary. That is why I am once again disappointed by the severe cuts proposed in the President’s fiscal year 2019 budget for the Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs.  

"I applaud the inclusion of $3.3 billion for Israel and am pleased to see an increase from last year’s request for Jordan and Tunisia. However, the President’s 2019 budget falls short on other important priorities like humanitarian assistance, global health programs, and programs to counter-Russian aggression, to name just a few. During a time of record displacement of individuals and families, a growing number of countries facing instability, and rising global tensions, U.S. leadership abroad is critical.

"We will certainly review this budget proposal, but ultimately Congress has the responsibility to equip our leaders with both the authority and resources needed to advance our national security interests.” 

--U.S. Rep. Harold “Hal” Rogers (KY-05), Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations