Rep. Clay Higgins (R-La.) slammed House Democrats on Friday for supporting a $1.7 trillion spending package before he was told that it contains his veterans bill.
“Witness then, the demise of a nation once great. Witness the arrogance of thieves in suits from their wealth and comfort as they spend the American treasure of generations yet unborn. Witness as they smile in full knowledge that they’re comfortable with taking the position that they’re better managers of our nation’s decline. But witness ye also that the American people have had enough” Higgins said in his floor speech, in a clip posted by Mediaite.
“We struggle, we, the people,” Higgins continued. “Americans from sea to shining sea cannot pay for groceries or fuel. They’re cold and hungry and feel betrayed by this body. And I understand that sentiment and passion because I share it. I thank the gentleman for my time and I stand opposed to this omnibus.”
After Higgins’ speech, the chair recognized Rep. Jim McGovern, (Mass.). Before the democratic lawmaker began speaking, a man was heard saying: “Jim, Higgins bill – his veterans bill – is…”
“I think I should tell the gentleman who just spoke that I’m told that his veterans bill is actually in the omnibus,” McGovern told the House. “He’s got a bill in this omnibus.”
The omnibus bill funds the government through September and provides emergency aid for Ukraine and natural disaster relief. The legislation passed on a 225 to 201 vote in the House on Friday. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) was the only Democrat to oppose the measure. The omnibus bill had passed on a 68-29 vote in the Senate the day before.
President Joe Biden signed the bill later on Friday, avoiding a government shutdown.
