Representative Horn Disagrees With Democrats

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(Washington, D.C.) U.S. Rep. Kendra Horn came out Thursday against her Democratic leaders’ latest coronavirus relief package, saying the $3 trillion bill was partisan and contained “political pet projects.”

“Messaging bills without bipartisan support are a disservice to the American people, especially during a time of crisis,” Horn, D-Oklahoma City, said in a statement.

“This is not the time for partisan gamesmanship, this is the time to find common ground and deliver help where it is needed most. In response to COVID-19, our relief efforts must be targeted, timely and transparent. The HEROES Act does not meet those standards.”

The measure — which includes nearly $1 trillion in aid to state, local and tribal governments and more direct payments — is expected to be considered on Friday by the House, which is controlled by Democrats.

The other four Oklahoma members of the U.S. House, all of whom are Republican, expressed strong opposition earlier this week. The Senate, which is controlled by Republicans, is not expected to take up the legislation.

Horn supports several elements of the bill — dubbed the HEROES Act — and in fact suggested some of them, including hazard pay for frontline workers and federal aid to help recently jobless people maintain private health insurance.

“I worked with colleagues across the aisle to secure help for small businesses, critical funding for state and local governments, support for tribal communities and lower insurance costs,” Horn said.

“But unfortunately, the HEROES Act contains many measures unrelated to direct COVID-19 relief as well as political pet projects. I urge congressional leadership to put aside any desire to use this as a political opportunity and instead focus on getting results in a bipartisan and bicameral way.”