Sen. Richard Blumenthal said Wednesday that he will vote against a short-term spending measure this week because there’s too many long-term issues that need to be addressed.
“The Durbin-Graham bill is the only bipartisan proposal before us, and I’ll vote against a short-term spending bill, the fourth in as many months, because it simply kicks the can down the road,” Mr. Blumenthal, Connecticut Democrat, said on CNN.
The Durbin-Graham plan is a bipartisan immigration plan that addresses the Dreamers, those brought to the U.S. illegally as children, and other immigration issues that President Trump requested. The measure has been criticized by both Republicans and Mr. Trump.
“There are a number of measures that we need to address. It’s not just about the Dreamers,” Mr. Blumenthal said. He listed off issues including: military funding, health care and aide relief for areas hit by natural disasters earlier this year.
He said a shutdown isn’t necessary and a budget including these items can still be passed before the Jan. 19 deadline.
“There’s is no reason for a government shutdown,” Mr. Blumenthal said.
• Sally Persons can be reached at spersons@washingtontimes.com.
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