When House Democrats advanced the framework for the 2025-26 state budget, it was met with strong opposition from Rep. Scott Barger (R-Blair/Huntingdon). The process allowed lawmakers only a few hours to review the measure, which is expected to face resistance in the GOP-controlled Senate.
Barger voted against the proposal, arguing that it overspends and neglects key Republican priorities. “Our PA Prosperity Plan lays out how to balance the state budget by cutting waste, creating jobs and unleashing Pennsylvania’s energy economy,” he stated. “The Democrats ignored all of that and doubled down on spending money we don’t have.”
He further criticized the budget as being almost as irresponsible as that of the governor’s. “They passed a budget that’s almost as irresponsible as the governor’s and called it a fair compromise,” Barger said. “But I call it a dumpster fire. It spends money we don’t have on programs that aren’t working.”
Barger expressed frustration over extended budget talks past the June 30 deadline, affecting entities reliant on state funding like libraries, school districts, and human service agencies. He pointed out that session days are repeatedly canceled when work could be done.
“House Democrats think the road to prosperity is paved with foolish spending,” Barger commented. “They want to increase our deficit spending by almost 50%. It’s asinine.”
For media inquiries, contact Jennifer Fitch at 717-260-6563 or jfitch@pahousegop.com.
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