WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) voted yes on a bipartisan budget agreement that, among many things, will raise the debt ceiling, protect critical initiatives millions of Americans rely on and avert a catastrophic default.

“Extremist Republicans in Congress never should have risked the American economy, jobs and retirement accounts to press their partisan budget that shields the wealthy and well-connected. Millionaires and corporations should pay their fair share to reduce the deficit rather than target veterans, students and seniors for harsh cuts,” said Rep. Castor. “Thankfully, President Biden stood steadfast to protect Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, and toxic-exposed veterans.  Biden also protected historic investments in local communities in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the cost-saving provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act. Fortunately, the reckless brinkmanship of extreme MAGA Republicans was rejected by a large bipartisan majority.  Now, it’s time to do the hard work together to lower costs, create good-paying jobs and build safer communities.  It is time to put people over politics for a change.”