Statement by Edward J. McElroy,
Secretary-Treasurer, American Federation of Teachers
on White House Memo Warning of Domestic Program Cuts

(The Washington Post reported today that a White House memo puts government agencies on notice that if President Bush is re-elected, his 2006 budget may include spending cuts for virtually all agencies involving domestic programs.)

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Will the real George Bush please stand up and be truthful with the American people about his plans for education and health programs for the neediest in our nation? A secret memo reveals a very different President Bush than the one who proudly touts on the campaign trail some funding increases for programs benefiting low-income families.

This memo displays the true George Bush, who will say one thing to win re-election and then turn around and sabotage extremely important programs by cutting $2.3 billion. The hypocrisy continues as the Bush campaign announces a new education team, praising education funding increases even as the White House engages in a behind-the-scenes plan for future cuts. The Bush administration, unfortunately, is more committed to unwise, unaffordable tax cuts than providing adequate funding for education, healthcare, job training and other critically important programs that make our nation and its citizens stronger.

# # # #