Congressman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) today called on President Bush to explain in full detail his intention to cut funding for most federal agencies and programs beginning in fiscal year 2006 if he is re-elected in November.

A May 19, 2004 White House memorandum states that federal agencies should consider the proposed cuts when calculating their future budgets. Under Bush's formula, after the election many priorities would face cuts in funding, including homeland security, education, veterans affairs, and health programs for women and children.

"The President has a lot of nerve to talk on the campaign trail about the importance of homeland security, education, veterans' affairs, and health care while he plans on cutting funding for these priorities." stated Nadler. "The sad truth is funding increases for federal services would be available were it not for the President's irresponsible priorities, like starting a war in Iraq based on lies and exaggerations and a tax cut that squandered our surplus."

The White House memo outlines several programs that will be subject to budget cuts. Homeland security would be cut by $1 billion starting in fiscal year 2006, and education funding would be cut by $1.5 billion. Veterans affairs would also be cut by $910 million, which is a reduction below fiscal year 2004 levels. Additional programs facing cuts include the Head Start program and the Women, Infants and Children nutrition program, which would be cut by $177 million and $122 million, respectively.

"Frankly, it's not surprising that President Bush is calling for cuts in these federal programs that provide important services to millions of Americans. Yet again, he is demonstrating that his priorities are in the wrong place," said Nadler.