Last week, I voted for the House Budget Resolution, a measure that helps set the stage for upcoming fiscal negotiations. While this resolution does not change tax rates, cut spending, or carry any force of law, it lays the groundwork for the much more important budget Budget Reconciliation process, where key issues like Medicaid and the SALT Deduction will be debated in detail.
With out national debt at $36 trillion and an annual deficit of $2 trillion, both parties in Washington need to collaborate on a responsible approach to budgeting. That’s why my priorities are clear.
First, I am committed to raising the SALT cap to provide relief for Long Islanders, who already pay some of the highest taxes in the country. Hardworking families should not be double-taxed by a system that takes more from them than it gives back.
Second, I am focused on protecting and reforming Medicaid to ensure it serves those who truly need it. This means removing illegal immigrants from the program so taxpayer-funded benefits go to American citizens. It also means requiring able-bodied adults to work or actively seek employment if they receive Medicaid benefits. Lastly, it is essential to crack down on waste, fraud, and abuse, particularly in poorly managed programs like New York’s, which cost taxpayers billions every year.
As we move toward the Budget Reconciliation process, I pledge to not blindly follow party lines. If my priorities stated above are not met, I will not support my party’s reconciliation bill. My record is clear–I have consistently put Long Island before politics and have been ranked in the top 5% of House Republicans to break with leadership when necessary (Roll Call, 2/28/25).
I will continue fighting for Long Island taxpayers and ensuring our federal budget reflects their needs and priorities.
I invite you to join me at my next Town Hall where we can discuss these issues. Check lalota.house.gov/townhall to sign up and participate.
Congressman Nick LaLota (R-Suffolk County) is a lifelong Long Islander in his second term representing Suffolk County in the U.S. House of Representatives.
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