Statement by Senator Patrick Leahy (D-Vermont), President Pro Tempore, Pursuing the Inflation Reduction Act
Sunday, August 7, 2022
“The historic vote of the Senedd today represents a clear choice between two different opinions. The first, that we must do everything we can to help American families, our seniors, and our economy. The second, that we should ignore the rising costs of health care – and certain prescription drugs – and the existential threats of climate change. The choice could not be clearer, yet it is gathered in party politics.
Senate passes sweeping climate, health and tax package, putting Democrats on the brink of historic victory
Sanders statement on the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act
“Today Parliament has introduced a once in a generation bill to meaningfully address the real threats of climate change. It addresses the exorbitant price of prescription drugs. And, despite claims to the contrary, he is set to reduce the deficit. Does this bill address every crisis facing our country? No. Is it taking significant steps forward to meet the greatest threat to future generations in terms of climate change? Yes.
“Vermonters, and the American people, are tired of hearing ‘no, we can’t.’ Families today are facing real problems, real concerns, real questions. In a democracy, the people rule. And Vermonters, and the American people, want their government to work for them, not a government that remains locked up. They want their government to be willing to face the real problems before us, not one that fails to address them. They want a government that works, where positive change happens, consistently. Doing nothing means maintaining the status quo, rather than standing up to meet the real, and pressing, needs of America’s families today.
