Ward 2 Democrats Condemn Congressional Republicans’ Attack on DC’s Budget

Dear Democrats:

Congressional Republicans have once again taken aim at DC’s autonomy, introducing a Continuing Resolution (CR) that excludes a long-standing provision allowing the District to manage its own, locally funded budget.For more than two decades, this provision has been included without issue. Stripping it now overturns DC’s Fiscal Year 2025 budget, forcing the city to revert to outdated funding levels and creating a crisis that disrupts essential services our residents rely on.

What $1 Billion in Cuts Means for DC

If enacted, this decision would slash $1 billion from critical programs in just six months—affecting public safety, education, emergency response, and more—without saving the federal government a single dollar. DC’s budget is funded by its own taxpayers, not Congress, yet nearly $240 million would be cut from law enforcement and emergency services alone, including $67 million from MPD. This means fewer officers on the streets, slower response times, and greater challenges to public safety. Meanwhile, public and charter schools stand to lose $400 million, undermining classroom resources, school safety, and educational programs.

No other jurisdiction is being forced into such reckless, retroactive cuts. DC has been responsibly spending its Fiscal Year 2025 budget since October 1, 2024, based on prior congressional approvals. Forcing these cuts midyear is not just bad policy—it’s an attack on DC’s ability to govern itself.

Ward 2 Democrats will not stand by while Congress plays political games with our city’s future. We call on federal lawmakers to respect DC’s right to govern its own affairs and immediately restore this critical budget provision.

Act Now!

We ask that youcall members of the United States Senate Wednesday to make it pointedly clear that these cuts go against the wishes of the 700,000 residents of the District of Columbia! 

Thank you,
Ward 2 Democrats