Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D) at a Recent Press Conference on Other Trump Concerns.

A Bumper Sticker Seen Recently in Downtown Portland.

Reports that President Trump’s administration has a draft budget plan that would dramatically cut the Coast Guard and FEMA in order to fund his Mexican border wall prompted the following statement from Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D) late this afternoon:

“It’s illogical and reckless of the Trump administration to consider defunding the Coast Guard and FEMA in order to pay for his ineffective border wall with Mexico.  His budget draft calls for a 14% cut for the Coast Guard and an 11% cut to FEMA in order to pay for a wall that will be nothing to improve national security,” according to the press release.

“Here in Maine we know the Coast Guard well.  In fact, there are two boats docked right across from my office in Portland.  Not only do these dedicated men and women protect our coasts and enforce the laws, but they are the first responders for fishermen and boaters in maritime emergencies.  Not to mention the critical role of FEMA plays in, supporting Maine’s infrastructure in recovering from major snow and ice storms.  The impact of these cuts on public safety would be devastating.

I certainly won’t stand for these cuts if they come before the Appropriations  Committee,” the press release ended.

(note:  mhn.com just saw a television interview with EPA Director Scott Pruitt who denied that carbon dioxide emissions contribute to climate change.)