Democrats Blocking Extension of Violence Against Women Act is Shameful

Today on the floor, I discussed my disappointment with Democrats for blocking an extension of the Violence Against Women Act in the border security funding agreement. Excerpts of  my floor remarks are below, and video can be found here.

One of the things that's notably absent in this bill is an extension of the Violence Against Women Act, which provides resources to assist women who are victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.

Republicans made absolutely clear from the get-go that we wanted to extend the current law, but I’m incredulous that our Democratic colleagues objected.

It’s really hard for me to believe that Speaker Pelosi and House Democrats object to a modest extension of this critical legislation, which has helped countless victims receive the support they need. But because of the political jockeying, the Violence Against Women Act will expire at midnight tomorrow.

As somebody since my days as attorney general have long been a believer in advocating for victims' rights, I’m disappointed – I’m beyond disappointed – that we've ended up in this situation. It's shameful to play politics with the Violence Against Women Act, but because of their obstruction, this important resource for victims across the country will lapse tomorrow night at midnight.