For Release: Friday, November 2, 2007
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

BUSH VETOES WRDA; COSTELLO ASKS: "WHY DOESN'T THE PRESIDENT WANT TO INVEST IN THE UNITED STATES"

Washington - U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL), a senior member of the House Transportation Committee and its Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee, issued the following statement following President Bush’s veto of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), which authorizes water projects undertaken by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and includes several projects of importance to Illinois and the 12th Congressional District:

“At a time when we continue to spend $12 billion of U.S. taxpayers’ money a month in Iraq, I cannot understand how President Bush can veto - for the cost of two months in Iraq - important water infrastructure projects here at home. I have to ask, why doesn’t the President want to invest in the United States? This bill is seven years overdue, and our infrastructure needs are growing. The President’s veto message talks about priorities, and I believe that the future of the U.S. economy and the living standards of our citizens are top priorities. This bill will help our farmers get their crops to market, protect critical habitats and help protect our cities. The money is there, it just happens to be going to Iraq, $750 billion and counting.”

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