    [Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 36, Number 15 (Monday, April 17, 2000)]
    [Page 771]
    [Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    <R04>
    Statement on the Republican Budget Proposal

    April 7, 2000

        This new Republican budget combines bad fiscal policy and a flawed
    economic strategy. It undermines our efforts to strengthen Social
    Security and Medicare, makes it harder to pay off the debt, and rests on
    dramatic cuts in education, law enforcement, the environment, and
    efforts to promote peace in national security.
        I remain committed to working with any Member of Congress from
    either party on a budget that will strengthen Social Security and
    Medicare, add a prescription drug benefit, eliminate the debt by 2013,
    expand access to health coverage through Medicaid and the Children's
    Health Insurance Program, and strengthen education and other key
    investments. Let's put this empty political document aside and work
    together to keep America on a responsible fiscal course that meets our
    Nation's long-term challenges.

     Note: This item was not received in time for publication in the
    appropriate issue.