Leonard Says Bidenomics Not Working for RI, Refuses to Weigh in on Trump
GoLocalProv News Team and News Editor Kate Nagle
Leonard Says Bidenomics Not Working for RI, Refuses to Weigh in on Trump
In a press conference on Monday at Slater Mill in Pawtucket, Leonard addressed economic issues ranging from vocational training to housing to the need for a "fiscal responsibility commission," and said "Bideneconomics" are not working for Rhode Island.
He refused, however, to weigh in on the 2024 Presidential race -- and who he supports.
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLAST"Who do I support for President? We’re a long way off from 2024," said Leonard, when asked by GoLocal following his press conference. "A lot is going to happen between now and then."
"When asked if he would support former President Donald Trump if he is the nominee, Leonard responded with the following.
"I think that remains to be seen, who’s going to be the nominee, I’m focused on 2023," he said. "I’m focused on each and every voter of this district and representing the state of Rhode Island.
Trump is currently facing federal charges accusing him of conspiring to overturn the 2020 election.
"Not only is Trump the top choice of a growing majority of Republican primary voters in national surveys, but Republicans overwhelmingly think he’s the candidate with the best chance of beating Biden next fall," wrote Politico on September 27. "And poll after poll suggests Biden and Trump are essentially tied with just over a year until the general election."
Leonard on Record
On Monday, Leonard spoke about a wide range of economic issues facing the state -- and country.
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"Rhode Island is facing an economic crisis — and it’s one we can’t afford to ignore. Our working families are struggling to make ends meet. The inflation over the past few years has caused severe economic pain. Our small businesses are fighting to survive. It’s clear to me that Bidenomics is not working for working families and small businesses across our state," said Leonard.
"The same old status quo approach to politics is not working for Rhode Islanders," he said. "It’s time to start working together — Republicans, Democrats, and Independents — to fix our economy. Today I’m calling for a 180 turn from the status quo."
"I will fight to secure funding for vocational training to equip our youth, veterans, immigrants, and the formerly incarcerated with the skills they need to pursue the American dream," said Leonard. "And I will fight to establish two new vocational high schools in the state to provide more opportunities for our students. Together, we can make Rhode Island the most competitive economy in New England."
According to Leonard, government is to blame for the current housing shortages locally.
"We also need a halt to the government-induced housing shortage," he said. "Red tape and restrictive zoning and permitting processes at the federal state and local levels have created a shortage of 2000 housing units here in the Ocean State. More than one-third of Rhode Island families are having trouble making ends meet because housing costs are too high. If I am privileged to be your next Congressman, I will work with members of both parties to reform eligibility requirements for funding, grants, loan guarantees and insurance so our state and local government have the resources they need to get the job done."
"Washington’s fiscal irresponsibility is the single greatest threat to the long-term viability of our nation. Congress’ abuse of federal budgeting practices has created fiscal instability, economic damage, and higher borrowing costs," he said. "If the current administration is going to spend our tax dollars recklessly, at least spend some money where it will do some good — like fixing our broken immigration system."
"To make sure Congress is spending responsibly and transparently, I will fight to pass legislation to establish a national fiscal responsibility commission that requires Congress to vote — in an up-and-down vote," he said.