Congress passes 2018 budget, moves one step closer to tax reform

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The Capitol Dome is seen on Capitol Hill in Washington July 28, 2011. (AP)

The U.S. House of Representatives narrowly approved a Senate version of the 2018 federal budget on Thursday, which included language that would allow a tax reform bill to pass Congress without any Democratic votes.

By a vote of 216-212, the entire Alabama delegation voted in favor of the resolution with the exception of lone Democrat Alabama 7th District U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell.

Here’s what the delegation has to say about their votes:

Bradley Byrne_YesAlabama 1st District U.S. Rep. Bradley Byrne:

With a budget now passed, we are one step closer to making tax reform a reality. We must follow through on our promise to make our tax code fairer and simpler for American families. Our ultimate goal is to put more money in the pockets of hardworking Americans.

Martha Roby_YesAlabama 2nd District U.S. Rep. Martha Roby:

By passing this budget today, Congress is one step closer to enacting pro-growth tax reform that will offer much-needed relief to American families. Our tax reform plan will grow the economy, create jobs here in the United States, and allow hardworking taxpayers to keep more of their money in their pocket. This is a unique and exciting opportunity to deliver on our promise and give the American people the results they deserve.

Mike Rogers_YesAlabama 3rd District U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers:

Today’s vote is the beginning of the biggest tax overhaul in thirty years. I am hopeful both the House and Senate will take up and pass President Trump’s tax plan as soon as possible.

Simplifying the tax code, lowering rates and making small businesses more competitive will improve take-home pay for hard-working American families. I agree with President Trump that our tax system should reward hard work and encourage investment in the private sector. Closing special interest loopholes and simplifying the tax code will save everyone billions of dollars spent on filling out IRS paperwork each year.

Robert Aderholt_YesAlabama 4th District U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt:

Did not release an official statement.

Mo Brooks_YesAlabama 5th District U.S. Rep. Mo Brooks:

Did not release an official statement.

Gary Palmer_YesAlabama 6th District U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer:

Did not release an official statement.

Terri Sewell_NoAlabama 7th District U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell:

I voted against today’s budget because it trades away critical investments in infrastructure, education, job-training, and health care programs in exchange for short-sighted tax cuts for special interests and the wealthy. As our country faces serious fiscal challenges, we need to make responsible budgeting decisions that build a foundation for job growth, better wages, and improved economic and health outcomes. Instead, today’s budget relies on gimmicks and irresponsible cuts to make way for a special interest tax plan that adds $1.5 trillion to the deficit.