(WBRE/WYOU)— Tariffs, Medicaid, Social Security. We hear from Pennsylvania Congressman Rob Bresnahan (R) on the hottest and most controversial topics coming out of Washington.
Bresnahan discussed key issues surrounding the Trump administration that could affect people here in northeastern Pennsylvania.
He says he recognizes the accountability Congress has in taking action to help protect Pennsylvanians, but is making sure his constituents concerns are heard.
What would Trump’s Voting Executive Order mean?
"There's a lot of speculation right now. A lot of ifs, ands, buts," said Rep. Bresnahan.
That's how Bresnahan, who represents Pennsylvania's 8th District, describes recent executive orders from the white house. He admits there's some uncertainty, but is confident many programs Pennsylvanian's rely on will stay exactly where they are.
"There has been absolutely nothing different from last month's Social Security check to this month's Social Security check," stated Rep. Bresnahan.
A core focus of President Trump's administration has been getting rid of waste in the federal government, prompting large cuts to federal programs, laying off workers.
There has also been talk of cuts to Medicaid and Medicare benefits.
The congressman says he's fully in support of getting rid of fraud and waste inside of the system.
But he stands firm. Health benefits to elderly Pennsylvanians are staying intact.
"I've been clear since the beginning we are not going to gut Medicaid or Medicare benefits. If you are lawfully entitled or deserving of those benefits and our neighbors that rely on those services they will be here to stay," voiced Rep. Bresnahan.
Mr. Trump has also imposed a variety of tariffs that can have an affect on more than 1 trillion imported goods.
The latest: auto imports.
Some feel those tariffs could hit working class Pennsylvanians, farmers, and small business owners in NEPA.
"There's some legislative priority that we need to do. We need to preserve the tax cuts and job act so that businesses can have plans for continuity to know what to expect and that is something that Congress is accountable for," said Rep. Bresnahan.
Concern also this week about a journalist's account of being added to a group chat with U.S. national security officials.
"I think it was a blunder that cannot happen ever again. There was a mistake and it was exposed and there should absolutely be accountability," voiced Rep. Bresnahan.
The congressman admits changes from the executive office are coming fast but wants his constituents to know he and his fellow lawmakers are ready for anything and keeping an eye toward the future.
"The American people gave us a mandate and that is something we need to fulfill on. I'm also a big believer in the separation of powers, but I think Congress is ready for the challenge and I think we'll continue to roll up our sleeves and make a difference," added Rep. Bresnahan.
Above all, Congressman Bresnahan says his loyalty lies with northeastern Pennsylvania and has future efforts planned in making sure his constituents are protected.
