Lauren Boebert under fire for justifying her vote against veterans' health benefits expansion

LITTLETON, COLORADO: Rep Lauren Boebert justified her vote against the legislation to expand veterans' health benefits, saying she did not want to spend "$600 billion forever," reported The Hill.

The Republican lawmaker's explanation for her vote followed criticism from Democratic opponent Trisha Calvarese, who questioned her opposition to the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our PACT Act. The legislation aims to expand health benefits for post-9/11 veterans affected by toxin exposure during their service.

"If you’re going to take care of folks, what about our veterans, Lauren? You know, because you’re talking about lots of cuts and how to pay for things," Calvarese asked, highlighting Boebert's vote against the legislation

This prompted the Colorado lawmaker to turn the lunchtime debate for the Centennial State's 4th Congressional District on Tuesday, September 3, into a passionate defense of her opposition to the bill.

Lauren Boebert cites massive spending and lack of time to read the bill while defending her no-vote

Lauren Boebert, who last year switched her reelection bid from Colorado's 3rd district to the 4th district, responded to her Democratic rival's question by asserting that she always prioritizes the voters.

Listing her reasons for opposing the omnibus legislation, the congresswoman stated, "I'm not voting for something that we have 22 hours to read that's over 2,000 pages long."

When Calvarese criticized her comments about supporting veterans, asserting that the audience was "not foolish," Boebert responded with her second reason.

"I'm not spending $600 billion forever because we couldn’t get a couple of pieces of language right in legislation. Just because a bill is on the floor does not make it the only option," the Donald Trump ally said.

She also mentioned that when the bill was initially introduced on the House floor, the GOP was in the minority, leaving no room for amendments. This, she argued, prevented her from providing a "Colorado voice to the men and women" veterans regarding the bill.

Boebert, along with 88 other House GOP members, voted against the PACT Act, which had passed both the House and Senate with a majority of Republican and all Democratic votes in July 2022. President Joe Biden signed the legislation into law shortly thereafter.

A minority of Republicans opposed the $400 billion mandatory spending before it became a law. Public pressure from prominent figures, including comedian Jon Stewart, caused the Senate to agree to three amendments to control the cost. Despite this, 11 GOP senators still voted against the bill.

Lauren Boebert slammed as she defends voting against bill to expand veterans' health benefits

Lauren Boebert faced intense backlash on social media for attempting to justify her vote against the legislation aimed at expanding veterans' health benefits. Critics labeled her a "disgrace" and accused her of catering to wealthy individuals.

"Lauren Boebert proves time and time again that she’s dumb as a stump," a user said.

"'Lip Service' to our military and veterans, but nothing else. The men and women who serve and sacrifice to defend us must be an indisputable priority for our country. Bobo doesn't get it. Still appealing to the rich and privileged. Why is this woman in Congress?" another asked.

"Boebert is an idiot who should not be anywhere near congress....she fits better in an episode of Jerry springer," said a third user. [sic]

"Lauren Boebert would rather put the money in Donald Trumps bank account to pay for his fines and legal costs," read a response. [sic]

"Will Colorado please get rid of her for good. She’s a disgrace to this nation," an individual said.

"Veterans will need help as long as we have veterans! You are sick, Boebert!" someone else chimed in.

"Her and Trump are closely connected through the fundamental and shameful disrespect for Veterans!" another user wrote.

"She needs to be voted out in November!" read one remark.

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.