Rep. Gabe Vasquez Votes Against Reckless Cuts to Rural TV and Radio Programs and Foreign Aid

July 18, 2025 Press Release WASHINGTON, D.C. – On July 18, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) voted against the $9 billion Republican rescissions package, rejecting cuts to critical public broadcasting programs and foreign aid. “The last thing we should be doing is shutting down public radio and television that hardworking New Mexicans rely on for severe weather alerts, local news coverage, and educational programming for kids,” said Vasquez. “It’s offensive that Republicans don’t see the value in these news and educational resources for our communities." The Republican rescissions package includes significant domestic and international funding cuts that would: Eliminate $1.1 billion in funding for public television and public radio, cutting off coverage of local news and high school sports, eliminating emergency information like severe weather alerts, and jeopardizing access to PBS KIDS children’s programming, like Sesame Street. Eliminate all civilian assistance for Ukraine and Eastern European partners facing Russian aggression. Cut $2.5 billion in global development aid. Vasquez remains committed to ensuring rural communities receive the federal investments in communications and connectivity that they deserve. ###