The two Democratic senators from Pennsylvania withdrew their request for a $1 million earmark for the William Way LGBT Community Center in Philadelphia after it drew criticism online.
Sens. John Fetterman and Bob Casey had sought the funds for renovations, but removed it due to Republican opposition.
Their original request followed the House blocking $1.8 million previously.
“After further review, I am writing to withdraw my support and request the removal of the below Fiscal Year 2024 Congressionally Directed Spending project included in the Senate Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies appropriations bill,” the letters read.
“The William Way LGBT Community Center has been doing critical work in Philadelphia for decades. I do not believe that we should penalize this center based on events that are entirely legal among consenting adults. I have no problem with what consenting adults do in their private time,” Fetterman said.
While praising the center’s work, Fetterman acknowledged the new funding wouldn’t pass and blamed Republicans.
Rep. Brandon Boyle, who also backed the center, had celebrated its inclusion until the requests disappeared from spending bills.
Fetterman said Democratic priorities shouldn’t be dictated by “Libs of TikTok,” which had highlighted sexually explicit center events.
He pledged to renew funding efforts for the next fiscal year.
“Unfortunately, at the 11th hour my staff was made aware that funding for William Way, which was in the bill because I championed it, would not pass in the FY24 appropriations process. The choice was either to pull it or watch it get stripped out, attacked by Republicans, and ultimately killed. This is not the end of this fight and I am going to fight for William Way to secure their funding in the FY25 appropriations process,” he added. “I’m new here, but I wasn’t aware that Democratic values and priorities are dictated by Libs of TikTok.”
Read Also:
Bombshell Decision from Michelle Obama on 2024 Run
Former Border Chief Shreds Biden With 4 Simple Words
