Lower Economic Growth Expectations, Inflation Remains High

President Biden’s economic policies have proven to be continued bad news for the American economy. GDP growth missed expectations for the third quarter in a row and there are over 10 million jobs available across the country.

While growth expectations have fallen, the inflation rates reported this week remain high. The price of goods is impacting groceries and gas, and everything in between. You can expect Biden’s inflation to take a bite out of your budget for this year’s Thanksgiving meals.

According to the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, President Biden’s reckless spending has directly contributed to the worsening inflation. Trillions of dollars in additional spending by Biden and Speaker Pelosi will unquestionably continue to exacerbate already high levels of inflation. Their ultimate goal is to further increase dependence on the federal government. Congressional Democrats’ approach to legislating is built on the notion that a big federal government is the solution to our nation’s problem.

President John Kennedy said: “Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.” That’s a far cry from what House Democrats are saying today. One of my Democrat colleagues at a hearing recently quipped that the government should be “guaranteeing that the basic needs of American families are met.” Sixty years later, House Democrats want to forget what JFK asked of Americans. Listen to my comments from a recent meeting of the House Ways & Means Committee Republicans, discussing Democrats’ spending proposals.

Investing in Cures 

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women. I am proud to be a part of a bipartisan group who requested robust funding to support ongoing breast cancer research programs.

Recognizing the Deployed, First Responders & Veterans  

October 26, 2021 was National Day of the Deployed, a day to recognize and give thanks for those selflessly serving abroad in the United States Armed Forces and recognizing the sacrifices of their families.

Last Thursday was National First Responders Day. Thank you to all first responders in #PA11 and across the nation for their selfless service in keeping our communities safe. 

As an American, it gives me great pride when I reflect on the selfless service of our veterans. I enjoyed meeting with Robert earlier this month and presenting him with a commemorative Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pin. Thank you for your service, Robert! 

Here to Help

Earlier this month, the Social Security Administration announced that the 2022 cost-of-living adjustment will be 5.9 percent for Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. These increases will begin in January 2022 for Social Security recipients and on December 30, 2021 for SSI beneficiaries. Learn more by visiting the Social Security Administration’s website.   

Due to an increase in demand, the U.S. State Department is experiencing delays in issuing new passports. It may now take up to 14 weeks for passports to be issued. For more information on passport processing times, visit the U.S. Department of State’s website.

The deadline for individuals impacted by the recent storms from the remnants of Hurricane Ida, who may be eligible for FEMA assistance, to register with FEMA is November 10, 2021. Please visit the FEMA website to learn more about available programs.

To any veteran, there is always support available at the Veterans Crisis Line. Call 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1 or text 838255. Visit the Veterans Crisis Line website for more information.

The Small Business Administration (SBA) has created a new online portal for Paycheck Protection Program borrowers with loans under $150,000 to apply for loan forgiveness directly through the SBA, rather than your loan servicer. 

If you have any questions or issues with a federal agency, please know that my office is here to assist you. You can call my district or Washington, DC offices for assistance or visit my website for any issue with a federal agency or department.

Stay Connected

To stay up-to-date on my work in the district and Washington, be sure to follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. You can also check out my YouTube page, where there are 100+ videos, many of which are direct responses to your questions.

Sincerely,

Lloyd Smucker