Virginia U.S. Rep. Eric Cantor said Tuesday that any spending costs associated with federal disaster funding for Joplin, Missouri, tornado victims must be offset with spending cuts.
The Virginia Republican said “if there is support for a supplemental, it would be accompanied by support for having pay-fors to that supplemental.”
The House Republican leader is the first to push for spending cuts related to the disaster that has already claimed over 100 lives. Democrats slammed the Republican leader, saying it amounted to “ransom.”
Rep. Billy Long, who represents the district impacted by the disaster, said Tuesday that he is pushing for federal emergency funding. It remains unclear whether he supports Mr. Cantor’s call for spending cuts.
“Shock and disbelief best describe the reports from those fortunate enough to have survived the tornado in Joplin,” Mr. Long said in statement after touring the disaster area. “It is comforting to see the strong response from our local, state, and federal authorities and to see the surrounding communities come together and offer assistance during this difficult time.”
President Obama is expected to visit the state on Sunday. Governor Jay Nixon has declared a state of emergency and said he had spoken with the president.
