Reynolds funds victims’ budget shortfall — with federal dollars

The governor and attorney general of Iowa were again taking false credit and covering for poor choices by Republicans in Congress. The money they are using to make up for Republican-caused budget reductions for VOCA (Victims of Crime Act) came from the American Rescue Plan Act, initiated, passed and signed by congressional Democrats and President Joe Biden.

It’s too bad Gov. Kim Reynolds and Attorney General Brenna Bird don’t see childhood hunger as the same “devastating reality” that should have prompted them to provide meals for 240,000 food insecure children in Iowa this summer by turning down $29 million of federal money for that purpose, also made available by the efforts of President Biden and congressional Democrats. Or turning down $89 million assistance for those in need of housing, shelter and food. Two of the very basics of life. I’m glad they replaced the money for VOCA. I’m appalled at their incomprehensible inconsistency in aiding all vulnerable citizens of Iowa.

Phillip Thien

Des Moine