April 14, 2026

WASHINGTON, D.C.— As Congress convenes to begin discussions on Budget Reconciliation and in response to President Trump’s proposed Fiscal Year 2027 budget, NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice Executive Director Laurie Carafone issued the statement below. The president’s proposed budget slashes funding for healthcare, food programs, housing supports, and childcare while proposing $1.5 trillion in total defense spending, $350 billion to continue funding an unprovoked war, and additional funds for militarized immigration enforcement.

“A budget is a moral document that demonstrates our nation’s priorities. Catholics and Americans who value peace and justice are united in their opposition to increased militarization here or around the world. Our call to Congress is clear: no more money for the Iran war; no more money to separate our families. Our faith calls us to love one another and protect human dignity and the common good everywhere. Instead, the Trump administration has devastated food and healthcare programs for millions of people to pay for mass detentions and deportations and now wants to take away more vital programs that families need to pay for more war and militarization in our neighborhoods.

“Pope Leo XIV makes the moral urgency clear: ‘Too many people are suffering today, too many innocent people are being killed, and I think someone has to stand up and say there’s is a better way.’

“We are encouraged by our Catholic leaders reminding us that the Gospel is clear in directing us to be peacemakers. True security comes from investment in priorities that bring life, peace, and justice. Americans who are struggling to provide for their families want solutions that prioritize the wellbeing of our communities, not funding to escalate war, terrorize communities and tear families apart.”