Capital District Times

Paul Tonko, a U.S. Congressman representing New York’s 20th District, has voiced his concerns through recent tweets regarding policies of the Trump administration and actions by House Republicans. Tonko, who has served since 2009, continues to be vocal about issues affecting various communities.

On April 1, 2025, Paul Tonko expressed his disapproval of the Trump administration’s budget cuts affecting vulnerable communities such as cancer patients, people with mental illness, those suffering from addiction, and individuals with Alzheimer's. He questioned how these reductions align with making America healthier. "Cancer patients, people with mental illness, those suffering with addiction, individuals with Alzheimer's—these are the communities who will suffer from the Trump administration's devastating cuts. How does this 'Make America Healthy Again?'"

Later on the same day, Tonko criticized the House GOP for canceling an entire workweek following Speaker Mike Johnson's unsuccessful attempt to prevent new mothers in Congress from casting votes. Tonko likened this decision to a temper tantrum, highlighting the disruption of legislative progress. "The House GOP just canceled an entire workweek for themselves after Speaker Johnson failed in his attempt to block new moms from casting votes in the House. Instead of doing the people’s business, Mike Johnson is throwing a temper tantrum - something new moms know plenty about."

On April 2, 2025, he commented on the elimination of bipartisan programs critical to millions affected by Alzheimer's. Tonko urged Republicans in Congress to resist influential figures like Elon Musk and stand up for these impactful programs. "Devastating news for the many millions impacted by Alzheimer's. Let's be clear: These WERE bipartisan programs. Republicans in Congress who care about these issues need to grow a spine and stand up to Elon Musk before it's too late."