UCONN Democrats to Host Forum on Student Loan Cuts, Blast Simmons for Breaking Promises
2nd District Candidate Joe Courtney, State Representative Denise Merrill to Discuss Impact of GOP Cuts

( Storrs , January 19, 2005) - Angered over Rob Simmons' vote to cut nearly $13 billion from federal student loan programs, the University of Connecticut Democrats are hosting a forum with 2nd District Congressional Candidate Joe Courtney and State Representative Denise Merrill on January 26th at 4 p.m. at the University of Connecticut 's Dodd Center .

"Rob broke his word," said David Adams, President of the UCONN Democrats, "He repeatedly promised to oppose these drastic cuts, yet was there to give Tom DeLay and the Republicans the vote they needed to narrowly pass these reductions."

Simmons voted with his Republican leadership December 19, 2005 to support a $40 billion budget cut initiative that included the student aid reductions and billions in Medicaid and Medicare cuts. Simmons, in a November 30, 2005 email to constituents, promised to oppose the measure:

"I voted against this budget because I am opposed to cutting spending at the expense of Connecticut 's most vulnerable citizens. Medicaid, student loans, and food stamps are programs that help people. I could not vote for a bill that targeted these programs. I am for a reduction in federal spending, but it must be done in a more equitable manner.

Courtney and Merrill will provide students the facts about the impact these cuts will have on their future, as well as talk about how University of Connecticut students can play a major role in changing national policy by changing the Congressman representing Connecticut 's Second District.

"It's time for leadership that will stand up for Connecticut's college students and their families," Courtney said, "Affordable college tuition is essential in that it gives our young people the skills they need to succeed in an increasingly competitive global economy. Once again, Rob Simmons failed to step up when it mattered."

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