A Republican congressman, who previously criticized President Biden for the inflation crisis, now claims that rising prices are an issue for state governments to address. This pivot comes as Rep. Josh Brecheen (R-OK), known for his anti-LGBTQ+ policies, faces questions about his stance on economic issues.
During a town hall meeting in Pryor, Oklahoma, Brecheen was confronted by a constituent with a straightforward question: "Can you tell me what specific bills we have passed or worked on that would lower grocery prices?" Brecheen's response was telling. He deflected responsibility by saying, "Ma'am, you are talking about things relative to state level. So you're mixing federal and state, and Congress..." He went on to explain that the 10th Amendment prevents him from impacting grocery prices, suggesting that the constituent should direct her concerns to the Oklahoma state government.
The 10th Amendment and Economic Policy
Brecheen cited the 10th Amendment, which reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states. However, the amendment does not specifically address the prices of consumer goods, which are influenced by a variety of both state and federal policies. Economists often debate the extent of presidential influence over inflation, although the current administration has been noted for imposing import taxes that contribute to rising prices.
As of now, the Republican-controlled Congress could theoretically pass a resolution to terminate tariffs, a move advocated by some economic think tanks.
Brecheen's Consistent Criticism of Biden
Over the past few years, Brecheen has been vocal about blaming President Biden for the country's economic woes. In June 2024, he tweeted, "Prices are up more than 19% under President Biden. President Biden's America is completely unaffordable." He highlighted the increased financial burden on families, stating that the average family of four spends $1,300 more per month due to inflation.
His Fourth of July message continued this rhetoric, mentioning that food prices had risen by 21%, energy prices by 36%, and housing prices by 21% since Biden took office. Brecheen attributed these economic challenges to "President Biden's disastrous economic policies."
By September 2024, as Vice President Kamala Harris became the Democratic nominee, Brecheen expanded his critique to include both Biden and Harris, blaming them for a 27% increase in restaurant prices and a significant loss in the dollar's purchasing power.
Anti-LGBTQ+ Legislative Efforts
Beyond economic issues, Rep. Brecheen is also known for his strong opposition to LGBTQ+ rights. He holds a zero rating on the Human Rights Campaign's Congressional Scorecard, indicative of his consistent votes against LGBTQ+ supportive legislation.
In 2023, he introduced the "Patriotism Not Pride Act," which aimed to ban federal agencies from celebrating Pride Month, accusing these agencies of "promoting sexual preference" and pushing a "far-left social agenda."
The following year, Brecheen introduced the "Protecting Religious Freedom for Foster Families Act." This bill sought to allow foster and adoption agencies to prioritize religious beliefs over the interests of LGBTQ+ children, potentially allowing misgendering of transgender youth in foster care. Brecheen argued this would protect foster families' "sincerely held religious or moral beliefs," and criticized protections for LGBTQ+ foster kids as part of an "anti-Christian, far-left agenda."
Conclusion
Rep. Josh Brecheen's stance on economic issues and his legislative efforts against LGBTQ+ rights reflect broader political tensions. While he shifts blame for inflation to state governments, his actions in Congress continue to impact marginalized communities. As debates over economic policy and LGBTQ+ rights persist, Brecheen remains a polarizing figure within the Republican Party.
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