Lucas Criticized Over Farm Subsidies
Oklahoma Rep. Frank Lucas criticized for taking farm subsidies while delaying food stamp renewal
By Chris Casteel Published: July 23, 2013
WASHINGTON — A Democratic lawmaker criticized Rep. Frank Lucas and 13 other Republican lawmakers Monday for accepting taxpayer subsidies for their farm operations but supporting a farm bill that had been stripped of food stamp and other nutrition programs.
“It’s outrageous that some members of Congress feel it is OK to vote for their own taxpayer subsidies but against critical nutrition assistance for 47 million Americans,” said Rep. George Miller, D-Calif.
“It’s bad enough that the House of Representatives didn’t pass a Farm Bill that included authorization for sorely needed nutrition programs, but to see members of Congress approving their own benefits at the expense of the working poor is a new low, even for this Congress.”
Miller released a report showing Lucas, R-Cheyenne, had received $40,613 in farm subsidies from the U.S. government. However, the report is based on Environmental Working Group data that shows the subsidies went to Lucas’ wife, Lynda, who operates the family ranch in Roger Mills County.