NAACP on Passage of Budget Reconciliation Bill: We Will Remember This Betrayal at the Ballot Box

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 3, 2025

Contact: Chyna Fields, cfields@naacpnet.org 

WASHINGTON — Today, the NAACP denounced the House of Representatives for passing the so-called "One Big Beautiful Bill," a piece of legislation that is anything but.  

NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson released the following statement: 

"Make no mistake, this bill is not beautiful. It's brutal. It's a deeply destructive piece of legislation that undermines the very foundations of what it means to be an American. Not only does it slash funding for essential programs likeMedicaid, SNAP, tax credits for the middle and working class, it deepens the nation's debt by over $3 trillion – all to make billionaires wealthier.  

"This kind of policy violence is nothing less than an assault on everyday Americans, no matter if you're Black, white, or brown. We will not stand idly by as our communities are stripped of the benefits that we pay for with our tax dollars.  

"While we are disappointed, we are not deterred. Across the country, NAACP members, partners, and allies are mobilizing. We will hold this administration and every lawmaker accountable for the harm this bill will cause. 

"And come midterm elections next year, we will remember who stood with the people, and who sold us out.  

"Now is the time for unity. Now is the time for organizing. We are urging every person who believes in justice to join us in building power at the local level, demanding new leadership, and voting like our futures depend on it, because they do." 

About NAACP

The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.

NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP-LDF - was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.