“This budget demonstrates Congress can work together in a bipartisan fashion and break the gridlock,” Hirono said in a statement, adding, “While not perfect, this budget agreement contains many measures that will benefit Hawaii and our nation.”

Hirono said she remains concerned about measures that increase transportation security fees and cuts to benefits for military retirees and federal workers.

Schatz, who released a statement yesterday when the budget moved toward a final vote, said, “While this is not the exact bill I would craft on my own, this is much-needed cooperation in a town where compromise has become a dirty word.”

Schatz continued: “The budget prevents a $20 billion defense cut from hitting next month, which would have disproportionately hurt Hawaii.  The agreement keeps 25,000 federal civilian workers in Hawaii from being furloughed, and it protects Social Security and Medicare benefits.  This agreement is good for Hawaii.”

Last week, U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa voted against the budget bill in the House while U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard voted in favor.

Photo: Congress. (Ron Cogswell)

—Chad Blair