WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (MA-5) joined the House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee for a hearing on the Republican scheme to dismantle SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). The hearing featured witnesses who underscored the devastating impacts these cuts would inflict on families, farmers, and our economy. Below is a transcript of her remarks introducing chef and food security advocate Tom Colicchio:

"We know — and what we are here to discuss is — that SNAP is a lifeline for millions of our neighbors. For moms, dads, kids, seniors, veterans. And as we just heard in that video, it is also a pillar of our entire food economy. Our first witness today brings deep insight into the business of feeding our country. He knows the challenges we face — and plus, he knows the importance of making really great food. 

"Tom Colicchio is the son of a union organizer and a school lunchroom worker. Raised in a home where dinner was shared together every night, Tom went on to become a world-renowned chef — to own award-winning restaurants — and a fierce advocate for food security.

"From flipping burgers as a teenager in Elizabeth, New Jersey, to running New York’s top restaurants and serving as the head judge on Top Chef, Tom embodies the American Dream.

"And that's what we're really here in defense of today. And Tom is fighting for everyone’s right to a fair shot at their own American Dream. And that starts with meeting our most basic human need: the need for food. Tom has a lifelong appreciation for the importance of food and a fundamental understanding that hunger in this country is a policy choice. 

"The GOP budget guts food assistance for parents who are already struggling to fill lunch boxes in the morning and to put food on the table at night. They are taking meals from our seniors and our babies. All to hand tax cuts and corrupt contracts to billionaire donors.

"Republicans campaigned on lowering the cost of groceries. And now, they’re slashing the very services that keep those costs down. It’s shameful — and it makes this fight all the more urgent. 

"Chef, we thank you for being here today. We thank you for your commitment to a hunger-free future our children deserve. You are recognized."

To watch the full hearing, click HERE.