President Donald Trump says the government will continue to support the Special Olympics, despite his administration's proposal to cut funding.
The Department of Education's 2020 budget plan proposed eliminating $17.6 million in funding for the games. But the president told reporters Thursday, "I've overridden my people for funding the Special Olympics."
"The Special Olympics will be funded. I just told my people I want to fund the Special Olympics, and I just authorized a funding of the Special Olympics. I've been to the Special Olympics. I think it's incredible and I just authorized a funding."
Education Secretary Betsy DeVos has defended the proposal, along with roughly $7 billion in proposed cuts to various Education Department programs. But House Democrats called the proposed cuts "cruel" and "reckless."
In a statement, DeVos said she supported the Special Olympics but that the government "cannot fund every worthy program." She also said she didn't personally approve the cuts to the Special Olympics.
"I love Special Olympics myself. I have given a portion of my salary to Special Olympics. I hope all of this debate encourages lots of private contributions to Special Olympics. Let's not use disabled children in a twisted way for your political narrative. That is just disgusting and it's shameful."
Additional reporting from Newsy affiliate CNN.
