The statement suggests that over five consecutive years, government policies under President Bush have resulted in reductions to essential city services in order to fund tax breaks for wealthier individuals. Meanwhile, requests made by the mayor to counteract these cuts and preserve public services were not addressed or funded.
At a deeper level, this quote highlights the tension between fiscal policy aimed at stimulating economic growth through tax incentives for affluent citizens versus the practical impact on everyday urban residents who rely on core city services like education, sanitation, and healthcare. The statement critiques the prioritization of wealthy taxpayers' interests over the needs of those dependent on public infrastructure, suggesting a disparity in governmental resource allocation that exacerbates social inequalities.
Anthony Weiner is an American politician known for his tenure as a U.S. Representative from New York and later as the Mayor of Brooklyn Heights. This quote reflects his commentary during his time as a representative, where he was critical of federal budget decisions affecting local governance and the well-being of city dwellers.