Dem rep: Trump ‘cashed in’ on 9/11

PHILADELPHIA – Rep. Joseph Crowley (D-N.Y.) is accusing Donald Trump of defrauding a federal program meant to help victims of 9/11 for his own financial benefit. 

{mosads}Speaking at the Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia on Tuesday night, Crowley praised Hillary Clinton for pushing the 9/11 Health and Compensation Act, which secured $20 billion for small businesses in New York that were devastated by the terrorist attack. 

Crowley accused Trump of illicitly drawing funds from the program. 

“Where was Donald Trump in the days and months and years after 9/11,” Crowley said. “He didn’t stand at the pile. He didn’t lobby Congress for help for the first responders. Nope. He cashed in, collecting $150,000 in federal funds intended to help small businesses recover even though days after the attack Trump said his properties were not affected.” 

“Hillary sought those funds to help local mom and pop shops get back on their feet,” he continued. “Donald Trump sought out a payday for his empire. It was one of our nation’s darkest days, but for Trump it was just another chance to make a buck.”

The Trump campaign has not responded to a request for comment.

The New York Daily News has reported that The Trump Organization received a $150,000 loan from the government through funds that had been earmarked to rebuild New York City in the wake of the attack.