Political Quotes

“I think the basis for the opposition is the illusionary effect that it has rather than the practical reality associated with a resolve of this issue. As I indicated, Senator Santorum took the floor to decry the amendment. I recognize that Senator Santorum is as strong an advocate of the steel industry as any Member of this body, and his credibility is certainly unchallenged. I have listened to the Senator from Pennsylvania describe this amendment as a 'cruel hoax' on the workers and on the future for U.S. steelworkers. I happen to agree with his description of the amendment because it fails to fund the benefits and leads workers and retirees of the steel industry down a blind alley. It is going to authorize something--get their hopes up--but you are not going to fund it. It is a shame because, as I indicated in my opening remarks, a month ago, the Senate had a chance to pass a comprehensive fix for the so-called steel legacy cost. And that is the issue that threatens the benefits of retired workers and the future, in my opinion, of today's steelworkers.”