Political Quotes

“Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of H.R. 5278. I thank the gentleman from Wisconsin, Congressman Duffy, and Chairman Bishop for their work in crafting this bipartisan legislation. H.R. 5278 is a compromise bill designed to save Puerto Rico from economic calamity and prevent a taxpayer bailout. Mr. Chairman, I suggest that the admission from both sides of the aisle that this bill isn't perfect is a testament that this bill is the best solution. Puerto Rico is in a crisis. The territory has already missed payments on its debt, and more and larger missed payments are on the near horizon. The fiscal and economic conditions of Puerto Rico are unsustainable. Based on the constitutionally delegated power of Congress ``to dispose of and make all needful rules and regulations respecting the territory or other property belonging to the United States,'' we have a responsibility to take action on this matter. This unsustainable debt burden brought on by poor decisions, unfulfilled promises, and bad investments has crippled their economy. Their unemployment rate is 12.2 percent, and since Puerto Ricans are American citizens, thousands of young people come to the mainland each year to find work. Puerto Rico is spiraling out of control, and it is our constitutional responsibility to put our territory on a different path and change the economic trajectory. H.R.…”