Political Quotes

“I want to commend all of my colleagues, regardless of position, for their heartfelt commitment on the issue of most favored nation [MFN] trade status renewal for China-- clearly the most pressing issue now facing relations between Washington and Beijing. Although I have the greatest respect for those Members in Congress that sincerely believe that denial of MFN is necessary to prod China into complying with its international obligations and for progress in human and political rights, I feel that they are misguided. Thus, I reluctantly urge my colleagues to oppose adoption of House Joint Resolution 182 and to support House Resolution 461. I have long been a supporter of maintaining broad and comprehensive ties with the Peoples' Republic of China--a policy of China engagement that has been upheld in a bipartisan fashion by five previous administrations. It is in America's national interest to have a productive relationship with a China that is strong, stable, open and prosperous-- a China that is increasingly integrated into the international community and global marketplace as a responsible and accountable partner.”