Political Quotes

“September is Suicide Prevention Month, a time for our Nation to raise awareness about the recurring tragedy of suicide. This epidemic is too common for the men and women who wore our country's uniform and put their lives on the line to defend our freedom. An estimated 20 veterans lose their lives to suicide each and every day. A new VA report shows the risk for suicide is 22 percent higher among veterans than civilians, and 250 percent higher amongst female veterans than female civilians. This is unacceptable. Twenty veterans a day lost to suicide should be a call to action for our country and for this Congress. We must take action, and we must do it now. Typically, the time in this Chamber is split. Republicans have 1 hour and Democrats have 1 hour, but we believe this issue is too important to be overshadowed by partisan politics. That is why, tonight, Congressman Tim Murphy and I have brought together Members from both sides of the aisle to show our commitment to solving this problem together and finding real solutions for our veterans. This is the fifth year that we have assembled this team to raise awareness and send a clear message that the epidemic of veteran suicide must end. We have so much work left to do. So tonight we demonstrate our ongoing support for individuals, organizations, and agencies devoted to preventing the epidemic of veteran suicide. We challenge the VA, the Department of Defense, and our fellow lawmakers to do more.…”