Political Quotes

“Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of this amendment submitted with my colleague from New York to reduce the spending at the Botanic Garden. We're in the middle of a spending crisis that may lead to a sovereign debt crisis. In my view, there are very few programs funded by the Federal Government that can be exempt from fiscal responsibility and scrutiny. This is an unprecedented fiscal crisis. I applaud the Appropriations Committee's leadership and commitment to making significant spending reductions in this bill, including reducing personal office expenses and committee budgets. There are many wonderful museums and points of interest here in Washington, D.C., and the Botanic Garden is among the best. My amendment, which would reduce its funding appropriations and take away its proposed increase, is not based on any act or omission by the Botanic Garden. They run a great program here. But let me be clear: as an avid outdoorsman and a gardener myself, I personally derive much benefit from the Botanic Garden right here on Capitol Hill. I have visited these beautiful places many times and always learn and see something new. Our amendment is not intended to make the statement that the Botanic Garden is not a good and worthy program. It is. But it is not constitutionally mandated. It is not essential to providing key services to Americans. It does not generate jobs. It does contribute to the knowledge and understanding of the world, and that has great value.…”