Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 7105. This important package includes a bill I authored, H.R. 4908, the Native American Veteran PACT Act. Native people have fought in every American war since the American Revolution, more than a century before they were even granted citizenship. When I served in Iraq, I fought alongside Navajo marines, some of the best marines you will ever meet. I have witnessed, firsthand, Native communities' tradition of service to America, which is why I introduced the PACT Act, to make sure America keeps its promises to these heroes. The PACT Act would prohibit the VA from charging copays to Native American veterans. The United States Government has a treaty obligation to provide healthcare to Native Americans free of charge. {time} 1515 Despite this, the VA has long charged Native veterans unconstitutional copayments for their care. That should end today. Now more than ever, in the midst of a health crisis that has been disproportionately affecting Native people, we need to make sure that Native veterans have access to the healthcare they are due, both as veterans and as members of Tribal nations. That is why, Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this important provision to uphold our trust responsibility and to vote ``yes'' on the underlying package.”