Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the extraordinary leadership of my colleague, Mr. Emanuel Cleaver, who represents with distinction Missouri's Fifth District. I want to offer a special word of appreciation for his many years of service, not merely for his constituents, but for his steady commitment to employ the power of his office to ensure our Nation is set on a course where we all succeed. As chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, Mr. Cleaver used this position of leadership to help elevate and embolden us to address some of the great social and economic challenges of our day, not just for African Americans, but for all Americans. I am reminded of the evening in North Carolina at the Democratic Convention when he gave that impassioned and fiery speech that brought everyone to our feet. He reminded us that in America our strength is rooted in our Nation's most profound gift--its diversity. He reminded us that no matter how difficult times may get or may be that we must ``hope on,'' and that it is the power of our hope that drives us to not give up when we have failed, but to try again until we get it right. As I complete my first term in Congress, let me thank the chairman for his counsel, his guidance, and his friendship. He's provided advice and wisdom that as a newcomer to Washington has been invaluable.…”