Maxine Waters said "I am shattered by what is happening on this floor. It is inconceivable that we could have the opportunity here this evening in our public policymaking to literally direct our United States Trade Representative in the way that they handle this issue and not allow them to take it before the WTO to prevent countries from producing generic drugs to save lives. It is a contradiction because we are debating faith-based initiatives. We are debating whether or not we are going to allow the religious community and the church community to help save lives and to help poor people, all of that. It is a contradiction, Mr. Chairman. As I listen to this debate this evening, I am shattered because for even the best of us, we allow ourselves to be undermined and to be mismanaged by outside interests. May God have mercy on all of our souls. This is a tragedy." @ PoliticalQuotes.com

On the recordJuly 18, 2001

I am shattered by what is happening on this floor. It is inconceivable that we could have the opportunity here this evening in our public policymaking to literally direct our United States Trade Representative in the way that they handle this issue and not allow them to take it before the WTO to prevent countries from producing generic drugs to save lives. It is a contradiction because we are debating faith-based initiatives. We are debating whether or not we are going to allow the religious community and the church community to help save lives and to help poor people, all of that. It is a contradiction, Mr. Chairman. As I listen to this debate this evening, I am shattered because for even the best of us, we allow ourselves to be undermined and to be mismanaged by outside interests. May God have mercy on all of our souls. This is a tragedy.

Said by

Maxine Waters

Democratic · California

Source

govinfo.gov

Editor's note · Context

Addressing the implications of trade policy on access to generic drugs during a debate.

Share on X Share on Facebook Email this quote