Political Quotes

“I thank the gentleman for his recognition and for his distinguished service as the chair of the Ethics Committee. I call it by its official name having served there for 7 years myself. Madam Speaker, I rise today as the Speaker of the House of Representatives, an institution that was designed by our Founders to be the people's House, a House constantly invigorated by its accountability to the people every year. It is a place where slavery was abolished; a place where we have taken our men and women into service to protect freedom and democracy throughout the world; and a place where Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security, and so many institutions meeting the needs of the American people were established. The list goes on and on about the distinguished nature of the House of Representatives. Maybe 12- or 13,000 people have been elected to this body over time-- only a few hundred women--but all very distinguished, and great heroes of our country have served in this institution including President Abraham Lincoln. That was before the Chamber was the meeting ground. Statuary Hall is the place where his desk is memorialized to this day. So, Madam Speaker, when we come to this great institution, we understand that there are 435 Members of Congress, but only one from each district. Only one of us represents the thoughts, aspirations, dreams, fears, and hopes of our constituents.…”