Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman for yielding, and I congratulate the gentlewoman on presenting her first bill as a cardinal on the Appropriations Committee. This is a long time coming, and it is a pleasure to work with her. The bill invests in health and upholds American global values abroad. The fiscal year 2022 State-Foreign Operations appropriations bill, in a historic move, removes the Helms amendment, which has prohibited safe abortions and healthcare services for poor and vulnerable women in low- income countries for decades. That is a significant decision and one that enables access to healthcare for millions of women across the globe. I am pleased that this bill includes language to support countries, like Colombia, who have welcomed Venezuelans fleeing the humanitarian crisis. It also funds prodemocracy and human rights programs in Venezuela, as well as in Cuba. This funding is critical to ensure access to broadcasting and the internet in Cuba. These platforms will provide support to the Cuban people as they struggle for freedom and true self-governance. Finally, this bill continues support for the critical U.S.-Israel partnership by fully funding U.S. security assistance to Israel and cooperative missile defense programs. Ensuring that Israel maintains her qualitative military edge is essential for stability in the Middle East and our own national security. I truly thank Chairwoman Lee for working closely with me and others on this bill.…”