Rep. Corrine Brown: “First of all, as a member of the Subcommittee on Aviation, let me say that it is inappropriate that we reported this…”

“First of all, as a member of the Subcommittee on Aviation, let me say that it is inappropriate that we reported this bill out without a hearing or a markup in subcommittee. This is an important decision we are making today, and I urge my colleagues to consider all of the information. Naming National Airport after President Ronald Reagan is unnecessary government intervention and duplication, and, in addition, he is not known for being a champion of aviation policy. Quite the contrary, his aviation policies were often divisive and controversial. Although we differ on political views, I do respect him as the President. I hate to be put in the position like this, when we are pressured to vote on an important issue that will be costly, involves wrongful government intervention into local business, and renames a public facility--something we have never done before, when President Reagan is ill. This is not the time or place for this discussion. I will not enter into a partisan debate on this issue. I think the simple facts speak for themselves. We have already honored President Reagan for his achievements.”