Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of House Resolution 488, supporting the Democratic aspirations of the people of Venezuela. I would like to thank my friend, Congresswoman Ros-Lehtinen, for her leadership and for always fighting for democratic principles. I would like to thank Chairman Royce and Ranking Member Engel for working to bring this resolution to the floor. I strongly condemn the violence used by the Maduro regime: 17 dead and 261 injured in the recent protest. Peaceful assembly should never be met with the use of deadly force. This government has resorted to political intimidation and free media censorship to squash the voices of the people. I join my colleagues today in support of the people of Venezuela to determine their own political future. It is their democratic right to seek government policies that put their country on a path to democratic and economic prosperity for all Venezuelans. By passing this resolution, Congress will send a clear message to the people of Venezuela--and to all those around the world struggling to achieve true democracy and freedom--that we stand with you. We support your most democratic rights of free expression and peaceful assembly. Any true democracy must be accountable to its people. We call on the Maduro government to work with the people, not against them, to end the violence, and to find a political resolution. This resolution, Mr.…”