Political Quotes

On the recordFebruary 10, 2011
I find it disturbing that today we're going to start out on a 9 rac{1}{2}-hour debate on a meaningless, redundant measure that simply instructs Congress and its committees to review regulations and we could be spending that time dealing with such a very important, serious issue such as reauthorization of this so-called Patriot Act. This bill is too serious, it's too important, to be reauthorized without any hearings, no markups, no opportunity for amendments. There is bipartisan consensus that these provisions need some improvement--roving wiretaps, the lone wolf provisions, especially business records. While the threat of terrorism is real and law enforcement must have the right tools to protect Americans, any counterterrorism measure must have a solid constitutional footing and respect the privacy and civil liberties of the American people.
Said by
Hank Johnson
Democratic · Georgia

Editor's note · Context

The speaker criticizes the focus on a redundant measure instead of the serious reauthorization of the Patriot Act.

Share

More from Hank Johnson

Jun 27, 2024

I thank Representative Takano for all that he does in upholding human rights and civil rights for everyone in this country, regardless of what your sexual inclination might be. When you really stop and think about it, we should be beyond…

govinfo.gov
Jun 12, 2024

The Stronger Communities through Better Transit Act establishes a grant program in line with your priorities to support operating projects for public transportation.

congress.gov
Dec 3, 2024

I support this legislation and encourage my colleagues to do the same. It has been a pleasure working hard with my Republican colleague (Mr. Tiffany). Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The question…

govinfo.gov
Mar 5, 2025

The VA needs improvement, but reckless cuts are not the answer. Veterans should not bear the brunt of mismanagement.

newsweek.com

Other voices in this conversation