JOHN LINDER: “This resolution is one that, in a perfect world, would not be necessary. In that perfect world, every child would live…”

“This resolution is one that, in a perfect world, would not be necessary. In that perfect world, every child would live with two married parents, and every parent would be unfailingly caring and loving for that child. But even as we promote the best environment for raising children, we know that, sadly, that is not the way the world works. So institutions are needed to ensure that, when biological parents don't adequately care for their children, other responsible adults step in. That is the role played by our foster care system and, most important, the thousands of foster parents who make foster care work to protect children. Every day, foster parents care for about 500,000 children across America who cannot safely remain with their own parents. For that, as this resolution expresses, our Nation says 'thank you.' While we celebrate those who make personal sacrifices to protect and care for children, we must also admit that this system doesn't always work as it should. Just like not every biological parent is up to the task, not every foster parent or caseworker meets expectations either.”