David Loebsack: “Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, while I oppose the underlying bill, I am offering this amendment to prohibit former…”

“Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, while I oppose the underlying bill, I am offering this amendment to prohibit former Members of Congress who cash in to become million-dollar lobbyists from collecting their pensions. My amendment also stops Members of Congress from getting a better deal than everyone else by asking them to contribute the same amount to their pensions as other Federal employees. We all know that Americans' faith in their government has been severely damaged. If Congress does not take action to stop the revolving door between Capitol Hill and Washington lobby firms, there is little chance that that faith can be restored. It is time we take action and put a stop to these practices. Members of Congress who choose to take this route, especially those making exorbitant salaries as millionaire lobbyists, should forego their pensions. It's that simple. It is patently ridiculous that these Members are finding a way to have their cake and eat it, too. It is just another example of special Washington privileges for out-of-touch elites, privileges that I have promised not to take and that should be ended. I have vowed never to use my public service for personal gain to become a lobbyist. I first ran for office because, having grown up in poverty, I know that Iowa families need a strong voice and an advocate who will ensure that their voices are heard over the voices of the special interests who dominate Washington.…”