Political Quotes

Dick Durbin: “In fact, the Senate was not created for that purpose but just the opposite: slow things down, take a harder look at it…”

On the recordMay 15, 2023
In fact, the Senate was not created for that purpose but just the opposite: slow things down, take a harder look at it, don't react to public sentiment, make sure you're doing the right thing.
Said by
Dick Durbin
Democratic · Illinois

Editor's note · Context

Durbin emphasizes the Senate's role in careful deliberation rather than reacting to public opinion.

Share

More from Dick Durbin

Oct 13, 2026

The lack of community involvement and speed with which this project has moved forward raises questions about the role of private interests.

duckworth.senate.gov
Oct 13, 2026

To leave here without this being a law finalized to protect these young people … is painful, really painful. I don’t want them to feel like I’m abandoning them.

rollcall.com
Oct 13, 2026

You can’t survive in politics unless you’re optimistic. You’ve got to believe that even though you face a setback or you don’t have all the laws you need, that tomorrow will be better.

rollcall.com
Oct 14, 2026

For decades, America has stood as the bastion of freedom against tyranny, and American presidents have embodied our nation’s resistance to tyrants. Putin is a tyrant.

durbin.senate.gov

Other voices in this conversation