Political Quotes

“I have listened carefully to the debate in this Chamber over the problems and challenges facing school children in America. In this section of the bill, we attempt to address many of the more serious health problems facing our children. Particularly, we are dedicating this section to the prevention of the use of narcotics and drugs by America's young people. This amendment seeks to address a major health problem facing not only the children of this country but every American. I am referring specifically to the use of tobacco. This amendment strikes a balance and says that our school system shall educate children not only on the dangers of alcohol and narcotics but also on the dangers of the use of tobacco. Many people have said, 'Congressman, why are you wasting your time talking about cigarettes? We are talking about drugs.' Well, I have to tell Members, and most people will understand, that tobacco is, in fact, the Nation's No. 1 addiction. In fact, tobacco is the No. 1 preventable cause of death in America. Tobacco companies in America are very busy, not only making their products, lobbying on Capitol Hill, but also through their advertising, luring 3,000 American children every day to take up the tobacco habit, 3,000 kids a day. The tobacco companies are going after these kids because they have to replenish their ranks.”