Political Quotes

“after much reflection and careful consideration, I must rise in opposition to this resolution, a constitutional amendment intended to preserve the freedom of religious expression. This is not a decision I make lightly, and because of the complexity of this issue, I feel compelled to share with my colleagues my thoughts and concerns. Like most Americans, and I am sure like all of my colleagues, I believe very deeply in our Constitution and its Bill of Rights. Amending this document and altering in any way its fundamental principles, which have guided this nation through centuries of growth and change, is something to be done only in the rarest of circumstances. I have been extremely reluctant to tamper with the delicate balance of political and moral tenets embodied in the Constitution, and I am not prepared to do so today. For 200 years, the First Amendment has guaranteed the protection of all Americans from government intrusion on religious freedom. Under this amendment, students currently enjoy significant opportunities for religious expression within the school environment. School children are free to say grace before lunch, pray privately, read the Bible during a study period, distribute religious materials to their friends and join voluntary religious clubs. I strongly support a moment of silence in schools, during which students could pray, reflect or meditate according to their own beliefs and desires.”