Political Quotes

“since the Gulf War, pilots have been patrolling Iraqi skies keeping Saddam Hussein from killing his own people. This past weekend, Iraqi forces fired antiaircraft missiles at several of our aircraft. We responded in kind by shooting back and defending ourselves against this aggression. I would like to remind my colleagues that Saddam Hussein is more than an enemy that regularly tries to kill or capture American pilots. Saddam Hussein plays a critical role in our country by providing us with oil. In the first quarter of this year, we bought $1.4 billion of Iraqi oil. Where do we think that money goes? What does it pay for in Iraq? Propping up Saddam's regime. We know he rewards the family of each Palestinian suicide bomber with a check of $25,000. We import nearly 1 million barrels a day from this madman. More than 10 percent of our oil comes from Saddam Hussein, yet he still would like nothing more than a downed American pilot to parade before the world. It is time our energy policy got in line with our foreign policy. I urge the Senate and House conferees to pass a bill that can be sent to the President for signing. If it is worth fighting for over there, it is worth exploring for over here at home.”