Political Quotes

“it is time for a spring clean at both ends of Pennsylvania Avenue. In the wake of the Jack Abramoff scandal, public approval for this Congress is at an all-time low and voters are demanding new priorities for America. But rather than working to restore the public's trust, some are more interested in protecting the culture of business as usual. They are perfectly happy with their cozy relationships where highly paid lobbyists serve as their ``back office,'' writing legislation, providing jobs to Members and relatives, and lavishing them with expensive dinners and trips. Yesterday, for instance, the Senate missed an opportunity for real reform when it rejected new restrictions on lobbyist-sponsored travel, presidential libraries, and, most importantly, an independent office of public integrity. Think about it. You can't take a ham sandwich from a lobbyist but you can get on their private plane with a ham sandwich. That is what they are allowed to do. You could drive a truck through those types of reforms. The House Ethics Committee hasn't even met in more than a year when one Member here has pled guilty and three others are under investigation. Mr. Speaker, the American people won't accept the continuation of business as usual under the guise of real reform. When that gavel comes down, it is intended to open the people's House, not the auction house. It is time for new priorities in America. ____________________”