Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to commemorate a milestone in our Nation's history. Fifty years ago, President Lyndon B. Johnson stood before Congress and declared an unconditional war on poverty. As we reflect on this war, I am inspired by the progress we have made in 50 years. We have expanded economic opportunity, and we have made the American Dream a reality for millions. But this is not enough. Recent events, like allowing unemployment insurance to expire, remind us that the war is not over. Even though our economy is recovering from a recession, 10.9 million Americans are still struggling to find work. Meanwhile, 16 million children live in poverty. And now the 1.3 million Americans who lost unemployment insurance have no means to provide for their family while they look for work. This cannot continue. No child should go to bed hungry, and no family should struggle to keep a roof over their heads. Fifty years ago we started a war, and yes, we have won many battles. But it is time to win the war, and we must start by making sure that Americans can continue to meet basic needs as they pursue their dreams. So I urge my colleagues to stand with me and extend unemployment insurance. ____________________”