Political Quotes

“Mr. Chairman, to me there are two issues here. They are very simple. Number one, do we keep our promises, that is the first issue. The second issue is, when it comes to issues of facts that may be in contention, who do we believe? First of all, who do we keep our promises to? In this instance the question is, will we keep our promises to the veterans of the United States who fought, put their lives on the line, and represent and defend our country? Back in 1998, Mr. Chairman, Congress passed a highway bill that had in it an unusual provision. It ended the policy of providing disabled veterans benefits from tobacco-related illnesses. That was a spurious provision. Notwithstanding, and let me say that I think it was not only spurious but I opposed that provision, but notwithstanding that, that bill passed. But within the same bill was a promise, a promise that told the Attorney General and the VA Department to sue the tobacco companies so more money, more money will be available for veterans' health care. More money for veterans' health care. That is the promise. I strongly support keeping that promise. That is why I support the Waxman-Evans-Hansen-Meehan-Stabenow amendment, because it honors the commitment we made to veterans back in 1998.”