Todd Tiahrt: “often, very often, we have heard the Republicans and their ideas called derogatory names, names like ``extremist,''…”

“often, very often, we have heard the Republicans and their ideas called derogatory names, names like ``extremist,'' ``far right,'' ``radical,'' ``radical Republicans.'' But this is not the first such occasion this has happened. In fact, Mr. Speaker, it was about 130 years ago when in this very room the defenders of the status quo called a group of Republicans radical. During Reconstruction, it was radical Republicans who were criticized 130 years ago. So what were these radical ideas 130 years ago that caused the radical Republicans to be so chastised by their critics? It was full citizenship for black Americans, not just abolishment of slavery, full voting rights, owning of property, full citizenship. Now it is commonly accepted here in America. So, Mr. Speaker, when we hear today's radical Republican ideas like scrapping the IRS Tax Code, like school vouchers and competition, like regulation reform and individual responsibility, remember the critics of radical Republicans not long ago. It is not new; it is just the entry fee for the bright future of our country.”