Political Quotes

“Yes. Several Senators addressed the Chair. Mr. McCONNELL. Regular order. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The clerk will read the names on the cloture motion. The senior assistant legislative clerk read as follows: John Cornyn, Orrin Hatch, John Barrasso, Pat Roberts, Richard Burr, Thom Tillis, David Vitter, Lindsey Graham, Kelly Ayotte, Lamar Alexander, Daniel Coats, John Hoeven, James Inhofe, Roger F. Wicker, Susan Collins, John Thune. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The majority leader. Mr. McCONNELL. Madam President, the hard work to pass a bipartisan, fiscally responsible, multiyear highway bill that doesn't raise taxes or increase the deficit continues. It hasn't been easy. We always knew obstacles would lie ahead at every turn, and they sure have, but our country needs a multiyear highway bill, and we will get there if we just continue to stick together. Perhaps the most challenging issue now relates to amendments. Supporters of the Ex-Im Bank are demanding a vote to reauthorize it, and they have made it clear they are ready to stop all other amendments if denied that opportunity. They have already proven they have the votes to back up the threat as well. This presents a challenge for the Senate and to opponents of the Ex-Im Bank, like myself in particular, but I believe we can still move forward, and I believe the more equitable and more balanced proposal I just offered will allow us to do so. So let me explain. It provides for votes on two long-sought, nongermane amendments.…”