Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I have been listening to my colleagues' comments. I have actually found some things to agree with. Ms. Slaughter mentioned that the American people have been lied to. I agree. They have been told that a policy which raises taxes for 10 years to pay for 6 years of government programs is fiscally sound. I was struck, Mr. Speaker, that Mr. McGovern spoke of the small business owner in Massachusetts who couldn't afford his premiums. What he neglected to say is that Massachusetts has the same plan that we are about to implement. In fact, the Democratic treasurer of Massachusetts says that, ``If we implement this plan, we go bankrupt in 4 years.'' I was struck, Mr. Speaker, by Mr. Hastings, who spoke how the people outside have lost hope. They have lost hope that Congress is listening. They are tired of being told, ``You are not smart enough to understand our wisdom. We, the Democratic leaders, will tell you how to live. And, after we pass this vote, you will love us all the more.'' I am struck that Mr. Cardoza endorsed this, even though his State is going bankrupt from Medicaid and this program expands Medicaid. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to listen to the wisdom of the American people. Vote for their constituents, not for their leaders.”