Political Quotes

“let me begin our side of this debate by saying that this is a good faith effort on behalf of all Senators; deeply felt, but a good faith effort on behalf of all Senators. I want to begin by commending Senator Levin for excellent work in trying to make this thing workable. The distinguished ranking minority member has also invested great time and effort. This is an endeavor among friends. It is, in fact, deeply felt, so I felt the necessity of saying that in advance; that all Senators respect one another greatly. Having said that, Mr. President, I can hardly believe what I just heard. The Senator from Maine has said there is a public perception that the Senate is for sale for a basket of fruit at Christmas. Has this body dropped to that level of perception among the American public; that is, a basket of fruit buys the U.S. Senate? If it is, God help the United States of America, Mr. President. I do not believe that is true. And I think to say it on the floor of the Senate degrades this institution, hurts the United States of America, and our system of free government, for which so many sacrifices have been made. I do not believe we ought to tear down this institution from the inside or the outside.”