Political Quotes

“America is facing a catastrophe in the gulf. I rise today to speak about the President's address to our Nation last night and my recent trip to the gulf. I agree with the President that BP must stop the leak, clean up the oil, and end the economic hurricane they have caused on the gulf coast. I agree that BP--not the taxpayers--must be liable for costs of cleaning up the mess, for compensating businesses, fisherman and families, and for their economic losses. BP must set aside a fund of $20 billion or more today that they don't control to pay all economic claims in a fair and timely way. I like that the President focused on the Nation's long range energy needs. We do need to move our energy policy forward. And I am so pleased the President picked Dr. Don Boesch for the new National Commission to prevent and respond to future spills like this one. Dr. Boesch has strong ties to Maryland. He has been president of UMD Center for Environmental Science since 1990 and serves as Governor O'Malley's science adviser. He's also a man of Louisiana, born in New Orleans and a graduate of Tulane. He knows the issues of Louisiana and he's got a special place in his heart in looking out for Maryland. I also agree with Billy Nungesser, president of Plaquemines Parish, LA. He believes we should bring every asset we have to fight this thing. The people of Louisiana need to see more action on the ground and we can't just rely on BP's word to get the job done.”