Political Quotes

“Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey came to town today with an elaborate show of elephants and clowns on the Capitol Grounds. But that does not come close to the high wire act being performed today on the floor of the House by daredevils and acrobats who are attempting, through sleight of hand, blue smoke and mirrors, to pull a rabbit out of their hats while dangling the American taxpayer in mid-air and calling this tax bill deficit reduction. Federal workers in particular know that this is the new 'greatest show on earth.' When a Federal employee accepts a position with the U.S. Government, he or she is, in many respects, agreeing to a contract. The employee agrees to provide their knowledge, time, energy, and a good part of their life, to the Nation we all love. The Government, in return, agrees to compensate them for their time and provide for them in their retirement. What we are effectively doing to current Federal workers is changing the rules in the middle of the game. We are telling the 2 million of them that we still expect the same quality and quantity of work, but for less compensation. We are telling them that despite the fact that they have helped to keep this Nation going, we are not fulfilling our part of the bargain. It is generally accepted that this legislation is unfair to Federal employees; Members on both sides of the aisle have said as much.”