Political Quotes

“I would first like to compliment the gentleman from New York [Mr. Lazio] for his thoughtful approach to housing issues. The gentleman well knows housing issues are a major issue in my district. Mr. Chairman, I also want to compliment the gentleman from Massachusetts [Mr. Kennedy], the ranking member. We have very great philosophical differences, as the ranking member knows, but I know he believes what he says and I respect that. Mr. Chairman, the Brooke amendment, a tax on work, corrupt and inept public housing authorities, no rights and responsibilities for tenants, mixing of the elderly poor with drug addicts and alcoholics, the consistent waste of taxpayer money, all in the name of compassion. Well, what I am here to say today is that compassion is not always a function of more Federal money, nor is compassion always a function of more Federal control. Mr. Chairman, this bill represents a first positive step in what I hope will be a new era in Federal housing policy.”