On the recordMay 17, 2012
I understand that everybody may not agree on Mr. McGovern's formulation, but that's what this body is for: to debate these issues of great importance to the people and resolve them in a democratic way. I'm sorely disappointed that this amendment was not made in order. If it had, I would have voted for it. In September, Speaker Boehner, himself, said something significant. Madam Speaker, it's important what the Speaker said, and I agree with what the Speaker said. He said this: I have no fear in allowing the House to work its will . . . I've long believed in it, and I continue to believe in it. Madam Speaker, the actions of the Rules Committee last night were inconsistent with that conviction. Let the House work its will. Let's have a vote on this amendment. Let us send a message to our troops that we have an exit strategy in Afghanistan, that we'll see them safely home with their mission accomplished. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The time of the gentleman has again expired. Mr. McGOVERN. I yield the gentleman an additional 10 seconds.
