Political Quotes

“Over the past week, the Jewish people and their friends around the world have celebrated the historic and proud occasion of the 60th anniversary of the founding of the modern State of Israel. I rise to join my colleagues in again congratulating and honoring the Israeli people in reaching this monumental milestone, and to recognize the enduring and unwavering relationship between our two countries. During my tenure in public service, it has truly been an honor to consistently stand with Israel. Throughout my 29 years in Congress-- begun the same year, 1979, when I attended the signing of the Israeli- Egyptian peace treaty at the White House--I have fought for Israel's absolute right to exist in peace, and I have understood Israel's enduring value as a strategic ally to America. And for twice as long as I have been privileged to help enhance this relationship in Congress, Israel has proven itself time and again not only to be a true ally of the United States in terms of our shared security interests, but also in terms of upholding democratic ideals. In its first 60 years, the modern State of Israel has proven itself to be a bastion of democracy in a region rife with authoritarianism. Israel is the only country in the Middle East whose citizens enjoy the right to vote, speak, and pray freely.”