Political Quotes

“our Nation's governors are in town this week; and many of them are here with their hands out and their minds closed. I am referring to several governors who have taken aim at the President's budget proposals for education reform. The President has proposed an ambitious education agenda based on accountability, performance, competition and competency. He proposes to give States and school districts the resources they will need to modernize their schools, hire qualified teachers and reach higher standards. What are the governors saying about these proposals? The governor of Arkansas says that he wants the dough without the strings. The governor of Mississippi called the administration's proposals Federal baloney. These statements betray an alarming ideological shift among these State executives. Fundamentally, what they are saying is that they would like to spend tax dollars with impunity. They should know, as most citizens do, that just as the private sector cannot spend money without accountability, neither can government. Let us give the States the resources they need but let us do it in a sound and sensible way, with accountability. That means ending social promotions, but giving those kids and schools the extra help they need to improve. That means making sure that all teachers are qualified. That means giving parents annual report cards on student performance. Federal baloney, Mr. Speaker? Hardly.…”