John Kline

The central issue before the committee today isn't the process that led to these appointments, although that will be part of the discussion.

These are just some of the items on Big Labor's agenda designed to strengthen its power by weakening protections for workers and employers.

However, no president should endorse an unconstitutional scheme in order to address a political problem.

We've witnessed this president take extraordinary action that stretches the limits of his office and undermines our all-important system of checks and balances.

This unprecedented action touches upon a number of constitutional powers.

I will now recognize my distinguished colleague George Miller, the senior Democratic member of the committee, for his opening remarks.

I look forward to discussing these matters further with our witnesses.

The president has steered the country into uncharted waters.

Decisions based on shaky legal ground can often lead to embarrassing contradictions.

Our primary concern is the fear and uncertainty this action has unleashed--the fear of the activist NLRB's future actions and the uncertainty of whether its mandates and decisions can stand under constitutional scrutiny.

I think there may be an opportunity where we can come to agreement in streamlining and consolidating programs.

This must be a bipartisan process that recognizes that neither side can get everything it wants;

Today is just another legislative day dedicated to divisive issues. It's not about working together to find solutions to real problems.

I encourage all members, on both sides of the aisle, to stay engaged, offer positive solutions, and work to find common ground.

Over the last several years, we have seen a lot of failed policies and broken promises, starting with a so-called stimulus plan that created debt, not jobs.

Effective job training support can help workers get back on their feet and back to work.

We need to build on this success and explore new opportunities to help workers thrive in the global economy.

I claim time in opposition to the motion. The Acting CHAIR. The gentleman from Minnesota is recognized for 5 minutes.

Again may I inquire as to how much time remains on either side. The Acting CHAIR. The gentleman from Minnesota (Mr. Kline) has 3 minutes remaining, and the gentleman from Minnesota (Mr. Walz) has 1\1/ 2\ minutes remaining.

May I inquire as to how much time I have remaining. The Acting CHAIR. The gentleman from Minnesota has 2 minutes remaining.

I, like my colleagues on the other side of the aisle, and Americans across the country, can get pretty angry when some officials, corporate officials receive extraordinarily high salaries. I'm not here to defend that. What I'm talking…

I claim time in opposition to the amendment. The Acting CHAIR. The gentleman from Minnesota is recognized for 5 minutes.

I am very pleased to yield 4 minutes to another distinguished member of the committee, the gentleman from South Carolina (Mr. Gowdy).

I am very pleased to yield 1 minute to another member of the committee, the gentleman from Nevada, Dr. Heck.

I am pleased to yield 2 minutes to the gentlelady from Alabama (Mrs. Roby).