John Danforth: “I think we should be proud of serving in the U.S. Senate. I believe that we should view this body as something that is…”

“I think we should be proud of serving in the U.S. Senate. I believe that we should view this body as something that is representative of the American people. We talk about gridlock. Yes, I guess there is gridlock. But is that not representative of the people? Are the people giving us a clear message to get on with the business of balancing the budget, of cutting popular programs? No. Is there a consensus on what to do about health care or the other big issues? There really is not. So, yes, there is disagreement here. That is the reason for having a Republican form of government, to build in that disagreement. I think we do represent the American people, certainly not perfectly, but well. I think we should say so and not pander to resentment. I believe that is what this amendment does. So I am going to vote against it. I do not have much to lose because my political days are over, but I am going to vote against it, and I am going to insist on a vote if the managers have any idea of accepting this dreadful amendment, so that I, at least, will have the chance to vote against it.”