Political Quotes

“today I rise to discuss the ethics charges facing Newt Gingrich, Speaker of the House of Representatives. The House Ethics Committee voted 7-1 to reprimand and assess a penalty of $300,000 for Speaker Gingrich. In recommending a sanction and a $300,000 fine, the committee stated on page 94 of its report the following: ``* * * the violation does not represent only a single instance of reckless conduct. Rather, over a number of years and in a number of situations, Mr. Gingrich showed a disregard and lack of respect for the standards of conduct that applied to his activities.'' Based on this, I find it inconceivable that the Ethics Committee would recommend a resolution to this body which would not specifically prohibit the Speaker from paying his fine from campaign funds. Mr. Gingrich's campaign organization can raise these funds in a matter of minutes. During the Speaker's most recent general election campaign, he spent $5.4 million to defeat his challenger. At the end of November, Federal Election Commission reports indicate that he has over $1 million remaining in his campaign fund. The Speaker used funds from tax-exempt organizations to promote his political agenda. If a Member violates the rules of the House, the Member, not their campaign, should be held responsible for whatever fine is levied. Mr. Speaker, I therefore voted against approving the resolution recommended by the committee.”