Political Quotes

“Mr. President, if I understand the Senator's suggestion correctly, his amendment would create an automatic continuing resolution to fund the Federal Government in the event an annual appropriations bill is not enacted by the time the fiscal year expires. That may sound harmless enough, but what we are saying is that not only is the power of the Senate suspended and put on hold but the obligations of the committee system are put under a threat--that unless you complete action on legislation that is referred to the committee of jurisdiction by a certain time, you are out of business, and whoever wants to offer an amendment as a substitute gets to offer that and pass it on a majority vote. We are already required to have three-fifths of the Members vote to cut off debate in order to be sure that all Senators--not just a bare majority--get to decide the decisions of the Senate and get to actively participate in the process by offering amendments. My friend's amendment abolishes offering any other alternatives for a full debate--unlimited debate--which is why the Senate is here, to cool down the passions of the moment. A Senator might have a good idea and want to change a law, repeal a resolution, deny access to Federal funds for this, that or the other that goes to a State that is very important, and their interests are just as important. This is a terrible amendment, and it ought to be rejected. I hope the Senator will withhold offering the amendment.…”