Political Quotes

“Mr. President, the Legislative Branch bill, as advanced from the Committee on Appropriations, provides $4.79 billion for Congress and its support agencies. That is $90 million above the fiscal year 2018 enacted level of $4.7 billion. This bill provides just over $1 billion for Senate-only items, which is an increase of $5 million from last year; $1.4 billion is included for House only items, and $2.3 billion is provided for joint Senate and House items, which in total meets the $4.79 billion legislative branch allocation for fiscal year 2019. We have made thoughtful decisions about how to prioritize investments for this fiscal year. Resources are allocated in a responsible way to maintain existing services and allow for critical investments in numerous needed areas. For example, this bill will strengthen security on the Capitol campus and ensure that the men and women who protect our visitors, our staff, and Members have the support and resources they need to do their jobs. And $453 million is included for the Capitol Police, which is a $26.5 million increase from last year. In fact, just 1 year ago last Thursday, we witnessed tragedy strike on a baseball field in Alexandria, where the lives of our colleagues and their family and friends were put in imminent danger. Last week's Congressional Baseball Game was a reminder of the bravery demonstrated by my friend, Representative Steve Scalise, our Capitol Police officers, and all those tragically affected that day.…”