Roland Gutierrez: “across the county, Americans are looking for some signs. Signs of progress. Signs of leadership. Signs of decency.…”

“across the county, Americans are looking for some signs. Signs of progress. Signs of leadership. Signs of decency. Unfortunately, this is still the only sign they see. ``Closed.'' Why? Simple. Because of the close-minded radical right-- Members who refuse to see any side to this issue other than their own. But it is not just their minds that are closed. The Gingrich Republicans have closed their eyes, too. They close their eyes to the pain that their gutless gamesmanship has caused. Seniors and children are denied nutrition programs, unemployed workers can not get benefits, and all the GOP does is talk about ``holding the President's feet to the fire.'' Meanwhile, innocent Americans huddle around a fire to keep warm. Yes--this GOP majority has opened its backrooms to big business lobbyists to help them write new laws. But it closes the door on hardworking Government employees who implement and enforce those laws. Mr. Speaker, I urge you and your side of the aisle, to open up our minds, and say ``Yes, we are open.'' Open the Government, now.”