Political Quotes

“I wanted to come to the floor to discuss the question of extending the payroll tax cut, dealing with unemployment insurance, dealing with compensation for doctors who treat Medicare patients, and also addressing the question of the alternative minimum tax and, of course, the other tax extenders as well. This is a key moment for the country. As I expressed earlier--as Senator Thune was addressing the body--I personally do not believe the Keystone Pipeline should hold us back. This is something upon which I think we could get broad agreement, especially if the language is as the Senator has represented and as Senator Hoeven has assured me--that it permits the State of Nebraska to reroute that line so that the Ogallala aquifer is not in danger. In my judgment, it is entirely in the national interest to get the Keystone Pipeline advanced. So that should not be the issue that hangs us up. As we look at things that are holding back the economy, unemployment remains far too high, the housing crisis continues, and we have weak consumer confidence and demand. That really is at the heart of our ongoing economic weakness. Personal debt is still near record levels. We have tightened borrowing standards for businesses and consumers. I hear very often that even good businesses with good track records at paying back loans can't secure the credit they need to expand. And we have State and local budget cutbacks that are continuing.…”