Political Quotes

“Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the Respect for Marriage Act. Growing up in New Hampshire as a gay person, I wasn't sure if there would be a place for me or if I would be able to have a family of my own. I was lucky to be surrounded by people who embraced me for who I am and to live at a time when hearts, minds, and laws were changing for the better. Next year, I will marry the love of my life. It is unthinkable that if the Supreme Court heeds Justice Thomas' call that our marriage might be recognized in New Hampshire where we live but not across the country. That is the reality that many couples fear, one that will jeopardize their ability to visit a spouse in the hospital or access all the benefits that couples do, one that would strip millions of Americans of their rights and their dignity. That is a threat that we can't ignore. I hope my colleagues will heed the calls of their constituents and the call of history and cast a vote in favor of the Respect for Marriage Act to say that love is love and to respect people's individual freedoms in this country.”