I think that it provides a clear picture of how our Nation values the program.

You may raise the rates on those higher income seniors, which is a relative term when we look at what they are making, they may move--leave the program altogether.

the attempts to repeal reform and turn Medicare into some kind of other program will hurt the beneficiaries.

It is a very different situation altogether.

I wouldn't use the two words that you used. I would use the word ``demeaning.'' We have demeaned our staff, which is not included in this, I understand that. But you want to know something? Those unemployment figures for the last 6 years…

They're not stick figures. They walk the streets, navigating through flooding, debris, downed power lines, these Army Corps, these FEMA folks, in order to assess damages and reach out to the victims. They're not nameless. They're not…

We need a balanced approach to reducing our deficit which makes responsible cuts while also raising revenue. This bill is not the way to do it. I have great respect for the gentleman's intellect, but this is one of the dumbest bills I've…

The 14th Amendment of the Constitution states, if I may paraphrase, the public debt of the United States shall not be questioned. In other words, we don't even have the power, really, in section 4 of that amendment. Take a look at it and…

The test of our progress is not whether we add more to the abundance of those who have much; it is whether we provide enough for those who have too little.

The mere threat of default and irresponsible discussions of default is what I am talking about right now...

We are not going to default on our obligations and not just to our bondholders...

I heard the words a few moments ago about a grab bag. I can assure you that the Governors who introduced itemized lists went into them very deeply with the consultation of local officials. It's no grab bag. That's an insult to the…