Bonnie Watson Coleman: “About 1 year ago, Speaker Boehner and Senate Majority Leader McConnell described a vision for the 114th Congress. It…”

“About 1 year ago, Speaker Boehner and Senate Majority Leader McConnell described a vision for the 114th Congress. It included ``focusing first on jobs and the economy.'' They looked forward to helping middle class Americans ``frustrated by an increasing lack of opportunity, the stagnation of wages, and a government that seems incapable of performing even basic tasks.'' In the time since, they have done nothing but protect big businesses enjoy record profits, attack immigrants, and help polluters continue the destruction of our environment. This body has voted four times in support of the Confederate battle flag, but we have taken no votes on legislation that will level the playing field for working Americans. This body has voted against a solid, long-term transportation and infrastructure bill five times, and we have taken no votes on legislation to boost American wages. This body has voted countless times to undermine the Affordable Care Act or endanger women's access to health care, but we have taken no votes on legislation to help families balance the needs of work and their personal lives. That is in spite of statements from Members like the Republican nominee for Speaker who just last week indicated he wouldn't run for the position unless he would be allowed to set aside time to spend with his family. Mr. Speaker, my colleagues and I are here on the floor tonight to call for a shift in focus.…”