Political Quotes

“first of all, let me say this. We are in a procedural quagmire in the Senate as happens once in a while. Of course, it would have been the right of the minority to stop this Defense appropriations bill from going forward. For a couple of reasons I felt that was inappropriate. First of all, the defense of this country is extremely important, and we should try to get a few things done dealing with our fighting men and women around the world as quickly as we can. But one of the factors in my agreement to go forward with this legislation is the two managers of this bill are history itself. Two of the most senior Members of the Senate, two of the most experienced Members of the Senate, the two Members who manage a bill as partners, as a couple of friends should, are experienced. I felt that with their management of this bill we would have a fair opportunity to do what was appropriate. My feeling has been underscored in the little while we have been on this bill. We will give a fair shake in the process to the men and women who are defending our country. I come to the floor today with a simple amendment. I must confess that the amendment I brought to the floor is certainly not new and unique with me. The amendment that I am offering has been taken directly word for word from a bill that was passed by the Republican- controlled House last week by a broad bipartisan margin.…”