Political Quotes

“I would like to welcome back the Presiding Officer and all the staff. I hope our 2-week Easter break was refreshing to everyone. This month, the Senate will deal with a number of important matters, including judicial nominations and Cabinet nominations and a water resources measure. Gun Violence The Senate will also consider a package of legislation designed to safeguard Americans from gun violence. In the wake of last year's terrible tragedy in Newtown, CT--a mass shooting we will never forget and that claimed the lives of 20 little, tiny boys and girls and 6 educators--I said shortly thereafter I would bring antiviolence measures to the Senate, and we are going to do that. It is time Congress engaged in a meaningful conversation and a thoughtful debate on how to change the law and culture that allowed this violence to grow so much. I have said every idea should be debated and every issue should get a vote. From better mental health treatment, more secure schools, stronger background checks, banning assault weapons, the size of magazines or clips, and other issues, these ideas should get a vote. There are strong feelings and deep disagreements about some of these measures, but every one of these measures deserves a vote, a yes or a no--no hiding, no running from an issue that has captivated America. There is no better place than in the Senate to begin a national conversation about such critical issues, even if they are divisive issues.…”