Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time for closing. Mr. Speaker, efforts taken by other Members in this body to act as judge, jury, and executioner are unconscionable and reckless to our Republican system of government and to the integrity of this body. I stand today to continue to prove my innocence of these allegations and charges leveled against me. I would like to say I understand the point of view of my colleagues, but I don't. {time} 1730 One can't say that they are pro-Constitution and at the same time act as judge, jury, and executioner. Where is the consistency, Mr. Speaker? The actions taken within this body are delicate, and consistency is essential. Now is not the time to set a dangerous precedent. Consider this: The last time a Member of Congress was expelled was in 2002, following a criminal conviction. In fact, both expulsions in the last two centuries took place after the defendants had been convicted. To my colleagues on the other side of the aisle, I would like to remind you that many of you are supporting another Member of Congress who is under investigation--it is the second time he has been indicted--and even one who recently pleaded guilty to a crime. Rather than calling for their resignation, here we are. I must warn my colleagues that voting for expulsion at this point would circumvent the judicial system's right to due process that I am entitled to and desanctify the long-held premise that one is presumed innocent until proven guilty.…”