Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, under rule IX, clause 1, questions of the privileges of the House are ``those affecting the rights of the House collectively, its safety, dignity, and the integrity of its proceedings.'' This resolution is privileged based on two issues of institutional integrity, both anchored in the United States Constitution. Upon adoption of the Constitution, Senators were elected by State legislative bodies; justices were appointed by the executive branch; Presidents were placed into office indirectly through the electoral college. The House was the only institution where Members were directly elected by the people. We were given 2-year terms to stay close to the people. Our integrity as a separate and coequal branch of government flows directly from our ability to vigilantly represent their interests. We don't work for the executive branch. We don't work for President Trump. We work for the people of this great Nation, and the American people overwhelmingly want the President's tax returns released. Secondarily, this House should exercise its prerogative as a separate and coequal branch of government, vigilantly represent the people, and act as a check and balance against Presidential obstruction. Our integrity hangs in the balance. The integrity of this House also hinges, lastly, on our willingness to properly legislate changes to the Tax Code.…”