Political Quotes

“I want to thank him for participating in this colloquy with me today to address a significant issue which was raised during the committee consideration of this bill. As the gentleman knows, when the committee marked up the Treasury-Transportation bill in July, we directed the General Services Administration to complete its review of MCI WorldCom's fitness to serve as a Federal contractor. This directive resulted from revelations that the company had overstated its profits by $11 billion and lacked adequate internal controls. Mr. Chairman, as you are aware, the GSA announced the proposed debarment of MCI WorldCom on July 31. Although the process took longer than hoped and the committee was forced to take action to get GSA to do its job, the GSA has now prohibited MCI WorldCom from receiving any new Federal contracts. GSA has reached the only responsible conclusion possible. Mr. Chairman, it is my strong belief that the Federal Government must condemn corporate malfeasance and provide strict oversight of Federal contracting. GSA's proposed action to debar MCI from Federal contracting is a step in the right direction, and I applaud their efforts.”