Political Quotes

José E. Serrano

The Public Record

José E. Serrano is a Democratic politician who served as a member of the United States House of Representatives from New York's 16th congressional district. He held office from 1990 until 2019, making significant contributions to his community and advocating for various social issues. During his tenure, Serrano focused on education, healthcare, and housing, working to improve the quality of life for his constituents in the Bronx. He was known for his commitment to public service and community engagement, often highlighting the importance of local organizations and initiatives.

Quotes by year · 199420261,182 total · peak 2016 (171)
1994: 6 quotes1995: 7 quotes1996: 10 quotes1997: 20 quotes1998: 14 quotes1999: 29 quotes2000: 18 quotes2001: 14 quotes2002: 11 quotes2003: 6 quotes2004: 16 quotes2005: 4 quotes2006: 7 quotes2007: 37 quotes2008: 1 quote2009: 44 quotes2010: 41 quotes2011: 24 quotes2012: 41 quotes2013: 98 quotes2014: 118 quotes2015: 96 quotes2016: 171 quotes2017: 91 quotes2018: 64 quotes2019: 165 quotes2020: 26 quotes2021: 1 quote2026: 2 quotes

Most widely reported

by number of sources
  1. I am troubled by the comments by my friend from California, Mr. Cunningham, about the integrity and commitment of the gentleman from Rhode Island, Mr. Kennedy. I do not think anyone could question the commitment either of the gentleman or his family to this country. I would simply say that I think we have to watch our words. I served, and I served with many Hispanics who did not speak English. Some of them never came back from the Vietnam war and died while speaking only Spanish. I think that the gentleman does a disservice when he questions Mr. Kennedy.2 sources1996govinfo.gov
  2. Mr. Chairman, a lot has been said here almost in disagreement but yet speaking about statutory citizenship and constitutional citizenship. Make no mistake about it, I have no doubt that my citizenship is different than the one my son who was born in the Bronx has. I do not have a doubt about that. I do not have to be a constitutional lawyer to know that I became a citizen on the island of Puerto Rico when I was born there, because it was a law in 1917 that said so. That law was passed by Congress. The Constitution is not amended by Congress. There is a whole process to change that. And so I am clear on the fact that my son's citizenship is one that is protected by the Constitution of the United States and if I am not mistaken, there are only a few ways in which he can lose that citizenship. One, for instance, he could be found guilty of treason, but it has to be some extreme circumstance by which he would lose that citizenship. But I have no doubt that this Congress can pass a law to take away from me my citizenship and the citizenship of the gentleman from Puerto Rico (Mr. Romero-Barcelo), the gentlewoman from New York (Ms. Velazquez), and the people who live on the island of Puerto Rico. Would they do it? Probably not. Would a court uphold it? Possibly not. Can they do it? Absolutely.2 sources1998govinfo.gov
Jun 5, 2026

Our arts and culture sector is a cornerstone of community life — enriching our neighborhoods, strengthening our economy and supporting the wellbeing of everyone who lives, visits and works here.

governor.ny.gov
Mar 3, 2020

This committee, both under Republican and Democratic leadership, has always been very friendly to NASA.

congress.gov
Mar 3, 2020

This year, we will hear from a bipartisan group of Members, all of whom will be asking for further investments by this subcommittee.

congress.gov
Mar 3, 2020

I am concerned with news reports that the Department of Homeland Security is deploying elite tactical teams to cities, including New York, with little to no justification that would potentially suppress response rates.

congress.gov
Mar 3, 2020

We are very much interested in this program.

congress.gov
Mar 3, 2020

We will obviously be watching this closely in the upcoming months.

congress.gov
Mar 3, 2020

I can't emphasize enough the need to have the Census count be one that is free of any outside interference.

congress.gov
Mar 3, 2020

It is very hard around here, almost impossible to get a bipartisan bill passed with no opposition.

congress.gov
Feb 7, 2020

I thank the gentlewoman for yielding. I rise in strong support of this emergency supplemental, which will help Puerto Rico recover from damage caused by the ongoing earthquakes that have struck the island. It will help an island that is…

govinfo.gov
Feb 5, 2020

we can't wait for the Federal Government to deal with schools, and incarceration facilities, and clinics.

congress.gov
Feb 5, 2020

Indian Country has paid it forward, and I will repeat that: Indian Country has paid it forward.

congress.gov
Feb 5, 2020

An increase in funding of the scale I recommend might impinge on other priorities.

congress.gov
Feb 5, 2020

Federal Indian funding should not be discretionary or subject to political discourse of Congress.

congress.gov
Feb 5, 2020

the need of Indian Country is probably north of $200 billion. That is a big gap.

congress.gov
Feb 5, 2020

the base funding for the BIA is going to be a big issue for us.

congress.gov
Feb 5, 2020

Tribal sovereignty should not be subjugated to States by having to receive our Federal funding through grants or set asides administered by States.

congress.gov
Feb 5, 2020

These CRs are a pain, and they really are a pain and shutdown for Indian Country.

congress.gov
Feb 5, 2020

I respectfully request that the committee commit to an ever-greater appropriation for the CSO Grant Program in Fiscal Year 2021.

congress.gov
Feb 5, 2020

The United States owes us a financial debt, an obligation to fund the tribal governments to ensure our continued health, education, and well-being.

congress.gov
Feb 5, 2020

Infrastructure is a huge issue, and with the BIA program, primarily you are dealing with road maintenance.

congress.gov
Feb 4, 2020

We must ensure that the contributions of Latino Americans and Asian Pacific Americans are recognized and celebrated.

congress.gov
Feb 4, 2020

We need a Latino museum, and we need it soon.

congress.gov
Feb 4, 2020

To deny the telling of this story not only does a disservice to our contributions and sacrifices but also renders American history incomplete.

congress.gov

Politicians like José E. Serrano