Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I first extend my appreciation to Chairman Sam Graves not only for leadership of the committee this last year but also for working with us to move this piece of legislation. Amtrak was certainly hesitant to disclose their bonuses that came immediately after the COVID pandemic and the stress and stressors on commuters, passengers, and employees. The fact that we had to work, despite the significant taxpayer subsidies, to have them disclose this information was obscene at best. I, too, want to take a moment, though, since I have 5 minutes, to express my appreciation and gratitude to Representative Garret Graves as well. I truly join, I think, a chorus of individuals who recognize not only his leadership but his diligence and hard work on behalf of not only his constituents but certainly this country as a whole. He certainly has made Congress just a little bit better for the American people, and I am grateful for his friendship and support. I would note he is unofficially my mentor. I am not quite sure what it is I have learned from him. Nevertheless, I have learned quite a bit, and I am grateful for it. I join him certainly today standing in support of my bill, the Amtrak Executive Bonus Disclosure Act. This bill is rooted in basic transparency and accountability. As noted, in 2023, Amtrak awarded over $5 million in executive bonuses despite a $1.7 billion loss and $11 billion in taxpayer subsidies.…”