On the recordJuly 29, 2010
I have seen too many police officers, firefighters, and construction workers who responded to 9/11 who have pulverized glass in their lungs and toxins in their bloodstream and are dying one by one. But what we are doing tonight is a cruel hoax and a charade. Everyone knows that this bill will not get the two-thirds majority required on the suspension calendar. Everyone also knows that this bill would pass with a clear majority if the Democrat leadership would allow it to come to the floor under the regular procedures of the House. The reason H.R. 847 is not being brought up under regular order is because the majority party is petrified of having its members face a potential vote on illegal immigration. You could pass this bill if you wanted to. You are in control. You have the power. You have the responsibility. This bill should be more important than a campaign talking point. Thank God for our country that the first responders of 9/11 didn't look for cover before they did what they had to do and lived up to their oath.
