Political Quotes

“last night was a very long night, and I have three words for my colleagues in the 104th Congress, and that is, Mr. Speaker: ``Stop the insanity.'' Stop sending State and local governments insane Federal mandates with insane price tags. For over the last 9 years, Congress has imposed over 72 unfunded, burdensome mandates to the States. In the 16 years preceding that, only 19 of these oppressive mandates were passed. Mr. Speaker, this is a disturbing trend. The Federal Government is increasing its demands on the States while actually sending them less money. In fact, the Federal aid to State governments has decreased by $27.2 billion in the last decade. For the past 40 years, Congress has forced States to pay for the Federal Government's mistakes. Mr. Speaker, it is time to stop passing the buck. Let us stop the insanity.”