Political Quotes

“Mr. President, I thank Senator Lieberman for the leadership he has shown in this effort to make a difference in the lives of students in the District of Columbia. The Senator from California did a beautiful job of outlining the difference it has made for just a few who have been able to participate in the program thus far. I rise, of course, to support the amendment--the amendment that will continue to give thousands of children in the District of Columbia an opportunity for a good education. It was first authorized in 2004. The program has the potential to provide 1,700 children with scholarships of up to $7,500 each to attend the school of their choice. To qualify, students must live in the District and have a household income of no more than 185 percent of the poverty line. In the District, recipients' average family income is $24,300. These are very poor kids from families who are just making it. It is not something we have created to make available to everyone. Unfortunately, while the program can provide 1,700 children with scholarships, it does not. Increasingly, prohibitive language in the appropriations bills and a hostile administration--and I mean hostile-- has already decreased participation significantly. The program now helps just over 1,300 students. It is baffling to me why this administration has focused so much attention opposing a successful program which has provided a high- quality education to more than 3,300 children.…”