John Boehner: “Mr. Speaker, posted on the Speaker of the House's Web site at this moment is a document entitled ``A New Direction for…”

“Mr. Speaker, posted on the Speaker of the House's Web site at this moment is a document entitled ``A New Direction for America.'' In this document, the following statement is highlighted: Bills should generally come to the floor under a procedure that allows open, full, and fair debate consisting of a full amendment process that grants the minority the right to offer its alternatives. Last November when Democrats were preparing to take control of this Chamber, I appreciated something that Speaker Pelosi said. And I quote, ``The issue of civility, the principle of civility and respect for minority participation in this House is something that we promised the American people. It is the right thing to do. And I set forth, over a number of years now, principles and respect for minority rights. And we intend to implement them.'' This statement was made almost a year ago at a press conference on November 20, 2006. Now, let's contrast those statements that were made and with what took place last night in the Rules Committee. Seven Republican amendments were offered to the bill that we are about to debate, none made in order, including a bipartisan amendment offered by Mr. Garrett of New Jersey; 13 Democrat amendments were made in order.”