Political Quotes

“before I offer my amendment, I simply want to express my strong appreciation to the distinguished Senator from Kentucky for his raising the question of the loss of rights in Myanmar. The fact is, that the level of political suppression that has gone on there is one that Americans cannot ignore. If we are to be true to our beliefs, and true to our commitment to freedom and human rights that is held so dearly by both parties, we cannot stand idly by. I believe some Members have expressed concern that perhaps there could be a different way to phrase the concerns that the Senator from Kentucky has expressed. And I hope that we will have a debate on that, that positive suggestions will come forward. Certainly we ought to use tactics that are most likely to be successful. So some change in those words may be in order. But I hope that debate over the words does not lose sight of the intent and the very significance of the Senator from Kentucky's action. The fact is, we cannot stand idly by and ignore what has happened in that country and not stand up and speak out and take efforts that can be effective. I believe that this subject will get a lot of debate. I suspect the conference committee may well come up with ways to amend the language that we have here. But I want the Senator from Kentucky to know that free people around the world appreciate his efforts, and appreciate him caring enough to move forward to have this Congress consider sanctions.”