Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise today in support of H.R. 10515, the American Relief Act of 2025. As the 118th Congress draws to a close, it is natural to use these final days to reflect on our work. Though we have accomplished much over the last 2 years, there is more to be done. {time} 1730 Mr. Speaker, first and foremost, we need to ensure that the government remains open and operating to provide needed services for Americans. It is why I stand before my colleagues. With government funding running out, it is our duty to act. When the House Appropriations Committee began our process of drafting bills for fiscal year 2025, we knew we had to work quickly to put the House in the best position possible. To that end, we successfully reported all 12 of our annual appropriations bills out of the committee and succeeded in passing 5 of them across the floor. Unfortunately, the House does not act on its own. I am sorry to say, whether we like it or not, our colleagues in the Senate have input in this process. To date, the Senate has yet to pass a single fiscal year 2025 appropriations bill across the floor. As time went on, it became clear that we would not conclude the FY25 process by the deadline of December 20, meaning another extension is necessary. I know there is great frustration that a second continuing resolution is necessary. Quite frankly, I share in that feeling. A government shutdown is never a good alternative.…”