Political Quotes

“I thank the gentlewoman, my good friend, for yielding. I want to begin by responding to some of my friend's kind remarks, the chairman. We belong to different parties. We sometimes have our different points of view in the committee itself, which means on occasion we are going to be taking contrasting positions with one another, but I think one of the common traits that we have is that we both revere the institution of the House of Representatives and all of its procedures. I think we also really respect the staff, the personal staff, the committee staff, and, most especially, the professional staff of the House itself. What an extraordinary role they play in allowing us to do our job. Mr. Speaker, I rise to join Chairman McGovern in paying tribute to a dedicated public servant. Tom Wickham, the House Parliamentarian, has served this House with honor and distinction for the past 25 years and will be taking a well- deserved retirement at the end of this month. Tom has expertly advised five Speakers and countless Members and staff throughout his distinguished tenure. His exceptional knowledge and understanding of the rules, procedures, and parliamentary precedent has been invaluable to this institution, and he will be sorely missed. Mr. Speaker, I am also proud to congratulate Jason Smith, the current Deputy Parliamentarian, on his appointment as the sixth Parliamentarian of the House.…”