Political Quotes

“Let me return the focus for a moment at least to the matter at hand, the legislation in front of us. In response to my good friend from Massachusetts' concerns, remember, the provisions in the tax legislation that we are considering have been routinely enacted for years under both Democratic and Republican Congresses and Democratic and Republican administrations. They are so automatic that they are essentially part of the existing Tax Code. Frankly, I predict once we get to the legislation, probably we will have dozens of my friend's colleagues vote in favor of these. That certainly was the case last year when similar provisions were brought to the floor. There will be a lot of Democratic votes for the very bills that are under consideration. Mr. Speaker, I agree with my friend. We do need a larger overhaul of the entire tax system. He is totally correct at that. We made some progress in that regard last year. I have no doubt that is exactly Mr. Ryan's intent. The reason to act on these measures and others like them now that will be part of any final package is to simply give our fellow Americans--businesses, workers, and people that want to make charitable contributions--tax certainty early in the year, so they can go ahead and make their actions knowing that this legislation is in place. I am not convinced that none of these will be taken up by the other side in the other Chamber. We will see.…”