Political Quotes

“only one day into the new Congress and the Republican Leadership's procedures for advancing legislation are an outrage that purposefully seeks to limit meaningful debate. By stifling opportunities to present alternatives by either Democrats or Republicans, the House leadership is showing its unwillingness to legislate and its lack of fiscal responsibility. This morning we passed legislation to extend unemployment benefits for millions of Americans out of work. Unfortunately, due to the Republican leadership procedures, provisions could not be added to provide benefits to 1 million whose benefits have already expired. Now, with this Continuing Resolution, we are faced with a provision for the Department of Homeland Security that would allow the Administration to bypass a normal review by the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and win blanket approval on the House floor for its plan to lease up to 575,000 square feet at a cost of up to $250 million. There are important security, infrastructure, and fiscal considerations left undiscussed by this approach. The Republican leadership is not just afraid of the Democratic proposals, but they are afraid of their own moderate members and the American public. Decision-making that leaves out normal congressional and committee processes is an attempt to remove democratic debate and public opinion from the table. This is a horrible way to begin the new Congress. The American public deserves better.”