Political Quotes

“There has been much talk about jobs and economic recovery--sadly, more talk than action. Today's consideration of extending the Surface Transportation Act and the FAA Authorization, both of which have expired, is a positive development. It puts a little more certainty for our partners in the State and local government. It avoids disastrous revenue losses. It's a positive signal of cooperation, with Chairs Mica and Boxer working with Majority Leader Reid and Speaker Boehner. And it leaves important policies intact. The 1991 ISTEA framework has proven effective in meeting transportation needs and providing economic activity. But now let's concentrate on what we do need. We need more money, not less. Certainly we must reject the 30 percent transportation cut that is called for in the Republican budget, or a 34 percent reduction that's called for in the Transportation appropriations bill that is being considered. We need longer-term legislation, not shorter. Three months for aviation, 6 months for transportation is better than what we've been putting up with, but certainly not what our partners deserve. Finally, we need more partnerships with our regional engines of growth at the local level, not a pullback by the Federal Government. We need a full reauthorization, one that is right sized for America's needs. We need to be more ambitious in terms of what we spend.…”