Political Quotes

“This is legislation that has been candidly rushed forward. We have an artificial deadline, perhaps to beat the anniversary of September 11, but it is not because this is the best time frame to protect the security of America. It includes elements that are not necessary and some which may actually hinder both the discharge of the overall concept of the legislation and have critical functions for the American public that suffer. And we have had lots of discussions on this floor about the potential problems for FEMA, for the Coast Guard; indeed, almost all our colleagues on all of the substantive committees of jurisdiction reject the all-encompassing approach that has been suggested here, the people who know something about these functions. And this, frankly, Mr. Chairman, is an area that is where the approach that is being taken is contrary to my experience.”