Political Quotes

On the recordFebruary 25, 2010
So if I understand right, there is the complete opportunity to have a debate 30 days from now, but we could have had the debate tonight because there could have been a vote tonight. It was offered but turned down. There will be opportunities throughout this next month, but we are going to cut people off at the worst moment here because one Senator says: I am happy about unfunded gifts to the most fortunate, but I am determined not to help people who are down and out.
Said by
Jeff Merkley
Democratic · Oregon
Source
govinfo.gov
Feb 25, 2010

Editor's note · Context

Merkley discusses the missed opportunity for immediate debate on aid for those in need.

Share

More from Jeff Merkley

Aug 14, 2026

This is a president trying to become a strongman authoritarian.

reason.com
Aug 6, 2026

At a time when families are struggling to afford groceries, gas, healthcare, and childcare, Congress cannot throw hundreds of billions of dollars at Trump’s ‘Golden Fleet.’

commondreams.org
Aug 20, 2026

Medicaid enrollees have a right to expect that their private information will be safeguarded and not employed for mass deportation campaigns.

wyden.senate.gov
Jul 17, 2026

President Trump continues to sell access and influence to the highest bidders.

murphy.senate.gov

Other voices in this conversation