Political Quotes

“I come here today not to speak about the great weighty issues of the day, whether it be Iraq or the budget process and procedures of the House, homeland security or any number of issues. No, Mr. Speaker, I come here today to talk about the career of a wonderful individual. You know, it was Tip O'Neill who once said that all politics is local, and I rise today to honor the career of one of our Nation's great local civic leaders, civic officials, Charlie Allebach, Jr. Charlie has been serving the people of the Borough of Souderton, Pennsylvania, for almost 43 years. Let me say that again. That is for 43 years, he has served the people of Souderton, Pennsylvania. He first became a borough councilman in 1964--by the way, I was 4 years old at that time--he was appointed mayor in 1970, and he has been mayor ever since. But I just want you to know, too, that he has just announced his retirement. Charlie has presided over the steady growth of a wonderful community, Souderton, Pennsylvania.”