Political Quotes

“Mr. Chairman, I thank the chairman for the time and his leadership throughout the committee's investigation and as we have moved this important piece of legislation to the floor. The Stop Settlement Slush Funds Act focuses on accountability and governance. As we have heard here, this bill is the product of a nearly 2-year-long House Judiciary Committee investigation into the Department of Justice's settlement practices. During that time, the Department of Justice has funneled nearly $1 billion of this settlement money to third-party groups that benefit this administration. But under Federal law--under Federal law--all money obtained through Department of Justice settlements must be deposited directly to the Treasury. Our concerns are not with the services provided by the groups receiving the money. They provide worthy services to individuals in need across the country. Nor are our concerns along party lines. Good governance and accountability apply to Republican and Democratic administrations alike. This piece of legislation focuses on concerted and repeated actions that have subverted the will of Congress, disrespected our separation of powers, and failed to assist the individuals directly harmed by the behavior warranting the settlements. The Judiciary Committee's investigation has revealed that entities with access to high-ranking Department of Justice officials received the funds.…”