Political Quotes

“as Congress considers how to provide Federal assistance to these victims of these hurricanes, it is critical that we make sure resources are focused on helping the poor and the needy rather than subsidizing certain self-sustaining industries like the gambling industry. The vast majority of the casinos on the gulf coast are owned and operated by entertainment companies that have been and are likely to continue record profits. Most gambling conglomerates have been named to the Fortune list of 100 fastest-growing companies for the fifth consecutive year. These conglomerates have vowed to rebuild bigger and better along the coast. With budget deficits growing to historic levels, we need to make sure that tax dollars for hurricane relief are going to those who truly need the government's help and not the gambling industry. The truth of the matter is, as Congress struggles to rein in the growth of mandatory spending, it just does not make any sense to give tax breaks to casinos. Mr. Speaker, I hope and trust that Congress will do the right thing and make sure our Federal resources go to the poor, the needy, the vulnerable and not the big gambling interests to rebuild the casinos. ____________________”