Political Quotes

“Madam Speaker, at a time when so many Rhode Islanders and so many Americans are out of work, we need to do everything we can to provide assistance to families while individuals continue to look for work. The Federal Emergency Unemployment Insurance system is a critical part of our safety net that supports families during difficult economic times. Many constituents have contacted my office explaining the impact on their families of not extending unemployment benefits, like Estella Londono in the town of North Providence. Estella is a single mother who was laid off from work and now relies on unemployment benefits to support herself and her son. She's looking for work and is currently participating in a job training program to improve her skills and to enhance her ability to find a job. Without unemployment benefits, she would not be able to support her household and pay her bills. If the Emergency Federal Unemployment Compensation program is not extended at the end of this year, it will be devastating to Estella and to thousands of Rhode Islanders who rely on this program. These Americans who have worked hard throughout their lives should not be sacrificed on the altar of partisan politics. Congress must stop playing Washington-style political games with the fate of these families and act now to provide security to unemployed workers and their families while they look for jobs. ____________________”