Political Quotes

On the recordOctober 28, 1999
Absolutely. One thing that resonates throughout this entire dialog this afternoon is the fact that our inaction costs individual Americans; it costs them better health care, it costs them better education, it costs them the right to have a Federal judiciary that is fully staffed by competent and committed judges, and it costs many literally their lives because our indifference to hate crimes can do nothing to stop them. In fact, one could suggest they create an environment that does not discourage them and therefore might encourage them. But, in any case, our inaction means that Americans are bearing the costs, and these costs can be avoided simply by bringing to the floor legislation and by moving with respect to this legislation in a prompt and purposeful way. I thank the Senator.
Said by
Jack Reed
Democratic · Rhode Island

Editor's note · Context

Addressing the consequences of legislative inaction on health care, education, and hate crimes.

Share

More from Jack Reed

Mar 11, 2026

23 years ago this month, President George W. Bush launched the invasion of Iraq. The speed, power, and sophistication of the American military campaign was astounding. Within 3 short weeks, the United States had crushed the Iraqi army and…

govinfo.gov
Jun 4, 2026

Our bipartisan bill builds upon the highly successful National Marrow Donor Program that has been a lifeline for thousands of transplant patients over the last two decades. Bone marrow and cord blood transplants continue to offer effective…

scott.senate.gov
Oct 22, 2025

requiring all Department of Defense communications with Congress to be controlled by Secretary Hegseth's office raises serious questions about transparency and the timely flow of information that lawmakers need to conduct oversight.

cbsnews.com
Jul 10, 2026

The Trump Administration is driving up energy prices and throttling back federal aid.

coons.senate.gov

Other voices in this conversation