Joe Cunningham: “let us talk about something positive that both Republicans and Democrats are going to do today and that is pass the flag…”

“let us talk about something positive that both Republicans and Democrats are going to do today and that is pass the flag protection amendment. Sixteen years ago, a difference of one vote, the Supreme Court by one vote erased 200 years of tradition that our forefathers set to protect our flag. Who supports it? In May, 81 percent of the American people supported this amendment; 146, all the veterans organizations, many of them here today, first responders, police, fire, our military men and women; all 50 States have ratified resolutions saying that they will ratify when this amendment passes. We have 300 signatures. This bill passed by 300 votes; and for the first time we have a chance, an opportunity to pass it in the Senate. Some claim that it impinges on the first amendment. It does not. There are some of my colleagues that will oppose this amendment. They are honorable men, but the supermajority oppose their position. Take a look and ask the men and women at Walter Reed or Bethesda, ask the police and fire that stood on top of the Trade Center and ask them and they will tell you. Help pass this amendment today. ____________________”