Political Quotes

“I continue to be greatly disturbed about what is happening to our smaller airports. Not only in the Midwest, but in States across the country, our smaller airports are struggling to maintain adequate and affordable air service. Unfortunately, the ticket prices for people who do not live near hub airports are going up and up. I am a Senator who is against regulation, generally speaking. I hope that the airlines will take the steps necessary to carry out a pricing policy that is even and fair, without the Government getting involved. As ranking member of the Aviation Subcommittee, I do not want to see us go back to full-scale economic regulation, but our smaller cities, where airline profits could be made are crying out for increased air service. I will concede that perhaps more money can be made for the airlines when they fly in and out of urban areas, but small cities and rural areas need reliable air service, too. I know that many other States are facing similar air service problems. In fact, some small airports have lost all, or nearly all, jet service. This problem is growing. The Senate of the United States should not sit still if our air service struggles continue.”