Political Quotes

“Mr. Chairman, I rise to offer an amendment that prohibits funds for the enforcement of the recommendation, the guidance regarding mandated use of preferred pronouns. On October 11, the Secretary of HHS issued guidance that would, among other things, compel employees to call other people by their so-called preferred pronouns. I think I speak for most Americans when I say that the concept of choosing your own pronouns, which is based on biological sex, just doesn't make sense. That is not what this amendment is about. This amendment is about a clear and present danger to the principle of free speech. Mr. Chairman, you have a right to be you. I have a right to be me. However, your choices should not infringe on my rights. Not only does the First Amendment protect against censorship, it also has been long understood to protect against compelled speech. Perhaps one of the most egregious forms of infringement and violation of the First Amendment is compelled speech, and I rise to stand against said egregious guidance in trying to get Federal employees to buy into this nonsense. Mr. Chair, I reserve the balance of my time. Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Chair, I claim the time in opposition. The Acting CHAIR. The gentlewoman from Connecticut is recognized for 5 minutes. Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Chair, I rise in strong opposition to this amendment.…”