Political Quotes

“Mr. President, I realize a scheme has been concocted on the debt ceiling that allows Democrats to go into this next election continuing to ensure that spending to many of their constituents is at levels that please them; therefore, allowing them to run successfully in 2012, and that scheme also allows Republicans to run in 2012 with spending being the issue. I think we all understand that, look, the debt ceiling is going to be increased, and it is going to be increased in such a way that both sides of the aisle have the ability to campaign against the other respective to their bases. But the fact is, our great Nation is in decline because of the elected leaders in Washington. Our great Nation is in decline because of this body and the way it is acting, the House of Representatives and the way it is acting, and the White House and the way it is acting. This body, as we meet and go on to a spending bill, is helping our great Nation go into decline. Let me explain why. Maybe the debt ceiling was the wrong place to pick a fight as it relates to trying to get our country's house in order. Maybe that was the wrong place to do it. The reason it was chosen is because this body has not passed a budget in 806 or 807 days, and I credit both sides for that. But the fact is the Senate has not passed a budget in over 806 days. I had a dinner this week, Monday night, with six Democrats and five Republicans. I will not mention their names to impugn them in any way.…”