Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, my motion amends the date of the continuing resolution to January 24. My motion will ensure that Homeland Security employees will get the pay they deserve, consistent with the Government Employee Fair Treatment Act that was enacted last week. Last week and yesterday, I offered motions very similar to this one to immediately pay the hardworking Federal employees affected by this shutdown. Many of these people are on the front lines protecting our Nation. They shouldn't suffer because of this unnecessary shutdown, and they don't have to any longer if Members would support this motion. Last week, six Democrats voted for my motion, and yesterday, 10 did. Today, I call on all members of the majority party to agree with me that we should provide Homeland Security employees the backpay they deserve and join me in voting for this measure. These employees have bills to pay and families to support. This motion will ensure that they are able to do that immediately while we continue working toward a permanent solution that will reopen the government. The homeland security staff protecting the Nation should not be harmed because some of my colleagues refuse to negotiate. Mr. Speaker, I urge a ``yes'' vote on the motion, and I yield back the balance of my time.”