Political Quotes

“Madam Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. In closing, I would like to take a few minutes to thank several individuals who were instrumental in bringing this package to the floor today. First, I would like to thank my friend and our full committee chair, Nita Lowey. Though we don't always agree, she is respectful of other opinions and always works in good faith and is a pleasure to work with. I would also like to thank our Republican members of the Appropriations Committee for their hard work to secure as many of our priorities as possible in this final package. There were many other Members who engaged in this process, and their input was vital in producing a bill that reflects input from our Conference and the constituents they represent. It was also a pleasure to work with my Senate Appropriations Committee colleagues, Chairman Richard Shelby and Vice Chairman Pat Leahy. They are both incredibly tough negotiators. Finally, and certainly not least, I would like to thank the staff on both sides of the aisle in the House and the Senate who have worked virtually around the clock for the last month to bring this bill across the finish line. We have true professionals working for our committees, and I think I speak for all Members when I say just how thankful we are for their efforts. I urge my colleagues to join me in voting in favor of this bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.”