On the recordMarch 16, 2010
I appreciate my friend from Iowa so much, and I appreciate the wonderful points you are making. I was here just out off the Chamber for the whole discussion by our colleagues across the aisle. I always appreciate when people across the aisle attempt to speak for me and what I support and what I would like to have happen and what I will and do vote for and vote against. But the great thing about debate is that the other side can be presented. Of course, you know, there was the occasion a year and a half ago where the Speaker cut off the microphones and that was prevented, but we stood here on the floor and spoke anyway. That's the great thing about America. But I would like to correct some things. Although I know my friend had the best of intentions of speaking on Republicans' behalf, but when he said Republicans have no interest in being part of the solution, I have to differ on that. And I appreciate my Democratic friend saying we don't wish to be part of the solution, but that's simply not true. And, in fact, I know Republicans that begged and pleaded to be allowed to have input into this bill, but it's hard to have input into a bill that's negotiated secretly.
