Nick Lampson: “I wonder what Ludwig Koons is doing this morning. Perhaps he is watching his mother get ready for work by taking her…”

“I wonder what Ludwig Koons is doing this morning. Perhaps he is watching his mother get ready for work by taking her clothes off for a pornographic photo shoot or get ready for an erotic sex show. A couple of weeks ago I called the State Department and asked them what they were going to do to help fight Italy, who is totally disregarding the welfare of Ludwig Koons. I asked for Secretary Powell. I did not get to speak with him but soon thereafter received a list of actions that the State Department has taken on behalf of Ludwig Koons. The actions include on April 22, 2000, the State Department sends Jeff Koons, the father, a recap of the activity on the case. Thanks. On September 21, 2000, the Consul General, Charles Keil, replies to an inquiry from the gentlewoman from New York (Mrs. Maloney). Thanks. On October 17, 2000, the State Department calls Mr. Koons and agrees to talk to his attorney. Thanks. This is what the State Department calls action? If any of us took action like that, we could not get reelected. That is what our constituents would do. I want to send a strong message today to the State Department and to Secretary Powell. Congress will not stand for this any longer. American citizens, including Ludwig Koons, are being held captive. It is your job to bring our children home.”