Pete Sessions: “I want to start by saying that I would offer my thanks and collegial admiration and respect to the members of the Rules…”

“I want to start by saying that I would offer my thanks and collegial admiration and respect to the members of the Rules Committee who, last night, once again, on an expedited basis, spent time devoted to the duty that they have not only to their party, but also to the House of Representatives acting on behalf of the American people. The gentlewoman, Ms. Slaughter; the gentleman, Mr. Hastings; the gentleman, Mr. Polis; and certainly our friend from Worcester, Massachusetts, the gentleman, Mr. McGovern, conducted themselves not only in the highest of spirit, but they also produced what I believe was a fair argument, a product that they could be proud of. Each of the witnesses that came before us, including Democratic Members of Congress and Republican Members of Congress, provided, I believe, top-notch testimony and information on behalf of their ideas. I personally want to thank Judge Hastings for his time last night, which was late into the night, and today. My admiration and respect for his collegial activity is to be respected and appreciated. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of this rule and the underlying legislation. The rule provides for consideration of H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Last November, the November which was 1 year ago, the American people spoke, and they spoke clearly. I believe they stood up and demanded change and action on our economy.…”