Pete Sessions: “I conclude by these remarks: It is said that one way to get the attention of a mule is a 2 by 4 across the head. We had…”

“I conclude by these remarks: It is said that one way to get the attention of a mule is a 2 by 4 across the head. We had an election this past year, and I believe a critical part of that election dealt with the question of obstructionism in the Senate. The 2 by 4 has been delivered. I was proud to be sworn in, as I know the present occupant of the Chair was proud to be sworn in as the successor to Senator Strom Thurmond from South Carolina. There were 35 Senators sworn in. Twenty-two of them were Republicans. That is a pretty good 2 by 4 against those who believe obstructionism is the proper tactic. Some on the other side think their lack of success in this election was not due to obstructionism. They think their lack of success was they were too cooperative, and they are being encouraged to fight even harder this time. If that is so, we are in for a long, difficult year, and that is why I am troubled by this extraordinary delay. It has gone on day after day, everybody thinking day after day it will be settled. It has not been settled yet. So are we going to now start a year of partisanship and obstructionism on every issue? I hope not.”