Political Quotes

“Before us is H.R. 2217, the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act for FY 2014. Although this legislation is far from perfect, I rise in reluctant support of the bill because ensuring that our first responders and those who work on the frontline protecting our borders have adequate resources to protect our homeland and keep our citizens safe. I strongly disapprove of the method employed by the House Republican to discharge the House's fundamental responsibility to reach a budget agreement with the Senate establishing the framework governing the appropriations process. The Republican majority brought to the floor and passed a rule that ``deems'' adopted the draconian spending limits imposed by the Ryan Budget resolution rather than a resolution that realistic and responsible limits that is to be negotiated and agreed to by House and Senate budget conferees. Indeed, the Republican House leadership has refused for months to appoint conferees empowered to reach a budget agreement that is fair, balanced and would end sequestration. I agree with President Obama that prior to consideration of appropriations bills the House and Senate should first reach agreement on an appropriate framework for all appropriations bills and one does not harm our economy or require draconian cuts to middle-class priorities.…”