Sheila Jackson Lee: “I rise for a series of issues that I think are important. First of all, two simple words, thank you, to all of the…”

“I rise for a series of issues that I think are important. First of all, two simple words, thank you, to all of the election officials in all 50 States, the bulk of whom worked unceasingly to ensure that the votes of the American people would be answered, counted, and respected. Let me also say how important it is in this moment that we recognize the responsibilities of the Federal Government to raise the debt ceiling, not for itself, but to ensure the stability and security and protection of the American people. Medicare, Social Security, defense, all of these issues fall under the debt ceiling. Not recklessly, but rightly, we should do that. I say to the Federal Reserve, stop raising the interest rates. You are negatively impacting the consumer who is trying to stand up on their feet. That is important. Finally, I say, we should pass H.R. 40, the Commission to Study and Develop Reparations Proposals for African Americans Act. What is it about? Reconciliation, restoration, recognizing the history of enslaved Africans, and recognizes the unequal distribution of wealth to ensure that there is a recognition of dealing with the disparities in education, disparities in housing, disparities in social issues. I believe we can work together. Let us come together on these issues that I have mentioned. That is what America is all about. ____________________”