Political Quotes

“Hunger is not an option. And although there were many elements of the farm bill that, over the years, I have supported enthusiastically as a Representative from Texas--and I thank all of those who produce food--it is a question of taking a stand. First, $40 billion, then $11 billion, then $8 billion. It is not an option in terms of the closing off of the opportunity for food stamps. For those who are working, as Maggie, a young lady in Austin, Texas, and the 48 million women who are living in poverty and the 22 million children living in poverty, I took a stand today, and I am proud of it--not because the work was not there for the farm bill, but we have got to protect those who need us most. Hunger is not an option. I take this time as well to thank Trudi Terry, my dear friend, for her service to this Nation. She is professional and distinguished. And as we refer to each other on the floor, ``the distinguished gentlelady from Texas,'' ``the distinguished gentleman from Massachusetts,'' you are the distinguished gentlelady from Virginia, along with Irene. We thank you for sharing with us. And I appreciate one thing: thank you for being our friend and my friend. God bless you and continue in prosperity and service. God bless you. ____________________”