Political Quotes

“Just last week, I had the privilege of coordinating and working with other Members of Congress to hold a briefing with Judiciary Committee members to discuss the jurisdiction of the hate crimes. We were privileged at that time, in the midst of their mourning, to have there the parents of Trayvon Martin. I had the further privilege, though not wanted, to be in Sanford, Florida, before their city commission in order to discuss the absolute dereliction of duty that occurred in this terrible tragedy. Now, many have raised the question of race. Let me be very clear: the race question comes into factor only because of jurisdictional Federal laws with which they are now investigating this case; but this is a case for every American and every parent. As our Speaker did, it is a case to which everyone can ask the simple question. The State and Federal jurisdictions are looking at this, and they should review it. For those of us who believe that the perpetrator should be arrested, we maintain that. He should have been arrested and should be arrested; but this is a question for every parent: When you send your children out to get Skittles and a tea, whether they should come back alive or whether you should have to find them in a morgue.…”