Political Quotes

William F. Smith: “Mr. Speaker, the comments by opponents of this legislation simply do not represent the views of most Americans. They do…”

On the recordSeptember 25, 1996
Mr. Speaker, the comments by opponents of this legislation simply do not represent the views of most Americans. They do not even represent the desires of a majority of the Members of their own party. Every substantive provision in this compromise conference report has already been supported by a majority of Democrats and a majority of Republicans either in the House or Senate. I find it curious that when the American people want us to reduce illegal immigration, every single criticism made by the opponents of this bill would make it easier for illegal aliens to enter or stay in the country, or it would make it easier for noncitizens to get Federal benefits paid for by the taxpayer.
Said by
William F. Smith
Texas
Source
govinfo.gov

Editor's note · Context

Addressing opposition to immigration legislation during a House floor debate.

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