Political Quotes

“I believe it important in discussing an issue of this significance to begin once more with fundamental principles. The most fundamental principle affected by this debate is found in the first amendment to the Constitution of the United States which in relevant part reads, ``Congress,'' that is to say us, ``shall make no law abridging the freedom of speech.'' Mr. President, I turn to page 31 in this bill in section 201 and I read, ``No person other than an individual or a political committee may make a contribution to a candidate.'' ``No person other than an individual or a political committee may make a contribution to a candidate.'' In other words, any voluntary association is entirely denied the right to participate in the most effective possible way in a political campaign by making any contribution to a candidate at all. Here we live in the third century of a Nation, the particular genius of which has been the accomplishment of myriad purposes by voluntary associations, and we are seriously considering a bill that says no voluntary association can make a contribution to a candidate for the Senate. Our opponents can read us 1,000 opinions of law professors to the effect that that does not violate the first amendment, but a third grader would understand that it does. It is a clear abridgment of the right of free speech. Moreover, that brief comment reflects the entire nature of this bill.…”