Mark Neumann: “I rise with somewhat mixed feelings on this whole issue, and I would like to start by joining the gentleman from…”

“I rise with somewhat mixed feelings on this whole issue, and I would like to start by joining the gentleman from Maryland in supporting what he is trying to do, and the protection of children is certainly very important to all of us, but I do think we need to add a provision that allows us a ``yes'' or ``no'' vote on the pay raise issue. And let me make it clear that I would oppose a pay raise at this point in time myself. Personally I am opposed to any elected body giving itself a pay raise, but that is not really why I am rising to speak on this particular issue. What I am really opposed to is the way the bill was passed last week, brought up unexpectedly with virtually no notice and not giving the Members of this body the opportunity to have a ``yes'' or ``no'' vote on this very, very important issue. This type of action is what makes our constituents back home so angry, the idea that we are going to try and slide something through with people unaware. That is what makes the American people angry, and that is why I am rising to speak today.”