Tammy Baldwin: “I want to begin by thanking and recognizing the House Judiciary chairman, Jerry Nadler, and the entire House Equality…”

“I want to begin by thanking and recognizing the House Judiciary chairman, Jerry Nadler, and the entire House Equality Caucus for introducing the House bill and starting up this effort. This legislation passed the House of Representatives with a strong bipartisan vote of 267 to 157, with all Democrats and 47 Republicans supporting the bill. I also want to extend my heartfelt appreciation for my Senate colleagues who have worked tirelessly to get us up to this point. I want to thank the lead sponsor of the bill, Senator Feinstein, and also thank and recognize the hard work and effort of Senator Collins, Senator Portman, Senator Sinema, and Senator Tillis for their steadfast commitment. We couldn't be where we are right now without their efforts. I also want to thank the staff of all of these offices for the long hours and hard work that went into this legislation, including my own counsel, Becca Branum, and my chief of staff, Ken Reidy. Lastly, I want to thank all of the advocates who have fought for marriage equality for decades. We are on the cusp of a historic vote in the Senate because of everybody's efforts. I decided, in thinking about what I wanted to share today, that I wanted to put a face on this debate; actually, more accurately, three faces. Let me introduce you to my dear friends Margaret, Denise, and their daughter Maria, and just tell you a little bit about them and then how this underlying issue impacts them.…”