[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 125 (Thursday, September 18, 1997)]
[House]
[Page H7534]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                    SUPPORT THE MENENDEZ RESOLUTION

  (Ms. VELAZQUEZ asked and was given permission to address the House 
for 1 minute.)
  Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, the purpose of our democracy is to debate 
our differences in an open and civil manner. Without respectful 
disagreement, there can be no freedom. When we lose elections or when 
we lose battles in this Chamber, we understand that this is the will of 
the people. These are the hallmarks of our society, and they are the 
reason that our democratic system has survived for over 200 years.
  Mr. Speaker, these principles are under attack. A former Member of 
this body has chosen to violate the principles that have governed this 
House for so long. He has used his floor privileges to advance his 
personal agenda. He has verbally attacked a Member of this Congress, 
and he has disrupted the democratic process.
  I rise today to support the privileged resolution being offered by 
the gentleman from New Jersey [Mr. Menendez]. We must not allow any 
former Member of Congress, of any party, to set foot in this Chamber if 
it discredits and violates the integrity of this House.

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