[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 125 (Friday, September 29, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1984]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


   PROVIDING FOR CONSIDERATION OF H.R. 5825, ELECTRONIC SURVEILLANCE 
                           MODERNIZATION ACT

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                               speech of

                          HON. BETTY McCOLLUM

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 28, 2006

  Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, I rise to oppose the previous 
question. This do-nothing Republican Congress plans to adjourn without 
taking action on the issues facing American families. It is outrageous 
that instead of addressing our national security and economic security, 
Republicans are focused on scoring cheap political points that benefit 
special interests, further divide this country, and put us at greater 
risk.
  Families--not big oil companies--need relief from the economic 
squeeze most are facing. This year we see the cost of health care, 
energy and education going up while wages stagnate. Our economic growth 
depends on an investment in our future and on recognizing that hard 
working, middle class Americans are the engine of our economy. It is 
also outrageous that 5 years after the tragedy of September 11, 
Republican leadership has failed to make the necessary investment in 
Homeland Security, preferring instead to continue to provide 
unaffordable tax cuts to corporations.
  Democrats have proposed 5 actions that this Congress can take that 
will make a real difference in the lives of families.
  This Congress should not adjourn without increasing the minimum wage. 
Republicans voted to increase our pay by $31,600 this year but have 
refused a pay raise for the 15 million hardworking Americans making the 
minimum wage.
  We must allow the Federal Government to negotiate for best price for 
pharmaceutical drugs on behalf of American seniors, persons with 
disabilities and taxpayers. This will significantly lower the cost of 
drugs, providing for resources that we use to fill the doughnut hole 
and finally provide the comprehensive coverage our seniors have been 
fighting for.
  In order to ensure our global competitiveness, Congress should 
reverse the raid on student aid by replacing the $12 billion cut 
earlier this year to pay for tax cuts for the wealthiest.
  This summer gas was over $3 dollars a gallon. And while we are 
feeling some relief now, clearly it is temporary. At the same time, oil 
and gas companies are enjoying record profits at the expense of the 
American taxpayer. It is time that this Congress insist on an energy 
plan that benefits families and decreases our dependence on foreign 
oil. Lets roll back tax breaks for Big Oil and invest those dollars in 
alternative fuels.

  And to keep America safe, Republicans should stop blocking the full 
implementation of the 9/11 Commission recommendations and commit the 
resources necessary to secure our borders, ports, airports and chemical 
facilities. Instead of simply scaring Americans with talk of a 
terrorist attack, Democrats want to take real steps to keep American 
families safe.
  Mr. Speaker, America needs a new direction. By voting against the 
previous question I am voting for initiatives that will promote 
economic growth and provide real security. I urge my colleagues to 
reject the politics of cynicism and fear and to work together to move 
this country forward.

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