[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 130 (Tuesday, September 15, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2274]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   RESTORING RESPECT AND DIGNITY TO THE U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                          HON. BETTY McCOLLUM

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 15, 2009

  Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, last week, in this chamber, the House 
hosted the Members of the U.S. Senate and the President of the United 
States.
  The President used that opportunity to address Congress and the 
American people about this country's health care crisis.
  During the speech a member of this body shouted a personal insult--
rude and disrespectful words--at the President of the United States 
that violated the rules of decorum of this House and disgraced this 
institution.
  To insult the President of the United States--an invited guest in 
this House--in such a manner brings shame on this body and all its 
members.
  Disrespect, incivility, and personal attacks have no place in the 
People's House if we are to get the people's business done.
  As a matter of honor, respect, and common decency the representative 
of the people of South Carolina's 2nd District should stand in the well 
of the House and apologize to his colleagues for his words and his 
conduct.
  Since the representative from South Carolina has refused to apologize 
I urge all Members, Democrats and Republicans, to vote in favor of H. 
Res. 744 and support restoring respect and dignity to the U.S. House of 
Representatives.

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