Hoyer Floor Remarks on House Republicans' Failure to Address Our Nation's Priorities

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) delivered remarks on the House Floor today on House Republicans' failure to address our nation's priorities and focus on divisive, politicized legislation. Below is the link to the full video and a copy of his remarks as prepared for delivery:

Click here for a link to the full video.

"Mr. Speaker, I rise to lament the failure today to consider a resolution which would reflect the overwhelming consensus in this House that capitalism, not socialism, has proven to be the very best economic system. It is the most effective system to create dynamic economies and incentivize individual innovation, entrepreneurship, and risk-taking to achieve economic security and success. Such a resolution would have brought us together. It would give confidence to our fellow citizens that we are united in our support of our democratic capitalist system. All Members – whether they vote yes or no – will do so based upon that premise and bedrock principle.

"The resolution before us today, however, does not do that. Instead, it is an intellectually bankrupt screed of political demagoguery. All it aims to do is to divide, to distract this institution and this country. It is a political 'gotcha' and a distraction from the real issues that face the American people.

"As our departed colleague Elijah Cummings said, ‘we are better than this…'

"We just came from an annual prayer breakfast where we gave voice to reconciliation and unity. We prayed to one God, and we recited our pledge to one nation, under God, indivisible.

"America expects that of us. This resolution does not further that goal."

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