(01-07-2023 10:52 AM)b2b Wrote:  I was thinking of that yesterday. What do we actually NEED any of these ******** for anyway? If 90% of DC just ceased to exist I think the country would function just fine and probably be better off.

Sent from my Pixel 3 using Tapatalk

I have been saying this for decades. The federal government is almost worthless. We are what, $31T in debt now?

70% of the budget is entitlements. More than half of the remainder is military spending. Unnecessary.

The rest is mostly pork and boondoggles, given for votes. These idiots are going to spend us into third world status eventually, maybe before the Dems turn us into a one-party socialist country.

I used to say we needed a right-sized federal military, and interstate road maintenance. Everything else is either a waste of money, or corrupted and can die or be replaced by private enterprise.

If I had to choose between Pelosi and McCarthy, I'll take the new Speaker.

Jeffries showed his true colors at the end. Crybaby b1tch, take the L.

Btw, what happened last night on Vote 14 was more evidence of Pub dysfunction. Reportedly, Boebert had agreed to vote yes, Gaetz present, and the other 4 holdouts for others.

But for some reason, when it came her turn, Boebert voted present. The Pubs applauded her at the time, not knowing the details of the agreement, but that caused McCarthy to lose by one vote. At the end of that round, not only did she refuse to change her vote, she refused to talk to anybody about it. And that was maybe 2 hours after she went on Hannity and said McCarthy was going to get the vote in Round 14. Gaetz said the same.

So pressure was put on those two to change their votes before the vote for Round 14 closed. Only one had to move from present to yes, or one of the 4 "Other" holdouts just had to move to present.

They all refused (this is the point where Mike Rogers went after Gaetz), so the Pubs made a motion to adjourn until Monday. The Dems all immediately started voting no, b/c they are likely going to vote lockstep all through this Congress in opposition to anything significant the Pubs try.

But partway through the adjournment vote (after Round 14 was closed), Gaetz reportedly agreed to change to Yes in the next round, and that would do it. He and McCarthy could be seen talking, smiling and shaking hands. Then McCarthy started running around the floor getting Pubs to change their adjournment vote from yes to no before the vote closed, do they could go to Round 15.

It was funny to watch the vote totals on the screen for the Pubs flip from yes to no. About 50 did so, which was plenty.

Then in Round 15, all 6 holdouts voted present, and McCarthy won by 4 votes.

It's also funny that the Dems, in their kneejerk lockstep reaction to oppose anything the Pubs presented, allowed the Pubs to do an about face during the vote, and then go to Round 15, where McCarthy finally won. Otherwise, this clown show would have continued through the weekend until at least Monday.

I'm actually glad this bunch is dysfunctional. Nothing they could manage to pass that might be helpful would ever get past the Senate or a presidential veto. So they are left with throttling spending on things like 87K new IRS agents, and holding hearings with legit two-sided representation that will expose the evil BS the Dems have been pulling, whether it changes minds, or not.

At least they didn't give up any seats to Dems during negotiations. For you folks who think that wasn't going to happen, it was reported that the moderate Pubs had started negotiating with the Dems to form a "unity coalition." Of course, if that happened, the Freedom Party holdouts would likely have flipped to yes, but that possibility was simmering.

As I have said since I started posting here, both parties need to die. All parties need to die. Reps and Senators should vote individually without direction or coercion from some fat cat party leader, or lobbyist (they should be banned, as well). Of course, that's all a pipe dream, just like term limits.

(01-07-2023 12:05 PM)boss man Wrote:  If I had to choose between Pelosi and McCarthy, I'll take the new Speaker.

Jeffries showed his true colors at the end. Crybaby b1tch, take the L.

I sat there listening to his speech thinking, "You evil little bastard." They really want to destroy the other party, and he said it all out loud on the floor, and with a smile. Yikes.

The talking head Pubs immediately reacted as you would expect, but as usual, this country is so entrenched, nothing is going to change many votes in many places. At least in places where likely ballot manipulation isn't occurring.

What a country we have become. SMH.

(01-07-2023 12:35 PM)TripleA Wrote:  

(01-07-2023 12:05 PM)boss man Wrote:  If I had to choose between Pelosi and McCarthy, I'll take the new Speaker.

Jeffries showed his true colors at the end. Crybaby b1tch, take the L.

I sat there listening to his speech thinking, "You evil little bastard." They really want to destroy the other party, and he said it all out loud on the floor, and with a smile. Yikes.

The talking head Pubs immediately reacted as you would expect, but as usual, this country is so entrenched, nothing is going to change many votes in many places. At least in places where likely ballot manipulation isn't occurring.

What a country we have become. SMH.

Jeffries speech was totally inappropriate for the occasion and explains why there is such animosity and rancor in that body. The funny thing is the Democrats should really be considering McCarthy "My Kevin". The dude votes with Pelosi 46% of the time. Pelosi votes with the Republican Majority something like 4% of the time. That difference is stunning and is emblematic of why its beyond me how McCarthy could possibly be a wise choice to lead a Republican majority. Its also why I was just fine with the guy being shacked and neutered as Speaker---his instincts were going to be to cave on bringing anything even remotely attractive to conservatives to the floor.

(01-07-2023 12:49 PM)Attackcoog Wrote:  

(01-07-2023 12:35 PM)TripleA Wrote:  

(01-07-2023 12:05 PM)boss man Wrote:  If I had to choose between Pelosi and McCarthy, I'll take the new Speaker.

Jeffries showed his true colors at the end. Crybaby b1tch, take the L.

I sat there listening to his speech thinking, "You evil little bastard." They really want to destroy the other party, and he said it all out loud on the floor, and with a smile. Yikes.

The talking head Pubs immediately reacted as you would expect, but as usual, this country is so entrenched, nothing is going to change many votes in many places. At least in places where likely ballot manipulation isn't occurring.

What a country we have become. SMH.

Jeffries speech was totally inappropriate for the occasion and explains why there is such animosity and rancor in that body. The funny thing is the Democrats should really be considering McCarthy "My Kevin". The dude votes with Pelosi 46% of the time. Pelosi votes with the Republican Majority something like 4% of the time. That difference is stunning and is emblematic of why its beyond me how McCarthy could possibly be a wise choice to lead a Republican majority. Its also why I was just fine with the guy being shacked and neutered as Speaker---his instincts were going to be to cave on bringing anything even remotely attractive to conservatives to the floor.

I think the problem with the Pubs electing McCarthy was that nobody else seriously wanted the job. The one likely consensus candidate, Jordan, didn't want the job, b/c he wants to chair Judiciary.

The few oddballs the 20 threw out there never picked up a single vote outside their own coalition. It was always going to be McCarthy or nobody. Or even Jeffries, if things really fell apart.

I agree with all your concerns about McCarthy, but it was an obvious waste of time to think anybody else but Jordan would ever come close to enough votes to win. That's why I didn't get so wound up about it.

I was much more interested in watching the sausage being made.

And I would really like to know what Gaetz said to get Mike Rogers (my Rep) so riled up. Rogers is one of the seemingly smartest, coolest-headed guys in DC.

Apologies for the wall of text, here is the transcript. I'd like to ask our resident pearl clutchers to point out the inappropriateness.

Quote:DISTINGUISHED MEMBERS OF THE HOUSE DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS AND THE HOUSE REPUBLICAN CAUCUS, IT'S MY HIGH HONOR AND DISTINCT PRIVILEGE TO FINALLY WELCOME ALL OF YOU TO THE 118TH CONGRESS.

LET ME JUST BEGIN BY THANKING MY GOOD FRIEND, PETE AGUILAR, FOR HIS VERY GENEROUS WORDS OF INTRODUCTION AND FOR PLACING MY NAME INTO NOMINATION, A TOTAL OF NINE TIMES. AND I ALSO WANT TO THANK MY OTHER COLLEAGUES FROM THE DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS FOR YOUR GENEROUS WORDS OF NOMINATION, AS WELL AS JIM CLYBURN, KATHERINE CLARK, TED LEWAN VERONICA ESCOBAR. AND I THANK MY COLLEAGUES AND MY FRIENDS IN THE HOUSE DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS FOR YOUR PERSEVERANCE, FOUR YOUR STRENGTH, FOR YOUR FRIENDSHIP AND FOR YOUR PURPOSE AND FOR YOUR UNANIMOUS SUPPORT.

I SIMPLY WANT TO SAY THAT SHOWING OF STRENGTH IS NOT FOR ANY ONE PARTICULAR INDIVIDUAL. IT WILL BE A SHOWING OF STRENGTH THROUGHOUT THE 118TH CONGRESS, UNANIMITY OF PURPOSE ON BEHALF OF THE AMERICAN PEOPLE.

BEFORE I PROCEED ANY FURTHER, LET ME BEGIN BY ACKNOWLEDGING THE DISTINGUISHED GENTLELADY FROM THE GREAT STATE OF CALIFORNIA, THE ICONIC, THE HEROIC, LEGENDARY NANCY PELOSI. .. . . AND WITHOUT QUESTION IN MY MIND, SPEAKER EMERITA PELOSI WILL GO DOWN IN HISTORY AS THE GREATEST SPEAKER OF ALL TIME.
THROUGHOUT HER TIME -- THROUGHOUT HER TIME IN CONGRESS, SHE'S BEEN A LEGENDARY LEGISLATOR, A FABULOUS FACILITATOR, AND A NO-NONSENSE NEGOTIATOR. WE KNOW THAT NANCY PELOSI IS A WOMAN OF FAITH, A LOVING WIFE, A MOTHER OF FIVE, A GRANDMOTHER OF NINE. A DEFENDERS OF DEMOCRACY. A VOICE FOR THE VOICELESS. AND A POWERFUL CHAMPION FOR THE CHILDREN, THE CLIMATE, CHARM CITY, CALIFORNIA, THE CAUCUS, THE CONGRESS, THE COUNTRY, AND THE CONSTITUTION.
THANK YOU, MADAM SPEAKER, FOR ALL THAT YOU HAVE DONE, IT IS AN HONOR TO STAND ON YOUR BROAD SHOULDERS.

AS WELL -- AS WELL AS THE SHOULDERS OF THE GREAT STENY HOYER AND THE GREAT JIM CLYBURN, TWO CONSEQUENTIAL LEADERS IN THEIR OWN RIGHT.

SCRIPTURE SAYS IN GALATIANS, LET US NOT BECOME WEARY IN DOING GOOD FOR AT THE PROPER TIME WE WILL REAP A HARVEST IF WE DO NOT GIVE UP.

OVER THE LAST TWO YEARS, HOUSE DEMOCRATS IN PARTNERSHIP WITH PRESIDENT BIDEN AND OUR COLLEAGUES IN THE SENATE HAVE BEEN HARD AT WORK ON BEHALF OF THE AMERICAN PEOPLE, GETTING BIG THINGS DONE.

WE PASSED THE AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN.
SAVED THE ECONOMY FROM A DEEP RECESSION.
PUT SHOTS IN ARM, MONEY IN POCKETS AND KIDS BACK IN SCHOOL.
WE PASSED THE INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT AND JOBS ACT. TO CREATE MILLIONS OF GOOD-PAYING JOBS. FIX OUR CRUMBLING BRIDGES, ROADS, TUNNELS, OUR AIRPORTS, OUR SEWER AND WATER SYSTEM, MASS TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS AND ENSURE HIGH SPEED INTERNET ACCESS IN EVERY SINGLE COMMUNITY COMMUNITY.
WE PASSED GUN SAFETY LEGISLATION FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 30 YEARS THAT WILL SAVE LIVES AND MAKE OUR COMMUNITIES SAFER.
WE PASSED THE CHIPS IN SCIENCE ACT TO BRING DOMESTIC MANUFACTURING JOBS BACK HOME TO THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND ENSURE THAT OUR WORK FORCE HAS THE SKILLS TO SUCCEED IN THE 21ST CENTURY ECONOMY AND
WE PASSED THE INFLATION REDUCTION ACT TO STRIKE A DRAMATIC BLOW AGAINST THE CLIMATE CRISIS, SET OUR PLANET ON A SUSTAINABLE TRAJECTORY FORWARD, LOWER ENERGY COSTS, STRENGTHEN THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT, LOWER HEALTH CARE COSTS AND DRIVE DOWN THE HIGH PRICE OF LIFE-SAVING PRESCRIPTION DRUGS FOR MILLIONS OF AMERICANS.

IT WAS ONE OF THE MOST CONSEQUENTIAL CONGRESSES IN AMERICAN HISTORY. PRESIDENT BIDEN GETS THE JOB DONE AND THE D IN DEMOCRAT STANDS FOR DELIVER. SO OVER THE NEXT TWO YEARS, OVER THE NEXT -- OVER THE NEXT TWO YEARS -- AS WE BEGIN THIS 118TH CONGRESS, LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT FOR LOWER COSTS. LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS FOR BETTER PAYING JOBS. LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS FOR SAFER COMMUNITIES. LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS TO DEFEND DEMOCRACY. LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS TO PUT AND PROTECT THE PUBLIC INTERESTS. LET US CONTINUE TO FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS FOR ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY IN EVERY SINGLE ZIP CODE AND LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS FOR REPRODUCTIVE FREEDOM.

BECAUSE -- BECAUSE AS DEMOCRATS WE DO BELIEVE IN A COUNTRY FOR EVERYONE.
WE DO BELIEVE IN A COUNTRY FOR EVERYONE. A COUNTRY THAT
PROVIDES FOR THE POOR.
WORKS FOR WORKING FAMILIES.
MAKES SENSE FOR THE MIDDLE CLASS.
STANDS UP FOR SENIOR CITIZENS.
INNOVATES IN THE INNER CITY.
STRENGTHENS SUBURBAN COMMUNITIES,
HELPS OUT THE HEARTLAND AND
REVITALIZES RURAL AMERICA.

WE BELIEVE IN A COUNTRY WITH
LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL.
EQUAL PROTECTION UNDER THE LAW.
FREE AND FAIR ELECTIONS AND YES,
WE BELIEVE IN A COUNTRY WITH THE PEACEFUL TRANSFER OF POWER.

WE BELIEVE -- THAT IN AMERICA OUR DIVERSITY IS A STRENGTH. IT IS NOT A WEAKNESS.
AN ECONOMIC STRENGTH, A COMPETITIVE STRENGTH, A CULTURAL STRENGTH. OUR DIVERSITY IS A STRENGTH. IT IS NOT A WEAKNESS.
WE ARE A GORGEOUS MOSAIC OF PEOPLE FROM THROUGHOUT THE WORLD.
AS JOHN LEWIS WOULD SOMETIMES REMIND US ON THIS FLOOR, WE MAY HAVE COME OVER ON DIFFERENT SHIPS BUT WE'RE ALL IN THE SAME BOAT NOW.
WE ARE WHITE, WE ARE BLACK, WE ARE LATINO, WE ARE ASIAN, WE ARE NATIVE AMERICAN,
WE ARE CHRISTIAN, WE ARE JEWISH, WE ARE MUSLIM, WE ARE HINDU,
WE ARE RELIGIOUS, WE ARE SECULAR,
WE ARE GAY, WE ARE STRAIGHT,
WE ARE YOUNG, WE ARE OLDER,
WE ARE WOMEN, WE ARE MEN, WE ARE CITIZENS, WE ARE DREAMERS,

OUT OF MANY WE ARE ONE. THAT'S WHAT MAKES AMERICA A GREAT COUNTRY. AND NO MATTER WHAT KIND OF HATERS ARE TRYING TO DIVIDE US, WE'RE NOT GOING TO LET ANYONE TAKE THAT AWAY FROM US, NOT NOW, NOT EVER. THIS IS THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. A LAND OF OPPORTUNITY.

THE FACT THAT I'M ABLE TO STAND UP HERE TODAY IS ANOTHER DATA POINT IN THAT NARRATIVE. I WAS BORN IN BROOKLYN HOSPITAL, RAISED IN A WORKING CLASS NEIGHBORHOOD IN CROWN HEIGHTS, GREW UP IN THE CORNERSTONE BAPTIST CHURCH. STARTED OFF IN THE CRADLE ROLL DEPARTMENT, SOMEHOW SURVIVED THE VIOLENCE OF THE CRACK COCAINE EPIDEMIC AND WOUND UP HERE IN THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS AS THE HIGHEST RANKING DEMOCRAT IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. AMERICA TRULY A LAND OF OPPORTUNITY. GOVERNMENT OF THE PEOPLE, BY THE PEOPLE, AND FOR THE PEOPLE.

SO ON THIS FIRST DAY, LET US COMMIT TO THE AMERICAN DREAM. A DREAM THAT PROMISES THAT IF YOU WORK HARD AND PLAY BY THE RULES, YOU SHOULD BE TABLE PROVIDE A COMFORTABLE LIVING FOR YOURSELF AND FOR YOUR FAMILY. EDUCATE YOUR CHILDREN. PURCHASE A HOME. AND ONE DAY RETIRE WITH GRACE AND DIGNITY.

LET US COMMIT ON THIS FIRST DAY TO LIFT UP THE AMERICAN DREAM FOR EVERY SINGLE PERSON IN THIS NATION.

NOW I RECOGNIZE THAT THIS IS A MOMENT OF TRANSITION.
AS WE TRANSITION FROM ONE CONGRESS TO THE NEXT, FROM ONE MAJORITY TO THE NEXT. FROM A YEAR OF ACCOMPLISHMENT, A YEAR OF ACCOMPLISHMENT TO A YEAR OF AMBIGUITY. A MOMENT OF TRANSITION.
THE AMERICAN PEOPLE UNDERSTANDABLY AFTER THE EVENTS OF THIS WEEK RECOGNIZE THAT THE CONGRESS IS AT A FORK IN THE ROAD. AND ARE ASKING THE QUESTION, WHAT DIRECTION WILL WE CHOOSE?
ON THIS FIRST DAY, I DO NOT PRETEND TO ANSWER THAT QUESTION ON BEHALF OF MY COLLEAGUES ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE AISLE. BUT WE DO EXTEND OUR HAND OF PARTNERSHIP TO YOU. AND WANT TO MAKE CLEAR THAT WE EXTEND AND INTEND TO TRY TO FIND COMMON GROUND, WHENEVER AND WHEREVER POSSIBLE ON BEHALF OF THE AMERICAN PEOPLE.
NOT AS DEMOCRATS, NOT AS REPUBLICANS, NOT AS INDEPENDENTS, BUT AS AMERICANS.

BUT I ALSO WANT TO MAKE CLEAR THAT WE WILL NEVER COMPROMISE OUR PRINCIPLES. HOUSE DEMOCRATS WILL ALWAYS PUT
AMERICAN VALUES OVER AUTOCRACY.
BENEVOLENCE OVER BIGOTRY. THE
CONSTITUTION OVER THE CODE.
DEMOCRACY OVER DEMAGOGUES.
ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY OVER EXTREMISM.
FREEDOM OVER FASCISM.
GOVERNING OVER GASLIGHTING.
HOPEFULNESS OVER HATRED.
INCLUSION OVER ISOLATION.
JUSTICE OVER JUDICIAL OVERREACH.
KNOWLEDGE OVER KANGAROO COURTS.
LIBERTY OVER LIMITATION.
MATURITY OVER MAR-A-LAGO.
NORMALCY OVER NEGATIVITY.
OPPORTUNITY OVER OBSTRUCTION.
PEOPLE OVER POLITICS.
QUALITY OF LIFE ISSUES OVER Q-ANON.
REASON OVER RACISM.
SUBSTANCE OVER SLANDER.
TRIUMPH OVER TYRANNY.
UNDERSTANDING OVER UGLINESS.
VOTING RIGHTS OVER VOTER SUPPRESSION.
WORKING FAMILIES OVER THE WELL-CONNECTED.
XENNIAL OVER XENOPHOBIA.
YES WE CAN OVER YOU CAN NOT DO IT. AND
ZEALOUS REPRESENTATION OVER ZERO SUM CONFRONTATION

WE WILL ALWAYS DO THE RIGHT THING BY THE AMERICAN PEOPLE.
SO LET US NOT GROW WEARY OF DOING GOOD. FOR THE AMERICAN PEOPLE WILL REAP THE BENEFIT OF THE HARVEST IF WE DO NOT GIVE UP.
GOD BLESS YOU. GOD BLESS THE HOUSE. AND GOD BLESS THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.

(01-07-2023 01:07 PM)TripleA Wrote:  

(01-07-2023 12:49 PM)Attackcoog Wrote:  

(01-07-2023 12:35 PM)TripleA Wrote:  

(01-07-2023 12:05 PM)boss man Wrote:  If I had to choose between Pelosi and McCarthy, I'll take the new Speaker.

Jeffries showed his true colors at the end. Crybaby b1tch, take the L.

I sat there listening to his speech thinking, "You evil little bastard." They really want to destroy the other party, and he said it all out loud on the floor, and with a smile. Yikes.

The talking head Pubs immediately reacted as you would expect, but as usual, this country is so entrenched, nothing is going to change many votes in many places. At least in places where likely ballot manipulation isn't occurring.

What a country we have become. SMH.

Jeffries speech was totally inappropriate for the occasion and explains why there is such animosity and rancor in that body. The funny thing is the Democrats should really be considering McCarthy "My Kevin". The dude votes with Pelosi 46% of the time. Pelosi votes with the Republican Majority something like 4% of the time. That difference is stunning and is emblematic of why its beyond me how McCarthy could possibly be a wise choice to lead a Republican majority. Its also why I was just fine with the guy being shacked and neutered as Speaker---his instincts were going to be to cave on bringing anything even remotely attractive to conservatives to the floor.

I think the problem with the Pubs electing McCarthy was that nobody else seriously wanted the job. The one likely consensus candidate, Jordan, didn't want the job, b/c he wants to chair Judiciary.

The few oddballs the 20 threw out there never picked up a single vote outside their own coalition. It was always going to be McCarthy or nobody. Or even Jeffries, if things really fell apart.

I agree with all your concerns about McCarthy, but it was an obvious waste of time to think anybody else but Jordan would ever come close to enough votes to win. That's why I didn't get so wound up about it.

I was much more interested in watching the sausage being made.

And I would really like to know what Gaetz said to get Mike Rogers (my Rep) so riled up. Rogers is one of the seemingly smartest, coolest-headed guys in DC.

I read somewhere that he thought that Gaetz had taken the chair of the Armed Forces Committee as payment for switching his vote to McCarthy. Apparently it wasnt Gaetz that fouled up the 14th ballot. He did exactly what he had promised McCarthy he would do---it was apparently Boebert who backed away from actually supporting McCarthy as just voted "present". In the end, I think the 20 locking in their negotiated concessions (assuming McCarthy makes good on them) and ending their hold out was for the best. The only place I differ from you is I think there were lots of viable alternative candidates for Speaker within the Republican Conference, but none were going to acknowledge their desire for the position and no candidate would gain any traction until McCarthy had agreed to step aside. I mean---if McCarthy dropped dead this weekend---the Republicans would elect another Speaker next week---so common sense tells us there were and always have been viable alternatives if push came to shove.

(01-07-2023 01:15 PM)Kruciff Wrote:  Apologies for the wall of text, here is the transcript. I'd like to ask our resident pearl clutchers to point out the inappropriateness.

Quote:DISTINGUISHED MEMBERS OF THE HOUSE DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS AND THE HOUSE REPUBLICAN CAUCUS, IT'S MY HIGH HONOR AND DISTINCT PRIVILEGE TO FINALLY WELCOME ALL OF YOU TO THE 118TH CONGRESS.

LET ME JUST BEGIN BY THANKING MY GOOD FRIEND, PETE AGUILAR, FOR HIS VERY GENEROUS WORDS OF INTRODUCTION AND FOR PLACING MY NAME INTO NOMINATION, A TOTAL OF NINE TIMES. AND I ALSO WANT TO THANK MY OTHER COLLEAGUES FROM THE DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS FOR YOUR GENEROUS WORDS OF NOMINATION, AS WELL AS JIM CLYBURN, KATHERINE CLARK, TED LEWAN VERONICA ESCOBAR. AND I THANK MY COLLEAGUES AND MY FRIENDS IN THE HOUSE DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS FOR YOUR PERSEVERANCE, FOUR YOUR STRENGTH, FOR YOUR FRIENDSHIP AND FOR YOUR PURPOSE AND FOR YOUR UNANIMOUS SUPPORT.

I SIMPLY WANT TO SAY THAT SHOWING OF STRENGTH IS NOT FOR ANY ONE PARTICULAR INDIVIDUAL. IT WILL BE A SHOWING OF STRENGTH THROUGHOUT THE 118TH CONGRESS, UNANIMITY OF PURPOSE ON BEHALF OF THE AMERICAN PEOPLE.

BEFORE I PROCEED ANY FURTHER, LET ME BEGIN BY ACKNOWLEDGING THE DISTINGUISHED GENTLELADY FROM THE GREAT STATE OF CALIFORNIA, THE ICONIC, THE HEROIC, LEGENDARY NANCY PELOSI. .. . . AND WITHOUT QUESTION IN MY MIND, SPEAKER EMERITA PELOSI WILL GO DOWN IN HISTORY AS THE GREATEST SPEAKER OF ALL TIME.
THROUGHOUT HER TIME -- THROUGHOUT HER TIME IN CONGRESS, SHE'S BEEN A LEGENDARY LEGISLATOR, A FABULOUS FACILITATOR, AND A NO-NONSENSE NEGOTIATOR. WE KNOW THAT NANCY PELOSI IS A WOMAN OF FAITH, A LOVING WIFE, A MOTHER OF FIVE, A GRANDMOTHER OF NINE. A DEFENDERS OF DEMOCRACY. A VOICE FOR THE VOICELESS. AND A POWERFUL CHAMPION FOR THE CHILDREN, THE CLIMATE, CHARM CITY, CALIFORNIA, THE CAUCUS, THE CONGRESS, THE COUNTRY, AND THE CONSTITUTION.
THANK YOU, MADAM SPEAKER, FOR ALL THAT YOU HAVE DONE, IT IS AN HONOR TO STAND ON YOUR BROAD SHOULDERS.

AS WELL -- AS WELL AS THE SHOULDERS OF THE GREAT STENY HOYER AND THE GREAT JIM CLYBURN, TWO CONSEQUENTIAL LEADERS IN THEIR OWN RIGHT.

SCRIPTURE SAYS IN GALATIANS, LET US NOT BECOME WEARY IN DOING GOOD FOR AT THE PROPER TIME WE WILL REAP A HARVEST IF WE DO NOT GIVE UP.

OVER THE LAST TWO YEARS, HOUSE DEMOCRATS IN PARTNERSHIP WITH PRESIDENT BIDEN AND OUR COLLEAGUES IN THE SENATE HAVE BEEN HARD AT WORK ON BEHALF OF THE AMERICAN PEOPLE, GETTING BIG THINGS DONE.

WE PASSED THE AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN.
SAVED THE ECONOMY FROM A DEEP RECESSION.
PUT SHOTS IN ARM, MONEY IN POCKETS AND KIDS BACK IN SCHOOL.
WE PASSED THE INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT AND JOBS ACT. TO CREATE MILLIONS OF GOOD-PAYING JOBS. FIX OUR CRUMBLING BRIDGES, ROADS, TUNNELS, OUR AIRPORTS, OUR SEWER AND WATER SYSTEM, MASS TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS AND ENSURE HIGH SPEED INTERNET ACCESS IN EVERY SINGLE COMMUNITY COMMUNITY.
WE PASSED GUN SAFETY LEGISLATION FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 30 YEARS THAT WILL SAVE LIVES AND MAKE OUR COMMUNITIES SAFER.
WE PASSED THE CHIPS IN SCIENCE ACT TO BRING DOMESTIC MANUFACTURING JOBS BACK HOME TO THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND ENSURE THAT OUR WORK FORCE HAS THE SKILLS TO SUCCEED IN THE 21ST CENTURY ECONOMY AND
WE PASSED THE INFLATION REDUCTION ACT TO STRIKE A DRAMATIC BLOW AGAINST THE CLIMATE CRISIS, SET OUR PLANET ON A SUSTAINABLE TRAJECTORY FORWARD, LOWER ENERGY COSTS, STRENGTHEN THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT, LOWER HEALTH CARE COSTS AND DRIVE DOWN THE HIGH PRICE OF LIFE-SAVING PRESCRIPTION DRUGS FOR MILLIONS OF AMERICANS.

IT WAS ONE OF THE MOST CONSEQUENTIAL CONGRESSES IN AMERICAN HISTORY. PRESIDENT BIDEN GETS THE JOB DONE AND THE D IN DEMOCRAT STANDS FOR DELIVER. SO OVER THE NEXT TWO YEARS, OVER THE NEXT -- OVER THE NEXT TWO YEARS -- AS WE BEGIN THIS 118TH CONGRESS, LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT FOR LOWER COSTS. LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS FOR BETTER PAYING JOBS. LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS FOR SAFER COMMUNITIES. LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS TO DEFEND DEMOCRACY. LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS TO PUT AND PROTECT THE PUBLIC INTERESTS. LET US CONTINUE TO FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS FOR ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY IN EVERY SINGLE ZIP CODE AND LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS FOR REPRODUCTIVE FREEDOM.

BECAUSE -- BECAUSE AS DEMOCRATS WE DO BELIEVE IN A COUNTRY FOR EVERYONE.
WE DO BELIEVE IN A COUNTRY FOR EVERYONE. A COUNTRY THAT
PROVIDES FOR THE POOR.
WORKS FOR WORKING FAMILIES.
MAKES SENSE FOR THE MIDDLE CLASS.
STANDS UP FOR SENIOR CITIZENS.
INNOVATES IN THE INNER CITY.
STRENGTHENS SUBURBAN COMMUNITIES,
HELPS OUT THE HEARTLAND AND
REVITALIZES RURAL AMERICA.

WE BELIEVE IN A COUNTRY WITH
LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL.
EQUAL PROTECTION UNDER THE LAW.
FREE AND FAIR ELECTIONS AND YES,
WE BELIEVE IN A COUNTRY WITH THE PEACEFUL TRANSFER OF POWER.

WE BELIEVE -- THAT IN AMERICA OUR DIVERSITY IS A STRENGTH. IT IS NOT A WEAKNESS.
AN ECONOMIC STRENGTH, A COMPETITIVE STRENGTH, A CULTURAL STRENGTH. OUR DIVERSITY IS A STRENGTH. IT IS NOT A WEAKNESS.
WE ARE A GORGEOUS MOSAIC OF PEOPLE FROM THROUGHOUT THE WORLD.
AS JOHN LEWIS WOULD SOMETIMES REMIND US ON THIS FLOOR, WE MAY HAVE COME OVER ON DIFFERENT SHIPS BUT WE'RE ALL IN THE SAME BOAT NOW.
WE ARE WHITE, WE ARE BLACK, WE ARE LATINO, WE ARE ASIAN, WE ARE NATIVE AMERICAN,
WE ARE CHRISTIAN, WE ARE JEWISH, WE ARE MUSLIM, WE ARE HINDU,
WE ARE RELIGIOUS, WE ARE SECULAR,
WE ARE GAY, WE ARE STRAIGHT,
WE ARE YOUNG, WE ARE OLDER,
WE ARE WOMEN, WE ARE MEN, WE ARE CITIZENS, WE ARE DREAMERS,

OUT OF MANY WE ARE ONE. THAT'S WHAT MAKES AMERICA A GREAT COUNTRY. AND NO MATTER WHAT KIND OF HATERS ARE TRYING TO DIVIDE US, WE'RE NOT GOING TO LET ANYONE TAKE THAT AWAY FROM US, NOT NOW, NOT EVER. THIS IS THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. A LAND OF OPPORTUNITY.

THE FACT THAT I'M ABLE TO STAND UP HERE TODAY IS ANOTHER DATA POINT IN THAT NARRATIVE. I WAS BORN IN BROOKLYN HOSPITAL, RAISED IN A WORKING CLASS NEIGHBORHOOD IN CROWN HEIGHTS, GREW UP IN THE CORNERSTONE BAPTIST CHURCH. STARTED OFF IN THE CRADLE ROLL DEPARTMENT, SOMEHOW SURVIVED THE VIOLENCE OF THE CRACK COCAINE EPIDEMIC AND WOUND UP HERE IN THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS AS THE HIGHEST RANKING DEMOCRAT IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. AMERICA TRULY A LAND OF OPPORTUNITY. GOVERNMENT OF THE PEOPLE, BY THE PEOPLE, AND FOR THE PEOPLE.

SO ON THIS FIRST DAY, LET US COMMIT TO THE AMERICAN DREAM. A DREAM THAT PROMISES THAT IF YOU WORK HARD AND PLAY BY THE RULES, YOU SHOULD BE TABLE PROVIDE A COMFORTABLE LIVING FOR YOURSELF AND FOR YOUR FAMILY. EDUCATE YOUR CHILDREN. PURCHASE A HOME. AND ONE DAY RETIRE WITH GRACE AND DIGNITY.

LET US COMMIT ON THIS FIRST DAY TO LIFT UP THE AMERICAN DREAM FOR EVERY SINGLE PERSON IN THIS NATION.

NOW I RECOGNIZE THAT THIS IS A MOMENT OF TRANSITION.
AS WE TRANSITION FROM ONE CONGRESS TO THE NEXT, FROM ONE MAJORITY TO THE NEXT. FROM A YEAR OF ACCOMPLISHMENT, A YEAR OF ACCOMPLISHMENT TO A YEAR OF AMBIGUITY. A MOMENT OF TRANSITION.
THE AMERICAN PEOPLE UNDERSTANDABLY AFTER THE EVENTS OF THIS WEEK RECOGNIZE THAT THE CONGRESS IS AT A FORK IN THE ROAD. AND ARE ASKING THE QUESTION, WHAT DIRECTION WILL WE CHOOSE?
ON THIS FIRST DAY, I DO NOT PRETEND TO ANSWER THAT QUESTION ON BEHALF OF MY COLLEAGUES ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE AISLE. BUT WE DO EXTEND OUR HAND OF PARTNERSHIP TO YOU. AND WANT TO MAKE CLEAR THAT WE EXTEND AND INTEND TO TRY TO FIND COMMON GROUND, WHENEVER AND WHEREVER POSSIBLE ON BEHALF OF THE AMERICAN PEOPLE.
NOT AS DEMOCRATS, NOT AS REPUBLICANS, NOT AS INDEPENDENTS, BUT AS AMERICANS.

BUT I ALSO WANT TO MAKE CLEAR THAT WE WILL NEVER COMPROMISE OUR PRINCIPLES. HOUSE DEMOCRATS WILL ALWAYS PUT
AMERICAN VALUES OVER AUTOCRACY.
BENEVOLENCE OVER BIGOTRY. THE
CONSTITUTION OVER THE CODE.
DEMOCRACY OVER DEMAGOGUES.
ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY OVER EXTREMISM.
FREEDOM OVER FASCISM.
GOVERNING OVER GASLIGHTING.
HOPEFULNESS OVER HATRED.
INCLUSION OVER ISOLATION.
JUSTICE OVER JUDICIAL OVERREACH.
KNOWLEDGE OVER KANGAROO COURTS.
LIBERTY OVER LIMITATION.
MATURITY OVER MAR-A-LAGO.
NORMALCY OVER NEGATIVITY.
OPPORTUNITY OVER OBSTRUCTION.
PEOPLE OVER POLITICS.
QUALITY OF LIFE ISSUES OVER Q-ANON.
REASON OVER RACISM.
SUBSTANCE OVER SLANDER.
TRIUMPH OVER TYRANNY.
UNDERSTANDING OVER UGLINESS.
VOTING RIGHTS OVER VOTER SUPPRESSION.
WORKING FAMILIES OVER THE WELL-CONNECTED.
XENNIAL OVER XENOPHOBIA.
YES WE CAN OVER YOU CAN NOT DO IT. AND
ZEALOUS REPRESENTATION OVER ZERO SUM CONFRONTATION

WE WILL ALWAYS DO THE RIGHT THING BY THE AMERICAN PEOPLE.
SO LET US NOT GROW WEARY OF DOING GOOD. FOR THE AMERICAN PEOPLE WILL REAP THE BENEFIT OF THE HARVEST IF WE DO NOT GIVE UP.
GOD BLESS YOU. GOD BLESS THE HOUSE. AND GOD BLESS THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.

The obvious implication is that the Republicans believe otherwise---and it was inappropriate to use such divisive, misleading, and insulting rhetoric in a ceremony designed to welcome a new speaker, swear in newly elected members, and to attempt to begin the 118th congress on a note of unity. Like his partys' leader---who claims a desire for unity---and then spews misinformation and red meat hate filled divisive rhetoric like he's on the campaign trail in front of Democrat true believer donors--Jeffies missed the mark. The Democrat penchant for having a complete lack of self awareness is nothing new and I would expect nothing less from the trash and selfish human debris that make up most of the todays Democrat politicians.

Jeffries speech was inappropriate----and not just a little. Contrast the divisive misleading insulting trash in bold above with the courteous, complimentary, self effacing, and uniting remarks made by McCarthy. Worse yet---Jeffries was supposed to be introducing the new Speaker---and he barely even said anything about him in his rambling 12 minute into. Jeffries was supposed to be welcoming new members---and barely even mentioned their presence. The difference in Jeffries remarks and McCarthy's was like the difference between lightness and darkness. There will be plenty of time for Jeffries to sow his lies, hate, and divisiveness---but last night was not the time or place. Last night was a moment of optimism---a time of welcoming, fresh starts, and unity----and Jeffries horribly missed the mark on all those themes---optiing instead to throw red meat hate filled rhetoric that was out place and showed he was completely out of touch with the moment.

Jeffries is just another angry Leftist.

(01-07-2023 03:52 PM)Eagleaidaholic Wrote:  Jeffries is just another angry Leftist.

Of course he is and his speech was intended to please the rest of his angry sycophants. It was unnecessary and a carefully cloaked attack on the right.

(01-07-2023 03:52 PM)Eagleaidaholic Wrote:  Jeffries is just another angry Leftist.

to be fair, at least his speech writers know the alphabet …

(01-07-2023 02:37 PM)Attackcoog Wrote:  The obvious implication is that the Republicans believe otherwise---

It's only an implication if Republicans don't stand for the words he is saying.

and it was inappropriate to use such divisive, misleading, and insulting rhetoric in a ceremony designed to welcome a new speaker, swear in newly elected members, and to attempt to begin the 118th congress on a note of unity.

Republicans have had no illusions about their unwillingness to work cooperatively. The only stated goals your elected representatives have is to obstruct Joe Biden and the Democrats outright, and abolish investigations into Trump. You want us to cheer for you and put on smiles? Republicans aren't interested in unity so don't sit there and pretend that that burden falls on the Democrats to provide the unity for your party.

Like his partys' leader---who claims a desire for unity---and then spews misinformation and red meat hate filled divisive rhetoric like he's on the campaign trail in front of Democrat true believer donors--Jeffies missed the mark.

You are getting upset over a politician doing politics. Hakeem Jeffries delivered an opening mission statement from the Minority party, and you guys took offense because it makes you pay attention to exactly what your party supports. His speech is only divisive if you disagree with what he says, and you've yet to say what you disagree with about it?

The Democrat penchant for having a complete lack of self awareness is nothing new and I would expect nothing less from the trash and selfish human debris that make up most of the todays Democrat politicians.

Ok?

Jeffries speech was inappropriate----and not just a little. Contrast the divisive misleading insulting trash in bold above with the courteous, complimentary, self effacing, and uniting remarks made by McCarthy.

Look at you, going off the rails at your scarecrow again. What exactly was insulting about what he said? We all know exactly who McCarthy is, and I couldn't care less what he says.

Worse yet---Jeffries was supposed to be introducing the new Speaker---
and he barely even said anything about him in his rambling 12 minute into. Jeffries was supposed to be welcoming new members---and barely even mentioned their presence.

This complaint is so petulant.

The difference in Jeffries remarks and McCarthy's was like the difference between lightness and darkness. There will be plenty of time for Jeffries to sow his lies, hate, and divisiveness---but last night was not the time or place. Last night was a moment of optimism---a time of welcoming, fresh starts, and unity----and Jeffries horribly missed the mark on all those themes---optiing instead to throw red meat hate filled rhetoric that was out place and showed he was completely out of touch with the moment.

This is like text book pearl clutching.

(01-07-2023 04:34 PM)Kruciff Wrote:  

(01-07-2023 02:37 PM)Attackcoog Wrote:  The obvious implication is that the Republicans believe otherwise---

It's only an implication if Republicans don't stand for the words he is saying.

and it was inappropriate to use such divisive, misleading, and insulting rhetoric in a ceremony designed to welcome a new speaker, swear in newly elected members, and to attempt to begin the 118th congress on a note of unity.

Republicans have had no illusions about their unwillingness to work cooperatively. The only stated goals your elected representatives have is to obstruct Joe Biden and the Democrats outright, and abolish investigations into Trump. You want us to cheer for you and put on smiles? Republicans aren't interested in unity so don't sit there and pretend that that burden falls on the Democrats to provide the unity for your party.

Like his partys' leader---who claims a desire for unity---and then spews misinformation and red meat hate filled divisive rhetoric like he's on the campaign trail in front of Democrat true believer donors--Jeffies missed the mark.

You are getting upset over a politician doing politics. Hakeem Jeffries delivered an opening mission statement from the Minority party, and you guys took offense because it makes you pay attention to exactly what your party supports. His speech is only divisive if you disagree with what he says, and you've yet to say what you disagree with about it?

The Democrat penchant for having a complete lack of self awareness is nothing new and I would expect nothing less from the trash and selfish human debris that make up most of the todays Democrat politicians.

Ok?

Jeffries speech was inappropriate----and not just a little. Contrast the divisive misleading insulting trash in bold above with the courteous, complimentary, self effacing, and uniting remarks made by McCarthy.

Look at you, going off the rails at your scarecrow again. What exactly was insulting about what he said? We all know exactly who McCarthy is, and I couldn't care less what he says.

Worse yet---Jeffries was supposed to be introducing the new Speaker---
and he barely even said anything about him in his rambling 12 minute into. Jeffries was supposed to be welcoming new members---and barely even mentioned their presence.

This complaint is so petulant.

The difference in Jeffries remarks and McCarthy's was like the difference between lightness and darkness. There will be plenty of time for Jeffries to sow his lies, hate, and divisiveness---but last night was not the time or place. Last night was a moment of optimism---a time of welcoming, fresh starts, and unity----and Jeffries horribly missed the mark on all those themes---optiing instead to throw red meat hate filled rhetoric that was out place and showed he was completely out of touch with the moment.

This is like text book pearl clutching.

lol. Your the one crying and sniveling because most everyone is in agreement that Jeffries remarks were far too partisan, insulting, and divisive for the moment. Is it so hard to simply be pleasant for 5 minutes, say something nice about your opponent, and hand the gavel over with a classy complimentary short set of remarks set around a theme of unity and optimism? I mean Democrat talking heads have been clutching pearls for 6 years over some "mean tweets" by Trumps---none of which were made while introducing a newly elected official of the opposing party. Jeffries was a complete jackazz last night. Its his right to spoil the moment if he wants---but its silly for you to whine when people point out his poor behavior. He elected to act poorly---the consequence is he gets called out for it.

(01-07-2023 02:37 PM)Attackcoog Wrote:  

(01-07-2023 01:15 PM)Kruciff Wrote:  Apologies for the wall of text, here is the transcript. I'd like to ask our resident pearl clutchers to point out the inappropriateness.

Quote:DISTINGUISHED MEMBERS OF THE HOUSE DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS AND THE HOUSE REPUBLICAN CAUCUS, IT'S MY HIGH HONOR AND DISTINCT PRIVILEGE TO FINALLY WELCOME ALL OF YOU TO THE 118TH CONGRESS.

LET ME JUST BEGIN BY THANKING MY GOOD FRIEND, PETE AGUILAR, FOR HIS VERY GENEROUS WORDS OF INTRODUCTION AND FOR PLACING MY NAME INTO NOMINATION, A TOTAL OF NINE TIMES. AND I ALSO WANT TO THANK MY OTHER COLLEAGUES FROM THE DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS FOR YOUR GENEROUS WORDS OF NOMINATION, AS WELL AS JIM CLYBURN, KATHERINE CLARK, TED LEWAN VERONICA ESCOBAR. AND I THANK MY COLLEAGUES AND MY FRIENDS IN THE HOUSE DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS FOR YOUR PERSEVERANCE, FOUR YOUR STRENGTH, FOR YOUR FRIENDSHIP AND FOR YOUR PURPOSE AND FOR YOUR UNANIMOUS SUPPORT.

I SIMPLY WANT TO SAY THAT SHOWING OF STRENGTH IS NOT FOR ANY ONE PARTICULAR INDIVIDUAL. IT WILL BE A SHOWING OF STRENGTH THROUGHOUT THE 118TH CONGRESS, UNANIMITY OF PURPOSE ON BEHALF OF THE AMERICAN PEOPLE.

BEFORE I PROCEED ANY FURTHER, LET ME BEGIN BY ACKNOWLEDGING THE DISTINGUISHED GENTLELADY FROM THE GREAT STATE OF CALIFORNIA, THE ICONIC, THE HEROIC, LEGENDARY NANCY PELOSI. .. . . AND WITHOUT QUESTION IN MY MIND, SPEAKER EMERITA PELOSI WILL GO DOWN IN HISTORY AS THE GREATEST SPEAKER OF ALL TIME.
THROUGHOUT HER TIME -- THROUGHOUT HER TIME IN CONGRESS, SHE'S BEEN A LEGENDARY LEGISLATOR, A FABULOUS FACILITATOR, AND A NO-NONSENSE NEGOTIATOR. WE KNOW THAT NANCY PELOSI IS A WOMAN OF FAITH, A LOVING WIFE, A MOTHER OF FIVE, A GRANDMOTHER OF NINE. A DEFENDERS OF DEMOCRACY. A VOICE FOR THE VOICELESS. AND A POWERFUL CHAMPION FOR THE CHILDREN, THE CLIMATE, CHARM CITY, CALIFORNIA, THE CAUCUS, THE CONGRESS, THE COUNTRY, AND THE CONSTITUTION.
THANK YOU, MADAM SPEAKER, FOR ALL THAT YOU HAVE DONE, IT IS AN HONOR TO STAND ON YOUR BROAD SHOULDERS.

AS WELL -- AS WELL AS THE SHOULDERS OF THE GREAT STENY HOYER AND THE GREAT JIM CLYBURN, TWO CONSEQUENTIAL LEADERS IN THEIR OWN RIGHT.

SCRIPTURE SAYS IN GALATIANS, LET US NOT BECOME WEARY IN DOING GOOD FOR AT THE PROPER TIME WE WILL REAP A HARVEST IF WE DO NOT GIVE UP.

OVER THE LAST TWO YEARS, HOUSE DEMOCRATS IN PARTNERSHIP WITH PRESIDENT BIDEN AND OUR COLLEAGUES IN THE SENATE HAVE BEEN HARD AT WORK ON BEHALF OF THE AMERICAN PEOPLE, GETTING BIG THINGS DONE.

WE PASSED THE AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN.
SAVED THE ECONOMY FROM A DEEP RECESSION.
PUT SHOTS IN ARM, MONEY IN POCKETS AND KIDS BACK IN SCHOOL.
WE PASSED THE INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT AND JOBS ACT. TO CREATE MILLIONS OF GOOD-PAYING JOBS. FIX OUR CRUMBLING BRIDGES, ROADS, TUNNELS, OUR AIRPORTS, OUR SEWER AND WATER SYSTEM, MASS TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS AND ENSURE HIGH SPEED INTERNET ACCESS IN EVERY SINGLE COMMUNITY COMMUNITY.
WE PASSED GUN SAFETY LEGISLATION FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 30 YEARS THAT WILL SAVE LIVES AND MAKE OUR COMMUNITIES SAFER.
WE PASSED THE CHIPS IN SCIENCE ACT TO BRING DOMESTIC MANUFACTURING JOBS BACK HOME TO THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND ENSURE THAT OUR WORK FORCE HAS THE SKILLS TO SUCCEED IN THE 21ST CENTURY ECONOMY AND
WE PASSED THE INFLATION REDUCTION ACT TO STRIKE A DRAMATIC BLOW AGAINST THE CLIMATE CRISIS, SET OUR PLANET ON A SUSTAINABLE TRAJECTORY FORWARD, LOWER ENERGY COSTS, STRENGTHEN THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT, LOWER HEALTH CARE COSTS AND DRIVE DOWN THE HIGH PRICE OF LIFE-SAVING PRESCRIPTION DRUGS FOR MILLIONS OF AMERICANS.

IT WAS ONE OF THE MOST CONSEQUENTIAL CONGRESSES IN AMERICAN HISTORY. PRESIDENT BIDEN GETS THE JOB DONE AND THE D IN DEMOCRAT STANDS FOR DELIVER. SO OVER THE NEXT TWO YEARS, OVER THE NEXT -- OVER THE NEXT TWO YEARS -- AS WE BEGIN THIS 118TH CONGRESS, LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT FOR LOWER COSTS. LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS FOR BETTER PAYING JOBS. LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS FOR SAFER COMMUNITIES. LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS TO DEFEND DEMOCRACY. LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS TO PUT AND PROTECT THE PUBLIC INTERESTS. LET US CONTINUE TO FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS FOR ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY IN EVERY SINGLE ZIP CODE AND LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS FOR REPRODUCTIVE FREEDOM.

BECAUSE -- BECAUSE AS DEMOCRATS WE DO BELIEVE IN A COUNTRY FOR EVERYONE.
WE DO BELIEVE IN A COUNTRY FOR EVERYONE. A COUNTRY THAT
PROVIDES FOR THE POOR.
WORKS FOR WORKING FAMILIES.
MAKES SENSE FOR THE MIDDLE CLASS.
STANDS UP FOR SENIOR CITIZENS.
INNOVATES IN THE INNER CITY.
STRENGTHENS SUBURBAN COMMUNITIES,
HELPS OUT THE HEARTLAND AND
REVITALIZES RURAL AMERICA.

WE BELIEVE IN A COUNTRY WITH
LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL.
EQUAL PROTECTION UNDER THE LAW.
FREE AND FAIR ELECTIONS AND YES,
WE BELIEVE IN A COUNTRY WITH THE PEACEFUL TRANSFER OF POWER.

WE BELIEVE -- THAT IN AMERICA OUR DIVERSITY IS A STRENGTH. IT IS NOT A WEAKNESS.
AN ECONOMIC STRENGTH, A COMPETITIVE STRENGTH, A CULTURAL STRENGTH. OUR DIVERSITY IS A STRENGTH. IT IS NOT A WEAKNESS.
WE ARE A GORGEOUS MOSAIC OF PEOPLE FROM THROUGHOUT THE WORLD.
AS JOHN LEWIS WOULD SOMETIMES REMIND US ON THIS FLOOR, WE MAY HAVE COME OVER ON DIFFERENT SHIPS BUT WE'RE ALL IN THE SAME BOAT NOW.
WE ARE WHITE, WE ARE BLACK, WE ARE LATINO, WE ARE ASIAN, WE ARE NATIVE AMERICAN,
WE ARE CHRISTIAN, WE ARE JEWISH, WE ARE MUSLIM, WE ARE HINDU,
WE ARE RELIGIOUS, WE ARE SECULAR,
WE ARE GAY, WE ARE STRAIGHT,
WE ARE YOUNG, WE ARE OLDER,
WE ARE WOMEN, WE ARE MEN, WE ARE CITIZENS, WE ARE DREAMERS,

OUT OF MANY WE ARE ONE. THAT'S WHAT MAKES AMERICA A GREAT COUNTRY. AND NO MATTER WHAT KIND OF HATERS ARE TRYING TO DIVIDE US, WE'RE NOT GOING TO LET ANYONE TAKE THAT AWAY FROM US, NOT NOW, NOT EVER. THIS IS THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. A LAND OF OPPORTUNITY.

THE FACT THAT I'M ABLE TO STAND UP HERE TODAY IS ANOTHER DATA POINT IN THAT NARRATIVE. I WAS BORN IN BROOKLYN HOSPITAL, RAISED IN A WORKING CLASS NEIGHBORHOOD IN CROWN HEIGHTS, GREW UP IN THE CORNERSTONE BAPTIST CHURCH. STARTED OFF IN THE CRADLE ROLL DEPARTMENT, SOMEHOW SURVIVED THE VIOLENCE OF THE CRACK COCAINE EPIDEMIC AND WOUND UP HERE IN THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS AS THE HIGHEST RANKING DEMOCRAT IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. AMERICA TRULY A LAND OF OPPORTUNITY. GOVERNMENT OF THE PEOPLE, BY THE PEOPLE, AND FOR THE PEOPLE.

SO ON THIS FIRST DAY, LET US COMMIT TO THE AMERICAN DREAM. A DREAM THAT PROMISES THAT IF YOU WORK HARD AND PLAY BY THE RULES, YOU SHOULD BE TABLE PROVIDE A COMFORTABLE LIVING FOR YOURSELF AND FOR YOUR FAMILY. EDUCATE YOUR CHILDREN. PURCHASE A HOME. AND ONE DAY RETIRE WITH GRACE AND DIGNITY.

LET US COMMIT ON THIS FIRST DAY TO LIFT UP THE AMERICAN DREAM FOR EVERY SINGLE PERSON IN THIS NATION.

NOW I RECOGNIZE THAT THIS IS A MOMENT OF TRANSITION.
AS WE TRANSITION FROM ONE CONGRESS TO THE NEXT, FROM ONE MAJORITY TO THE NEXT. FROM A YEAR OF ACCOMPLISHMENT, A YEAR OF ACCOMPLISHMENT TO A YEAR OF AMBIGUITY. A MOMENT OF TRANSITION.
THE AMERICAN PEOPLE UNDERSTANDABLY AFTER THE EVENTS OF THIS WEEK RECOGNIZE THAT THE CONGRESS IS AT A FORK IN THE ROAD. AND ARE ASKING THE QUESTION, WHAT DIRECTION WILL WE CHOOSE?
ON THIS FIRST DAY, I DO NOT PRETEND TO ANSWER THAT QUESTION ON BEHALF OF MY COLLEAGUES ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE AISLE. BUT WE DO EXTEND OUR HAND OF PARTNERSHIP TO YOU. AND WANT TO MAKE CLEAR THAT WE EXTEND AND INTEND TO TRY TO FIND COMMON GROUND, WHENEVER AND WHEREVER POSSIBLE ON BEHALF OF THE AMERICAN PEOPLE.
NOT AS DEMOCRATS, NOT AS REPUBLICANS, NOT AS INDEPENDENTS, BUT AS AMERICANS.

BUT I ALSO WANT TO MAKE CLEAR THAT WE WILL NEVER COMPROMISE OUR PRINCIPLES. HOUSE DEMOCRATS WILL ALWAYS PUT
AMERICAN VALUES OVER AUTOCRACY.
BENEVOLENCE OVER BIGOTRY. THE
CONSTITUTION OVER THE CODE.
DEMOCRACY OVER DEMAGOGUES.
ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY OVER EXTREMISM.
FREEDOM OVER FASCISM.
GOVERNING OVER GASLIGHTING.
HOPEFULNESS OVER HATRED.
INCLUSION OVER ISOLATION.
JUSTICE OVER JUDICIAL OVERREACH.
KNOWLEDGE OVER KANGAROO COURTS.
LIBERTY OVER LIMITATION.
MATURITY OVER MAR-A-LAGO.
NORMALCY OVER NEGATIVITY.
OPPORTUNITY OVER OBSTRUCTION.
PEOPLE OVER POLITICS.
QUALITY OF LIFE ISSUES OVER Q-ANON.
REASON OVER RACISM.
SUBSTANCE OVER SLANDER.
TRIUMPH OVER TYRANNY.
UNDERSTANDING OVER UGLINESS.
VOTING RIGHTS OVER VOTER SUPPRESSION.
WORKING FAMILIES OVER THE WELL-CONNECTED.
XENNIAL OVER XENOPHOBIA.
YES WE CAN OVER YOU CAN NOT DO IT. AND
ZEALOUS REPRESENTATION OVER ZERO SUM CONFRONTATION

WE WILL ALWAYS DO THE RIGHT THING BY THE AMERICAN PEOPLE.
SO LET US NOT GROW WEARY OF DOING GOOD. FOR THE AMERICAN PEOPLE WILL REAP THE BENEFIT OF THE HARVEST IF WE DO NOT GIVE UP.
GOD BLESS YOU. GOD BLESS THE HOUSE. AND GOD BLESS THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.

The obvious implication is that the Republicans believe otherwise---and it was inappropriate to use such divisive, misleading, and insulting rhetoric in a ceremony designed to welcome a new speaker, swear in newly elected members, and to attempt to begin the 118th congress on a note of unity. Like his partys' leader---who claims a desire for unity---and then spews misinformation and red meat hate filled divisive rhetoric like he's on the campaign trail in front of Democrat true believer donors--Jeffies missed the mark. The Democrat penchant for having a complete lack of self awareness is nothing new and I would expect nothing less from the trash and selfish human debris that make up most of the todays Democrat politicians.

Jeffries speech was inappropriate----and not just a little. Contrast the divisive misleading insulting trash in bold above with the courteous, complimentary, self effacing, and uniting remarks made by McCarthy. Worse yet---Jeffries was supposed to be introducing the new Speaker---and he barely even said anything about him in his rambling 12 minute into. Jeffries was supposed to be welcoming new members---and barely even mentioned their presence. The difference in Jeffries remarks and McCarthy's was like the difference between lightness and darkness. There will be plenty of time for Jeffries to sow his lies, hate, and divisiveness---but last night was not the time or place. Last night was a moment of optimism---a time of welcoming, fresh starts, and unity----and Jeffries horribly missed the mark on all those themes---optiing instead to throw red meat hate filled rhetoric that was out place and showed he was completely out of touch with the moment.

It's hilarious to see a critique from the right of Jeffries speech based on divisiveness and lack of unity, when you've just spent days as the first majority party in 100 years unready and unable to elect a Speaker at the start of a new Congress.

(01-07-2023 05:49 PM)Gamenole Wrote:  

(01-07-2023 02:37 PM)Attackcoog Wrote:  

(01-07-2023 01:15 PM)Kruciff Wrote:  Apologies for the wall of text, here is the transcript. I'd like to ask our resident pearl clutchers to point out the inappropriateness.

Quote:DISTINGUISHED MEMBERS OF THE HOUSE DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS AND THE HOUSE REPUBLICAN CAUCUS, IT'S MY HIGH HONOR AND DISTINCT PRIVILEGE TO FINALLY WELCOME ALL OF YOU TO THE 118TH CONGRESS.

LET ME JUST BEGIN BY THANKING MY GOOD FRIEND, PETE AGUILAR, FOR HIS VERY GENEROUS WORDS OF INTRODUCTION AND FOR PLACING MY NAME INTO NOMINATION, A TOTAL OF NINE TIMES. AND I ALSO WANT TO THANK MY OTHER COLLEAGUES FROM THE DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS FOR YOUR GENEROUS WORDS OF NOMINATION, AS WELL AS JIM CLYBURN, KATHERINE CLARK, TED LEWAN VERONICA ESCOBAR. AND I THANK MY COLLEAGUES AND MY FRIENDS IN THE HOUSE DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS FOR YOUR PERSEVERANCE, FOUR YOUR STRENGTH, FOR YOUR FRIENDSHIP AND FOR YOUR PURPOSE AND FOR YOUR UNANIMOUS SUPPORT.

I SIMPLY WANT TO SAY THAT SHOWING OF STRENGTH IS NOT FOR ANY ONE PARTICULAR INDIVIDUAL. IT WILL BE A SHOWING OF STRENGTH THROUGHOUT THE 118TH CONGRESS, UNANIMITY OF PURPOSE ON BEHALF OF THE AMERICAN PEOPLE.

BEFORE I PROCEED ANY FURTHER, LET ME BEGIN BY ACKNOWLEDGING THE DISTINGUISHED GENTLELADY FROM THE GREAT STATE OF CALIFORNIA, THE ICONIC, THE HEROIC, LEGENDARY NANCY PELOSI. .. . . AND WITHOUT QUESTION IN MY MIND, SPEAKER EMERITA PELOSI WILL GO DOWN IN HISTORY AS THE GREATEST SPEAKER OF ALL TIME.
THROUGHOUT HER TIME -- THROUGHOUT HER TIME IN CONGRESS, SHE'S BEEN A LEGENDARY LEGISLATOR, A FABULOUS FACILITATOR, AND A NO-NONSENSE NEGOTIATOR. WE KNOW THAT NANCY PELOSI IS A WOMAN OF FAITH, A LOVING WIFE, A MOTHER OF FIVE, A GRANDMOTHER OF NINE. A DEFENDERS OF DEMOCRACY. A VOICE FOR THE VOICELESS. AND A POWERFUL CHAMPION FOR THE CHILDREN, THE CLIMATE, CHARM CITY, CALIFORNIA, THE CAUCUS, THE CONGRESS, THE COUNTRY, AND THE CONSTITUTION.
THANK YOU, MADAM SPEAKER, FOR ALL THAT YOU HAVE DONE, IT IS AN HONOR TO STAND ON YOUR BROAD SHOULDERS.

AS WELL -- AS WELL AS THE SHOULDERS OF THE GREAT STENY HOYER AND THE GREAT JIM CLYBURN, TWO CONSEQUENTIAL LEADERS IN THEIR OWN RIGHT.

SCRIPTURE SAYS IN GALATIANS, LET US NOT BECOME WEARY IN DOING GOOD FOR AT THE PROPER TIME WE WILL REAP A HARVEST IF WE DO NOT GIVE UP.

OVER THE LAST TWO YEARS, HOUSE DEMOCRATS IN PARTNERSHIP WITH PRESIDENT BIDEN AND OUR COLLEAGUES IN THE SENATE HAVE BEEN HARD AT WORK ON BEHALF OF THE AMERICAN PEOPLE, GETTING BIG THINGS DONE.

WE PASSED THE AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN.
SAVED THE ECONOMY FROM A DEEP RECESSION.
PUT SHOTS IN ARM, MONEY IN POCKETS AND KIDS BACK IN SCHOOL.
WE PASSED THE INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT AND JOBS ACT. TO CREATE MILLIONS OF GOOD-PAYING JOBS. FIX OUR CRUMBLING BRIDGES, ROADS, TUNNELS, OUR AIRPORTS, OUR SEWER AND WATER SYSTEM, MASS TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS AND ENSURE HIGH SPEED INTERNET ACCESS IN EVERY SINGLE COMMUNITY COMMUNITY.
WE PASSED GUN SAFETY LEGISLATION FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 30 YEARS THAT WILL SAVE LIVES AND MAKE OUR COMMUNITIES SAFER.
WE PASSED THE CHIPS IN SCIENCE ACT TO BRING DOMESTIC MANUFACTURING JOBS BACK HOME TO THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND ENSURE THAT OUR WORK FORCE HAS THE SKILLS TO SUCCEED IN THE 21ST CENTURY ECONOMY AND
WE PASSED THE INFLATION REDUCTION ACT TO STRIKE A DRAMATIC BLOW AGAINST THE CLIMATE CRISIS, SET OUR PLANET ON A SUSTAINABLE TRAJECTORY FORWARD, LOWER ENERGY COSTS, STRENGTHEN THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT, LOWER HEALTH CARE COSTS AND DRIVE DOWN THE HIGH PRICE OF LIFE-SAVING PRESCRIPTION DRUGS FOR MILLIONS OF AMERICANS.

IT WAS ONE OF THE MOST CONSEQUENTIAL CONGRESSES IN AMERICAN HISTORY. PRESIDENT BIDEN GETS THE JOB DONE AND THE D IN DEMOCRAT STANDS FOR DELIVER. SO OVER THE NEXT TWO YEARS, OVER THE NEXT -- OVER THE NEXT TWO YEARS -- AS WE BEGIN THIS 118TH CONGRESS, LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT FOR LOWER COSTS. LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS FOR BETTER PAYING JOBS. LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS FOR SAFER COMMUNITIES. LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS TO DEFEND DEMOCRACY. LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS TO PUT AND PROTECT THE PUBLIC INTERESTS. LET US CONTINUE TO FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS FOR ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY IN EVERY SINGLE ZIP CODE AND LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS FOR REPRODUCTIVE FREEDOM.

BECAUSE -- BECAUSE AS DEMOCRATS WE DO BELIEVE IN A COUNTRY FOR EVERYONE.
WE DO BELIEVE IN A COUNTRY FOR EVERYONE. A COUNTRY THAT
PROVIDES FOR THE POOR.
WORKS FOR WORKING FAMILIES.
MAKES SENSE FOR THE MIDDLE CLASS.
STANDS UP FOR SENIOR CITIZENS.
INNOVATES IN THE INNER CITY.
STRENGTHENS SUBURBAN COMMUNITIES,
HELPS OUT THE HEARTLAND AND
REVITALIZES RURAL AMERICA.

WE BELIEVE IN A COUNTRY WITH
LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL.
EQUAL PROTECTION UNDER THE LAW.
FREE AND FAIR ELECTIONS AND YES,
WE BELIEVE IN A COUNTRY WITH THE PEACEFUL TRANSFER OF POWER.

WE BELIEVE -- THAT IN AMERICA OUR DIVERSITY IS A STRENGTH. IT IS NOT A WEAKNESS.
AN ECONOMIC STRENGTH, A COMPETITIVE STRENGTH, A CULTURAL STRENGTH. OUR DIVERSITY IS A STRENGTH. IT IS NOT A WEAKNESS.
WE ARE A GORGEOUS MOSAIC OF PEOPLE FROM THROUGHOUT THE WORLD.
AS JOHN LEWIS WOULD SOMETIMES REMIND US ON THIS FLOOR, WE MAY HAVE COME OVER ON DIFFERENT SHIPS BUT WE'RE ALL IN THE SAME BOAT NOW.
WE ARE WHITE, WE ARE BLACK, WE ARE LATINO, WE ARE ASIAN, WE ARE NATIVE AMERICAN,
WE ARE CHRISTIAN, WE ARE JEWISH, WE ARE MUSLIM, WE ARE HINDU,
WE ARE RELIGIOUS, WE ARE SECULAR,
WE ARE GAY, WE ARE STRAIGHT,
WE ARE YOUNG, WE ARE OLDER,
WE ARE WOMEN, WE ARE MEN, WE ARE CITIZENS, WE ARE DREAMERS,

OUT OF MANY WE ARE ONE. THAT'S WHAT MAKES AMERICA A GREAT COUNTRY. AND NO MATTER WHAT KIND OF HATERS ARE TRYING TO DIVIDE US, WE'RE NOT GOING TO LET ANYONE TAKE THAT AWAY FROM US, NOT NOW, NOT EVER. THIS IS THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. A LAND OF OPPORTUNITY.

THE FACT THAT I'M ABLE TO STAND UP HERE TODAY IS ANOTHER DATA POINT IN THAT NARRATIVE. I WAS BORN IN BROOKLYN HOSPITAL, RAISED IN A WORKING CLASS NEIGHBORHOOD IN CROWN HEIGHTS, GREW UP IN THE CORNERSTONE BAPTIST CHURCH. STARTED OFF IN THE CRADLE ROLL DEPARTMENT, SOMEHOW SURVIVED THE VIOLENCE OF THE CRACK COCAINE EPIDEMIC AND WOUND UP HERE IN THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS AS THE HIGHEST RANKING DEMOCRAT IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. AMERICA TRULY A LAND OF OPPORTUNITY. GOVERNMENT OF THE PEOPLE, BY THE PEOPLE, AND FOR THE PEOPLE.

SO ON THIS FIRST DAY, LET US COMMIT TO THE AMERICAN DREAM. A DREAM THAT PROMISES THAT IF YOU WORK HARD AND PLAY BY THE RULES, YOU SHOULD BE TABLE PROVIDE A COMFORTABLE LIVING FOR YOURSELF AND FOR YOUR FAMILY. EDUCATE YOUR CHILDREN. PURCHASE A HOME. AND ONE DAY RETIRE WITH GRACE AND DIGNITY.

LET US COMMIT ON THIS FIRST DAY TO LIFT UP THE AMERICAN DREAM FOR EVERY SINGLE PERSON IN THIS NATION.

NOW I RECOGNIZE THAT THIS IS A MOMENT OF TRANSITION.
AS WE TRANSITION FROM ONE CONGRESS TO THE NEXT, FROM ONE MAJORITY TO THE NEXT. FROM A YEAR OF ACCOMPLISHMENT, A YEAR OF ACCOMPLISHMENT TO A YEAR OF AMBIGUITY. A MOMENT OF TRANSITION.
THE AMERICAN PEOPLE UNDERSTANDABLY AFTER THE EVENTS OF THIS WEEK RECOGNIZE THAT THE CONGRESS IS AT A FORK IN THE ROAD. AND ARE ASKING THE QUESTION, WHAT DIRECTION WILL WE CHOOSE?
ON THIS FIRST DAY, I DO NOT PRETEND TO ANSWER THAT QUESTION ON BEHALF OF MY COLLEAGUES ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE AISLE. BUT WE DO EXTEND OUR HAND OF PARTNERSHIP TO YOU. AND WANT TO MAKE CLEAR THAT WE EXTEND AND INTEND TO TRY TO FIND COMMON GROUND, WHENEVER AND WHEREVER POSSIBLE ON BEHALF OF THE AMERICAN PEOPLE.
NOT AS DEMOCRATS, NOT AS REPUBLICANS, NOT AS INDEPENDENTS, BUT AS AMERICANS.

BUT I ALSO WANT TO MAKE CLEAR THAT WE WILL NEVER COMPROMISE OUR PRINCIPLES. HOUSE DEMOCRATS WILL ALWAYS PUT
AMERICAN VALUES OVER AUTOCRACY.
BENEVOLENCE OVER BIGOTRY. THE
CONSTITUTION OVER THE CODE.
DEMOCRACY OVER DEMAGOGUES.
ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY OVER EXTREMISM.
FREEDOM OVER FASCISM.
GOVERNING OVER GASLIGHTING.
HOPEFULNESS OVER HATRED.
INCLUSION OVER ISOLATION.
JUSTICE OVER JUDICIAL OVERREACH.
KNOWLEDGE OVER KANGAROO COURTS.
LIBERTY OVER LIMITATION.
MATURITY OVER MAR-A-LAGO.
NORMALCY OVER NEGATIVITY.
OPPORTUNITY OVER OBSTRUCTION.
PEOPLE OVER POLITICS.
QUALITY OF LIFE ISSUES OVER Q-ANON.
REASON OVER RACISM.
SUBSTANCE OVER SLANDER.
TRIUMPH OVER TYRANNY.
UNDERSTANDING OVER UGLINESS.
VOTING RIGHTS OVER VOTER SUPPRESSION.
WORKING FAMILIES OVER THE WELL-CONNECTED.
XENNIAL OVER XENOPHOBIA.
YES WE CAN OVER YOU CAN NOT DO IT. AND
ZEALOUS REPRESENTATION OVER ZERO SUM CONFRONTATION

WE WILL ALWAYS DO THE RIGHT THING BY THE AMERICAN PEOPLE.
SO LET US NOT GROW WEARY OF DOING GOOD. FOR THE AMERICAN PEOPLE WILL REAP THE BENEFIT OF THE HARVEST IF WE DO NOT GIVE UP.
GOD BLESS YOU. GOD BLESS THE HOUSE. AND GOD BLESS THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.

The obvious implication is that the Republicans believe otherwise---and it was inappropriate to use such divisive, misleading, and insulting rhetoric in a ceremony designed to welcome a new speaker, swear in newly elected members, and to attempt to begin the 118th congress on a note of unity. Like his partys' leader---who claims a desire for unity---and then spews misinformation and red meat hate filled divisive rhetoric like he's on the campaign trail in front of Democrat true believer donors--Jeffies missed the mark. The Democrat penchant for having a complete lack of self awareness is nothing new and I would expect nothing less from the trash and selfish human debris that make up most of the todays Democrat politicians.

Jeffries speech was inappropriate----and not just a little. Contrast the divisive misleading insulting trash in bold above with the courteous, complimentary, self effacing, and uniting remarks made by McCarthy. Worse yet---Jeffries was supposed to be introducing the new Speaker---and he barely even said anything about him in his rambling 12 minute into. Jeffries was supposed to be welcoming new members---and barely even mentioned their presence. The difference in Jeffries remarks and McCarthy's was like the difference between lightness and darkness. There will be plenty of time for Jeffries to sow his lies, hate, and divisiveness---but last night was not the time or place. Last night was a moment of optimism---a time of welcoming, fresh starts, and unity----and Jeffries horribly missed the mark on all those themes---optiing instead to throw red meat hate filled rhetoric that was out place and showed he was completely out of touch with the moment.

It's hilarious to see a critique from the right of Jeffries speech based on divisiveness and lack of unity, when you've just spent days as the first majority party in 100 years unready and unable to elect a Speaker at the start of a new Congress.

two totally different thingys … I know ewe know ewes … that’s what I know!

(01-07-2023 05:49 PM)Gamenole Wrote:  

(01-07-2023 02:37 PM)Attackcoog Wrote:  

(01-07-2023 01:15 PM)Kruciff Wrote:  Apologies for the wall of text, here is the transcript. I'd like to ask our resident pearl clutchers to point out the inappropriateness.

Quote:DISTINGUISHED MEMBERS OF THE HOUSE DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS AND THE HOUSE REPUBLICAN CAUCUS, IT'S MY HIGH HONOR AND DISTINCT PRIVILEGE TO FINALLY WELCOME ALL OF YOU TO THE 118TH CONGRESS.

LET ME JUST BEGIN BY THANKING MY GOOD FRIEND, PETE AGUILAR, FOR HIS VERY GENEROUS WORDS OF INTRODUCTION AND FOR PLACING MY NAME INTO NOMINATION, A TOTAL OF NINE TIMES. AND I ALSO WANT TO THANK MY OTHER COLLEAGUES FROM THE DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS FOR YOUR GENEROUS WORDS OF NOMINATION, AS WELL AS JIM CLYBURN, KATHERINE CLARK, TED LEWAN VERONICA ESCOBAR. AND I THANK MY COLLEAGUES AND MY FRIENDS IN THE HOUSE DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS FOR YOUR PERSEVERANCE, FOUR YOUR STRENGTH, FOR YOUR FRIENDSHIP AND FOR YOUR PURPOSE AND FOR YOUR UNANIMOUS SUPPORT.

I SIMPLY WANT TO SAY THAT SHOWING OF STRENGTH IS NOT FOR ANY ONE PARTICULAR INDIVIDUAL. IT WILL BE A SHOWING OF STRENGTH THROUGHOUT THE 118TH CONGRESS, UNANIMITY OF PURPOSE ON BEHALF OF THE AMERICAN PEOPLE.

BEFORE I PROCEED ANY FURTHER, LET ME BEGIN BY ACKNOWLEDGING THE DISTINGUISHED GENTLELADY FROM THE GREAT STATE OF CALIFORNIA, THE ICONIC, THE HEROIC, LEGENDARY NANCY PELOSI. .. . . AND WITHOUT QUESTION IN MY MIND, SPEAKER EMERITA PELOSI WILL GO DOWN IN HISTORY AS THE GREATEST SPEAKER OF ALL TIME.
THROUGHOUT HER TIME -- THROUGHOUT HER TIME IN CONGRESS, SHE'S BEEN A LEGENDARY LEGISLATOR, A FABULOUS FACILITATOR, AND A NO-NONSENSE NEGOTIATOR. WE KNOW THAT NANCY PELOSI IS A WOMAN OF FAITH, A LOVING WIFE, A MOTHER OF FIVE, A GRANDMOTHER OF NINE. A DEFENDERS OF DEMOCRACY. A VOICE FOR THE VOICELESS. AND A POWERFUL CHAMPION FOR THE CHILDREN, THE CLIMATE, CHARM CITY, CALIFORNIA, THE CAUCUS, THE CONGRESS, THE COUNTRY, AND THE CONSTITUTION.
THANK YOU, MADAM SPEAKER, FOR ALL THAT YOU HAVE DONE, IT IS AN HONOR TO STAND ON YOUR BROAD SHOULDERS.

AS WELL -- AS WELL AS THE SHOULDERS OF THE GREAT STENY HOYER AND THE GREAT JIM CLYBURN, TWO CONSEQUENTIAL LEADERS IN THEIR OWN RIGHT.

SCRIPTURE SAYS IN GALATIANS, LET US NOT BECOME WEARY IN DOING GOOD FOR AT THE PROPER TIME WE WILL REAP A HARVEST IF WE DO NOT GIVE UP.

OVER THE LAST TWO YEARS, HOUSE DEMOCRATS IN PARTNERSHIP WITH PRESIDENT BIDEN AND OUR COLLEAGUES IN THE SENATE HAVE BEEN HARD AT WORK ON BEHALF OF THE AMERICAN PEOPLE, GETTING BIG THINGS DONE.

WE PASSED THE AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN.
SAVED THE ECONOMY FROM A DEEP RECESSION.
PUT SHOTS IN ARM, MONEY IN POCKETS AND KIDS BACK IN SCHOOL.
WE PASSED THE INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT AND JOBS ACT. TO CREATE MILLIONS OF GOOD-PAYING JOBS. FIX OUR CRUMBLING BRIDGES, ROADS, TUNNELS, OUR AIRPORTS, OUR SEWER AND WATER SYSTEM, MASS TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS AND ENSURE HIGH SPEED INTERNET ACCESS IN EVERY SINGLE COMMUNITY COMMUNITY.
WE PASSED GUN SAFETY LEGISLATION FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 30 YEARS THAT WILL SAVE LIVES AND MAKE OUR COMMUNITIES SAFER.
WE PASSED THE CHIPS IN SCIENCE ACT TO BRING DOMESTIC MANUFACTURING JOBS BACK HOME TO THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND ENSURE THAT OUR WORK FORCE HAS THE SKILLS TO SUCCEED IN THE 21ST CENTURY ECONOMY AND
WE PASSED THE INFLATION REDUCTION ACT TO STRIKE A DRAMATIC BLOW AGAINST THE CLIMATE CRISIS, SET OUR PLANET ON A SUSTAINABLE TRAJECTORY FORWARD, LOWER ENERGY COSTS, STRENGTHEN THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT, LOWER HEALTH CARE COSTS AND DRIVE DOWN THE HIGH PRICE OF LIFE-SAVING PRESCRIPTION DRUGS FOR MILLIONS OF AMERICANS.

IT WAS ONE OF THE MOST CONSEQUENTIAL CONGRESSES IN AMERICAN HISTORY. PRESIDENT BIDEN GETS THE JOB DONE AND THE D IN DEMOCRAT STANDS FOR DELIVER. SO OVER THE NEXT TWO YEARS, OVER THE NEXT -- OVER THE NEXT TWO YEARS -- AS WE BEGIN THIS 118TH CONGRESS, LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT FOR LOWER COSTS. LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS FOR BETTER PAYING JOBS. LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS FOR SAFER COMMUNITIES. LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS TO DEFEND DEMOCRACY. LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS TO PUT AND PROTECT THE PUBLIC INTERESTS. LET US CONTINUE TO FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS FOR ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY IN EVERY SINGLE ZIP CODE AND LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS FOR REPRODUCTIVE FREEDOM.

BECAUSE -- BECAUSE AS DEMOCRATS WE DO BELIEVE IN A COUNTRY FOR EVERYONE.
WE DO BELIEVE IN A COUNTRY FOR EVERYONE. A COUNTRY THAT
PROVIDES FOR THE POOR.
WORKS FOR WORKING FAMILIES.
MAKES SENSE FOR THE MIDDLE CLASS.
STANDS UP FOR SENIOR CITIZENS.
INNOVATES IN THE INNER CITY.
STRENGTHENS SUBURBAN COMMUNITIES,
HELPS OUT THE HEARTLAND AND
REVITALIZES RURAL AMERICA.

WE BELIEVE IN A COUNTRY WITH
LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL.
EQUAL PROTECTION UNDER THE LAW.
FREE AND FAIR ELECTIONS AND YES,
WE BELIEVE IN A COUNTRY WITH THE PEACEFUL TRANSFER OF POWER.

WE BELIEVE -- THAT IN AMERICA OUR DIVERSITY IS A STRENGTH. IT IS NOT A WEAKNESS.
AN ECONOMIC STRENGTH, A COMPETITIVE STRENGTH, A CULTURAL STRENGTH. OUR DIVERSITY IS A STRENGTH. IT IS NOT A WEAKNESS.
WE ARE A GORGEOUS MOSAIC OF PEOPLE FROM THROUGHOUT THE WORLD.
AS JOHN LEWIS WOULD SOMETIMES REMIND US ON THIS FLOOR, WE MAY HAVE COME OVER ON DIFFERENT SHIPS BUT WE'RE ALL IN THE SAME BOAT NOW.
WE ARE WHITE, WE ARE BLACK, WE ARE LATINO, WE ARE ASIAN, WE ARE NATIVE AMERICAN,
WE ARE CHRISTIAN, WE ARE JEWISH, WE ARE MUSLIM, WE ARE HINDU,
WE ARE RELIGIOUS, WE ARE SECULAR,
WE ARE GAY, WE ARE STRAIGHT,
WE ARE YOUNG, WE ARE OLDER,
WE ARE WOMEN, WE ARE MEN, WE ARE CITIZENS, WE ARE DREAMERS,

OUT OF MANY WE ARE ONE. THAT'S WHAT MAKES AMERICA A GREAT COUNTRY. AND NO MATTER WHAT KIND OF HATERS ARE TRYING TO DIVIDE US, WE'RE NOT GOING TO LET ANYONE TAKE THAT AWAY FROM US, NOT NOW, NOT EVER. THIS IS THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. A LAND OF OPPORTUNITY.

THE FACT THAT I'M ABLE TO STAND UP HERE TODAY IS ANOTHER DATA POINT IN THAT NARRATIVE. I WAS BORN IN BROOKLYN HOSPITAL, RAISED IN A WORKING CLASS NEIGHBORHOOD IN CROWN HEIGHTS, GREW UP IN THE CORNERSTONE BAPTIST CHURCH. STARTED OFF IN THE CRADLE ROLL DEPARTMENT, SOMEHOW SURVIVED THE VIOLENCE OF THE CRACK COCAINE EPIDEMIC AND WOUND UP HERE IN THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS AS THE HIGHEST RANKING DEMOCRAT IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. AMERICA TRULY A LAND OF OPPORTUNITY. GOVERNMENT OF THE PEOPLE, BY THE PEOPLE, AND FOR THE PEOPLE.

SO ON THIS FIRST DAY, LET US COMMIT TO THE AMERICAN DREAM. A DREAM THAT PROMISES THAT IF YOU WORK HARD AND PLAY BY THE RULES, YOU SHOULD BE TABLE PROVIDE A COMFORTABLE LIVING FOR YOURSELF AND FOR YOUR FAMILY. EDUCATE YOUR CHILDREN. PURCHASE A HOME. AND ONE DAY RETIRE WITH GRACE AND DIGNITY.

LET US COMMIT ON THIS FIRST DAY TO LIFT UP THE AMERICAN DREAM FOR EVERY SINGLE PERSON IN THIS NATION.

NOW I RECOGNIZE THAT THIS IS A MOMENT OF TRANSITION.
AS WE TRANSITION FROM ONE CONGRESS TO THE NEXT, FROM ONE MAJORITY TO THE NEXT. FROM A YEAR OF ACCOMPLISHMENT, A YEAR OF ACCOMPLISHMENT TO A YEAR OF AMBIGUITY. A MOMENT OF TRANSITION.
THE AMERICAN PEOPLE UNDERSTANDABLY AFTER THE EVENTS OF THIS WEEK RECOGNIZE THAT THE CONGRESS IS AT A FORK IN THE ROAD. AND ARE ASKING THE QUESTION, WHAT DIRECTION WILL WE CHOOSE?
ON THIS FIRST DAY, I DO NOT PRETEND TO ANSWER THAT QUESTION ON BEHALF OF MY COLLEAGUES ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE AISLE. BUT WE DO EXTEND OUR HAND OF PARTNERSHIP TO YOU. AND WANT TO MAKE CLEAR THAT WE EXTEND AND INTEND TO TRY TO FIND COMMON GROUND, WHENEVER AND WHEREVER POSSIBLE ON BEHALF OF THE AMERICAN PEOPLE.
NOT AS DEMOCRATS, NOT AS REPUBLICANS, NOT AS INDEPENDENTS, BUT AS AMERICANS.

BUT I ALSO WANT TO MAKE CLEAR THAT WE WILL NEVER COMPROMISE OUR PRINCIPLES. HOUSE DEMOCRATS WILL ALWAYS PUT
AMERICAN VALUES OVER AUTOCRACY.
BENEVOLENCE OVER BIGOTRY. THE
CONSTITUTION OVER THE CODE.
DEMOCRACY OVER DEMAGOGUES.
ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY OVER EXTREMISM.
FREEDOM OVER FASCISM.
GOVERNING OVER GASLIGHTING.
HOPEFULNESS OVER HATRED.
INCLUSION OVER ISOLATION.
JUSTICE OVER JUDICIAL OVERREACH.
KNOWLEDGE OVER KANGAROO COURTS.
LIBERTY OVER LIMITATION.
MATURITY OVER MAR-A-LAGO.
NORMALCY OVER NEGATIVITY.
OPPORTUNITY OVER OBSTRUCTION.
PEOPLE OVER POLITICS.
QUALITY OF LIFE ISSUES OVER Q-ANON.
REASON OVER RACISM.
SUBSTANCE OVER SLANDER.
TRIUMPH OVER TYRANNY.
UNDERSTANDING OVER UGLINESS.
VOTING RIGHTS OVER VOTER SUPPRESSION.
WORKING FAMILIES OVER THE WELL-CONNECTED.
XENNIAL OVER XENOPHOBIA.
YES WE CAN OVER YOU CAN NOT DO IT. AND
ZEALOUS REPRESENTATION OVER ZERO SUM CONFRONTATION

WE WILL ALWAYS DO THE RIGHT THING BY THE AMERICAN PEOPLE.
SO LET US NOT GROW WEARY OF DOING GOOD. FOR THE AMERICAN PEOPLE WILL REAP THE BENEFIT OF THE HARVEST IF WE DO NOT GIVE UP.
GOD BLESS YOU. GOD BLESS THE HOUSE. AND GOD BLESS THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.

The obvious implication is that the Republicans believe otherwise---and it was inappropriate to use such divisive, misleading, and insulting rhetoric in a ceremony designed to welcome a new speaker, swear in newly elected members, and to attempt to begin the 118th congress on a note of unity. Like his partys' leader---who claims a desire for unity---and then spews misinformation and red meat hate filled divisive rhetoric like he's on the campaign trail in front of Democrat true believer donors--Jeffies missed the mark. The Democrat penchant for having a complete lack of self awareness is nothing new and I would expect nothing less from the trash and selfish human debris that make up most of the todays Democrat politicians.

Jeffries speech was inappropriate----and not just a little. Contrast the divisive misleading insulting trash in bold above with the courteous, complimentary, self effacing, and uniting remarks made by McCarthy. Worse yet---Jeffries was supposed to be introducing the new Speaker---and he barely even said anything about him in his rambling 12 minute into. Jeffries was supposed to be welcoming new members---and barely even mentioned their presence. The difference in Jeffries remarks and McCarthy's was like the difference between lightness and darkness. There will be plenty of time for Jeffries to sow his lies, hate, and divisiveness---but last night was not the time or place. Last night was a moment of optimism---a time of welcoming, fresh starts, and unity----and Jeffries horribly missed the mark on all those themes---optiing instead to throw red meat hate filled rhetoric that was out place and showed he was completely out of touch with the moment.

It's hilarious to see a critique from the right of Jeffries speech based on divisiveness and lack of unity, when you've just spent days as the first majority party in 100 years unready and unable to elect a Speaker at the start of a new Congress.

Gamenole, there is a vast difference between the concept of intra-family disagreement, and Jefferies taking an opportunity to be classy and a statesman and instead pulling his pants down and taking a dump as he did there.

But this type of petty rudeness seems endemic to the left (even after the departure of Trump). One may not like Trump, but this type of ****** behavior is exemplified part and parcel by Nancy ripping up the Trump SoU speech, and seemingly continues with Jefferies' behavior by the content of his speech.

Be somewhat objective and identify that speech by Jefferies as such. Most even independent observers have and do. It was uncalled for, petty, and small.

Finally, I know I have seen your complaints in these pages about how low the level of discourse out Congress has leveled out at, and how you would enjoy an elevation. But here, when one need not sink to the level of petty back biting at the occasion, you seemingly now defend it. A little bit of a 'shame on you' here for that.

(01-07-2023 01:15 PM)Kruciff Wrote:  Apologies for the wall of text, here is the transcript.

Jeffries is an evil commie bastard and you are obviously one of is useful idiots.

(01-07-2023 06:09 PM)tanqtonic Wrote:  

(01-07-2023 05:49 PM)Gamenole Wrote:  

(01-07-2023 02:37 PM)Attackcoog Wrote:  

(01-07-2023 01:15 PM)Kruciff Wrote:  Apologies for the wall of text, here is the transcript. I'd like to ask our resident pearl clutchers to point out the inappropriateness.

Quote:DISTINGUISHED MEMBERS OF THE HOUSE DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS AND THE HOUSE REPUBLICAN CAUCUS, IT'S MY HIGH HONOR AND DISTINCT PRIVILEGE TO FINALLY WELCOME ALL OF YOU TO THE 118TH CONGRESS.

LET ME JUST BEGIN BY THANKING MY GOOD FRIEND, PETE AGUILAR, FOR HIS VERY GENEROUS WORDS OF INTRODUCTION AND FOR PLACING MY NAME INTO NOMINATION, A TOTAL OF NINE TIMES. AND I ALSO WANT TO THANK MY OTHER COLLEAGUES FROM THE DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS FOR YOUR GENEROUS WORDS OF NOMINATION, AS WELL AS JIM CLYBURN, KATHERINE CLARK, TED LEWAN VERONICA ESCOBAR. AND I THANK MY COLLEAGUES AND MY FRIENDS IN THE HOUSE DEMOCRATIC CAUCUS FOR YOUR PERSEVERANCE, FOUR YOUR STRENGTH, FOR YOUR FRIENDSHIP AND FOR YOUR PURPOSE AND FOR YOUR UNANIMOUS SUPPORT.

I SIMPLY WANT TO SAY THAT SHOWING OF STRENGTH IS NOT FOR ANY ONE PARTICULAR INDIVIDUAL. IT WILL BE A SHOWING OF STRENGTH THROUGHOUT THE 118TH CONGRESS, UNANIMITY OF PURPOSE ON BEHALF OF THE AMERICAN PEOPLE.

BEFORE I PROCEED ANY FURTHER, LET ME BEGIN BY ACKNOWLEDGING THE DISTINGUISHED GENTLELADY FROM THE GREAT STATE OF CALIFORNIA, THE ICONIC, THE HEROIC, LEGENDARY NANCY PELOSI. .. . . AND WITHOUT QUESTION IN MY MIND, SPEAKER EMERITA PELOSI WILL GO DOWN IN HISTORY AS THE GREATEST SPEAKER OF ALL TIME.
THROUGHOUT HER TIME -- THROUGHOUT HER TIME IN CONGRESS, SHE'S BEEN A LEGENDARY LEGISLATOR, A FABULOUS FACILITATOR, AND A NO-NONSENSE NEGOTIATOR. WE KNOW THAT NANCY PELOSI IS A WOMAN OF FAITH, A LOVING WIFE, A MOTHER OF FIVE, A GRANDMOTHER OF NINE. A DEFENDERS OF DEMOCRACY. A VOICE FOR THE VOICELESS. AND A POWERFUL CHAMPION FOR THE CHILDREN, THE CLIMATE, CHARM CITY, CALIFORNIA, THE CAUCUS, THE CONGRESS, THE COUNTRY, AND THE CONSTITUTION.
THANK YOU, MADAM SPEAKER, FOR ALL THAT YOU HAVE DONE, IT IS AN HONOR TO STAND ON YOUR BROAD SHOULDERS.

AS WELL -- AS WELL AS THE SHOULDERS OF THE GREAT STENY HOYER AND THE GREAT JIM CLYBURN, TWO CONSEQUENTIAL LEADERS IN THEIR OWN RIGHT.

SCRIPTURE SAYS IN GALATIANS, LET US NOT BECOME WEARY IN DOING GOOD FOR AT THE PROPER TIME WE WILL REAP A HARVEST IF WE DO NOT GIVE UP.

OVER THE LAST TWO YEARS, HOUSE DEMOCRATS IN PARTNERSHIP WITH PRESIDENT BIDEN AND OUR COLLEAGUES IN THE SENATE HAVE BEEN HARD AT WORK ON BEHALF OF THE AMERICAN PEOPLE, GETTING BIG THINGS DONE.

WE PASSED THE AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN.
SAVED THE ECONOMY FROM A DEEP RECESSION.
PUT SHOTS IN ARM, MONEY IN POCKETS AND KIDS BACK IN SCHOOL.
WE PASSED THE INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT AND JOBS ACT. TO CREATE MILLIONS OF GOOD-PAYING JOBS. FIX OUR CRUMBLING BRIDGES, ROADS, TUNNELS, OUR AIRPORTS, OUR SEWER AND WATER SYSTEM, MASS TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS AND ENSURE HIGH SPEED INTERNET ACCESS IN EVERY SINGLE COMMUNITY COMMUNITY.
WE PASSED GUN SAFETY LEGISLATION FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 30 YEARS THAT WILL SAVE LIVES AND MAKE OUR COMMUNITIES SAFER.
WE PASSED THE CHIPS IN SCIENCE ACT TO BRING DOMESTIC MANUFACTURING JOBS BACK HOME TO THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND ENSURE THAT OUR WORK FORCE HAS THE SKILLS TO SUCCEED IN THE 21ST CENTURY ECONOMY AND
WE PASSED THE INFLATION REDUCTION ACT TO STRIKE A DRAMATIC BLOW AGAINST THE CLIMATE CRISIS, SET OUR PLANET ON A SUSTAINABLE TRAJECTORY FORWARD, LOWER ENERGY COSTS, STRENGTHEN THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT, LOWER HEALTH CARE COSTS AND DRIVE DOWN THE HIGH PRICE OF LIFE-SAVING PRESCRIPTION DRUGS FOR MILLIONS OF AMERICANS.

IT WAS ONE OF THE MOST CONSEQUENTIAL CONGRESSES IN AMERICAN HISTORY. PRESIDENT BIDEN GETS THE JOB DONE AND THE D IN DEMOCRAT STANDS FOR DELIVER. SO OVER THE NEXT TWO YEARS, OVER THE NEXT -- OVER THE NEXT TWO YEARS -- AS WE BEGIN THIS 118TH CONGRESS, LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT FOR LOWER COSTS. LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS FOR BETTER PAYING JOBS. LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS FOR SAFER COMMUNITIES. LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS TO DEFEND DEMOCRACY. LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS TO PUT AND PROTECT THE PUBLIC INTERESTS. LET US CONTINUE TO FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS FOR ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY IN EVERY SINGLE ZIP CODE AND LET US CONTINUE TO
FIGHT IN THIS CONGRESS FOR REPRODUCTIVE FREEDOM.

BECAUSE -- BECAUSE AS DEMOCRATS WE DO BELIEVE IN A COUNTRY FOR EVERYONE.
WE DO BELIEVE IN A COUNTRY FOR EVERYONE. A COUNTRY THAT
PROVIDES FOR THE POOR.
WORKS FOR WORKING FAMILIES.
MAKES SENSE FOR THE MIDDLE CLASS.
STANDS UP FOR SENIOR CITIZENS.
INNOVATES IN THE INNER CITY.
STRENGTHENS SUBURBAN COMMUNITIES,
HELPS OUT THE HEARTLAND AND
REVITALIZES RURAL AMERICA.

WE BELIEVE IN A COUNTRY WITH
LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL.
EQUAL PROTECTION UNDER THE LAW.
FREE AND FAIR ELECTIONS AND YES,
WE BELIEVE IN A COUNTRY WITH THE PEACEFUL TRANSFER OF POWER.

WE BELIEVE -- THAT IN AMERICA OUR DIVERSITY IS A STRENGTH. IT IS NOT A WEAKNESS.
AN ECONOMIC STRENGTH, A COMPETITIVE STRENGTH, A CULTURAL STRENGTH. OUR DIVERSITY IS A STRENGTH. IT IS NOT A WEAKNESS.
WE ARE A GORGEOUS MOSAIC OF PEOPLE FROM THROUGHOUT THE WORLD.
AS JOHN LEWIS WOULD SOMETIMES REMIND US ON THIS FLOOR, WE MAY HAVE COME OVER ON DIFFERENT SHIPS BUT WE'RE ALL IN THE SAME BOAT NOW.
WE ARE WHITE, WE ARE BLACK, WE ARE LATINO, WE ARE ASIAN, WE ARE NATIVE AMERICAN,
WE ARE CHRISTIAN, WE ARE JEWISH, WE ARE MUSLIM, WE ARE HINDU,
WE ARE RELIGIOUS, WE ARE SECULAR,
WE ARE GAY, WE ARE STRAIGHT,
WE ARE YOUNG, WE ARE OLDER,
WE ARE WOMEN, WE ARE MEN, WE ARE CITIZENS, WE ARE DREAMERS,

OUT OF MANY WE ARE ONE. THAT'S WHAT MAKES AMERICA A GREAT COUNTRY. AND NO MATTER WHAT KIND OF HATERS ARE TRYING TO DIVIDE US, WE'RE NOT GOING TO LET ANYONE TAKE THAT AWAY FROM US, NOT NOW, NOT EVER. THIS IS THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. A LAND OF OPPORTUNITY.

THE FACT THAT I'M ABLE TO STAND UP HERE TODAY IS ANOTHER DATA POINT IN THAT NARRATIVE. I WAS BORN IN BROOKLYN HOSPITAL, RAISED IN A WORKING CLASS NEIGHBORHOOD IN CROWN HEIGHTS, GREW UP IN THE CORNERSTONE BAPTIST CHURCH. STARTED OFF IN THE CRADLE ROLL DEPARTMENT, SOMEHOW SURVIVED THE VIOLENCE OF THE CRACK COCAINE EPIDEMIC AND WOUND UP HERE IN THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS AS THE HIGHEST RANKING DEMOCRAT IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. AMERICA TRULY A LAND OF OPPORTUNITY. GOVERNMENT OF THE PEOPLE, BY THE PEOPLE, AND FOR THE PEOPLE.

SO ON THIS FIRST DAY, LET US COMMIT TO THE AMERICAN DREAM. A DREAM THAT PROMISES THAT IF YOU WORK HARD AND PLAY BY THE RULES, YOU SHOULD BE TABLE PROVIDE A COMFORTABLE LIVING FOR YOURSELF AND FOR YOUR FAMILY. EDUCATE YOUR CHILDREN. PURCHASE A HOME. AND ONE DAY RETIRE WITH GRACE AND DIGNITY.

LET US COMMIT ON THIS FIRST DAY TO LIFT UP THE AMERICAN DREAM FOR EVERY SINGLE PERSON IN THIS NATION.

NOW I RECOGNIZE THAT THIS IS A MOMENT OF TRANSITION.
AS WE TRANSITION FROM ONE CONGRESS TO THE NEXT, FROM ONE MAJORITY TO THE NEXT. FROM A YEAR OF ACCOMPLISHMENT, A YEAR OF ACCOMPLISHMENT TO A YEAR OF AMBIGUITY. A MOMENT OF TRANSITION.
THE AMERICAN PEOPLE UNDERSTANDABLY AFTER THE EVENTS OF THIS WEEK RECOGNIZE THAT THE CONGRESS IS AT A FORK IN THE ROAD. AND ARE ASKING THE QUESTION, WHAT DIRECTION WILL WE CHOOSE?
ON THIS FIRST DAY, I DO NOT PRETEND TO ANSWER THAT QUESTION ON BEHALF OF MY COLLEAGUES ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE AISLE. BUT WE DO EXTEND OUR HAND OF PARTNERSHIP TO YOU. AND WANT TO MAKE CLEAR THAT WE EXTEND AND INTEND TO TRY TO FIND COMMON GROUND, WHENEVER AND WHEREVER POSSIBLE ON BEHALF OF THE AMERICAN PEOPLE.
NOT AS DEMOCRATS, NOT AS REPUBLICANS, NOT AS INDEPENDENTS, BUT AS AMERICANS.

BUT I ALSO WANT TO MAKE CLEAR THAT WE WILL NEVER COMPROMISE OUR PRINCIPLES. HOUSE DEMOCRATS WILL ALWAYS PUT
AMERICAN VALUES OVER AUTOCRACY.
BENEVOLENCE OVER BIGOTRY. THE
CONSTITUTION OVER THE CODE.
DEMOCRACY OVER DEMAGOGUES.
ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY OVER EXTREMISM.
FREEDOM OVER FASCISM.
GOVERNING OVER GASLIGHTING.
HOPEFULNESS OVER HATRED.
INCLUSION OVER ISOLATION.
JUSTICE OVER JUDICIAL OVERREACH.
KNOWLEDGE OVER KANGAROO COURTS.
LIBERTY OVER LIMITATION.
MATURITY OVER MAR-A-LAGO.
NORMALCY OVER NEGATIVITY.
OPPORTUNITY OVER OBSTRUCTION.
PEOPLE OVER POLITICS.
QUALITY OF LIFE ISSUES OVER Q-ANON.
REASON OVER RACISM.
SUBSTANCE OVER SLANDER.
TRIUMPH OVER TYRANNY.
UNDERSTANDING OVER UGLINESS.
VOTING RIGHTS OVER VOTER SUPPRESSION.
WORKING FAMILIES OVER THE WELL-CONNECTED.
XENNIAL OVER XENOPHOBIA.
YES WE CAN OVER YOU CAN NOT DO IT. AND
ZEALOUS REPRESENTATION OVER ZERO SUM CONFRONTATION

WE WILL ALWAYS DO THE RIGHT THING BY THE AMERICAN PEOPLE.
SO LET US NOT GROW WEARY OF DOING GOOD. FOR THE AMERICAN PEOPLE WILL REAP THE BENEFIT OF THE HARVEST IF WE DO NOT GIVE UP.
GOD BLESS YOU. GOD BLESS THE HOUSE. AND GOD BLESS THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.

The obvious implication is that the Republicans believe otherwise---and it was inappropriate to use such divisive, misleading, and insulting rhetoric in a ceremony designed to welcome a new speaker, swear in newly elected members, and to attempt to begin the 118th congress on a note of unity. Like his partys' leader---who claims a desire for unity---and then spews misinformation and red meat hate filled divisive rhetoric like he's on the campaign trail in front of Democrat true believer donors--Jeffies missed the mark. The Democrat penchant for having a complete lack of self awareness is nothing new and I would expect nothing less from the trash and selfish human debris that make up most of the todays Democrat politicians.

Jeffries speech was inappropriate----and not just a little. Contrast the divisive misleading insulting trash in bold above with the courteous, complimentary, self effacing, and uniting remarks made by McCarthy. Worse yet---Jeffries was supposed to be introducing the new Speaker---and he barely even said anything about him in his rambling 12 minute into. Jeffries was supposed to be welcoming new members---and barely even mentioned their presence. The difference in Jeffries remarks and McCarthy's was like the difference between lightness and darkness. There will be plenty of time for Jeffries to sow his lies, hate, and divisiveness---but last night was not the time or place. Last night was a moment of optimism---a time of welcoming, fresh starts, and unity----and Jeffries horribly missed the mark on all those themes---optiing instead to throw red meat hate filled rhetoric that was out place and showed he was completely out of touch with the moment.

It's hilarious to see a critique from the right of Jeffries speech based on divisiveness and lack of unity, when you've just spent days as the first majority party in 100 years unready and unable to elect a Speaker at the start of a new Congress.

Gamenole, there is a vast difference between the concept of intra-family disagreement, and Jefferies taking an opportunity to be classy and a statesman and instead pulling his pants down and taking a dump as he did there.

But this type of petty rudeness seems endemic to the left (even after the departure of Trump). One may not like Trump, but this type of ****** behavior is exemplified part and parcel by Nancy ripping up the Trump SoU speech, and seemingly continues with Jefferies' behavior by the content of his speech.

Be somewhat objective and identify that speech by Jefferies as such. Most even independent observers have and do. It was uncalled for, petty, and small.

Finally, I know I have seen your complaints in these pages about how low the level of discourse out Congress has leveled out at, and how you would enjoy an elevation. But here, when one need not sink to the level of petty back biting at the occasion, you seemingly now defend it. A little bit of a 'shame on you' here for that.

I don't see his speech as divisive, it's largely about diversity and Democratic values. The GOP is free to embrace or oppose both of those if they choose (and to their credit, I think they have worked to and have indeed succeeded at greatly increasing diversity within the GOP). There are only 2 direct mentions of the Republican party at all - in the beginning when they are welcomed along with the Democrats, and when Jeffries states that Democrats will look for common ground in this Congress regardless of party.

There's zero mention of the Republican party in the principles section, so if words like "GASLIGHTING", "JUDICIAL OVERREACH", "VOTER SUPPRESSION" and "XENOPHOBIA" make Republicans feel targeted, then I'd agree with them it is an allusion to the way they have behaved over the last few years. The ball is in their court to make sure those shoes don't fit moving forward, and THEN a speech like Leader Jeffries made this morning will be divisive and foolhardy.

First...can we not quote the entire wall of crap that Jeffries gave on every post...

2nd. Gamenole as you are one of the Democrats that Jeffries is speaking to... I don’t expect you to see it as a divisive speech because you want to believe democrats are not divisive, when facts show over and over that’s how they govern...you vs them

However to say this speech is not an attack on Republicans is to ignore the meat and potatoes line.., “Over the past two years...” is written and spoken as to “See Democrats did good, Republicans are bad”. Even if the majority of Americans disagreed with a lot of what was passed

EVERYTHING from that line forward repeats that Mantra..

And for you to claim that Republicans aren’t as diverse as Democrats and they need to join Democratic policies is being just as disingenuous as Jeffries speech was..

Again look at the speech indepth without the Democratic favoritism you start with and I think you would see how bad this speech was to try to imply any interest in policy unity

(01-07-2023 06:40 PM)Gamenole Wrote:  I don't see his speech as divisive, it's largely about diversity and Democratic values. The GOP is free to embrace or oppose both of those if they choose (and to their credit, I think they have worked to and have indeed succeeded at greatly increasing diversity within the GOP). There are only 2 direct mentions of the Republican party at all - in the beginning when they are welcomed along with the Democrats, and when Jeffries states that Democrats will look for common ground in this Congress regardless of party.

There's zero mention of the Republican party in the principles section, so if words like "GASLIGHTING", "JUDICIAL OVERREACH", "VOTER SUPPRESSION" and "XENOPHOBIA" make Republicans feel targeted, then I'd agree with them it is an allusion to the way they have behaved over the last few years. The ball is in their court to make sure those shoes don't fit moving forward, and THEN a speech like Leader Jeffries made this morning will be divisive and foolhardy.