Press Releases

“President Obama took a bold step forward for civil rights and equality when he announced that the federal government would no longer argue to uphold the Defense of Marriage Act in court."

“Today's jobs report shows our economy moving in the right direction and our private sector leading the charge toward recovery. But with millions still out of work, we must do more to build on this progress and restore prosperity to all Americans."

“The brave men and women of our armed forces bear any burden on behalf of our safety and security,” Leader Pelosi said. “It is an honor to visit our troops and other US government personnel in Afghanistan and have the opportunity to express the gratitude of the American people for their service, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to their mission.”

"During Women's History Month we honor the giants who paved the path for progress and equality. From those who marched for suffrage, to those who suffered for advancement, to those who have broken glass ceilings in every aspect of modern life, this month is an opportunity for us to celebrate the women who came before us. As this year's theme says, 'our history is our strength."

“I thank the gentleman for yielding. I thank him for yielding time and for presenting the Dicks substitute, which was not allowed to come to the floor but nonetheless I salute him for his leadership in that regard. Madam Speaker, Members of Congress agree on two things today. We must move this process forward, so the government does not shut down and that we must reduce the deficit. As we do that, we must create jobs and strengthen the middle class. That is someplace where we may have some separation."

“Democrats and Republicans must work together to avoid a government shutdown. Americans should not be denied the critical services they have already paid for. In order to reduce the deficit, Congress passed and the President signed into law $41 billion in cuts included in the current CR that is funding the government. Republicans want to cut an additional $4 billion, which includes stripping support for some pressing educational challenges without redirecting these critical resources to meet the educational needs of our children. This is not a good place to start."

“Democrats in Congress are focused on America's top priority: creating jobs,” Leader Pelosi said. “By investing in innovation, clean energy, and new technology, we can strengthen our future, put Americans back to work, preserve our national security, and ensure our country's competitiveness in the global economy for generations to come.”

“The Obama Administration's decision is a victory for civil rights, fairness, and equality for the LGBT community and all Americans. Since its inception, the discriminatory Defense of Marriage Act has long been viewed as a violation of the equal protection clause of the Constitution. Today, the President made clear that he agrees - and I commend him for taking this bold step forward to ensure the federal government is no longer in the business of defending an indefensible statute."