House Journal: Page 13: Monday, January 14, 2002
We have only a limited opportunity to make Iowa a 21st century state. If we do not
act boldly soon, we will be left behind as the rest of the nation springs forward.
We challenge the Republican majority to put aside partisanship and the issues that
divide us, and work with us on the challenges that unite us - like the need for greater
economic security now and a more prosperous future for all Iowans.
Democrats will be introducing legislation that implements our agenda and
modernizes Iowa’s economy, and in doing so gives hope to the hardworking, deserving
families across our state. Iowans, young and old alike, will benefit when every child
receives a quality education and healthcare, when parents have a paycheck and job
security to support their families, and when older Iowans can afford prescription drugs
and have a sizable retirement nest egg.
On September 11, we witnessed a devastating attack on our country. It was an
attack, not just on New York City and Washington, D.C., but on our American way of
life.
Every American felt the shock and the pain of our collective loss. As a veteran, I
was extremely proud of the surge of patriotism that swept over our country in the
aftermath of the attack.
I have always believed in patriotism. It is important for Americans to be patriotic
and to show it.
Patriotism can be demonstrated in many ways. Patriotism is supporting our
firefighters, police and rescue workers. Patriotism is standing behind our President as
he directs our counterattack on terrorism.
But there are other forms of patriotism. Patriotism is taking care of our people.
Patriotism is guaranteeing that the poor and the mentally ill have health care
coverage. Patriotism is ensuring that children have first-rate schools and good jobs
after graduation. Patriotism is allowing seniors to live their retirement with dignity
and security. Patriotism is making certain that no Iowan, no American, is denied the
right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. It is patriotic to support civil rights
and economic justice.
Let’s put our patriotism on display here for the next ninety days by showing
compassion for those Iowans who most need our help.
Thank you Mr. Speaker.
REMARKS BY THE SPEAKER
Speaker Siegrist addressed the House as follows:
Ladies and Gentlemen of the House: Welcome back!
Welcome back to your other family. Our family welcomes two new members to the
opening day - Representatives Jones and Wilderdyke. They saw this family briefly
© 2002 Cornell College and
League of Women Voters of Iowa
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