Partisan Politics is not the Whole Story

Floor Speech

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Ms. FOXX. Mr. Speaker, over the past couple of weeks, the average American might have gotten the impression that partisan politics is the only force to be reckoned with in Washington, but that is not always the case.

Members of Congress certainly often disagree on how to move our country forward. Nevertheless, I am confident that underscoring our divergent world views is a bedrock desire to see our country thrive, prosper and succeed.

In fact, I've had conversations with outgoing Representatives from parts of the country like Wisconsin and New Jersey who lost elections last month. You know what? The thing they pressed home with me was not bitterness in defeat. No, it was their desire for me and others to lend our support to those who defeated them because they want them to be successful as Representatives of their districts and their country.

Even in defeat, these Members were focused on the betterment of their communities and the success of America. They entreated me to help their replacements learn the ropes and excel in the House of Representatives.

Such a perspective is not what makes headlines in the media, but it is one that will help us emerge from this difficult economic time stronger and more united. This perspective, the demonstration of deep character in the midst of defeat, serves our Nation well.

While the national media pursued tired story lines about partisan battles and legislative gridlock, I challenge this dull, status quo reporting. The American people deserve to hear that, despite Congress' many flaws and shortcomings, there are people here from all across the political spectrum who love our country and want nothing more than to see us living in prosperity and security.

Mr. Speaker, I want to praise my outgoing colleagues for their public service and their continuing desire for America to be great. We may vehemently disagree on public policy, but that does not keep us from remembering we are privileged to serve the people of the greatest Nation the world has ever known. And I hope no one who serves in the Congress ever forgets that.

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