“From lower premiums to higher quality care, the state of California is leading the way in making sure every patient sees the benefits of the Affordable Care Act. As we prepare to open California’s health insurance marketplace, I know that San Francisco’s medical community will continue to set the example in improving patients’ care, protecting their financial well-being, and establishing the healthy future that every American deserves.”

“In sharp contrast to the President’s speech was what was scheduled to happen today in the Appropriations Committee. The Republicans’ Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education bill that they were going to put forth would cut $32 billion – that is 22 percent – out of these core building blocks of the middle class.”

“Right now, our economy is growing and Americans are going back to work. But more must be done, and Americans deserve better than the Republicans’ repeal-only agenda. It’s time for Republicans to join Democrats in establishing a better bargain for the middle class, reigniting the American Dream, and building ladders of opportunity for all.”

“We have work to do. Let’s do it instead of living in a world of illusion where we don’t – where the leadership won’t bring a real jobs bill to the floor that can be enacted into law. The Speaker has said it isn’t a measure of success as to how many bills you can enact, it’s about how much law you can repeal. Well, you haven’t even succeeded in that. You haven’t repealed anything. So, let’s get the work on the positive side to create jobs. That’s the best thing we can do for the American people and let’s do it soon. ‘Never’ doesn’t work for us.”

“Much work remains to ensure that students and families can balance the cost of college with their financial responsibilities. Rather than balancing their budget on the back of middle class families, House Republicans should immediately take up and pass this proposal without further delay so we can keep college within the reach of all of America’s students.”

“In dedicating the World War II Memorial in 2004, Senator Dole paid tribute to the ‘moral courage…that inspires Americans in every generation to lay down their lives for people they will never meet, for ideals that make life itself worth living.’ His words may have been meant to describe others, but it truly described his own life and contribution.”

“These initiatives will help unleash the power of American women, promote the prosperity of American families, and strengthen the middle class – the backbone of American democracy. In setting this foundation, we carry on the work that began 165 years ago to ensure that future generations of women enjoy the equal rights, equal treatment, and equal opportunities that they deserve.”

“On this solemn anniversary, our thoughts and prayers remain with the families, friends, and loved ones of the victims of Aurora. May they continue to feel the love and support of our nation. May time heal their pain and grief. May the memories of those lost always remain a blessing for all Americans.”

“…165 years ago courageous women gathered, and a few good men with them, to advance, echo our Declaration of Independence that every man and woman is created equal. We stand on the shoulders of those suffragettes, and others stand on our shoulders. And we have to make sure that women are respected in the workplace, and that they can unleash the power of women to improve our economy.”

“As House Republicans spent this week voting for the 38th time to repeal all or part of the Affordable Care Act, Democrats are working with local businesses and families to make the law’s implementation a success. Through our efforts, in the coming months, Americans will benefit from better patient protections, expanded choices, and more affordable care.”