“Today’s Senate vote illustrates two vastly different approaches for getting America out of the economic ditch Republicans left us during the Bush Administration. Democrats support the urgent resources needed for the education of our children, the health of our families, and the safety of our neighborhoods. Congressional Republicans demean educators and first responders as ‘special interests’ and prefer to see teachers, nurses, and police officers on the unemployment line instead of in our classrooms, in emergency rooms, or on the beat.”

“I am extremely encouraged by the ruling today, which found that Proposition 8 violated both the due process and equal protection clauses of the U.S. Constitution. Proposition 8 has taken away individual rights and freedoms, and is a stain upon the California Constitution.”

“The House welcomes the passage tomorrow by the Senate of the long-delayed support for teachers, nurses and urgent services for children and seniors and people with disabilities. The House passed the state assistance (FMAP) bill twice last year and the funding to keep teachers on the job in December and this spring.”

“Today’s jobs report shows America’s private sector leading the way with the eighth consecutive month of private sector job creation. Yet, as Labor Day approaches, too many families are still struggling to make ends meet and we will continue to work to expand job opportunities and extend support for small businesses.”

“America’s brave men and women in uniform have done everything that has been asked of them in the war in Iraq; they have performed excellently. Soon, our nation will begin a new chapter in this effort, ending combat operations on the schedule President Obama promised.”

“The Seniors Protection Act provides Social Security recipients with a special payment that will help millions of Americans who rely on Social Security to make ends meet.”

“Small businesses are the engine of the American economy; we must do all that we can to help them succeed after the failed economic policies of the Bush Administration resulted in the loss of 8 million American jobs.”

“In enacting health insurance reform this year, Democrats in Congress and President Obama followed in the footsteps of the architects of Medicare and strengthened this critical initiative for our country’s seniors. “

“Theresa Grafenstine brings a record of integrity and excellence to the Office of the Inspector General. Her appointment comes after the unanimous bipartisan recommendation of a panel of Members of the Committee on House Administration.”

“This legislation honors our first responsibility to protect the American people by giving law enforcement the tools they need to address the threat of violence near the U.S.-Mexico border.”