Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, Majority Whip James E. Clyburn, Democratic Caucus Vice Chair Xavier Becerra, House Financial Services Committee Chairman Barney Frank, Congressman Paul Kanjorski , Congresswoman Maxine Waters, and Congresswoman Mary Jo Kilroy were joined by Dennis Lane of Massachusetts and Alene Kristal of New Jersey for a press conference this evening in the Capitol following the House passage of the Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act.

“Today, I rise with a clear message that the party is over. No longer again will recklessness on Wall Street cause joblessness on Main Street. No longer will the risky behavior of the few threaten the financial stability of our families, our businesses, and our economy as a whole.”

“This legislation is about safety — about establishing new safety standards. Safety for the workers on the rigs and safety for those in the clean-up have been a priority for us in all of the legislation that has come to the floor in response to the spill.”

“As a part of our efforts to strengthen America’s housing market, Democrats created the successful first-time homebuyer tax credit. With the help of this credit, more than 4 million families have been able to achieve the dream of homeownership, and in doing so, given a boost to our economy.”

“Today, Congressional Republicans refused to extend a lifeline to millions of Americans who lost their jobs through no fault of their own. They blocked our effort to help struggling families make ends meet, put money in the pockets of our workers, and invest in one of the most cost-effective ways to stimulate our economy.”

“I rise today to remember the extraordinary life and legacy of Senator Robert C. Byrd of West Virginia – a man who loved his state, loved this country, and was such an important part of this Congress.”

“Senator Robert Byrd’s extraordinary life has been shaped by service to his state, love of his country, and commitment to the common good. Throughout his historic career in the House and Senate, he never stopped working to improve the lives of the people of West Virginia. While some simply bore witness to history, Senator Byrd shaped it – and strove to build a brighter future for us all.”

“In passing the Fair Sentencing Act today, the House sent a bill to President Obama that is a step forward in addressing the fairness of our sentencing laws.”

“To accomplish the shared goal of ‘Strong States, Strong Nation,’ our nation’s states and the federal government must engage in meaningful dialogue. Today, we have an opportunity to ensure that our partnership is strong, flexible, and open.”

“Congress has responded to the worst financial crisis in 70 years by moving one step closer to sending to the President for his signature the toughest regulation of Wall Street in generations – restoring common sense after a decade of recklessness.”