“Twenty one years ago this week, thousands of Chinese students, workers, and citizens assembled in Tiananmen Square to bravely speak out. They called for the elimination of corruption. They called for an acceleration of democratic reform, freedom of speech and assembly. They called for a dialogue with China’s leaders on how to make progress.”

“I regret the loss of life and look forward to learning the facts from a credible and transparent investigation.”

“America has always been the land of opportunity. This has been the source of our greatness as a nation. Opportunity has been the promise for those who come to our shores; opportunity has been the responsibility from one generation to the next.”

“Herb is retiring today after serving this institution much longer than probably most Members of Congress. Indeed, he has served under seven Speakers of the House, and generations of Members have depended upon him.”

“Mr. Speaker, it is our responsibility here, almost an ethical one really, to create jobs for the American people. Equally important is to reduce the deficit. So any of the pieces of legislation that we bring to the floor must strive to do both, to strike that balance. I congratulate the chairman on this important legislation because it does both–creates jobs and helps to reduce the deficit.”

“Democrats were committed to ensuring that The COMPETES Act that will help restore our economic strength through investments in innovation, science and technology is passed by the House. And today, the House succeeded despite previous attempts by Congressional Republicans to delay action.”

Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, Majority Whip James Clyburn, and Ways and Means Committee Chairman Sander Levin held a press conference this afternoon following House passage of the American Jobs and Closing Tax Loopholes Act of 2010.

“On Memorial Day, we honor all of the men and women who have served our nation in battle – and continue to serve today. From the beaches of Normandy to the mountains of Afghanistan, they have fought on behalf of our safety and security. In every war and on every front, they have laid their lives on the line in the name of our freedom, values, and future.”

“Today, by repealing the discriminatory Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy, we also honor the service and sacrifice of all who dedicate their lives to protecting the American people. We honor the values of our nation and we close the door on a fundamental unfairness.”

“After eight years of the Bush Administration’s cozy relationship with Big Oil, President Obama is working to rid regulatory agencies of Bush appointees burrowed deep into the bureacracy. The performance of these appointees indicates they are incompetent or placing the interests of the oil industry over the interests of their nation. The recent Inspector General report is a reminder of this legacy and the need to clean house.”