H. Res. 717, Recognizing 58th Birthday of William Jefferson Clinton

H. RES. 717, RECOGNIZING 58TH BIRTHDAY OF WILLIAM JEFFERSON CLINTON -- (House of Representatives - September 13, 2004)

The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Kline). Under a previous order of the House, the gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. Corrine Brown) is recognized for 5 minutes.

Ms. CORRINE BROWN of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the resolution to honor the 58th birthday of the 42nd President of the United States, William Jefferson Clinton.

I came to Washington the same year that the President did. We both were elected in 1992 and took office in 1993. Those 8 years were the best anyone could imagine. Under his leadership, the United States ran a budget surplus for the first time since Lyndon Baines Johnson's administration. The economy had its highest productivity level in decades, and nothing has been seen recently that even remotely compares to this.

This President had the leadership to push through Congress an assault weapons ban that stopped dangerous and unnecessary automatic and semi-automatic guns from our neighborhoods. Rather than leaving important policy decisions to others, he took the lead in some unpopular positions to place this country in a position to lead the world. Under the Presidency of Mr. Clinton, our country achieved new heights of respect.

I wish former President Clinton my best wishes on a speedy and successful recovery.

Once again I want to wish a happy birthday to William Jefferson Clinton. I speak for my constituents and many millions of Americans in expressing my gratitude. We thank him once again for his leadership of service, and this country truly misses him.