Unethical Republican House

UNETHICAL REPUBLICAN HOUSE -- (House of Representatives - October 08, 2004)

(Mr. PALLONE asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, it is now clear that the Republican leadership in the House of Representatives condones the direct linkage of political donations to legislation. It is clear the Republican leadership will not hesitate to use political donations to influence Members of their own caucus who plan to vote against them on legislation.

This weekend, former Republican Congressman Tom Coburn admitted on national television that Republican leaders had essentially offered him a bribe. Coburn said, "I don't believe that is the kind of government we want. That is what we are seeing in Congress now with some of the ethical problems that are there."

Mr. Coburn, I could not agree with you more. Unfortunately, even the Speaker excused such actions yesterday when he said he was "profoundly disappointed" by those who do not think bribes, threats and payoffs are acceptable behavior. An ethical cloud is indeed hanging over this House, and it will not be removed until a Democratic House is installed this November.