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“ Democratic priorities are clear: we will fight to get the economy back on track, we will create jobs, and we will help unemployed workers. ” |
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Pelosi Statement on Tonight's Democratic Caucus Vote
Washington, D.C.—House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi spoke this evening following the House Democratic Caucus vote to temporarily remove Congressman William Jefferson from the Ways and Means Committee. Below are Pelosi's remarks:
"Democrats are determined to hold a high ethical standard. We have said it and now we are doing it. And I would say that Mr. Jefferson has a responsibility and an opportunity to defend himself. This isn't about proof in the court of law; this is about an ethical standard.
"I wish that the White House would do the same, understanding the difference of being proven guilty in a court of law and being indicted. There is a separate standard of what is acceptable, ethical behavior for a public servant and our Caucus had a decision to make.
"It was difficult. I served for seven years on the House Ethics Committee, and I know that passing judgment on your peers is very difficult, but it is necessary. I said to my colleagues, 'I know we wish this would go away,' I thought that every day I sat on the House Ethics Committee. But it isn't, and I am proud of the Caucus for the decision they made and their respect for all the people who spoke on both sides of every issue and appreciate their participation in this difficult situation."
“ Democrats are united in presenting a New Direction for America, one that will make our nation as strong as its people, one that brings opportunity, security, and prosperity to all Americans. ”
Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi
