Big Bird Flies Again
Republicans Buckle Under Pressure, Restore Funding to PBS

Overwhelming Passage of Obey Amendment Another Victory for Dems

Washington, DC - Rep. Louise M. Slaughter (D-NY-28), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Rules, released the following statement this afternoon upon learning that the Obey Amendment to the Labor, Health and Human Services Appropriations Bill before Congress had passed by the overwhelming margin of 284 to 140:

"Today, as a result of intense public pressure and strong Democratic leadership, rank and file Republicans bucked their own leadership's right wing agenda and joined with House Democrats to save PBS funding.

This overwhelming victory for Public Broadcasting was also a victory for the American people and the Democratic Party.

While I  am certain that the right wing assault on PBS will continue, there can be no doubt that the American people have sent a clear message to Congress that they support independent, thoughtful and educational public television programming.

I only hope the 87 Republicans who broke ranks will remember the commitment they have made to the American people and not allow this amendment to be struck in conference."

This release was sponsored by the letter D and the number 6.