Eddie Johnson

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Chairman, I yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Woolsey). (Ms. WOOLSEY asked and was given permission to revise and extend her remarks.)

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support of H.R. 1184, the reauthorization of the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program, NEHRP. It has been over 20 years since the Congress first authorized the Earthquake Hazards Reduction Act; and, during the intervening two decades, the program has made tremendous strides in combating these natural disasters. We now have maps that inform engineers, architects, and builders of seismic hazards, model building codes, and greater understanding of the science of earthquake hazards and the response of buildings to seismic movement. In practical terms, federally funded research in geosciences, social sciences, and engineering has saved countless lives, in addition to saving personal property and critical infrastructures. I am certain that with continued support we can make even greater strides in the innovative areas that FEMA, the U.S. Geological Survey, the National Seismic Foundation, and NIST are currently exploring. Advances such as early warning of seismic events, more structurally sound buildings, regional analysis of seismic risk, mobile research centers, and widespread use of the Internet and our other telecommunication capabilities are going to make marked reductions in the impacts of not just earthquakes, but almost all natural and man- made disasters. But the story does not end there. While our increased understanding of earthquake kinematics and the mitigation procedures proves that we have made progress, there are still challenges we must face and assessments that must be made periodically to make sure that we are doing everything that we can to ensure the safety and security of the American people. There are still earthquake-prone communities that have not adopted appropriate building codes. Monitoring in earthquake-prone areas is still done with less than state-of-the-art equipment, and disparities in earthquake losses due to age and socioeconomic status and physical limitations still exist. For these reasons and more, the earthquake programs must continue to evolve to address these new challenges. I feel that the bill before us today will help us meet these new needs. In addition to authorizing increased funding for these base NEHRP programs, the bill authorizes the Network for Earthquake Engineering Simulation, an effort by the National Science Foundation to modernize earthquake engineering research facilities; the Advanced Seismic Research and Monitoring System, which will enable the Geological Survey to upgrade and expand our seismic monitoring networks to reflect the needs across the Nation, and a study on elements of NEHRP that address the needs of at-risk populations. Today's bill will not solve all of these challenges that remain, but it will move us in the right direction. In closing, Mr. Chairman, let me say that while natural disasters are inevitable, the extent of the damage is not. We must attack the problem from all sides with renewed efforts to implement seismically safe building standards, to increase our pool of data on natural disasters, to respond rapidly to disasters when they strike, and, in general, to understand the risks associated with earthquakes in whatever form they may manifest themselves. Mr. Chairman, I commend the gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. Sensenbrenner); the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Smith), our subcommittee chair, for their work; and certainly our leader, the gentleman from California (Mr. Brown). I also note that this bill is the product of a bipartisan effort, and I urge passage of this bill, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Woolsey).

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from North Carolina, and I yield to the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. Sheila Jackson-Lee).

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I want to also express my appreciation for having the opportunity to visit scientists from New Zealand on a recent trip. I appreciate the gentleman's leadership in looking to see what other places around the world might be doing so that we can better understand what we need to be doing. I thank the gentleman very much. Mr. Speaker, I do want to do some final closing remarks by reading a portion of the statements of the gentleman from California (Mr. George Brown), ranking member of the full committee, an outstanding Member of this Congress, who knows full well what we are talking about here. He is not able to be here this evening, but he sent his statement. In part, it reads: ``The importance of science and math education to the Nation's future well-being is without question. ``The post-industrial society will have an ever growing need for highly trained individuals in science and technology. Clearly, we must ensure a full pipeline of students moving towards careers in these fields, if we are to compete successfully with our Major economic competitors in the 21st century. To meet the demand, the Nation must take advantage of the human resource potential of all the people. ``But there is an equally important reason for effective science and math education in all parts of the Nation. Technology now infuses more and more aspects of daily life. Most workplaces are becoming increasingly technological. This means that all citizens need a basic grounding in science and math to function in an increasingly complex world and to lead fulfilling lives. ``The situation is complicated by the uneven quality of educational opportunities across the broad diverse Nation. We are running the risk of a widening gulf between those with the training to thrive in this new work environment and those lacking the basic skills to qualify for the high-tech workplace. ``It is important to find ways to spur the interest and encourage the study of science and math by students at all levels of ability. The growing reality is that a strong back and a strong work ethic will not be enough to ensure a good job in the 21st century. ``In addition to mastering the three Rs, students must learn as much as they can about science and technology, because such knowledge will be a key to their future. Efforts to reform science and math education must seek to engage and cultivate the interest of all children. ``There is much evidence that young children are naturally interested in science and that grade school students in the U.S. perform well in science and math. This was shown to be the case in the recent results of the Third International Math and Science Study, known as TIMSS. U.S. students at the fourth-grade level were near the top in the international comparison. ``However, the picture changes for the worse as students move through the school system. By middle school, again from the TIMSS findings, U.S. students have drifted down to the average performance level of the international comparisons, and well below most of our major economic competitors. And by the terminal year of high school, U.S. students are near the bottom of the rankings in math and science performance. ``There are no simple answers for reversing this dismal situation. Many interrelated factors are involved. Engaging curriculum materials coupled with a hands-on, inquiry-based approach to teaching have promise for improving student outcomes in science and math. This will require curriculum development and teacher professional development.'' But we also must be motivated, and our children must be motivated and excited. ``An excellent example of an educational program that has a proven record for providing such excitement is the JASON Project. The brainchild of world-famous explorer Dr. Robert Ballard, JASON is a year-round scientific expedition designed to engage students in science and technology through live satellite and Internet broadcasts. ``For 2 weeks, students at interactive network sites in the U.S. and other countries can watch the expedition live, interact with scientists, control live-feed video cameras. The JASON network now reaches over 2 million students. ``The tenth expedition in this series this past march focused on a comparative study of temperate, tropical and fossil rainforests, with the live segment originating from the Peru tropical rainforest.'' The gentleman from California (Mr. Brown) had the opportunity to spend a day participating in this exploration at one of the JASON network downlink sites located at the A.B. Miller High School in Fontana, in his district. This is currently the only JASON downlink site in Southern California. ``JASON is helping to change how science is taught in the classroom and will help to reverse the harmful decline of students interest in science and technology.'' The gentleman from California (Mr. Brown) has been a JASON supporter since its inception, and is pleased to see its expansion and continuing excellence. ``The JASON Project is driven largely by private sector initiatives and supported mainly by industry contributions. But there is also a role for Federal programs to improve science education. ``There is no doubt that the Federal role in K-12 education is limited and that the Federal resources available are but a small fraction of the national investment in K-12 education. But the Federal Government can be a catalyst for constructive change in our schools, if its a relatively small education investment and is wisely directed.'' Mr. Speaker, I include for the Record the text of the entire statement of the gentleman from California (Mr. Brown).

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I recognize the gentleman from North Carolina (Mr. Etheridge).

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Green), an outstanding legislator.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Smith), the chair of this subcommittee.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, it is a pleasure to lead the House's special order on mathematics and science education. Mr. Speaker, it is difficult to imagine a successful enterprise during the 20th century that has not involved proficiency in math and science. Skilled mathematicians and scientists have led the way in smashing the atom, discovering vaccines and cures for diseases, landing astronauts on the moon and developing the Internet. In fact, a notable author has heralded the last 100 years as the American Century. It is no exaggeration to say that mathematics and science provided the bricks and mortar that helped the U.S. construct its prominence on the world stage as a leader in the global economy and its sole status as superpower. Mr. Speaker, if the U.S. is to maintain its status as a world leader, it is necessary to fundamentally change how America looks at education and specifically mathematics and science education. The House Democrats have joined with President Clinton to improve education. We recognize that a high-quality education will ensure that today's students will become the skilled employees and business leaders of tomorrow. The Democrats have strongly supported measures to reduce class size, to repair outdated school facilities, to construct new schools and to ensure that public schools are safe places for our children to learn. These are important initiatives. We believe that it is in the national interest that improvements are made not only in our country's school architecture, but also in how we teach our students mathematics and science in kindergarten through the 12th grade. Toward this end, we believe that greater emphasis needs to be placed on the training and recruitment of mathematics and science teachers. We need to make changes in mathematics and science curricula to give some students more access to computers. We can make improvements to study math and science in greater detail rather than focusing on just the basics. Today I would like to highlight some of the problems that exist when it comes to mathematics and science education. We will examine how these educational shortcomings adversely affect the recruitment of employees to businesses, particularly in the field of information technology and other information-based fields. When it comes to mathematics and science education in the U.S., students need practice and more practice. Compared to their international peers, American students ranked near the bottom in the Third International Mathematics and Science Study that was released last year and in 1996. Results at the third and fourth grade levels showed that Korea was the top-performing country in science; Japan was second; and the U.S. and Austria shared the third position. In mathematics, Singapore, Korea, Japan and Hong Kong were the top, while American students came in in 12th place. For 12th graders, U.S. students ranked 16th in their knowledge of science and 19th in their knowledge of mathematics among the 21 competing countries. That is unsatisfactory. These findings underscore that U.S. students do not share the same proficiency in mathematics and science that their overseas peers have. Since these students will comprise tomorrow's work force, they will have a direct impact on our country's ability to compete in the global economy. There are many of us in the House who believe that the President and Congress need to embrace public policies to improve mathematics and science education. As the Subcommittee on Basic Research's ranking member, I have had several discussions with representatives of the information technology community. These business people have expressed their frustration in not being able to find qualified job applicants. In fact, one chief executive officer testified last month that in his company he had received 630 resumes in the first 6 months of its start- up, and of those considered qualified, none were American born. One out of 10 jobs in information technology is currently unfilled according to the Information Technology Association of America. One in three job applicants tested by U.S. companies lacks the reading and mathematics skills for the job as reported by the American Management Association. These statistics reveal that there is a direct relationship between proficiency in math and science as a student and one's ability to be a successful employee in the evolving information-based workplace. American Airlines, for example, is a major employer in my congressional district. This company has written me to express its interest in having a highly-trained workforce. ``Dear Representative Johnson: American Airlines, for instance, relies heavily on complex computer systems in order to plan and coordinate 2,200 flights, track over 300,000 pieces of baggage moving through our system and manage 343,000 reservation calls each day. Approximately two-thirds of American Airlines' 125,000 employees use computers on a daily basis, and our pilots, yield management specialists, and flight operation personnel depend on advanced math and computer skills in the routine performance of their jobs.'' Some schools have already recognized the importance of promoting mathematics and science education. They have implemented programs that are developing our students' skills in math and science. These institutions ought to be commended for their efforts and encouraged to push the envelope when it comes to math and science instruction. The Yvonne A. Ewell Townview Magnet Center located in Dallas in the low income area of my district is one school that provides cutting edge instructions of mathematics and science through its School of Science and Engineering. In addition to the Science and Engineering School, the Townview campus has schools of business and management; education and social services; government and law; health professions; and talented and gifted. The Townview campus, particularly in the Science and Engineering School, has many of the features that other American schools need to help other students compete in the 21st century's workforce. These components include small classroom size, the latest in computer technology, job site based internships that are related to the curriculum, independent learning, and a highly trained teaching staff. Townview students participate regularly in academic and technological competitions. They have even built voice-activated robots. I salute Townview students and its faculty. One component of the Townview experience sheds some light on one way that schools can improve education opportunities for children. That is through the development of partnerships between schools and the businesses in their community. Businesses can work with schools in their communities to do such things as donate computer equipment, set up job site internships for students, as well as the establishment of college scholarships for promising math and science students. Last month, I introduced the Math and Science Proficiency Partnership Act, H.R. 1265, to improve mathematics and science education for students kindergarten through the 12th grade, as well as to increase training for math and science teachers. The purpose of H.R. 1265 is to encourage partnerships between schools and businesses in their communities, to improve lower test scores by students and to enrich the applicant pool for high technology firms in other fields dependent upon engineering and math. My area is prolific in its need for this skill and it will grow as we move into the 21st century. Schools in urban and rural areas do not always have the resources that other schools have. Schools and the businesses located in their communities are strategically poised to partner with each other. My bill authorizes the National Science Foundation to award 10 partnership grants through its urban and rural systemic initiative programs. The National Science Foundation director will make five grants to urban areas and five grants to rural areas. Each grant will not exceed $300,000 and the total amount authorized is only $3 million, a small amount for the need that this entire Nation needs for its workforce for the future. The purpose of the partnership grants is to assist in training of math and science teachers and to further education opportunities for science and math students. The grants will be awarded to schools that have successfully established partnerships to accomplish the above- mentioned teacher training and educational opportunities for mathematics and science students. Eligibility of the grants will be based on how well the participating schools and businesses have forged their partnerships. Ways that schools can participate include sponsoring advanced and innovative training for math and science teachers. Ways that businesses can participate in the partnership include setting up college scholarship programs for promising math and science students, establishing mentoring and internship programs at the company's job site, as well as donation of computer hardware and software to participating schools. The legislation directs the National Science Foundation director to conduct a long-range study on the students who have participated in the partnership program and their ability to land and to retain jobs in math and science and information technology. I urge my colleagues to cosponsor this bill but, moreover, I continue to urge the entire Congress to look at these areas because it impacts directly on our economy in this global society. The ability of students to be skilled in mathematics and science education is directly linked to whether the U.S. and its companies will be successful in the 21st century. That is why schools and businesses need to increase their efforts to establish these partnerships now, so that today's students can take their places in the skilled information workforce tomorrow. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Lampson).

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in tribute to Rosa Parks and in support of a bill introduced by Congresswoman Julia Carson of Indiana to authorize President Clinton to award the Congressional Gold Medal to Rosa Parks. Rosa Parks was the spark that lit the fire in the civil rights rights movement. In 1955, in Montgomery, Alabama Ms. Parks refused to give up her bus seat to a white man. She was arrested and ordered to pay $14. Her actions led other civil rights leaders to protest bus desegregation creating a city-wide boycott. Martin Luther King, Jr. became a household name when he became involved in the boycott by preaching to others about the injustice of the bus segregation policy. Ms. Parks continued to be a national civil rights leader even after the success of the bus boycott. She lectured about the civil rights movement and attended demonstrations. She worked for Congressman John Conyers of Detroit, Michigan until 1988. Congress should recognize Ms. Parks for her actions that defied the policies of separation and humilitation. Through this legislation, Congress should salute Ms. Parks for her current work in combating racism at the Rosa and Raymond Parks Institute of Self Development which teaches young people about the legacy of the civil rights movement. Because of Rosa Parks' courage, I stand before you here today. Because of her courage, America is a stronger nation. I am proud to be an original cosponsor of this legislation. I am proud to serve in a Congress that recognizes the importance of the civil rights movement and is willing to honor a woman who ushered in the movement. Our past should not be forgotten and our heroines should be honored. I hope that this legislation will serve to bring America together. That is Ms. Parks' legacy.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in salute of Texas-born reporter Sarah Newcomb McClendon and her pioneering efforts as a member of the Washington, DC press corps. Ms. McClendon was born in Tyler, Texas. She has been a reporter for nearly 70 years and has covered eleven Presidents since 1994. She has covered the White House with wit and directiveness for more than fifty years. Like a true Texas woman, she has earned respect from many for her toughness that is always tempered with a touch of charm. Prior to moving to Washington, Ms. McClendon received her journalism degree from the University of Missouri in 1931. She worked for the Courier-Times and Tyler Morning Telegraph in Tyler, Texas. She also was a reporter for the Texas newspaper the Beaumont Enterprise. In 1944 she became a National Correspondent for the Philadelphia Daily News. In 1946 she made her pilgrimage to Washington, DC, where she founded the McClendon News Service which she still runs today. Her awards, which read like a who's who in journalism, include the Woman of Achievement Award for Texas Press Women, the National Federation of Women Award, Public Relations award from the American Legion and the first recipient of the Presidential Award for Journalism in Washington. Sarah McClendon has helped pave the way for many women journalists and writers. In a field where women are often not heard, she has not relied on good manners to do her job. Instead, she has made people listen and answer her tough questions often forcing many Presidents to do double takes. Her never-give-up interviewing style has made her both loved and feared. However, at the end of the day, she is the one who has asked the questions her readers care about most. Mr. Speaker, Sarah McClendon has covered Washington with persistence and good humor. Her ability as a reporter has demonstrated that she truly has printers ink coursing through her veins.

Mr. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Mr. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, Prime Minister Winston Churchill once said ``There is no finer investment for any community than putting milk into babies.'' I believe that Ms. Sonya Bemporad of Dallas lived by these words and committed her time, energy and soul to investing in children. One of the most notable advocates of children and leaders of child care policy, Ms. Bemporad died Saturday, March 20, 1999. She was 64 years old. She is known throughout Texas, and our Nation as the leading and chief theoretician with the child care group here in Dallas. The child care group is an innovative non-profit organization that operates day- care centers, manages public subsidies for child care in north Texas, conducts training for child-care workers and provides other services. She was the group's senior vice president at the time of her death. While Congress is still debating on proposals to improve the safety, quality and delivery of child care, Ms. Bemporad worked during her entire life to find new ways to care for children. She was on the cutting-edge with her design of the child-care group's ``relationship- centered child care'' approach. This approach advocated a small, family-like environment and interaction with one ``constant caregiver.'' Mr. Speaker, Ms. Bemporad's methods are so widely accepted and acknowledged that First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton visited one of the day care centers in Dallas that the group operates. On February 20, 1998, the First Lady toured the Martin Luther King, Jr. Child Development Center with me, witnessing first hand, Ms. Bemporad's model. Ms. Bemporad's model on child-care is so effective that the First Lady showcased it nationwide as she worked with the President to travel throughout the country and across the world to visit child-care facilities that work for children and their parents. Mr. Speaker, the year before, Ms. Bemporad's success was featured on ABC's World News Tonight with Peter Jennings as a solution to the Nation's child-care crisis. In addition, the child-care group founded the Sonya Bemporad chair for relationship-centered child care. A position she had stewardship over until her passing. These accolades are testimonials to her commitment to children. She deserves that recognition and more, Mr. Speaker. Many children are better cared for, receive more attention and are surrounded by providers who have an interest in their long-term well-being. Due to her efforts, many children in an ``relationship-centered child care environment'' usually score higher on reading and language tests in public schools than their peers. Countless children who will produce and achieve in classrooms throughout the city of Dallas, the State of Texas, and our Nation have Ms. Bemporad to thank. She could not develop such an approach if she did not possess the time and desire to know children and what makes them function. This innate sense of Ms. Bemporad's is what helps make children successful and cared for. She influenced her peers to subscribe to this method, moving away from simply studying and analyzing children. She influenced them to accommodate and fashion learning environments to children and their most pressing needs. However, Mr. Speaker, this is a part of a long career in attending and addressing to the needs of children. Over the last 25 years, she lent her talents and heart to other child-care organizations. The Dallas county child welfare and the Dallas County Mental Health and Mental Retardation Agencies all benefited from her sage advice, unlimited compassion and concern for children. In addition, she was also a member of the American Association of Psychiatric Services for Children and the city of Dallas Health and Human Services Commission. Mr. Speaker, I join the parents and children of the 30th Congressional District in paying tribute to Ms. Sonya Bemporad. Like trees, children cannot grow without a seed. Ms. Bemporad was indeed a seed that allowed many children to grow and reach new heights.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise against House Resolution 472 unless we adopt the Maloney amendment. This amendment is a logical and effective means to include local governments, produce an accurate count in the 2000 census, and it gives the Census Bureau ability to use statistical sampling to validate traditional census data without unnecessary interference. We need to do everything we can to make sure that everyone is counted in this census by using all the technology and tactics that we have available to us. Undercounting in the 1990 census cost the State of Texas a total of $1 billion from a variety of Federal programs for which we would otherwise have qualified. According to the Census Bureau, nearly half a million Texans were missed in the last census, most of whom were inner city minorities and most especially children. So we are not talking about voters here. While this country is using science and technology to find a cure for many diseases, to expand opportunities in education and employment, and even to build better buildings and bridges, the Republican majority refuses to allow the use of science and technology to help us count the people. Why should not our government be allowed to use this technology. Why must we retreat back a century rather than forward. I rise in support of the Maloney amendment to H.R. 472. This amendment is a logical and effective means to include local governments to produce an accurate count in the 2000 census. Further, it gives the Census Bureau the ability to use statistical sampling to validate traditional census data without unnecessary interference. We need to do everything we can to make sure that everyone is counted in this census by using all the technology and tactics we have at our disposal. Undercounting in the 1990 census cost the State of Texas a total of $1 billion from a variety of federal programs for which we would otherwise have qualified. According to the Census Bureau, nearly half a million Texans were missed in the last census, most of whom were inner- city minorities and most especially children. While this country is using science and technology to find a cure for many diseases, to expand opportunities in education and employment and even to build better buildings and bridges, the Republican majority refuses to allow the use of science and technology to help us count those who need to be counted the most. Why shouldn't our government be allowed to use this technology? Why must we retreat in the 20th century on this important issue? Unfortunately, the antiquated and inaccurate means we use to count our citizens will continue to be used. Not only will our constituents lose out on federal funds they deserve, but we are quietly eroding the principle of one person--one vote. The recent Supreme Court decision on statistical sampling ties the hands of state legislatures who depend on census data to draw fair and competitive congressional districts. This decision and the Republican majority's embrace of its effects on voting rights will greatly reduce the electoral opportunity for minority and women candidates to win office and represent their concerned constituents. Further, this decision acts to disenfranchise poor and minority citizens, those who are traditionally missed using traditional census data. It is time to stop ignoring the facts! Traditional headcounts do not work. How many times does it need to be proven? Mayors know this. So many are in support of using statistical sampling. Congress knows this. Otherwise, how can you explain the utter fear of the Republican majority to the use of sampling? Let me give it a try. Sampling will work. It will work well. It will work too well for them. Undercounts in the nation's inner cities consistently help Republicans stay in and gain new entry to elected office. Be fair to the citizens of the United States and let the Census Bureau do their jobs the best way they can--through traditional methods supported by statistical sampling. Vote ``yes'' to the Maloney amendment. May 20, 1997. Important Notice to all State Chairmen From: Jim Nicholson, Chairman, Republican National Committee. Re: The Clinton Census. I am contacting you to recruit your assistance in addressing an issue of unusual importance to the future of Republican Party. At the heart of the matter is one of the federal government's most fundamental Constitutional functions: the United States census. At stake is our GOP majority in the House of Representatives, as well as partisan control of state legislatures nationwide. The Clinton Administration is implementing a radical new way of taking the next census that effectively will add nearly four and one-half million Democrats to the nation's population. This is the political outcome of a controversial Executive decision to use a complex mathematical formula to estimate and ``adjust'' the 2000 census. Using this process Democrats gain a critical advantage in the next redistricting that will undermine GOP efforts to elect Republicans to both federal and state offices. A reliable analysis done for the RNC by Polidata Political Analysis reveals that a statistically altered census will have a sweeping political impact that clearly imperils the Party's present congressional majority. The GOP would suffer a negative effect in the partisan makeup of 24 Congressional seats, 113 State Senate seats and 297 State House seats nationwide (a state-by-state summary is attached for your reference). Many of these legislative districts are in states where majorities are held by only the narrowest of margins. An adjusted census could provide Democrats the crucial edge needed to prevail in close contests to control several state legislative chambers. The census does have problems and improvements are needed to insure a successful effort, but an adjusted census ignores the Constitution's call for an ``actual enumeration''. Republican leaders are committed to providing the needed resources for a complete count as directed by the founders. Census adjustment raises many legal, ethical, and technical concerns, yet Democrats faithfully promote it as the solution. Don't be fooled. An adjusted census is part of a long-term Democrat strategy to regain control of Congress and elect more candidates at all levels. I regard it my duty as Party Chairman to alert you to the consequences on this front, and to request your assistance in stopping a census adjustment. Congress has the ultimate Constitutional authority to decide how the census is conducted, and federal appropriators have moved to halt funding for an adjusted census. Conference review of this issue is scheduled to begin today as part of a Supplemental Appropriations bill (H.R. 1469 fiscal year 1997 Supplemental Appropriations Act). We anticipate an attempt to strip this legislation of language that prevents the use of estimates and sampling in taking the census. Despite the concerns outlined here, adjustment proponents have been successful in exploiting Members' local concerns related to federal funding and legislative representation. A census adjustment could shift some federal funding levels, but it should be stressed that the language coming out of conference is planned to be specific for apportionment, and not funding distribution purposes. It is vital that Republicans be united in opposing an adjusted census. Therefore, I am calling on each state chairman to urge your congressional delegation to support legislative restrictions, and to vote against any amendment that removes such language from the Supplemental Appropriations bill. Thank you, and please do not hesitate to contact me should you need further information regarding this matter.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, every day I rise, come in and listen to people come to the well and talk about how they support the troops. Well, I think that every surviving troop becomes a veteran and that is not acknowledged in this bill. Regardless of what is being said, even the veterans have read this bill and they understand that they have not been treated well. We have homeless veterans, we have dwindling health care being offered to the veterans. It is unconscionable that we present a budget like this that treats our veterans in the fashion in which they have been treated in this budget. There is no real future for America that is reflected in this budget, you see, because education has been cheated, Medicare has not been addressed. We have got a lock box that has a trap door. The guardians of the privilege, they are doing well in this budget. They are taking care of the rich in this budget but they are ignoring the working people of this country. This is Robin Hood in reverse. I ask everyone to vote against this rule.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in salute of African American women. African American women have a unique place in the history of our country. Fighting against racial and gender discrimination, we have had to fight two battles often at odds with each other. However, many African American women have not let race and gender prevent them from fighting for equality. These women's heroic efforts have forever changed American history. Women like Harriet Tubman who helped slaves escape via her underground railroad. Without Ms. Tubman many future African American doctors, politicians, lawyers, and teachers would not be alive. Mr. Speaker so many African American women have been a part of our history: Sojourner truth, Coretta Scott King, Ida B. Wells to name a few. Today I would like to acknowledge one of those great African American female leaders--Juanita Shanks Croft. Dallas native Juanita Craft fought for desegregation in Dallas and all over Texas. This onetime hotel worker, use the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) to fight legalized racism. She helped desegregate the University of Texas Law School, North Texas State University and the State Fair of Texas. She also helped desegregate many Dallas lunch counters, theaters and restaurants. She worked with Christian Adair, who helped found the Houston chapter of the NAACP, to end segregation and promote African Americans. Because of their efforts, Hattie Mae White became the first black women elected to the Houston school boards in 1958. This also paved the way for the late Barbara Jordan to become the first African American woman and also the first African American since reconstruction elected to the Texas state Senate. Ms. Craft served 25 years as the Dallas NAACP precinct chairperson. She helped found more than 100 chapters of the NAACP and helped Thurgood Marshall work on the U.S. Supreme Court case Smith vs. Allwright, which gave African Americans the right to vote in the Texas Democratic primaries in 1944. Ms. Craft was the first African-American woman to vote in Dallas and was elected to the Dallas City Council in 1975 at the age of 73. Ms. Craft was a civil rights teacher to the young opening her home to anyone who wanted to learn about making change. Many of those young students today are teachers, lobbyists, community and civil rights activists and city officials. Today her home in Dallas is a civil rights historic landmark where President Lyndon B. Johnson and Martin Luther King Jr. were once visitors. I salute Juanita Craft's courage to fight for equality for African Americans. I salute her courage to teach others how to work for change. Through her legacy, we can see the battles which have been fought and can be proud of the progress our sisters have made so that we can attend any university, sit at any lunch counter, walk into any store and speak of this floor.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce the Mathematics and Science Proficiency Partnership Act. The purpose of this legislation is to improve mathematics and science education for students in kindergarten through 12th grade as well as to train mathematics and science teachers. My legislation, which has 52 cosponsors, accomplishes its objective by forging a unique partnership between students, parents, teachers and the business people in their communities. In years past, America's schools served as unilateral learning centers where students studied, graduated and then entered the workforce. The demands of the information age and the global economy now compel U.S. educators and business people to band together in the national interest. Schools and businesses need to be partners to educate our children. Otherwise, our nation will see its pre-eminence in information technology implode as other nations expand their high- tech driven economies. Already there are alarming trends. When it comes to mathematics and science education U.S. high school seniors need to be better prepared. Compared to their international peers, American high school seniors ranked near the bottom of the Third International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) that was released last year. This poor performance holds true for both mathematics and science as well as for moderate-level and top-level students. Mathematics and science are the disciplines that have created the Internet and have driven the Information Age. Two of the fastest growing job areas, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, are computer technology and health services. Both fields demand a strong background in mathematics and science. As the Subcommittee on Basic Research's Ranking Member, I have had several discussions with representatives from the information technology community. These business people in the high-tech field have expressed their frustration in not being about to find qualified job applicants. In fact, one in ten positions in information technology is currently unfilled, according to the Information Technology Association of America. One in three job applicants tested by U.S. companies lacks the reading or mathematics skills for the job as reported by the American Management Association. The Mathematics and Science Proficiency Partnership Act will help reverse the trends of poor test performance by U.S. students and empower businesses to enrich the pool of job applicants. The purpose of this legislation is to improve math and science education in urban and rural areas by establishing partnerships between participating schools and businesses. My bill authorizes the National Science Foundation (NSF) to award 10 partnership grants through its Urban and Rural Systemic Initiative programs. The NSF Director will make five grants to urban areas and five grants to rural areas. Each grant will not exceed $300,000 and the total amount authorized is $3 million. The purpose of these partnership grants is to train teachers and to improve teaching for students in math, science and information technology. The grants will be awarded to schools that have established partnerships with businesses. Eligibility of the partnership grants will be based on how well the participating schools and businesses have forged their partnerships. Ways that businesses can participate with schools include: setting up college scholarships for promising math and science students, establishing jobsite mentoring and internships programs and donating computer software and hardware to their participating schools. The legislation directs the NSF Director to conduct a long-range study on the students who have participated in the partnership grant scholarship program and their ability to land and to retain jobs in the fields of mathematics, science and information technology. Mr. Speaker, I am gratified by the support the Mathematics and Science Proficiency Partnership Act has already received and urge all Members to cosponsor this important legislation that will help prepare today's American students for tomorrow's workplace.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, as I witness attacks on affirmative action in education and a legal system that overlooks police brutality among African-Americans, I realize that our country is experiencing a huge gap in fairness and equality under the law with the passing of Judge A. Leon Higginbotham, Jr. Mr. Speaker, Judge Higginbotham spent his life vigorously protecting and championing the causes of equality and opportunity for African- Americans. The French philosopher Montesquieu once said that ``In the state of nature, indeed, all men are born equal, but they cannot continue in this equality. Society makes them lose it, and they recover it only by the protection of the laws.'' In confronting racial injustice, violence and inequality through the legal system, Judge Higginbotham recovered and secured equality for countless African-Americans. His life long commitment to eliminating discrimination forced our society to recognize the equality inherent in all men and women, despite their race or ethnicity. In his capacity as special deputy attorney general of Pennsylvania, judge of the U.S. District Court for the eastern district of Pennsylvania and judge of the U.S. Third-Circuit Court of Appeals, many men and women regained their rights taken away from them by society. His zeal in tearing down the walls of injustice and erecting the walls of opportunity began after he earned his law degree at Yale Law School by working in Philadelphia as an assistant district attorney. Six years later after becoming a special deputy attorney general for Pennsylvania, President John F. Kennedy named him to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). This appointment was notable in the fact that it made him the FTC's first black commissioner and its youngest as well. In 1977, after serving as a district court judge in Philadelphia from 1964 to 1977, President Jimmy Carter appointed him judge of the U.S. Third-Circuit Court of Appeals where he served with distinction as judge, chief judge and senior judge until his retirement in March 1993. Throughout the years, U.S. Chief Justice Warren, Burger and Rehnquist appointed Judge Higginbotham to various judicial conferences. In addition, the Congressional Black Caucus benefitted from his excellent legal mind in a series of voting rights cases brought before the U.S. Supreme Court. Current South African President Nelson Mandela also called upon his knowledge and wisdom during the country's historic 1994 national elections where Judge Higginbotham served as an international mediator. Mr. Speaker, the aforementioned feats and accomplishments mark this important fact: when he was called upon by presidents, world leaders, Members of Congress and citizens to defend civil rights, Judge Higginbotham answered with vigor and passion. Millions of Americans saw him protect the tenets of the Constitution during the recent House Judiciary Committee impeachment hearings. This was just two weeks before his passing on December 14, 1998. Like so many times during his stellar legal career, he was a steadfast advocate and defender of the true meanings and intents of the law and our Constitution. During the hearings, it was not partisan winds that steered his testimony that the President should not be impeached. Rather, it was scholarly and intellectual interpretation of the Constitution and the separation of powers between the Judicial, Executive and Legislative branches of our government. For those viewers of the hearings, that was their first contact with the great judge. However, I have constantly been a witness to--and a beneficiary of--Judge Higginbotham's passionate and eloquent defense of justice. On behalf of the constituents of the 30th congressional district of Texas, I would like to tell his family what a great equalizer in this society he was to us. He served an extended family of poor, powerless and downtrodden individuals in this society. His advocacy for their causes meant a great deal to them and strengthened our principles as a country. In particular he leaves his wife, Evelyn Brooks Higginbotham; two daughters, Karen and Nia; and two sons, Stephen and Kenneth. I would like to thank them for allowing the country to share and benefit from his mind, heart and soul.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Chairman, will the gentleman yield?

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of the Holt amendment. I think what we are trying to say is that we do need accountability with this flexibility. As we look at what is going on now in our schools, in 1991, the secondary schools in this country, students were less likely to have a qualified teacher in math than in any core subject. Twenty-seven percent of the students had a teacher without at least a minor in math, and for science 32 percent of the students in the seventh grade had a teacher without at least a minor in science. Large variations in teacher skills exist among especially low poverty versus high poverty schools. Seventeen percent of the secondary students in low poverty schools were taught by math teachers without at least a minor in math, versus 26 percent in the high poverty schools. For physics, 57 percent of the students in low poverty schools, versus 71 percent in the high poverty schools, have poorly trained teachers. What we are asking for is for every student to be included. For chemistry, 23 percent of the students in low poverty schools, versus 37 percent in high poverty schools, have poorly trained teachers. We must ensure that all of our students have an opportunity for a quality education, especially in the area that I represent. We must have people that can fill these jobs. We are one of the locations that had to lift the caps to bring people from other countries to take the jobs we have available.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today in celebration of Black History Month. This year's proclamation from the President for Black History Month is ``Celebrating African-American Leadership Past and President.'' My hometown of Dallas and homestate of Texas are fortunate to have many prominent African-American leaders of whom I would like to mention just a few. Dallas Mayor Ron Kirk is a prime example of a successful African- American leader. He was born in Austin where he lived until graduating from the University of Texas School of Law. He later worked in Washington, DC for United States Senator Lloyd Bentsen in the early 1980's. Kirk returned to Dallas to work for the City Attorney's office. In 1994 he was appointed by Governor Ann Richards to be the Secretary of State, prior to his election as Dallas Mayor. As the elected leader of Dallas, Mayor Kirk has effortlessly promoted the city's economic opportunities helping make it one of the nation's top business, tourist and convention centers in the country. Not only has Mayor Kirk been a strong leader in the public sector, he has also been a tremendous volunteer having been awarded in 1992 the Volunteer of the Year Award from Big Brothers/Big Sisters. Mayor Kirk has also been a strong proponent of celebrating the legacy of African-American leadership. Last year I worked with Mayor Kirk and the city of Dallas to secure a $14,000 grant from the Corporation For National Service. This grant allowed the city to incorporate youth service into its very successful annual Martin Luther King celebration. Another standout is singer Charley Pride, the first African-American to perform at the Grand Ole Opry. Through not a native Texan, he has made Dallas his home for the last 30 years. This three-time grammy award winner started his public career in the Negro American baseball league. He later went on to record such song hits as ``Snakes Crawl at Night,'' ``Does My Ring Hurt Your Finger'' and ``I Know One.'' Currently, Pride resides in Dallas, Texas, where he is part owner of Cecca Productions. Bessie Coleman, the first African-American to fly an airplane, was born in Atlanta, Texas in 1892. An exhibition flyer, Bessie earned her nickname ``Queen Bess'' as she appeared at air shows across the nation performing daring aerial acts with her plane. Rejected from American aviation schools, Coleman went to France to learn to fly where she became the first African-American female to earn an international pilot's license. Madam Speaker, Texas is proud to have many other African-American leaders who have helped make Texas and especially Dallas world class. Many I have mentioned here before; the late Joseph Lockridge, A. Maceo Smith, George Allen Sr., Dr. Napoleon Lewis, Mrs. Juanita Craft, Clarence Laws, Roosevelt Johnson, the Rev. S.M. Wright and so many others. Without the determination, courage and talent of these individuals many African-American would not be able to achieve their dreams today. I salute the African-American leaders of our past and look forward to the success of the leaders of our future. This is not to overlook a long string of African Americans who helped to make Texas and especially Dallas world class.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the Texas Legislative Black Caucus and its groundbreaking efforts to advance public policy objectives in my home State of Texas. As a former Member of the Texas House of Representatives and Texas Senate, I know first-hand of the Caucus's strong commitment in promoting education, economic development and public safety to ensure positive change. The Caucus's accomplishments include the passage of legislation to provide scholarships for low-income students, securing funding for the Lone Star State's black colleges and universities as well as provisions to ensure minority participation in the state's procurement program. To kick off its legislative agenda for 1999, the Caucus will be hosting a statewide conference in Austin on March 10th-12th. Thousands of Texans from across the state are expected to attend the conference aptly entitled, Preparing for the Millennium. The State's 14 African- American House Members and its two Senators will be hosting the conference. They will be honoring the achievements of outstanding Texans in the fields of education, business, public services, entertainment, professions, and public safety. Governor George Bush is expected to attend the conference as well. Delegates to the conference will be holding an ``Education Summit'' whose purpose is to identify problems and propose solutions to enhance the state's black colleges and universities. ``Break-out'' sessions will be held to discuss elementary, secondary and higher education issues. Other workshops will be conducted on health care, child care, economic development, electricity restructuring and environmental racism. Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating the Caucus on its past accomplishments and in sending best wishes for a successful conference this year in Austin.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I stand to congratulate Ms. Ruth Collins Sharp Altshuler, national recipient of the Outstanding Philanthropist Award for 1998. The third Dallasite to win the award, she will receive this honor from the National Society of Fund Raising Executives at its 36th International Conference on Fundraising, April 26 in Miami Beach. Mr. Speaker, the award is one of meritorious commendation of an individual's commitment and work in philanthropy and fund raising on the behalf of notable causes that help others. Before Mrs. Altshuler, Ross Perot and Cecil H. Green, cofounder of Texas Instruments, were recipients of the award in 1986 and 1994, respectively. Based on her work, she is both deserving of the award and to be noted in such esteemed company. She is the founder of the local Alexis de Tocqueville Society, whose members nationally give $10,000 or more to the efforts of the United Way each year. She has contributed countless time and energy to the Salvation Army, particularly the Carr P. Collins Social Service Center, named in honor of her father. At the Carr P. Collins Social Service Center, many homeless families have access to shelter, food, and rehabilitation programs. Mr. Speaker, Mrs. Altshuler is also known for leading the cause of advocacy and understanding on issues of mental illness and mental illness research. She has been able to make individuals more aware of this issue through her ability and courage in sharing her own family experience. Where many families are naturally apprehensive to talk about the subject, she is discussing this issue in a frank and open manner. As a result, many people look at the issue in a different framework, and are feeling positive about developing solutions to mental illness. Mr. Speaker, once again, I would like to pay tribute to Ruth Collins Sharp Altshuler and her being named as the national recipient of the Outstanding Philanthropist Award for 1998. I thank her for her efforts and wish her continued success.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, Sunday, November 21, 1998, Dallas bid farewell to one of its most notable religious leaders. The Reverend W.E. Spears, Jr., will preach his final sermon as the pastor of Progressive Baptist Church in Dallas. Mr. Speaker, his departure is important to note because he founded Progressive Baptist Church with his vision, energy, and hard work 52 years ago. Throughout that time, he has provided spiritual guidance, community service, and compassion to several generations of parishioners. Mr. Speaker, the growth of his church in both numbers of members and services is a direct testimony to his faith and work ethic. When it first began, the church had about 10 members. Today, Progressive Baptist Church boasts a membership of 500. Under his leadership, Progressive Baptist Church promotes the teachings of Christianity to many families in the Dallas area. In addition, for several decades, Progressive Baptist Church served area school children who could not attend the George W. Carver School because of School district boundaries. He joined his late wife in opening Spears Mortuary and an ambulance service that provided services despite the family's ability to pay. This brought much-needed services and relief to families amid times of tremendous personal loss. Mr. Speaker, Reverend Spears is a great example of leading a church in serving its community beyond the pulpit and directly into the community. However, while I join many of my constituents in thanking him for his leadership and service at Progressive Baptist Church, I am happy to say that he will not be removing himself from the community. He does not plan to leave behind his work. Fortunately for our children, he is committed to helping them be productive citizens. As he mentioned, ``I'm still making a point of helping young people make citizens out of themselves, and I have pledged myself to working in the community at least 5 days a week.'' Mr. Speaker, I am both grateful to Reverend Spears' 52 years of service at Progressive Baptist and his commitment to continue to serve our community. On behalf of my constituents from the 30th Congressional District, I wish him success in his future endeavors.

Mrs. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Mrs. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, the Republican majority will vote to pass Articles of Impeachment against President William Jefferson Clinton. This is truly a sad day for the nation. The Republican majority has seen fit to trample the Constitution in railroading these Articles through both the Judiciary Committee and the House of Representatives. The Republican majority insists that this is being done to preserve the Presidency. This is not their true concern. The Republican majority wants to destroy this President. He has been too effective for too long. President Clinton is truly a representative of the American people. He rose from poverty to gain an education, to gain the highest office in the State of Arkansas, and finally, to gain the highest office in the United States and the world. He has long been a threat to the Republican party, and now the majority is looking to destroy this man to save themselves. The Republican majority insists that this is being done to preserve the Constitution. The unfair and partisan process followed by the Republicans is evidence that this is not true. The Framers of the Constitution did not intend impeachment to be taken lightly. The constitutional standard calls for impeachment when ``treason, bribery and other high crimes and misdemeanors'' have been committed. This standard envisioned crimes against the state--crimes which truly cut deep through the fabric of the nation. The Republican majority's Articles of Impeachment do not reflect such crimes. The President has betrayed himself and his family. He exercised bad judgment. He did not betray this nation. The Republican majority insists that this is being done for the good of the American people. This is clearly not true. The majority of Americans have come out in opposition to impeachment and yet the Republicans have gone forward with this process. Instead of listening to the desire of the people to move forward, the Republicans have chosen to ignore the public. This is not democracy, this is tyranny. The Republicans have pushed forward in an atmosphere fraught with unfairness, forcing through Articles of Impeachment without concern for the rule of law. The Republicans have abandoned all due process in their investigation, calling only the Independent Counsel to attest to the so-called ``facts'' brought to bear in this case. The Republicans have argued that the President is not above the law. Neither should the President be held beneath the law. He deserves the basic protections that we give all Americans in cases of this magnitude. The Office of the President deserves better, the American people deserve better. During the Iran-Contra investigation, the current chairman of the Judiciary Committee, the Honorable Henry Hyde, was quoted as, ``mock[ing] those who `sermonized about how terrible lying is and sa[ying] it made no sense to `label every untruth and deception an outrage'' by the Los Angeles Times. Further, he characterized the investigation of Col. Oliver North a ``witch hunt.'' What a difference an election makes. The Republicans became the majority party in the House of Representatives, and have long since forgotten those words. The Republicans have embarked on a forty million dollar, six year fishing expedition, hoping to find something to pin on the President. What the Republicans have caught should be thrown back. I do not condone the past actions of the President, but his actions do not constitute ``high crimes and misdemeanors.'' I only hope that history will forgive this House for the grave mistake we have made today. December 17, 1998. To: Hon. Eddie Bernice Johnson: Dear Ms. Johnson. The Constitution is not the Bible. It is bothersome to see Republicans wrap themselves so tightly around this document as the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. The Bible is the only publication that claims this posture. Interpreters of this same Constitution at one point did not believe that blacks had the same rights as whites. Women were not equal to men, they said. We have amended the Constitution many times as time has revealed more and more reasons to do so. Using the Constitution as a truth text disregards all the amendments that have been added to it. The President tried to cover up an affair. It was a wrong to his wife and daughter. The only impeachment he deserves is from them. Adultery is a sin. Bearing false witness is a sin. It seems then, that the Bible is the best text to deal with this sin, not the Constitution. The Constitution gives all life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. It also gives each of us rights--rights to defend ourselves when accused, rights to legal counsel. Hiring counsel or using our legal system should not be twisted into a charge of obstruction of justice. Is it abuse of power to defend yourself? Hiding the truth about an adulterous affair is something human beings often do. It is a character flaw that comes with the territory. Those who are faithful to their wives and husband are to be commended. Let's not be in denial, however, about our country's divorce rate and the cheating rate in history and in present times. Let me get this straight. We're going to impeach the President for: 1. Defending himself (a.k.a abuse of power?); 2. Hiring legal counsel (a.k.a. obstruction of justice?); 3. Trying to conceal an affair (a.k.a. perjury?). The Constitution gives all Americans a right to privacy. Kenneth Star has violated Bill Clinton's right to privacy. That's constitutional. To investigate this sexual affair is not the governments' business--never was and never will be. That's constitutional. A citizen can defend himself against prosecution. That's constitutional. A citizen can hire a legal counsel. That's constitutional. Lying under oath about a constitutional right to privacy is constitutional. The Bible should be our guide on this matter. The Constitution is not the Bible. Sincerely, Thomas Henderson.

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas

Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise against the articles of impeachment. Mr. Speaker, the articles of impeachment referred to the House by the Committee on the Judiciary Republicans are the product of a partisan hearing process, a very unfair process. The majority party is obsessed with destroying this President. I think it is because he represents the American people's view; not the elitist view, but the people's view. We have called this House the People's House, and, time after time after time, I have seen these Republicans stand and ignore the people. It is unfortunate that we have come to this time, because it is clear, I have listened all day, and all I have heard are excuses trying to back up why they want to destroy this President. We have spent $40 million of the taxpayer's money for the Republicans to be able to say ``gotcha.''