Miscellaneous

WASHINGTON, DC - House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today after President Barack Obama nominated former Director of the Office of Personnel Management, John Berry, to be the next United States Ambassador to Australia:

“I thank the Gentleman for yielding, and I thank him for his work and I thank Mr. Lucas for his work. We struggle in this Congress to try to bring bipartisan legislation to the Floor. It's a shame. I've normally voted for the farm bill, for reasons I'll express here.

“I rise to join the Leader. I rise to join Congresswoman Esty and Congressman Thompson in recognizing this sad anniversary.

“Courtney has been an important member of my team since first coming to the Majority Leader’s office over six years ago,

“My thoughts and prayers are with those who lost their lives, their families, and all who were injured or lost their homes in yesterday’s devastating tornado.  All Americans are grateful to the first responders who continue to rescue survivors and provide life-saving treatment to victims...

“I support the actions announced by President Obama tonight. The actions taken by the IRS were unacceptable, and it is appropriate and necessary for the responsible parties to be held accountable.

“It is an honor to join you to mark Asian Pacific American Heritage Month with distinguished Members of Congress from America’s diverse Asian and Pacific Islander communities who are working hard and making a real difference here in Washington.

“On Sunday, families across America will celebrate both the courage of the defenders of Puebla in 1862 and the extraordinary contributions Mexican-Americans continue to make to our national life.