Washington, D.C. – House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy (CA-23) spoke on the House floor today to remind Speaker Pelosi that, whether she likes it or not, America will always be inspired by stories of perseverance and strength, like those highlighted last night in President Trump’s State of the Union address.
Leader McCarthy delivered an official copy of the President’s State of the Union address, signed by President Trump, to the House Clerk to be archived and preserved for posterity.
Remarks as prepared for delivery are below, or watch online here.
“We heard a great speech by the President last night.
“It spoke to the strength of our country and the courage and character of our fellow citizens.
“People like the 100-year-old Tuskegee Airman retired Brigadier General Charles McGee and his great-grandson who dreams of going to space.
“People like single mother Stephanie Davis and her lovely 4th grade daughter Janiyah who received an Opportunity Scholarship.
“And people like Sergeant First Class Townsend Williams who surprised his wife Amy and two beautiful children in the gallery last night.
“Unfortunately, Speaker Pelosi was unmoved and chose to tear up the House’s copy of that speech.
“She had no right to destroy this document, especially one filled with such impactful stories of American patriots. That record was presented before the People’s House and it belongs to the American people.
“That is why I am here today.
“In my hand, I have an official copy of the President’s State of the Union address, signed by President Trump.
“It will be delivered to the House Clerk to be archived and preserved for posterity.
“Whether she likes it or not — these great American stories WILL be remembered by history, not erased by the Speaker.
“We are better because of them, we should learn from them, and we should feel proud that they will shape our future.
“I yield back.”
A 100-year-old Tuskegee Airman and his grandson.
A service member who was reunited with his family.
A single mother whose 4th-grader received a scholarship.
Whether Pelosi likes it or not—these great American stories WILL be remembered by history, not shredded by the Speaker. pic.twitter.com/BzCbORMKqK
— Kevin McCarthy (@GOPLeader) February 5, 2020