The only thing I heard Speaker [Paul] Ryan say that made sense was, we actually really need to look at this and see what makes sense and what doesn`t, because electronic detection in those kind of - and drones and other types of border protecting devices seem to be much more effective in certain places.
John YarmuthCountries make policies for themselves. And Donald Trump wants to make - that`s his policy.
John YarmuthWhat I always say with these things, when you`re trying to do comprehensive things like tax reform, there will be 20,000 lobbyists in Washington trying to work their will on that piece of legislation so, you know, people think it`s going to be a lot easier than it will end up being.
John YarmuthActually we're not hearing a lot about gas prices right now from constituents. And I think that reflects a growing understanding on the part of the public, that there really is very little that the government and politicians can do.
John YarmuthWalls are very important when you`re separating two urban areas where if you`re actually able to get over the border you can probably get into the underground network in about 30 seconds. But when you`re out in the middle of the desert, it makes no sense because you have border security people have up to a day to apprehend people who are crossing illegally.
John YarmuthI have a treasure trove of Baker memories, all of which reinforce my sense of Howard Baker as one of the most decent people with whom I have worked. While I was simply a young staffer, he never treated me or my colleagues as anything else but equals.
John YarmuthI know that in the battle of ideas, Republican politicians are at a distinct disadvantage. Their fundamental philosophy - which I characterize as survival of the fittest, richest and whitest - is too callous for most Americans.
John YarmuthHe [Donald Trump]wants to build the wall. It would be silly to say we`re going to - we`re going to create an army and we`re going to have Mexico pay for our border patrol, our border police. Clearly, that`s not going to happen.
John YarmuthI was part of the gang of eight in the house in 2013 that was working on comprehensive immigration reform. We talked a lot about border security and what was effective and what was not. Walls are not effective when you`re out in the desert and you don`t need them.
John YarmuthTaking responsible steps to reduce poverty is not merely a moral imperative but an economic one.
John YarmuthWhen your voice contradicts reality and truth, the only way to create space for it is to discredit reality and truth.
John Yarmuth