Tag: former President Gloria Arroyo

In the News, Online, TheySaidIt

The Outlier [Manila Standard]

From Lito Banayo’s column in the Manila Standard: Those who know the man enough also know that he would rather fight the good fight, regardless of the odds, a seeming Don Quixote jousting against the windmills of evil, fighting the unbeatable foe, regardless of public approbation or disapproval from peers—outlier if need be—just to be consistent with what upon his graduation from the Philippine Military Academy in the Class of 1971, he vowed: “What is right must be kept right; what is wrong must be set right.”

Continue reading “The Outlier [Manila Standard]” →

Statements

Pag Inabuso ang Anti-Terrorism Law, Ping Sasama sa Martsa

Kung naging mapanuri na siya noong tinatalakay pa lamang ito sa kanyang komite sa Senado, mas maigting na pagbabantay ang gagawin ni Senador Panfilo Lacson oras na maging batas na ang Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020.

Tiniyak ito ni Lacson bilang tugon sa mga nagpapahayag ng pagkabahala at pagkatakot sa magiging uri ng pagpapatupad ng mga awtoridad oras na ganap nang maging batas ang panukala.

Ayon kay Lacson, hindi biro ang pinagdaaanan sa Senado ng naturang panukala para lamang matiyak ang paglagay ng safeguards, kaya hindi niya papayagan na masalaula ang implementasyon nito.

“The Anti-Terrorism Bill is the wrong tree to bark up. I vow to join those who are concerned, genuinely or otherwise, about the proposed law’s implementation to be as vigilant in monitoring each and every wrongful implementation by our security forces, even to the point of joining them in street protests, just like what I did before during the time of former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo,” mariing pahayag ni Lacson.

Related: Lacson Ready to Join Street Protests if Anti-Terrorism Measure Abused
Continue reading “Pag Inabuso ang Anti-Terrorism Law, Ping Sasama sa Martsa” →

Statements

Lacson Ready to Join Street Protests if Anti-Terrorism Measure Abused

Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson on Sunday vowed to closely monitor and call out potential abuses in the implementation of the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020, should it become law.

Lacson said he will not allow anyone to pervert the legislative intent of the measure that he had painstakingly sponsored on the Senate floor.

“The Anti-Terrorism Bill is the wrong tree to bark up. I vow to join those who are concerned, genuinely or otherwise, about the proposed law’s implementation to be as vigilant in monitoring each and every wrongful implementation by our security forces, even to the point of joining them in street protests, just like what I did before during the time of former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo,” he said.

Related: Pag Inabuso ang Anti-Terrorism Law, Ping Sasama sa Martsa
Continue reading “Lacson Ready to Join Street Protests if Anti-Terrorism Measure Abused” →

Documents, Statements

Ping, May Buwelta vs Fake Witnesses

SB 28 False Testimony Act

Mas matalas na batas laban sa pagsisinungaling ang susi sa dumarami nang insidente sa korte at lehislatura sa kabila ng pagiging “under oath” ng mga pinagsasalita.

Ito ang nakikitang solusyon ni Senador Panfilo Lacson para matigil na ang pagkakalat ng mali at mapanirang impormasyon gaya ng ginawa nina Atty. Jude Sabio, Peter Joemel “Bikoy” Advincula, Rodney “Ninja Cop” Baloyo IV, Edgar Matobato, Arturo Lascañas, Cezar Mancao II at Mary “Rosebud” Ong.

“Naging tig-singkong duling na lang ang pagsisinungaling under oath sa Pilipinas. That is why there is a compelling need for a stronger perjury law,” banggit ni Lacson.

Related: Lacson Stresses Need for Heavier Penalties vs Lying Witnesses
Continue reading “Ping, May Buwelta vs Fake Witnesses” →

Documents, Statements

Lacson Stresses Need for Heavier Penalties vs Lying Witnesses

What do lawyer Jude Sabio, Peter Joemel “Bikoy” Advincula, Rodney “Ninja Cop” Baloyo IV, Edgar Matobato, Arturo Lascañas, Cezar Mancao II, and Mary “Rosebud” Ong have in common?

They are all reasons for the need for a stronger law that would impose heavier penalties on lying witnesses – including public officials and employees who may be behind them, Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson said Wednesday.

“Naging tig-singkong duling na lang ang pagsisinungaling under oath sa Pilipinas. That is why there is a compelling need for a stronger perjury law,” he said, stressing this is “a matter of punishing not personalities but the act of giving false testimony.”

Related: Ping, May Buwelta vs Fake Witnesses
Continue reading “Lacson Stresses Need for Heavier Penalties vs Lying Witnesses” →

In the News, Online, TheySaidIt

From top cop to eagle eye [Manila Standard]

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From Lito Banayo’s columns in the Manila Standard: His stint as chief of the PNP was hailed by one and all, resulting in the police organization’s getting an all-time high trust rating. He stopped the everyday “kotong” which preyed on most everybody, from jeepney drivers to taxi drivers, to “viajeros” of food produce.

Continue reading “From top cop to eagle eye [Manila Standard]” →

Statements

On the Passing of Senator Aquilino ‘Nene’ Pimentel, Jr.

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I will always remember Sen. Nene as my first Senate minority leader who called my attention to respond to the massive vitriolic attacks on my honor and dignity as a newly elected senator in 2001.

That was my first baptism of dirty politics as the newly installed administration under then President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo unleashed Angelo ‘Ador’ Mawanay and several other peddlers of lies and black propaganda to portray me as the biggest narco-politician, money launderer and criminal offender that ever set foot in the halls of Congress.

Continue reading “On the Passing of Senator Aquilino ‘Nene’ Pimentel, Jr.” →

Statements

‘Fake News’ Binawi ng Philippine Daily Inquirer; Ping Nagpasalamat

inquirer-apology

Napatawad ko na kayo, maraming salamat sa pagtutuwid.

Ito ang tugon ni Senador Panfilo Lacson sa paghingi ng paumanhin ng pahayagang Philippine Daily Inquirer sa pagsusulat ng maling balita tungkol sa kanya halos 20 taon na ang nakakalipas.

“Time heals, forgives. Thank you, Philippine Daily Inquirer for your humility and courage to admit I am not the person you said I was. Getting back my honor and dignity matters a lot to me. It is with equal humility that I accept your apology,” banggit ni Lacson sa kanyang Twitter account.

Related:
After Nearly 20 Years: Inquirer Apologizes for ‘Fake News’; Lacson Responds
Ex-ISAFP Chief Victor Corpus Apologizes to Sen. Lacson
Continue reading “‘Fake News’ Binawi ng Philippine Daily Inquirer; Ping Nagpasalamat” →

Statements

After Nearly 20 Years: Inquirer Apologizes for ‘Fake News’; Lacson Responds

inquirer-apology

Finally, the truth.

The Philippine Daily Inquirer on Monday published an apology to Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson for several articles in 2001 that accused him of alleged misdeeds.

Lacson accepted the apology, thanking the Inquirer for its “humility and courage,” adding that getting back his honor and dignity means much to him.

“Time heals, forgives. Thank you, Philippine Daily Inquirer for your humility and courage to admit I am not the person you said I was. Getting back my honor and dignity matters a lot to me. It is with equal humility that I accept your apology,” Lacson said in a tweet.

Related:
‘Fake News’ Binawi ng Philippine Daily Inquirer; Ping Nagpasalamat
Ex-ISAFP Chief Victor Corpus Apologizes to Sen. Lacson
Continue reading “After Nearly 20 Years: Inquirer Apologizes for ‘Fake News’; Lacson Responds” →

In the News, Radio, Statements

Interview on DZBB | Nov. 25, 2018

In an interview on DZBB, Sen. Lacson answered questions on:
– possible pork in the 2019 budget
– agreements signed by the Philippines and China
– confirmation hearing for DFA Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr

Quotes from the interview… Continue reading “Interview on DZBB | Nov. 25, 2018” →

In the News

📰 Loathsome pork barrel [Malaya]

Thumbnail No to Pork Barrel

From Malaya: The good senator will definitely be encountering stiff resistance in his efforts not only from House members but also from some pork barrel-loving senators. He will need strong and moral support from President Rodrigo Roa Duterte aka Digong who is as determined as Lacson to stamp out corruption. Will Digong give it to him?  Continue reading “📰 Loathsome pork barrel [Malaya]” →

In the News, Online

‘ALL RIGHT, SIR, ALL RIGHT’: Lacson on making peace with GMA, winning without pork [Inquirer Sunday]

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From the Inquirer: Lacson said he had learned to adapt to his new environment as a civilian but also never wavered from the teachings taught to cadets at the Philippine Military Academy (PMA).  Continue reading “‘ALL RIGHT, SIR, ALL RIGHT’: Lacson on making peace with GMA, winning without pork [Inquirer Sunday]” →

In the News, Statements

#PingTweets: On possible pork for House members

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Related: Arroyo assures: No zero budget for any solon under my watch (ABS-CBN News)

In the News, Statements, TV, Videos

Interview on CNN Philippines | Aug. 1, 2018

In an interview on CNN Philippines, Sen. Lacson answered questions on:
– Basilan bombing
– leadership row at the House of Representatives
– Senate unity on Charter change
– Mayor Sara Duterte and the political landscape
– TRAIN

Quotes from the interview…  Continue reading “Interview on CNN Philippines | Aug. 1, 2018” →

Statements

On the Reported ‘Direct Hand’ of Mayor Sara Duterte in the House’s Leadership Change

If talks about Mayor Sara Duterte having a direct hand and influence in the change of House leadership were true, it may not speak well of President Duterte’s much-touted “strong leadership.”

Any power or authority delegated outside the official chain of the government bureaucracy should not only be discouraged, but challenged and checked at the soonest possible opportunity.

We should not have a repeat of our past experiences under the previous administrations from Marcos to PNoy, where persistent talks of interventions and influence-peddling by relatives of sitting presidents did not help any in the efficient and smooth management of state affairs.

*****

In the News, Statements

#PingTweets: On the kinds of ‘friends’ House leaders have to deal with

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Statements

On the Timing of Rep. Arroyo’s Taking Over as House Speaker

This is an observation shared by political pundits: Speaker Arroyo will remain in her post only until June 30 next year since she is on her last three-year term. Given the short period left – with all the session breaks and the incoming election campaign – people can’t help but think that her taking over her present position may have something to do with the planned shift from unitary to parliamentary system before next year’s election.

If this materializes, which I doubt of course, she would be the logical choice as the country’s first woman Prime Minister. The point being, why change the leadership when there is very little productive time left in this present House of Representatives?

*****

In the News, Statements, Videos

#PingSays: On Rep. Arroyo as House Speaker | July 25, 2018

“Ako, naniniwala ako lahat ng tao may redemption. Anuman ang ‘kasalanan’ niya sa nakaraan, lalo sa akin.” – Sen. Lacson, in an interview with Senate media

 

In the News, Statements, Videos

#PingSays: Senate to be united on Charter change issue | July 24, 2018

In an interview, Sen. Lacson said the Senate will have a united stand on the issue of Charter change.

Quotes from the interview…  Continue reading “#PingSays: Senate to be united on Charter change issue | July 24, 2018” →

In the News, Statements

On the ‘Leadership Change’ at the House of Representatives

If only for the timing and manner the coup d’etat in the House of Representatives was carried out, I would say it was awkward, ugly, low and disgraceful. In a manner of speaking, even the traditionally symbolic mace was in a maze yesterday at the Batasan, not knowing whose authority it would represent between the two contending personalities.

Regardless of whether it was Rep. Arroyo or somebody else replacing the ousted Speaker, what happened yesterday is a strong argument against a parliamentary form of government where patronage politics plays a major, if not the only, role in selecting our country’s top leader.

If GMA’s ascension to the speakership is a prelude to becoming Prime Minister, they better think twice because the Senate, both majority and minority, have agreed to close ranks to defend and assert our role under the 1987 Constitution in revising or amending the same. That, I can say with certainty and conviction.

*****

In the News, Statements

On the incident at the Batasan

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Statements

On the Dismissal of the Plunder Case against Former President Gloria Arroyo

Mrs. Arroyo has suffered enough, having spent six years in detention under an extremely difficult physical condition.

Even for purely humanitarian consideration, I support the Supreme Court’s ruling to free her and accord her some comfort for the remaining years of her life, which are not really that many, considering her age.

As I have repeatedly said, while I will never forget who they are, I have forgiven all my tormentors for the past nine years under her administration, living or dead.

*****

Statements

On the Granting of Bail for Former President Gloria Arroyo

While it is bad enough that GMA has been granted temporary liberty, the worse implication is that it posits the existence of a weak electoral sabotage case against her by the joint DOJ-Comelec panel.

One obvious lesson learned from the experience is, we cannot build up a strong case through press releases and media interviews.

Rather, it takes hard work and the gift of skill and well-rounded knowledge of law, not to mention the rules of court and proper legal procedures to accomplish the same.

*****

Statements

Controversial Arroyo Aide in Entourage Makes Medical Trip Abroad Fishy

A controversial aide, the lack of extradition treaties in her real preferred countries, and the silence on which doctor she will meet with are making former President Gloria Arroyo’s plan to seek medical help abroad smell fishy, Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson said Thursday.  Continue reading “Controversial Arroyo Aide in Entourage Makes Medical Trip Abroad Fishy” →

Statements

Lacson Suggests ‘Solomonic’ Solution on Arroyo Foreign Trip

Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson on Sunday suggested to Justice Secretary Leila de Lima a “Solomonic” solution in addressing former President Gloria Arroyo’s request to seek medical treatment abroad.  Continue reading “Lacson Suggests ‘Solomonic’ Solution on Arroyo Foreign Trip” →

Statements

What’s Surprising About PGMA Flunking MCC Challenge?

What’s new about the present administration flunking yet another scorecard of the Millennium Challenge Corporation?

Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson posed this question as he said he would be more surprised if the Arroyo government got a passing grade from the MCC.  Continue reading “What’s Surprising About PGMA Flunking MCC Challenge?” →

Statements

Lacson: Palace Response to Corruption ‘Only in the Philippines’

Only in the Philippines.

This was how Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson lamented the response of Malacañang to yet another survey indicating she is the “most corrupt” country’s history.  Continue reading “Lacson: Palace Response to Corruption ‘Only in the Philippines’” →

Statements

Arroyo Not ‘Good’ but ‘Insatiable’ Economist

Not a “good” but an “insatiable” economist.

This was how Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson on Saturday described President Arroyo, who claimed before British traders in London Friday that she was a “pretty good economist but a very bad politician.”  Continue reading “Arroyo Not ‘Good’ but ‘Insatiable’ Economist” →

Statements

Lacson to GMA: Start Fighting Kotong in Your Own Backyard

If you want to seriously fight extortion, start in your own backyard.

This was the “unsolicited” advice of Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson Friday to Mrs. Arroyo, a day after she created a task force against “kotong” (extortion) and colorum vehicles upon the request of the transport sector.  Continue reading “Lacson to GMA: Start Fighting Kotong in Your Own Backyard” →

Statements

Ping to GMA: Reform Now, Your Time May Be Running Out

If Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr., an acknowledged supporter and ally of this administration, can speak of numbness to corruption by Mrs. Arroyo, how could the rest of our people think of their President?

Malacañang must be concerned when our people, amid the spectacle of brazen stealing, shameless lying and unprecedented hubris by any leader of this country, become numb enough to force another ouster.

The country cannot afford any more unconstitutional changing of the guard, lest we live up to become Asia’s most prominent “banana republic.” I cannot help but give an advice, unsolicited as it is, to Mrs. Arroyo: Reform now. Your time may be running out.

*****

Privilege Speeches, Videos

The Lighthouse that Brought Darkness

Mr. President, distinguished colleagues:

Today, I rise on a matter of personal and collective privilege.

Two years ago, the country was caught in a political maelstrom brought about by revelations arising from the voice tapes taken of a man and a woman, the identities of whom have since been laid public.

Continue reading “The Lighthouse that Brought Darkness” →

Statements

What Happened to Anti-Graft Grant?

While she never mentioned it in her State of the Nation Address (SONA) Monday, President Arroyo may want to update the nation on what she did with the P1-billion grant from the United States to fight corruption.  Continue reading “What Happened to Anti-Graft Grant?” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

We Have But ONE COUNTRY

Speech before the Rotary Club of Manila East

There are three things we Rotarians must not believe. One, when your delinquent tenant tells you that the check is in the mail. Second, when your fellow Rotarian tells you that he’s going home straight from a Rotary meeting. And three, when a politician guest speaker promises to deliver a short speech. My fellow Rotarians, don’t worry. My speech tonight won’t be very long.

I do not recall any previous invitation by the Rotary Club of Manila East and San Miguel. I will not ask why. But I will tell you why I am here tonight.

My main message is one and simple. Call it immutable and it is. We have but one country. All we need are very good leaders to inspire us.  Continue reading “We Have But ONE COUNTRY” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Be Not Afraid!

Speech delivered at The Manila Hotel

“It is enough that the people know there was an election. The people who cast the votes decide nothing. The people who count the votes decide everything.” She has learned her lesson well. She has mastered the art and science of assuming the presidency without winning the elections. She does her role model proud. I hope she does not forget that her role model ended up being hanged by those he oppressed.

Fascists believe that through the use of state terror, propaganda and the intimidation of political rivals, you can disassemble the existing democratic government system.

We have seen Mrs. Arroyo toy around with this belief since her voice on a taped phone conversation became the country’s outrage, and her nightmare.  Continue reading “Be Not Afraid!” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Challenges to Leadership

Speech Before the Junior Chamber of San Juan, Inc.
San Juan Pinaglabanan Jaycees

Last Saturday, I was with the Greater Davao Jaycees for their induction, and today with you for your own induction, too. When it comes to the Jaycees, Davao is never too far for me to go, and San Juan is never too familiar to be taken for granted. It is always an uplifting experience to see the vigor and enthusiasm of Jaycees. Thank you for making me a part of Jaycee life.  Continue reading “Challenges to Leadership” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Speech Before the Freemasons of Davao

This is my second time to speak before Freemasons. In November last year, I had the distinct honor of addressing another group of honorable and principled brotherhood in Manila.  Continue reading “Speech Before the Freemasons of Davao” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Her Greatest Enemy: Herself

Speech before the Philippine Councilors League (Region 2)
Cauayan City, Isabela

First of all, let me take this opportunity to wish all of you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Differences notwithstanding, we all will celebrate a Merry Christmas the way we used to. Doubts notwithstanding, we all will welcome the New Year of 2003 into our hearts and dreams.  Continue reading “Her Greatest Enemy: Herself” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Current Challenges

Speech before the Philippine Councilors League (Bohol Chapter)
Bohol Tropics Resort Hotel, Tagbilaran City

First of all, I would like to thank all of you for your very kind invitation. This is my first time to address your Chapter. I understand you represent all of Bohol’s 47 towns and Tagbilaran City. I am profoundly grateful. Indeed, I really am.  Continue reading “Current Challenges” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Peace and Order: The Key to Sustainable Foreign Investments in the Philippines

Speech Before the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Valle Verde Country Club, Pasig City

First of all, I would like to thank all of you – most specially Chair ROSALINDA D. EVANGELISTA – for your very kind invitation. Likewise, let me take this opportunity to wish all of you a Merry Christmas and Happy New year. Come hell or high water, we all will celebrate a merry Christmas. We all will welcome with hope the New Year of 2003.  Continue reading “Peace and Order: The Key to Sustainable Foreign Investments in the Philippines” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

The Lions in Service

Speech Before the Manila Regency Lions Club

Every anniversary is always an occasion for jubilation. When that anniversary means 30 years of service and commitment – such as your anniversary today – then the world must pause and take notice. Let me, then pause and greet the Manila Regency Lions Club a Very Happy 30th Anniversary!  Continue reading “The Lions in Service” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Public Service, Public Security

Speech Before USA Student Council of Iloilo, Iloilo City

Last October 23, I had the opportunity to address the newly-organized confederation of student leaders from our state colleges and universities. I saw something common to all of them. It was the driving force to lead.  Continue reading “Public Service, Public Security” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Hope and the Filipino

Speech delivered before the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines
Mandarin Hotel, Makati City

First of all, I would like to thank the officers and members of FOCAP for inviting me to this forum.

I am here to speak and share my views on the current political, economic and security situation in my country.

Except for the political situation which serves as a source of amusement if not entertainment for our people at times, the economic and security fronts are very depressing and frightening to most of us.  Continue reading “Hope and the Filipino” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

PHALTRA

Speech Before the Philippine Association of Local Treasurers and Assessors

I know why you have invited me today. You want my support to your proposal to amend certain provisions of the Local Government Code of 1991. I want to assure you now of my support.

I have two suggestions to make, though. One, please share with me during the open forum the details of your proposal. I will be asking some questions. Two, form a dedicated working group from PHALTRA to sit down with my staff. In the meantime, I will inform Senator Aquilino Pimentel of our discussions. He is the father of the Code. And he is committed to improve it before he bows from the Senate.

If you agree with my proposal, then lend me your ears for a few minutes. I have a very important message to deliver. I said this message to the Rotarians of Batangas yesterday. I want to share it also with you.  Continue reading “PHALTRA” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

National Security

Speech Before the Rotary Club of Downtown Batangas

It always feels good to be with my fellow Rotarians. Even though I have not been as active when I was in Cebu, the saying goes perpetual right: Once a Rotarian, always a Rotarian.  Continue reading “National Security” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

The Road to Leadership

Speech before the Community of Imus, Cavite

I come today to share with you our people’s jubilation and joy. It is our 207th Celebration of Araw ng Imus. Today is our day. Let us make it the best ever.  Continue reading “The Road to Leadership” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

The President and Public Service

Speech at the Induction Ceremony of Masters in Public Administration Association, Inc. of Western Mindanao State University, Marcian Garden, Zamboanga City

In the life of every association – such as yours – the alpha and omegas are marked by the annual induction of officers. New leaders come in where the others go out. Predecessors give way to successors. As a matter of course.  Continue reading “The President and Public Service” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

What We Have Is Now

Speech Before the Members of the Cotabato Electric Cooperative, Tulunan, Cotabato

I cannot begin to say how grateful I am to be invited to your 21st Annual General Membership meeting.  Continue reading “What We Have Is Now” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Paglilingkod sa Bayan

Speech at the Cavite Flag-Raising Ceremony

I am very happy to be with my fellow Cavitenos today. I have come to say my thanks for all your continuing support especially to our beloved governor, Erineo “Ayong” Maliksi.  Continue reading “Paglilingkod sa Bayan” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Mulat ang Bayan sa Takot at Hirap

Pwersa ng Masa Press Conference, Club Filipino

We have survived with flying colors!

There goes Malacañang’s Rigoberto Tiglao jumping and singing his hosanna to Her Excellency President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. For Tiglao, survival with flying colors is not something. It is everything. Talagang may gloria ang bukas ni Tiglao. Siya lang.  Continue reading “Mulat ang Bayan sa Takot at Hirap” →

Privilege Speeches

Her Excellency, Her Helplessness

Mr. President,

I rise again on a very urgent matter. This is not to wage war against fellow Senators, all of whom I hold in the highest respect. It is, rather, to urge them to have a second look at the moral hypocrisy of this administration.

Continue reading “Her Excellency, Her Helplessness” →