Patrick J. Kennedy's tenure in the United States Congress is characterized by his passionate advocacy for mental health reform and addiction treatment. As a leading voice in the fight for parity and access to care, he has championed policies that improve the lives of millions of Americans, leaving a lasting impact on public health policy.
"In the last 5 years, American employers have lost over $150 billion of productivity to depression alone. That is more than the GDP of 28 different States during the same period."
"On the other hand, the American public possesses a great resilience and strength, and good risk communication strategies can tap into and even amplify those assets."
"We believe in some basic human principles - everyone should have the opportunities not just to survive, but to excel with their God-given talents and abilities. Those are the values that should be reflected in our budgets."
"And how the government communicates about homeland security is central to how the public responds."
"If we do not provide education for every single American, we are consigning those without an education to second-class status."
"I believe that successfully addressing our national security needs while protecting our basic freedoms and civil liberties requires continual Congressional oversight, and I will continue to work to assert the role of this body in carrying out this grave responsibility."
"I see the policy of opposing same-sex marriages or unions, whatever you call it, as bigotry or discrimination."
"Moreover, as the leadership of the House confirmed last year, the Administration remains opposed to a congressional resolution on the Armenian Genocide due to Turkish objections. This approach sends absolutely the wrong signal to Turkey and to the rest of the world."
"Democrats believe that government should reflect the sense of community that Americans demonstrated after Katrina - the sense of community that has defined and united America throughout its history."