CNN "The Situation Room" - Transcript: "Interview with Rep. Mike Quigley"
Interview
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BLITZER: Boris Sanchez reporting for us from the White House, thank you.
Joining us now Democratic congressman Mike Quigley of Illinois, a member of the House Intelligence Committee.
Thanks so much for joining us. Let me first get your reaction to President Trump attacking Puerto Rico, as the island is riding out this hurricane, Hurricane Dorian.
REP. MIKE QUIGLEY (D-IL), MEMBER, INTELLIGENCE COMMITTEE: Yes, it's history repeating itself, unfortunately. You couple this with the fact that they are now rechanneling money used for FEMA and natural disasters for the president's political gain, it's extraordinary.
Let's me make something clear, too. I've been in Congress 10 years. And we have had to dramatically supplement FEMA to the tune of billions of dollars, because of hurricanes, wildfires and other natural disasters that are taking place at an increasing number, with a higher level of severity largely due because of climate change.
Something the president isn't helping with; rather he is hurting us.
BLITZER: Are you confident, Congressman, that the president will sign an emergency aid bill for Puerto Rico, if necessary?
QUIGLEY: In the final analysis, he will. I would like to think if there is any humanity left in the man. But at this point in time, nothing surprises me. I call on my colleagues in Congress to force the issue and help the citizens of the United States in Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and those who will be impacted, certainly in Florida, rather than attacking them.
It's interesting; he attacks them for political corruption, he has some level of expertise there.
BLITZER: Yes. Let's move on to another sensitive issue. As you heard, CNN has confirmed this, "The Washington Post" report, that President Trump told members of his administration that he would pardon them if they break the law to fast-track construction of his border wall with Mexico. What's your reaction to that?
QUIGLEY: Again, the president acts in the same manner that he has before, dangling pardons, which was evidenced in the Mueller report that came out previously. This is the president of the United States; by doing so, acting illegally, again, for political gain.
A reason, an additional reason, we should move forward with an impeachment inquiry. The president continues to commit acts of high crimes and misdemeanors, which the House and Senate need to investigate.
BLITZER: Congressman, thanks for joining us.
QUIGLEY: Anytime. Thank you.
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