"Millions of LGBT Americans go to work every day fearing that, without any warning, they could lose their jobs - not because of anything they've done, but simply because of who they are. It's offensive. It's wrong. And it needs to stop, because in the United States of America, who you are and who you love should never be a fireable offense. That's why Congress needs to pass the Employment Non-Discrimination Act."
Barack Obama, President of the United States
"I want to say that I have a deep respect for those who choose to stand on the side of progress for our country this week. So for those that stand up this week and answer the call for courage, I can say with confidence your courage will be respected and remembered when the history of this struggle is written."
U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-WI)
"I'm dismayed that so many years have gone by - more than a decade - and this bill still has not become law. It is time for us to enact this important legislation."
U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, (R-ME)
"So I hope my fellow senators will come together and support this important bipartisan bill without delay. And if the other body has the courage of standing up for America, to stand up for all Americans - every single American there is - and vote for the same legislation."
U.S. Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-VT)
"The Speaker believes this legislation will increase frivolous litigation and cost American jobs, especially small business jobs."
Michael Steel, spokesman for U.S. Rep. John Boehner (R-OH)
