A member of the United States Senate...

A member of the United States Senate known for his hot temper and vicious tongue exploded one day in mid-session and began to shout:

"Half of the Senate is made up of cowards and corrupt politicians!"

All the other Senators demanded that the he retract what he said or be removed from the remainder of the session.

After a very long pause the angry member calmed down and said:

"Ok - I withdraw what I said - half of this Senate is *NOT* made up of cowards and corrupt politicians!"