Hank Johnson: “It is vital that Americans truly understand the importance…”

“I want to thank the witnesses for being here today. While I think this last minute hearing is a distraction from the disastrous policies of the Trump administration, I do believe It is vital that Americans truly understand the importance of allowing the USPTO the independence and discretion it needs to keep America at the top of our global innovation economy. Because if we want to continue to lead the world in the technological advancements of tomorrow, then we must ensure today that the institution most responsible for protecting those innovations is independent and built to last.” (16:12–16:27)

This is an excerpt from a raw transcript. The assertions have not been audited or verified. Tap the video to view the source footage and understand the context.