Alito's Way.
"Mr. Chairman, I would like to verify the witness's statement. For years now, a growing number of my constituents have been of Italian descent, and I have come to know them well. They have honored me with their support and with their friendship. Indeed, I can proudly say some of my very best friends are Italian Americans. …
"These hearings on the Mafia are in no way whatsoever a slur upon the great Italian people. Because I can state from my own knowledge and experience that Italian Americans are among the most loyal, most law-abiding, patriotic, hard working American citizens in this land.
"And it would be a shame, Mr. Chairman, if we allowed a few rotten apples to bring a bad name to the whole barrel. Because from the time of the great Christopher Columbus up through the time of Enrico Fermi right up to the present day -- Italian Americans have been pioneers in building and defending our great nation. They are the salt of the earth and one of the backbones of this country."