Trent Lott: “I will be glad to defer to the distinguished ranking member of the committee. I won't be long. I will go ahead and…”

“I will be glad to defer to the distinguished ranking member of the committee. I won't be long. I will go ahead and address this very important issue. I begin my remarks by thanking the distinguished senior Senator from New Mexico, Mr. Domenici, for his leadership in this area. He is one of our more knowledgeable Members. After years of watching him at play, I now refer to him as our No. 1 utility player. Whatever the problem was, he can be helpful. He is knowledgeable on budget issues, energy issues, and also has a practical side: Let's find a way to get it done. Once again, he has done that with this bill. I know he wants to work with his committee. I know he wants to work with Members on both sides of the aisle. But I know more than anything else he wants to do the right thing for our country. So I thank Senator Domenici for his leadership. He has agreed to do some things in ways he would not do it if he could do it in a vacuum. But that is what leadership is all about. In the legislative process, you don't get it 100 percent the way you want it. You have to give a little and get a little to do the right thing, to produce a product for the American people. So that is the main reason I am here. I want to thank you for that. I also acknowledge the leadership and encouragement of Senator Martinez, the Senator from Florida, and others from Florida who have been helpful in this effort. I have a great admiration for Florida.…”