I do think that TVA has among the finest leadership that the agency has ever had, contrary to the impression I think some people have tried to leave.

I expect two things of TVA. First, TVA must continue working closely with the Corps of Engineers, the EPA, the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, and the local community to ensure that TVA is in compliance with all…

I want these findings to be made public so that every rate payer and lawmaker alike can take part in our effort to ensure that this never happens again.

If TVA cannot fulfill their duty to make my constituents whole, I am fully prepared as a Member of Congress to call upon our current Administration to name the EPA as the lead agency in charge of the cleanup and to appoint a czar that will…

we need a national uniform certification program

the program has stood up in court over and over again

there needs to be more aggressive and consistent compliance monitoring of the DBE program

We will never stop talking about race.

I want to say a word about the constitutional soundness of the DOT DBE programs.

I am very honored and pleased to appear before you today.

I know firsthand the significance of the many programs and various matters that fall within your jurisdiction.

there needs to be more specific language in the RFPs issued by Federal grantees

Our Nation suffers when those who are talented, who have new ideas, and who want to work hard are denied the opportunity to compete because of their ethnic background, race, or gender.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman, for your kindness.

I want to discuss with you today one of those various matters that is of great importance and concern not only to me personally, but I believe to our Nation as a whole.

The fact remains that Afghanistan is a critical front in what will continue to be a global war on terror.

I particularly appreciate the fact that in a role with Iraq that it was very important to honor the bravery, the sacrifices of our troops over many years.

I believe that the U.S. use of force in Kosovo was both lawful and the right thing to have done.