We're concerned that NASA is flat-lined after 2010.

I really want to pay tribute to both Senator Glenn... he was a learned counselor and adviser to help me really understand the breadth and depth of the American Space Program.

We believe science at NASA saves lives, saves the planet, and creates jobs for the future.

If we are for Lilly Ledbetter, we're also going to be for the wonderful people who work at the State Department.

So somebody trying to rebuild Afghanistan makes less than somebody working at the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), trying to rebuild the cities of America, both serving America with duty and dedication?

There was phenomenal reluctance. Phenomenal. And that is why I am saying this. I would not say this if it did not pain me.

I just think that we need to, coming out of this Committee, at least make our recommendations to them.

Does the DOD believe that U.S.-flagged merchant ships are more secure if they are left to manage their security in pirate-infested waters on their own, rather than having embarked military personnel?

I promise you we will work with the Coast Guard and others in our Defense Department to see what we can do to bring clarity.

I would like to caution us in referring to when President Jefferson sent our Navy over to battle the Barbary pirates, because in order to get out of that situation, we, first off, had someone to negotiate with...

You know, I have often talked about how, in our Country, we believe that we are prepared for emergencies.

Is it the case that protecting U.S. commercial shipping is no longer among the primary missions of the United States Navy?

Should it be updated in light of changed circumstances?

If a foreign threat was attacking Americans, say, in Washington, DC, would you recommend that the best response would be for those under attack to hire private security guards?

This is our watch. This is our watch. And if we fail to act, then I am convinced that lives will be lost.

I just worry that when it times come for the rubber to meet the road, we will discover there is no road.

I wonder what that means. And I must tell you it pains me tremendously.

What I would suggest is that you all adopt the Commander-in-Chief's very words, the urgency of now.