"It is important that we have a fully-staffed Federal Communications Commission."
"I agree with everyone here, it is a fractured country. But it is also one that is ripe for an entity like this one."
"Without them we would not be able to fill vacancies, maintain competitive salaries or continue to offer paid internships."
"I cannot overstate the difficulty an additional budget cut would create on this committee's staff."
"Our mission is to keep America safe, and we have to do it, obviously within the confines of the budget."
"I cannot tell you how many times a company, mainly small businesses, comes to me and complains about how difficult it is to work with S&T."
"Without objective measurement tools, I question how S&T will be able to continue to develop security solutions."
"I hope to learn how we can keep essential personnel and train them in light of severe budget cuts."
"I hope the committee will take these matters seriously as we learn how the Directorate will carry out its strategic plan, management directives, and operational programs going forward."
"Today, we find ourselves at a new crossroads for several reasons."
"Despite this funding, interoperability remains a concern for State and local homeland security directors, public safety officials, and first responders."
"As a former volunteer firefighter, I know that interoperable communications can save lives."
"These communication problems are not new."
"The equipment is fine, absolutely. I have seen it rust on military bases for years."
"We have got challenges right now in protecting our people, our infrastructure, and also making the point to Congress that we need more investment here in this region."
"Regardless of whatever you hear on the news or you see on TV, Republicans and Democrats can work together to better protect our people in this country from threats."
"I commend the work of our intelligence and law enforcement communities, and look forward to seeing justice served in the case."
"I am very comfortable that under the Obama administration we have taken some very, very bad people out."
