I still believe in libraries. I still believe in books.

We have been fighting for a $15 minimum wage and the opportunity to form a union without the fear of retaliation.

Are you exploring all of your options with respect to the contract?

The bipartisan budget deal last year provided a much needed boost in discretionary funding, but next year, the caps are flat.

I share the deep concerns that many of my colleagues have expressed, that working in the restaurants has been a very tough experience.

I think that, as you focus on issues such as the productivity at our shipyards... that recognition should be reflected in what you consider productivity numbers.

I would say that that should be a top priority for our committees and our subcommittees.

There have been some real creative ideas from the workers themselves that have been incorporated into the shipyard.

What must the Air Force do to regain our competitive advantages? What specific areas require additional attention?

Are there any programs to bring some of the more experienced people back into the workforce or keep them in longer to fill that gap--experienced staff?

I commend the Army for expanding its use of renewable energy, including the upcoming biofuel-capable generation plant at Schofield Barracks in Hawaii.

I offered an amendment that was added to the pending energy bill to boost the involvement of veterans in a new energy workforce training pilot program.

The national security of our country is greatly dependent on the implementation of energy security efforts.

I certainly support the chairwoman's initiatives in this regard.

Everything is contingent on the money. We start, first and foremost, by lifting the threat of sequester, going forward.

I think that we definitely need people trained, especially in the STEM areas.

I was happy to see, in your written testimony, that you remain committed to improving the conditions of our Navy shipyards.

I have heard from public housing authorities (PHAs) and a number of voucher holders on each of Hawaii's four counties who are frustrated that fair market rents are unrealistically low.