"As a point of personal privilege, I want to mention that, on the Republican side, we'll have a meeting at 11:30 in S-116, as a part of our party rules, to nominate and elect the ranking member of the ..."
"If the United States is to remain secure and prosperous, it must seek to shape the diplomatic and economic conditions in the world."
"I look at the issue of food aid around the world, and, candidly, you know--and we have a farm lobby in our State, too, but I look at what we do in that regard, and, in essence, including expensive tra..."
"if we're going to do this job, we can't sit here and wish this problem away."
"Our nation’s security is tied to our ability to engage with the world."
"It'll be sliced as soon as it comes over to the Congress, sliced again in the second House and in conference."
"Prime Minister Putin's congratulations to President Obama were interesting, in that this was the first point that he took up as to how there might be more communication."
"This is why I sort of press this energy coordinator. You don't need an Under Secretary of Energy, but maybe it would be helpful if it finally elevates the fact this is absolutely vital to the success ..."
"I share the view that it's necessary to shift resources toward diplomatic tools, or so-called 'smart power.'"
"Well, that would be very helpful, I think, in terms of our success in working together and following through on some of the ideas the envoys may bring back that need action."
"I am hopeful that both of our nominees today will be advocates for long-term strategic vision within the State Department and the Obama administration."
"I echo the chairman's thoughts that it's reassuring that you're on top of the START treaty negotiations, the timeframe, the relationship with Russia."
"The diplomatic challenges that will face our nominee include the nuclear confrontations with Iran and North Korea, the spread of HIV/AIDS and other diseases, refugee crises related to Iraq and Darfur ..."
"Because of Andy's work we live in a safer world."
"I believe the President could not have made a better choice."
"there is an obligation on your part to the American people to report about all of this because taxpayer funds of all Americans are involved."
"The United Nations is too valuable. Our time is too urgent now. The issues are too pressing."
"I want to emphasize that as chairman of the committee, I will do everything in my power to leverage a bipartisan effort here."
