Congress probably exercises its most effective oversight of agencies and programs through the appropriations process.

Sanctions against North Korea have not been successful at preventing proliferation and other activities that threaten our national security.

We know that immigration reform is a driver of economic growth in this country.

And, by the way, we had a very good hearing with the Financial Sanctions Section with David Cohen, which Senator Johanns and I were involved in, and many other members, and we were very impressed with their work.

As you know, the IRS's budget has been cut substantially since fiscal year 2010, and because of sequestration, the cuts last year were the most substantial to date.

I welcome the opportunity today to conduct critical oversight of the Treasury Department and its programs.

The problem we have in North Korea is China, which--that's my sense.

As a result of these resource reductions, the IRS's ability to meet the service needs of the taxpaying public has been severely impaired.

we know--need to know the resources you need in order to do your very important job, and it's just--you need to let us know and be in touch with us as we move down the road and we get into these crisis situations, where we're trying to…

I think it's only with a credible threat of... coming down on folks who violate sanctions like a ton of bricks, that we can keep moving forward.

I welcome the President's efforts to impose targeted sanctions against Russia.

The Russian incursion into the Crimean region of Ukraine requires an unequivocal response that sends a clear message that Russia cannot interfere in the sovereignty of other countries.

We must continue to send a firm message to Iran that its nuclear program must end.

I think we should try to focus on his duties and responsibilities.

I just want to suggest to you that it's at least this Senator's desire to give you an abundance of the resources to support the skills, the talent, and the ability in your workforce.

I think there are real opportunities for the President to step forward and unite European countries to push back using economic force.

I think it is important for the United States and its European allies to impose economic sanctions in response to Russia's armed incursion into Ukraine.

As you know, Senator Nelson and I wrote to you before the hearing to ask that the Commission implement an online consumer complaints database.