If we don't do that, everything else that we think matters about the ocean is over.

I just want to express some concern also about the President's budget in the area of the zeroing out of the rural empowerment zones and Enterprise Communities Grants Program.

It simply does not make--there is no economic rationale.

Well, you know, and just Mr. Press and Mr. Henderson, you say that and that's--that also sounds well and good, but these are individuals who have been faithful, and the one I cited for 80 years, and that's been generally true, 80 years…

Yet the companies represented here this afternoon have provided no clarity with respect to exactly how or why they've come to the specific decisions that they have made; let alone provide any transparency with respect to these decisions or…

Our Nation must work together on comprehensive, long-term actions that will stabilize gas and oil prices, prevent energy shortages, and achieve national energy independence.

There has been progress, but there is a long way to go.

Senator Lieberman and I have authored contracting reforms that are now law.

Thank you, Chairman Rockefeller. Welcome back and thank you for holding this very critical hearing today, Mr. Chairman, because obviously, we are all grappling with the devastating effects and the sad state of affairs when it comes to the…

A lot of our dealers were asked would you buy more Chryslers last year, so that we can avoid bankruptcy? And they did. And look where they stand today; they are asked to close their doors.

I commend GSA for starting to involve the community in those discussions, but it is absolutely critical that it occurs in a way that does not create problems for the biggest employer of the area.

As President Obama's nominee to lead the General Services Administration, Martha Johnson comes to this Committee with significant experience in both the private sector and the Federal Government.

I, too, am concerned about the explosive growth in government-wide acquisition contracts and multi-agency contracts because I believe the prevalence of those vehicles for purchasing demonstrates a lack of confidence in GSA.

The Federal Government must invest significantly in its acquisition workforce.

I am a strong supporter of the National Park Service Centennial Initiative.

That's not going to be true in Maine.

And let me ask you one other question. You have indicated that GM will be capable buying back the inventories from as many as 80 percent of the closed dealerships; will you be buying back parts and special tools as well?

I am committed to getting to yes in this general proposition.