We couldn't get that, because we didn't have the revenue to deal with the longer term.

But politically, at the end of the day I think it will be rewarded when we give the communities the type of transportation they need.

We cannot afford to go through that situation again.

Our first rate Nation should not have second rate infrastructure.

I want to thank all the witnesses that are here today to help us deal with the funding of our transportation priorities here at the Federal level.

It is just unacceptable that it takes a couple of hours to get into the Nation's capital.

We are going to need 60 votes in the Senate to do anything, and we are going to get many things through a Republican-controlled House.

I want to thank Senator Menendez for allowing me to chair today's hearing as we consider four nominees for ambassadorships.

Traffic congestion across the region hurts my State's economy, the quality of life of my constituents and the public's health.

We need a long-term reauthorization of our transportation programs.

I think the absolute no revenue pledge that has characterized the Republican position... is a mistake.

The best way to reduce long term congestion is by having fewer vehicles on the road.

This is the committee on Oversight and Government Reform, reform is so, so vital, particularly at this moment.

I have deep, deep reservations about the Keystone XL pipeline and have for a long time.

This is the dirtiest source of transportation fuel that is currently available.

When you have a spill involving this kind of tar sands oil, it is very, very difficult to clean it up.

This tar sands oil is going across the United States to be refined in Texas and then is bound for world markets.

I find the testimony about the job creation around this project compelling. However, I don't accept the notion that there aren't other tremendous opportunities to create jobs.