this administration is writing a new story on trade, one that puts working families first and reflects more voices across the American economy.

It is a very critical hearing on a very critical region, and I appreciate your various comments on our Pacific Islands Caucus.

What we have to offer are, as you say, values, right, and relationships.

the less precipitous, but just as bad scenario, is saltwater inundation of the freshwater systems.

Yes. And as you know, I am all for climate spending.

I think we do need to come up with an economic model.

But we face a reversal of that commitment--we do face a reversal of that commitment if we entertain the House majority proposal to return to 2022 funding levels.

Now we need that same bipartisan strength to sustain those ongoing infrastructure investments--and to make progress on safety regulations that protect Americans driving, flying, walking, riding--and counting--on that infrastructure.

They also want to be respected as sovereigns.

I think what we did was sort of cannibalize our budget and not make enough of an impact for it to be worth it.

I want to sort this and track it and I want my staff to have a sort of shared spreadsheet, if you will, so we can work this together because I don't think this is a partisan question.

Every member on this committee knows the importance of stable bridges, efficient airports, and safe cars.

they don't actually have to invent or curate something brand new now, telehealth is all across the country, all across the planet.

The model here is the DOD, right. The DOD doesn't get to have an opinion necessarily about climate action.

Yes. And as you know, I am all for climate spending.

Thank you very much, Mr. Secretary. Thank you for your testimony today. Thank you for your partnership with this committee.

I would like to be reassured that we are moving forward.

I think you have the wisdom of having come from the Legislative Branch and also just understanding that whatever thicket of processes and procedures and rules and laws that you inherited is not your fault and so you might as well be the…