opening statement

Like many of my colleagues, I am very concerned about the rising rate of obesity among Americans.

I am personally committed to exploring ways to encourage good nutrition and wellness.

I want to point out that the gentlelady from Wyoming made some very important observations.

I strongly believe that we need to link the nutrition our children receive to their wellness for the purpose of preventing the onset of debilitating chronic diseases.

60 percent of adults are either overweight or obese, 31 percent of children.

the majority of that cost is in the Medicare program?

48 percent of the costs of obesity are born by government programs.

That is an aggregate savings, $16 billion, or just a public----

I think, if I can be presumptuous and suggest that, Mr. Chairman, that we drive towards some number like that that gives Congress a quantifiable goal as a measure to potentially reduce costs in the name of health and well-being.

What is the potential improvement of health outcomes as related to health care costs reductions?

Here the term quagmire could apply. Some reject that term, but if that is not a quagmire, then what is?

Are we going to continue to invest American blood and treasure at the same rate we are doing now, for what?

People say we’re not fighting for oil. Of course we are.

I'm here today to announce that my family and I will make a decision on my political future later this year.

That's the kind of voice that Chuck Hagel could be if antiwar sentiment continues to grow.

If Chuck Hagel runs for president, I'm going to cross party lines.

He has called the war in Iraq the most dangerous foreign policy blunder this country has made since the Vietnam War.