Our country is struggling with some of the toughest economic challenges we've seen, at least in my lifetime.

We're losing the opportunity to grow our economy and the ability to compete on a global scale.

I think it's a very important topic that you're highlighting. It impacts my State of New Mexico.

We feel this bill changes course on support for manufacturing, and complements the industry-specific research and development activities.

This is a critical consumer protection tool that the current and past FERC Chairmen and sitting Commissioners have themselves recognized that FERC is lacking.

Your legislation will bring parity to the manner in which electric customers versus gas customers are treated.

We thank the Committee for considering legislation on this critical need for the forest products industry.

Governor, you have enlightened us today. You have been a great leader on these transportation issues.

I really believe that commuter rail is the way to go, and bringing back our railroads.

we must do more to encourage alternatives to automobiles

I hope that you will work with me to see that we can get money out to those other tribal roads.

much of our Nation's transportation infrastructure is crumbling

This authority would significantly enhance the FERC's ability to protect consumers by providing it with the ability to stop market manipulation and other market abuses in a timely fashion.

I believe President Obama has made an excellent choice and I strongly support Mr. Strickland's nomination.

This is a hearing on legislation to strengthen two programs that are central to improving the Nation's efficient use of energy.

This provision alone is expected to save enough electricity by 2020 to serve 350,000 homes.

We thank Senators Bingaman and Murkowski for introducing this bill and for moving the discussion forward.

Notwithstanding this success energy efficiency continues to be the most cost effective strategy for enhancing economic and energy security.