This Auto Task Force is a disaster, and it is a disaster because decisions are being made... the task force has created an environment where the car manufacturers are going into court.

I understand it, but I am just worried about long term.

I am not one of those Republicans who wants the President to fail. I think if he fails, the country fails.

I was interested in testimony earlier about the new programs that are brought forth in the stimulus package.

There is nothing more permanent than a temporary government program. You know that. And that is my concern.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

I will never be disagreeable about it.

I don't think we ever get the genie back in the bottle again.

Do they not have to write new rules and go through the whole process?

I am disappointed at the pace of the implementation of the NextGen project.

How long does it take to set up, in this stimulus package, set up the rules and get the programs up and operating?

We realize that there is a lot of interest for public need, public good to make accommodations.

But the fact of the matter is, in the last 9 months, we have obligated or spent in this government $5.3 trillion.

I think that President Bush was poorly served by some bean counters when they came in at $256 billion over 6 years, which was clearly inadequate.

It is great to have you here, and I look forward to your testimony today. We miss you in Congress, but I am very, very pleased that you are continuing to serve our country in your new role.

I really hope today we can just have dialogue.

I also want to say that I am supportive of passenger rail, and I think there are a lot of areas of the country where it is the best solution.

I think, as you point out, it is extremely important.