Transparency is not negotiable, even in a Republican administration, as far as I am concerned.

We asked for the documents related to Ted Kennedy's FBI file, and we had to push and push and push.

But it also tells me--the point I tried to make in my opening comment--that the President set a very high benchmark.

Your help is crucial and has been crucial to saving jobs and careers.

Our Government, for better or for worse, depending on your point of view, is doing more than ever, and FOIA has not caught up with it.

Promises, Promises: Little transparency progress.

It would seem obvious that the political vetting policy at the Department of Homeland Security that was uncovered by AP violates both the President's and the Attorney General's orders set forth in their memos.

What type of input do political appointees under the Obama administration give to career employees regarding response to Freedom of Information Act requests?

All individuals have equal right of access to information, as Senator Grassley has noted.

I ask for the yeas and nays. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there a sufficient second? There appears to be a sufficient second. The question is, Will the Senate advise and consent to the nomination of James Emanuel Boasberg, of the District of…

Mr. President, today, we will confirm yet another of President Obama's judicial nominees. After today's vote, we will have confirmed five judicial nominees in the last 5 legislative days. We are moving swiftly in committee and on the…

Mr. President, I yield back the remainder of the time on our side. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The time is yielded back.

Open government is not a Republican or Democrat issue.

There is a disturbing contradiction between President Obama's words and the actions of his political appointees.

I am disheartened, continuing the practices of previous Presidents, Republican or Democrat, that we do not have the openness that we should.

FOIA is based on the belief that citizens have a right to know what their Government is doing and that the burden is on the Government to prove otherwise.

The lack of a response from so many agencies sends a disturbing message.

Open government and transparency are more than just pleasant-sounding words. They are essential to maintain our democratic form of Government.