We are representatives of our nation. We are given responsibilities to deliberate on matters of public importance and vote in the public interest.

I believe my constituents and all Americans deserve to hear Senate deliberations from Senators--not leakers and speculators and commentators.

The United States Senate is, ultimately, the public's institution-- not ours.

Such a significant decision, a decision with such profound consequences, should not be reached behind closed doors.

The American people should not be excluded from one of the most important Senate deliberations in United States history.

I absolutely will not support closing the doors to the public and hope that my colleagues will join me in supporting the Sunshine motion.