Mr. Pitman, would that include your first assistant?

From the beginning of this nation, the drafting of the Constitution, we have grappled with one fundamental issue, many, but this one recurs. The issue of race and justice in America--a Constitution which acknowledged slavery, a nation…

I think it is important to have discretion and to trust the judge to exercise that discretion within certain limits.

If I am an impoverished criminal defendant, minority, standing before you as my judge, do I have a chance?

In that situation, we are trying to make sure that the mandatory minimum sentencing under the Federal law gives judges more discretion.

Humble is one of the first words that comes to mind when you say 'United States Senator.'

One of the things that inspired me to move in this direction was the judiciary, judges who came back after applying our laws to their case and saying, 'Senator, this is not fair. It is not just.'

I do not think it is productive to define patent troll. I think people have different definitions.

It is important to do that and to assess each case on an individual basis and have a fresh look and an individual assessment.

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent for 5 additional minutes. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered.

Mr. President, I chair the Senate judiciary subcommittee entitled the Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights and Human Rights. Obviously, the most serious charge of the subcommittee is to consider proposals to amend the…

I thank the Senator from Texas. It overturns Citizens United by authorizing Congress and State legislatures to prohibit corporations and unions from spending money from their treasuries to influence elections. Our amendment will ensure…

If confirmed, we will need your support in pushing this critically important legislation forward next Congress.

Now through voluntary best practices, we have seen progress in combating online piracy.

Here in the Senate, Senator Chris Coons and I introduced the Defend Trade Secrets Act.

I also appreciate your leadership in these areas.

The lure of advertising revenue continues to fuel online piracy across the globe.

Mr. President, today the Senate will vote on three nominees to positions on the Social Security Advisory Board. Two of these nominees--Alan Cohen and Lanhee Chen--are well suited for these positions, and that being the case I totally…