Douglas Alexander: “I am a new Senator. I am aware of the traditions of the Senate, one of which is that a new Senator is not expected to…”

“I am a new Senator. I am aware of the traditions of the Senate, one of which is that a new Senator is not expected to say much--at least throughout the year is not expected to say much--to begin with until they have something of importance to say. So I have not said much. I had been planning to make my first remarks on this floor next Tuesday on the issues I care most about, which are the education of our children and putting the teaching of American history and civics back in its rightful place in our schools so that our children can grow up knowing what it means to be an American. I planned on doing that next Tuesday. But I have decided to make some remarks today--earlier than expected because I am disappointed in what I have heard in the debate about Miguel Estrada. My disappointment has increased with each of these 10 days as the debate has continued. I am disappointed first because I believe our friends on the other side of the aisle are being unfair to Miguel Estrada.”