Heidi Alexander: “I congratulate Senators Harkin and Enzi, their staffs, and all who worked for 15 months on this important piece of…”

“I congratulate Senators Harkin and Enzi, their staffs, and all who worked for 15 months on this important piece of legislation. I have watched the Senate for a long time--first as a staff member and then as a Senator--and it has always been a little messy and complicated. There are always disagreements. That is the purpose of the Senate, to work out arguments. But over the last few months, this Senate has done a much better job of operating in the way the American people expect us to operate. We are all here to try to get results after we state our positions. This bill especially affects the health and safety of millions of Americans. Almost every American family buys the prescription drugs and medical devices we are talking about in this legislation. I am glad to see this happen for two reasons--one, because of the result, and two, because of the way the Senate has worked. It is a fine example of what I hope to see happen more often. I also thank the majority leader, Senator Reid, and the minority leader, Senator McConnell, for creating an environment in which we could have a large number of amendments, debate, and discussion. I think we all appreciate that very much and want to create an environment in which they can provide that kind of leadership. I ask unanimous consent to speak as in morning business. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered. Land Grant Universities”