Political Quotes

“I will ask the administration to take a different tact to tighten, rather than loosen, the Oil-for-Food Program, to veto U.N. plans that allow Saddam to use this money to finance nonhumanitarian purchases, and to strengthen oil interdiction and inspection operations, including adopting something like the ``no-fly'' zone with a ``no-oil'' vessel zone. Only by taking these measures can the U.N. finally cripple Saddam's regime and increase energy security for all Americas. If we cut off Saddam's oil supply, we will bring him to his knees. That is the only way it will happen. Mr. President, I would like to take a moment to comment on the Department of the Interior s Mineral Management Service proposed oil valuation rule. Earlier this week, speaking with regard to the Administration's FY 2000 budget, Secretary Babbitt said, ``We have met, and talked, and talked, and talked,'' about the proposed rule. But I submit that the only talking done by MMS has been at industry and at Congress, not with them. Mr. President, the proposed rule by MMS was unfair last year and it remains unfair. Babbitt has declared that talks are ``over'' and that MMS is determined to issue its rule in June, when the Congressional moratorium expires. This is simply unconscionable. The domestic oil industry is on its knees right now. But, again, this action by Interior is symptomatic of Administration attacks on the domestic energy industry.”