I just hate to create a situation so only the big four or five can drill in the gulf.

I talked to a restaurant owner. They had done $430,000 in business last June. This June, this restaurant in Gulf Shores, they were down to $260,000.

I have supported legislation that would increase the compensation requirements beyond that act, in particular the $75 million limit.

To what extent do maritime lawsuits limit or prohibit punitive damages?

Well, under the OPA, as I understand it, BP is the responsible party...

I would like to see us focus more on identifying what works through rigorous focus and help our states by giving that information so they can better utilize the resources that they have.

I agree, because the states are spending billions, as you said, Mr. Husock, on these programs and our money is chicken feed compared to what states are spending.

I believe we made a good step to improve justice and I know you agree.

President Obama's nominees to the district court have waited an average of 49 days for a hearing.

We are moving nominees through the Committee at a rather good rate.

I was a bit disappointed at that.

I think that was the right position, the only position, you could take if you were to assume that office.

I appreciate your testimony and respect it.

I would have to classify you as someone in the theme of the legal progressive.

I respect the Chairman's prerogative, but I don't think we should be in the situation where the Chairman rebuts the questioning of each and every witness on this side.

It would therefore be unfair to accuse the court of an activist ruling in that case?

I think we do have this national discussion going on about a revival of progressivism.

you should not be condemned for being a political believer and taking part in the process and having views.

I think her experience is, by any standard, thin.

I think the last refuge of a big government scoundrel is the Commerce Clause, it seems.

You said that your approach to cases involving challenges to the statute involving don't ask/don't tell policy would be the same.

He went on at some length demonstrating that and then called them 'touchy-feely twaddle.'

The oath is that you would impartially do your duty with equal right to the poor and the rich.

I believe an activist--and I think I am quoting Senator Hatch, although he would not give me credit for it--he would not take credit for it.

A vote to confirm Ms. Kagan as a Supreme Court Justice is a vote to harm the interests of our military.