Richard Shelby: “If you have to go to the head of the Department... to approve what you're seeking, it seems that could be... an…”

At the same time, North Korea is testing missiles reportedly capable of carrying nuclear warheads.

We also need a strong Army to deter China and respond to provocations, Iran, North Korea, and radical extremist groups.

I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered. The senior Senator from Alabama.

As Senator Shelby at our Senate testimony hearing last March pointed out to us, we must maintain what we have before we can build new, and I think he hits the mark head-on.