Asa Hutchinson: “I am so pleased today to be able to rise in support of this legislation. I think it is an exciting day and a memorable…”

“I am so pleased today to be able to rise in support of this legislation. I think it is an exciting day and a memorable day for America that we adopt this legislation. As a member of the Health and Education Committee and a member of the conference committee on this bill, I have worked long and hard with my colleagues to ensure that the reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Act comes to fruition. I especially want to thank President Bush. When he came to Washington, he came with a vision to reform education. This is a big step toward the fulfillment of that vision. President Bush shows a true compassion for helping disadvantaged students gain the tools to succeed, a compassion he gained in his work as Governor. It is that vision and compassion that have gotten us to this point of final passage. President Bush is to be commended for his efforts and his vision. I thank Senator Kennedy for his leadership on the committee, and for his chairmanship, his perseverance, and his willingness to reach compromise and agreement on a number of issues. It has been a great pleasure for me to be able to work with Senator Gregg, as he has, through all the twists and turns in the long road of this past year, continued to fight for accountability and expanded options for parents. I admire his commitment to this legislation, and I am proud to have worked with him and to serve under his leadership on the HELP Committee.”