Political Quotes

“I note with some dismay that the majority leader now seeks to fill time, given the fact we are not proceeding with the debate on the stimulus package, with other matters, such as the railroad retirement legislation. It seems to me we have a perfect opportunity to do what we should be doing in this interregnum, and that is to consider all the President's nominees who are languishing. We have the time to debate these nominations and vote on them. Let's do it. Case in point: The majority leader talks about bringing up the railroad retirement legislation. This is the European-style, Government-backed occupational pension scheme. I think we would do better to complete the filling of the President's Cabinet. Mr. President, as you know, John Walters is the last Cabinet member awaiting confirmation. He is awaiting Senate confirmation to serve as Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy, otherwise known as the national drug czar. When did his nomination come to us from the President of the United States? Way back in June, over 5 months ago. Finally, on October 10, the Senate Judiciary Committee held a hearing on John Walters. It lasted over 3 hours. It was very complete. Following the hearing, Mr. Walters answered over 100 written followup questions, including questions from Members who were not on the committee itself.”