On the recordMarch 8, 2012
Madam President, I ask for 30 seconds before we turn to Senator Vitter. I want to say to the Senator from Louisiana and her colleague, Senator Vitter, what an honor it has been for me to work with them. Senator Landrieu is the most passionate person I have ever met when it comes to fighting for her State. What her State went through was a disaster manyfold. I was there. I saw it. Senator Vitter on the committee was eloquent in pointing out the problems. Senator Sessions worked hard on the committee as well. Every Democrat supported them. I would only say to my colleagues who may be watching this debate: Please vote yes. We need 60 votes. This is going to take funding from BP directly to fix up the areas they wrecked. It is not costing the taxpayers any money. Because of the negotiations, every State will now benefit if it has a coastline. I was honored to do it. I was excited we got this out of our committee. But we do not have forever. We have to take care of this today. Vote aye. This is bipartisan. I yield the floor. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Senator from Louisiana.
