Political Quotes

“first of all, at the outset I commend my colleagues on the Judiciary Committee, the chairman of the committee, Senator Hatch, and Senator Leahy, the ranking Democrat, and the respective members of the committee for the manner in which they conducted the confirmation hearing for the position of Attorney General of the United States and for the manner in which they treated John Ashcroft, President Bush's nominee for this position. It is a difficult job, particularly when the nomination is controversial. I think the members of the Judiciary Committee, both Republicans and Democrats, conducted themselves with great dignity, and I commend them for it. Mr. President, I am going to vote to confirm John Ashcroft as U.S. Attorney General. I would like to take a few minutes of the Senate's time to explain my reasons. Let me say at the outset that I hope Mr. Ashcroft will listen to what I have to say here this afternoon. My comments are delivered primarily for the benefit of my colleagues and my constituents. But they are also directed to John Ashcroft. It is important that John Ashcroft understand that my support of his nomination is not unqualified. It is given, rather, only upon extensive reflection and despite concerns about what kind of Attorney General he will make. I have listened attentively to the comments of our colleagues both in support of and in opposition to this nomination. I respect immensely their views.…”