Chris Coons actually said...

"I would like to call to order this hearing of the Subcommittee on African Affairs of the U.S. Senate Committee on Foreign Relations."

"I am pleased that recently both Secretary of Defense Gates and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Mullen have expressed their strong support for increased resources for the State Department."

"I hope to hear from our four witnesses today about the implications for the long term of potential reductions in foreign assistance."

"I am grateful to the whole panel for your testimony today, for your participation."