Cliff Stearns: “I would also like to commend my good friend Stephanie Herseth Sandlin for being a champion of women veterans.”

I just commend you for this. What you are indicating is this place is working, and I think the problem is out there in America, at least through mainstream media. It does appear to be working, and I think it is because of your leadership…

The Chair announces that 27 former Members of Congress have responded to their names.

Barbara, if you will come up. Barbara, your plaque is inscribed: ``We thank Congresswoman Barbara Kennelly of Connecticut for her leadership and guidance for the past 2 years as president of the U.S. Association of Former Members of…

We thank the distinguished minority leader. And with that, let me close by saying, the Chair again, wishes to thank the former Members of the House and Senate for all of your presence today. And before terminating these proceedings, the…