Cord Byrd: “In 1987, Congress earmarked--hear me--funds for the mapping of the human gene. This project became known as the human…”

“In 1987, Congress earmarked--hear me--funds for the mapping of the human gene. This project became known as the human genome project. This research has led to completely new strategies for disease prevention and treatment. The human genome project has led to discoveries of dramatic new methods of identifying and treating breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and colon cancer. I will say that once more: The human genome project has led to discoveries of dramatic new methods of identifying and treating breast, ovarian, and colon cancer, saving many, many lives. Senators, hear me: This is not wasteful spending. In 1988 and 1995, Congress earmarked funds for the development of unmanned aerial vehicles. I have to say that once more. In 1988 and 1995, Congress--that is us, your representatives, out there in the land, in the hills and valleys of this country--earmarked funds for the development of unmanned aerial vehicles. These efforts produced the Predator and the Global Hawk, two of the most effective assets that have been used in the global war on terror. This is not wasteful spending. I am talking about earmarks, the word 'earmarks.' A lot of things have been said about the word 'earmarks.' Each of these earmarks was initiated by Congress and produced lasting gains for the American people--not for me, not for you, but for all of us, the American people.”