Cord Byrd: “I thank the very dedicated, patriotic, able, and distinguished Senator for the diligence with which he pursues his…”

“I thank the very dedicated, patriotic, able, and distinguished Senator for the diligence with which he pursues his responsibilities as a U.S. Senator. I appreciate very much what he has said with reference to me. Those remarks are very flattering. They might, if left alone, appear to be more than exactly the fact. I don't have a lot of experience, but I have seen some departments created during my tenure. I remember the new Department of Health, Education and Welfare, I believe it was called. I remember I was here and voted for that Department; the new Department of Energy, I voted for that; the new Department of Education, I voted for that; the new Department of Veterans Affairs, I voted for that. Now, as to reorganizations, I can take a look at recent experience as to reorganizations. The administration, since the September 11 attacks, has announced at least 3 major governmental reorganizations prior to the President's proposal to create a new Homeland Security Department.”