The old deal that Putin seemed to have with his society was that he would create a system where people could make a lot of money, especially the elites, if he had total political control.

I do not think we understand enough in our debates about Russia how much this is about domestic politics within Russia itself.

It seems like the new model now is that he is basically trying to generate popular support by creating this perception that he has restored Russia to great global power status on par with that of the United States.

The reason I ask that is the following--but I think we all feel very passionate about the issues before us. I have not been here as long as Senator Leahy, whose service has been quite distinguished over a long period of time. I truly do…

first, I do appreciate the words of my colleague from Colorado, and I thank him for them, and that topic deserves more discussion on the floor of the Senate. One of the things that always gives me extraordinary pride to be an American and…

I first have a parliamentary inquiry. These are the continuing rules of the Senate that have been in existence previous to this time and have carried over into this session, is that correct? The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Senator is correct.

I have a parliamentary inquiry as well. The first question, Mr. President, is this: It is my understanding that the ruling of the Chair was based on the advice of the Parliamentarian. Is that accurate, Mr. President; on the advice of the…

I know that we are in the middle of an important debate about a topic of education in our schools. One of the topics I hope young Americans will learn more about is the state of affairs across the world when it comes to human rights. We…

OK. The second question I have, Mr. President: Does the rule say anything that impugns another Member of the Senate, directly or indirectly? Is that an accurate reading of the rule? The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Senator is correct, and I will…

today I want to recognize Adele Griffin, a longtime Senate staffer in my Jacksonville office, for her years of hard work; for me, my staff, and the people of the State of Florida. A fifth-generation Floridian, Adele previously worked under…

The Senate is about to adjourn. Under the standing order, we will convene at 12 noon tomorrow. Following the prayer and pledge, we will resume consideration of the Tillerson nomination post-cloture. For the information of all Senators, the…

I ask unanimous consent that all time during recess or adjournment of the Senate count post-cloture on the Tillerson nomination; further, that following the prayer and pledge, the remaining post-cloture time be equally divided between the…