On the SGR--which was brought up by the chairman and some of the other members--on the question of our need to finally fix it now that we have a window opening.

I would like, when you become head of the Department, for you to look at that decision and revisit it.

At the outset, let me express my sympathy to the Senator from West Virginia on the tragedy that took place in his state. Our hearts and minds are with you and your citizens. Remembering Clisby Clarke Mr. President, one of the sad occasions…

I do not think Ms. Vetter can do her job, or that Mr. Froman can do his job, without TPA.

I am a big fan of the negotiations that are going on on both the Trans-Pacific Partnership and the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership.

I am a big promoter of trying to get these trade negotiations completed so we have more opportunity for our companies.

Whatever we do to deal with those shortfalls is going to entail some tough choices, either raising revenues in some fashion or reducing the rate of growth of benefits in some fashion.

I am one of those who tries to refrain from using 'entitlement reform' when it comes to Medicare and Social Security, because those are contracts we have with the American people that they have paid good money for.

We are not going to be able to fulfill the promises of Social Security and Medicare if we do not reform both eligibility, as well as how the formula is done, as well as look at the revenue sources.

The worst takeaway of all would be for us to allow our debt to grow and grow and grow, and our obligations to pass our ability to pay them, and then there would be nothing left at all for Social Security or Medicare.

The quicker we deal with the fix, because of the time value of money, the easier the fix is going to be.

As you know from our conversations the last couple of days, there is no challenge that I have before me as U.S. Senator more important, including your confirmation, than getting the Savannah Harbor Expansion Project done in my State.