Daniel Akaka actually said...

"I urge the Department to follow GAO's recommendation to fill hardship post positions with at-grade officers."

"While I support the intent of NSLI, I felt that it was too limited to be truly effective."

"Before I call for questions from Senator Voinovich, let me finish this question by asking Ambassador Powell..."

"How long will it take before the State Department can expect to fully eliminate both its language and mid-level experience gaps?"