"In some Native communities, unemployment is as high as 75 percent."
"over 70 years of development and expansion of the telecommunications industry has resulted in only a 67.9 percent basic telephone service penetration rate."
"Today, our Country finds itself in very difficult economic times."
"the statistics for broadband penetration are even more troubling--less than 10 percent of residents on Tribal lands have access to the lifeblood of our 21st century economy."
"Tribes have difficult and unique challenges in developing their economies."
"Senator Akaka, you and Representative Cole got it right when you said in this oped piece here that the Carcieri fix is a no-cost way to build Tribal economies."
"Tribes need strong local economies, not just to provide jobs and services to their own members."
"Many Native communities have been hit hard by the economic downturn and stagnant job market."
"Enacting stronger protections so whistle blowers can come forward without fear of retaliation is one of my top priorities."
"Thank you and your staff for all that you do to support the mental needs of veterans."
"While we continue to improve educational benefits such as the G.I. Bill, job training, and other opportunities through legislation spearheaded by the Chairman, we must keep working to improve the ment..."