That is not only a promise that has been broken, that is a promise that is very easy to quantify because, on July 29, 2009, during the consideration of this health care reform law, the President said: Medicare is a government program. But…

today I am introducing the Rural America Preservation Act of 2012. I appreciate Senators Johnson of South Dakota, Enzi, Brown of Ohio, Gillibrand, Harkin, and Nelson of Nebraska for joining on this bill, and in this effort. As the Senate…

if I could add one thing at this point, we don't really know how bad this law is yet. I am going to add something to what Senator Blunt said when he quoted the Speaker of the House saying that we don't really know what is in this bill and…

I say to the Senator from Wyoming, definitely not, and Americans are seeing every day that is not the case. If I could respond a little bit more in length, I would go back to 1994 and point out a problem President Clinton had, and in turn…

If there were more open communication and collaboration between States and the Federal Government, we would have a better outcome for patients and taxpayers.

The availability of powerful prescription drugs has in some ways gotten ahead of our ability to prescribe them safely.

Sadly, because prescription drug painkillers, stimulants, and antipsychotics are so powerful and so addictive, they are all too often the target of criminals.

It seems like the steps that both SCAN and Texas are taking ought to be recognized as being admirable and effective, and a pattern for everybody else.

the Nation's fastest-growing problem.

Overdose deaths in Iowa from non-medical use of hydrocodone and oxycontin pills have increased 1,233 percent since the year 2000.

I do not think it is anything you would disagree with. Thank you for the courtesy.

Prescription drug abuse is not just about some sensational thing that happens to celebrities like Michael Jackson.

It is sad, it is unfortunate, and an emotional reality that we must recognize.

When a convicted criminal claims innocence and demands additional DNA testing, who should pay for that test?

Sometimes we forget the basic principle here in Washington about separation of powers and restrict ourselves to carrying out constitutional responsibilities without intruding on the States.

When an innocent person is discovered, every possible measure ought to be taken to release them from prison and clear their name.

It is very good that you are holding this hearing.

We must continue to ask questions about the criminal justice system and not become complacent.

I'm pleased to support John during his re-nomination process.

I'm very enthusiastic this time, as I was last time, but more so because he's had two or more successful years already serving in this position and his re-nomination.

I believe Commissioner Norris has the necessary experience and understanding of our energy markets to continue his service as a Commissioner on FERC.

I ask unanimous consent that a member of my staff, Lake Dishman, be granted floor privileges for the remainder of the 112th Congress. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered. ____________________

I am proud to be joined today by a number of my colleagues in introducing the American Energy and Job Promotion Act, a bill to extend a tax incentive for the production of electricity from a number of renewable sources, including wind. The…

I ask unanimous consent to speak as in morning business for 12 minutes. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered. Sunshine Week

this is Sunshine Week--a week that is observed annually to point out the public's business ought to be public and that government, except in the cases of national security, should be open to public inspection. This week coincides with the…