Mike Simpson actually said...

"I have always taken the position I don't want the Federal government determining what scope of practice is. That is the State's responsibility."

"But it doesn't necessarily go back into the forestry program?"

"The senior senator from Alaska has spoken publicly to the effect that it is important to have the lease sale as quickly as possible to create new facts on the ground."

"I appreciate the work you do. It is, like I said, vitally important, and any way we can help, I am more than willing to help."