Mike Simpson actually said...

"Well, if you want to see some criticism on TV about wasteful government spending, it is pretty easy to stand up and say gee, you know, we are going to quit funding abandoned mines that have been clean..."

"Thanks for what you are doing. I was going to submit my opening statement for the record, so let us keep up the good work."

"I would note that 51 years ago today on St. Patrick's Day, Eisenhower welcomed the first Irish president, president of Ireland, to the United States at Reagan Airport."

"Mr. Chairman, I just want to thank you for being here today."