Political Quotes

On the recordJanuary 30, 2001
Today we are charged with the important decision of considering Gale Norton for our next Secretary of the Interior. This position is extremely important. As the Secretary of the Interior, Ms. Norton would be the principal steward of nearly a third of our Nation's land; the guardian for our national parks; and the protector of our wildlife refuges. I believe President Bush has every right to exercise the same prerogative as Presidents before him, of choosing members of his cabinet that share his point of view. In proposing Ms. Norton, President Bush asks the Senate to entrust her with our environmental heritage. Although Ms. Norton conducted herself well throughout the confirmation hearings, I am left with many questions about her vision for the future of our Nation's environment. The question is not about her ability to lead, but whether she will be a leader for the preservation of our public lands and natural resources. This is why I rise in opposition to her nomination today.
Said by
Dick Durbin
Democratic · Illinois

Editor's note · Context

Addressing the nomination of Gale Norton as Secretary of the Interior.

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