Roland Burris

Thank you very much.

New trouble for Roland Burris. The Illinois senator flip-flopped today, saying he did try to raise money for former governor Rod Blagojevich, who appointed him.

It was done because we promised the committee we would supplement information, in case we missed anything. End of story.

Our veterans deserve no less than to have their appeals determined in a timely and accurate manner.

These men and women have paid in blood and injury for our safety and our security in this great country, and we cannot neglect them.

We must look at that and determine how we can assist these individuals.

If confirmed, I would promptly notify Congress of any issues affecting the nuclear weapons stockpile and nuclear weapons complex.

Information will not be classified or otherwise withheld to protect the Government from criticism or embarrassment.

That is unconscionable that we have that type of a situation existing in our military bases.

Under what circumstances, Doctor, would a noncompetitive contract be justified? What safeguards can be put in place to protect the taxpayer?

Ms. Matiella, what will you do to increase transparency of the Army budget?

Lastly, Doctor, what would you do to address and limit cost overruns and cost-plus contracts?

I won't hold it against you. He's a good friend of mine. Got to do a good job for him, okay?

How about emergency situations?

I think Unmanned Aerial Vehicle systems are things that we're going to be continuing to look at over the next couple of years.

There is an opportunity for our partnership to foster real change and I look forward to our mutual cooperation for the benefit of this great Nation.

I am again pleased with the nominations that President Obama has chosen to run these essential positions within our Government.

I must say that the President has selected very well. I am looking forward to your responsibility in these important positions that you've been appointed and entrusted to.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and welcome nominees.

Do you know whether any of those statements, and maybe this is a bad word in the Federal Government, but in State government it has to be in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.

I wondered if you wouldn't look into that, should you be confirmed.

There is an opportunity for us, in partnership with you nominees, to cause a real change in our Nation.

The Nation is looking for you nominees to play a role in the redirection of our efforts to benefit and protect all of our citizens, especially those who were ignored as a result of the previous policies.

Ray, you are a tribute to the people of your State.

I continue to be extremely impressed with the very high caliber of individuals President Obama has nominated to run the essential portions of our Government.