Dick Lugar: “I would comment, it has been my privilege to hear more of the testimony while I chaired the hearings and likewise the…”

“I would comment, it has been my privilege to hear more of the testimony while I chaired the hearings and likewise the debate today. On both occasions, we have made clear to colleagues on both sides of the aisle that there would be ample opportunity, first of all, to question Dr. Rice during the confirmation hearings. And, as I pointed out earlier in the day, well over 300 questions were raised, some before the hearings, to which she gave response in written answers, and over half of the 300 actually during the hearings in face-to-face dialog with Dr. Rice. Let me point that out because I think the record for this nominee is as full as any confirmation procedure I have witnessed. Today, we have had 22 contributions that were substantial and thoughtful. Tomorrow, we will have another hour of debate prior to a vote and will come to a conclusion which I pray will bring about the confirmation of Dr. Rice to be our next Secretary of State, and a move forward as she assists our President and all of us in the statecraft of our country.”