Pat Roberts

I would guess, what, 20 percent at least in California----

I truly appreciate your taking the time. I know you are very busy and it has been very interesting.

I still have some reservations about that.

Kansans have long supported renewable energy. That is not the question.

What market signals do these two bills show to rural and traditional fuel-dependent States, including coal, oil, gas, and agriculture industries?

We really do need an honest and open debate of cap-and-tax proposals, like the two bills we are discussing.

The estimates project that Kansas small businesses could see increased premiums all the way up to 28 percent over 10 years.

But under these health care reform bills I believe most small businesses in Kansas will be saddled with a higher premium cost, possibly without having the benefit of the tax credits.

I submit, having worked in trade as a member of the Cabinet, there will be no bilateral trade agreements by this administration.

I do not see the value of putting a tariff on any Chinese product.

I think this underestimates the amount of fuel switching by utilities, to move coal-based generation to natural gas.

I just think that is going to be a pretty heavy burden for you, if not an unrealistic task.

I would be a little careful. As I said before, maybe Senator Smoot and Senator Hawley are for it, but I am not.

Secretary Vilsack, your testimony leaves out the impact of removing an estimated 40 million acres.

Thank you for your agreement that we hold additional hearings. Thank you for your agreement that we try to focus on some subjects that all of us will decide on when we have a meeting.

I think it is a very common-sense answer and very candid.

Do you have the necessary resources to do this?

The chances of China accepting a trade agreement by us dictating certain standards for their labor decisions are slim and none, and slim left town.

I mean after several Farm Bills that many of us have worked on the productivity of the American farmer is incredible.

Secretary Vilsack, it has been over 1 year since the Congress passed the Farm Bill.

How much of the safety net will they cut away and give to other priorities, which I have some problems with?

You have been a tireless supporter of ag policy for a number of years, and this administration I think is very well served to have you as part of the team.

Unfortunately, in my view, the crop insurance program has been used as a bank in too many instances to fund other programs.

As we used to say in the House, when I had the privilege of serving there and was Chairman... either hang together or hang separately.

I appreciate your answer. Your response was exactly the way we wrote it.