I think I will pass on the questions. I have gotten explanations for what I was concerned about.

The last 2 years have been unprecedented in the amount of discretionary Federal dollars that have gone to the city, as well as an increase in congressional confidence in local leadership.

I call on this Subcommittee to once again eliminate this disincentive.

And you do that all for a budget request of this year $166.5 million.

I just wanted to mention that there is some opportunity with this new faith-based initiative that is moving its way through Congress in a very bipartisan way and with the President's commitment to involve the District.

Regarding school choice, perhaps an approach would be a limited pilot, as you have described, but that would include not just the District, but several other cities, but quite limited, and the parameters quite secure.

However, long-term outstanding economic pressures on the city and continued service challenges in such areas as public education and child welfare will require a new partnership with the District.

the District is, unfortunately, the No. 1 target in the United States for terrorism.

We want to step up the advocacy as an independent voice, you know, helping us all to really stay focused on the reforms.

That is what we are determined to end.

The first accomplishment from fiscal year 2003, and most important in my mind, is the Federal investment in strengthening successful charter schools in the District and supporting school choice ($17 million).

Well, let me just briefly commend you for that. I just think it is just an extraordinary step, and will do what I can.