John Kerry: “I ask the leader, referring back to the October 30, 1997, Congressional Record, reading from the language of the leader…”

“I ask the leader, referring back to the October 30, 1997, Congressional Record, reading from the language of the leader himself, he said: This is not better-- Referring to the agreement-- This is not better necessarily for Democrats or Republicans. But in our view, this is a very big victory for the country. This will give us an opportunity to have a good debate as we have discussed. And then going on further, the minority leader said: I expect a full-fledged debate with plenty of opportunity to offer amendments. Given this agreement, now I have every assurance and confidence that will happen. I recall, having been part of the discussion and referring back to Senator Lott's request, Senator Lott said: I further ask that if the amendment-- Referring to Senator McCain's amendment-- is not tabled . . . the underlying bill will be open to further amendments, debates and motions. There was a clear understanding, if I am correct, and I ask the leader if there was not a clear understanding, that while the Republicans retained the right to filibuster, they would not fill up the tree and they would not deny the Senate the right to have the opportunity to debate and have a series of votes on the substantive issues, but that there would be a distinct opportunity for both sides to be able to amend and follow this debate?”