Barbara Mikulski: “First of all, thank you, to the Senator. I, in no way, want to impede this conversation. I didn't realize that you had…”

“First of all, thank you, to the Senator. I, in no way, want to impede this conversation. I didn't realize that you had asked for 45 minutes, and I really found these comments by the supporters of the bill really quite instructive, and I appreciate the discussion and the debate. Why don't you proceed. I would just like to bring to the distinguished chairman's attention, though, that we are trying to get the VA-MILCON bill conference done--real money and the real checkbook-- to support the great work this authorizing committee is doing. I don't know if you know that the House is proposing a $500 million cut below the Senate level. So you and I should talk about that. I thank the Senator from Alaska, and please proceed with your colloquy.”