Ben Cardin actually said...

"I think it's very important."

"I want to compliment the President on all three of the nominees that he has sent forward that are being considered today by this Committee."

"I concur with Senator Mikulski--this is a contribution being made by the people of Maryland."

"I'm going to confess to you that I'm not objective when it comes to John Porcari--he's a friend."