Steny Hoyer actually said...

"This is a sad day for America. It's a sad day for the Congress. It's a sad day for our African American brothers and sisters who have lost a real leader and an extraordinary friend."

"He cared about people, and particularly people who lived in Africa. I think there was no Member who knew Africa better than Donald Payne."

"I am not objective with respect to this nominee. What you are going to hear from me is totally subjective."

"Erin Conaton stands out from this group as a proven leader who has been especially adept at helping bring the Pentagon and Congress together on important issues."