Political Quotes

“I thank my friend, Senator McCain, chairman of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee. I compliment him on his remarks. I think he fully and fairly explained the legislation that is before the Senate. One of the things I want to reiterate that he stated is that every State in this Nation has a vital part in this piece of legislation as it relates to air transportation, not only domestically but internationally. It is important. We are talking, I think, in the neighborhood of approximately $10 billion per year. It is so important, as the chairman has said, that we work hard and quickly on this bill so that we might pass it prior to adjournment. I would hate to see this piece of legislation caught up in a continuing resolution that would generally turn into a 'Christmas tree.' So, Madam President, before us today is S. 2279, a bill that my good friend, Senator Ted Stevens, and this committee named after me. I hope having that name on it won't prevent it from moving expeditiously. It is an honor to have a piece of legislation named after a Member, and I thank the Senator from Alaska for his friendship and his kindness. As many of my colleagues know, this bill is a 'must' pass bill. Without it, the FAA and our nation's airports can not continue to build to meet future needs.”