On the recordOctober 20, 2011
I am here today to talk on behalf of Commerce Secretary nominee John Bryson. Mr. Bryson testified before our Commerce Committee. I was impressed by his background and by his ability to answer the questions and by his understanding of business. I think everyone knows we are facing difficult economic times in this country and we need someone in that job that understands business. Mr. Bryson has strong and broad support within the business community, and his nomination has been endorsed by such groups as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the Business Roundtable, and the National Association of Manufacturers. Six former Commerce Secretaries, from the George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George H.W. Bush, and Nixon administrations, have also joined in strongly supporting his confirmation. Mr. Bryson, as we know, was reported favorably to the entire Senate by the Commerce Committee. But let's look at what some of the groups have said about Mr. Bryson. The Business Roundtable says: John Bryson is a proven, well-respected executive who will bring his private sector experience to the Commerce Department's broad portfolio. The National Association of Manufacturers says Bryson has ``a strong business background . . . which gives him the advantage of having exposure to the difficult issues manufacturers face in today's global marketplace.'' The President and CEO of the National Association of Manufacturers, Jay Timmons, said: Mr.…
