Rod Grams: “the legislation we debate today sets out the broad defense policy for the Nation. It affords us an opportunity to…”

“the legislation we debate today sets out the broad defense policy for the Nation. It affords us an opportunity to outline our defense priorities, and the opportunity to reflect on what role this Nation is to play in the defense of freedom worldwide. What I have come to the floor to address today is the defense of freedom within our own borders, indeed, right here in the heart of our Nation's Capital. I rise, along with Senator Robb, my colleague from Virginia, to offer an amendment seeking the reopening of Pennsylvania Avenue in front of the White House. Mr. President, the two-block section of Pennsylvania Avenue fronting the White House was closed to vehicular traffic on May 20, 1995, by order of the President. I have been to the floor several times in the year since to voice my concerns that the loss of this historic roadway--which travels across one of the busiest sections of one of the busiest cities in the world-- has had a devastating impact on the District of Columbia. I have talked about the damage the closing has done to Washington's business community.”