Roy Blunt: “I look forward to working with you now and in the future to address our country's needs.”

when I gave my first speech on the Senate floor 12 years ago or when I cast my first vote in the House 26 years ago, I had really no way to anticipate the challenges and opportunities that were ahead of us. I come to the floor today…

They decided to change the rules. I suspect that changes the Senate in fundamental ways forever.

We especially thank Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services (HHS), Education Chairman Roy Blunt and Ranking Member Patty Murray for their unwavering support for the NIH.

I am glad to get a chance to talk while Senator Manchin and Senator Collins, both good friends of mine who are here, and talk about some of the reasons for the hearing today.