Thad Cochran

We have provided funds and we have Federal policies on the books now relating to the Strategic Petroleum Reserve as a matter of national security and economic security for our country in case something happens to energy supplies.

It seems to me that, now more than ever, Congressional oversight is needed to 'regulate the regulators' and to hold accountable those regulators who fail to do their jobs correctly.

I wish there was some way that we could provide some kind of restitution, or through a request from the administration, Congress could provide you with some authorities to help do something to compensate these victims for this terrible…

It is really heartbreaking to realize that these people were really innocent victims of somebody's greed and corruption.

I think our memories of the Challenger and the Columbia remind us of the risks our Astronauts willingly accept.

I share that enthusiasm and commit to you our best efforts here in this subcommittee to identify how we can invest the public funds so that we achieve those goals.

I remember our visit in my office... and I was very impressed with your commitment.

Providing for the Nation's defense is an important and basic responsibility, and a functional, capable missile defense system is a key component of our national defense strategy.

Well, one thing that bothers me, too, is the fact that we have level funding proposed by the administration for the REAP.

I am disappointed in that.

It is our obligation to review the request and consider the opinions of those who are involved in education.

Madam Secretary, does your Department not have the infrastructure and people in place to administer the programs that are needed now?

The immediate need to address the President's request for full funding for the mission that is now President Obama and his administration's suggestion as to how we can better achieve likely peace in the region

I encourage you to continue improving the program to better fit the needs of our servicemembers.

I'm certain that the witnesses here today agree that, without this additional funding, our Reserve components would be woefully equipped.

We look forward to working with them to identify ways we can make sure that the Guard and Reserve programs are funded at appropriate levels.

The Guard and Reserve must continue to improve reintegration and family support programs.

We must ask whether the current operational tempo is sustainable.

I would just bring this to your attention, in hopes that somebody can get involved and help expedite the repairs.

I want to commend you for your continued support of the Youthbuild Program.

We appreciate your service in this important undertaking.

We are also grateful for the additional $25 million in funding provided by Congress last year.

It seems to me that, now more than ever, Congressional oversight is needed to 'regulate the regulators' and to hold accountable those regulators who fail to do their jobs correctly.

Before Congress decides to give up its constitutional responsibilities for directing Federal spending and providing necessary oversight over the Executive branch, we ought to know exactly what circumstances justify such an exemption for…

It is really heartbreaking to realize that these people were really innocent victims of somebody's greed and corruption.