Kent Conrad: “before I begin on the budget conference report, I wish to say publicly how the entire Senate family is thinking about…”

“before I begin on the budget conference report, I wish to say publicly how the entire Senate family is thinking about Senator Kennedy and Vicki and the family, how much we miss him, his presence on the floor, how much we miss his presence at our caucus, and how much all of us are fervently hoping for his full and quick recovery. If there is anybody who can beat this, it is Ted Kennedy. He is a lion. Rarely have I ever met somebody of such force of will, somebody who is so totally dedicated to serving the people whom he represents, someone who cares so deeply about America's democracy, about this institution. On both sides of the aisle, I have had many Senators say to me: Ted Kennedy is simply the most productive Senator among us. Nobody turns out more work, more quality work than he does. Whether you agree with his legislative positions or disagree, you have to admire the incredible energy and devotion that he brings to the job, the respect he has for this institution, and his determination to advance causes in which he believes.”