Kent Conrad: “First of all, the leaders have indicated there has to be trust on both sides. The chairman of the committee has shown…”

“First of all, the leaders have indicated there has to be trust on both sides. The chairman of the committee has shown himself to be trustworthy in these long, difficult negotiations this whole week. We had instances last night where I had to make a decision that could have disadvantaged our side and did it because that was keeping a promise. The chairman of the committee had to make a decision today that could have disadvantaged his side, but he did it to keep faith with the commitment that he made. I want colleagues on our side to know the chairman of the committee has repeatedly demonstrated trustworthiness. That is important to the functioning of this body. We are going to have to really work together very closely to resolve these matters. Let me say in conclusion to our colleagues on this side, we have 135 amendments pending. We only have 40 spots. That means Senators are going to have to give up what is their right to offer amendments. That is the most precious right any Senator has. So we understand why they guard that right with real fervor at times. But I hope people understand there is no way we can fit 135 into 40. It is going to take restraint, and it is going to take trust. I think together over these next days we will demonstrate we are worthy of this body we serve and this country we love.”