Jeff Fortenberry: “First, I thank Mrs. Lowey--this is, I think, the first time that we have had a chance to dialog publicly--for her…”

“First, I thank Mrs. Lowey--this is, I think, the first time that we have had a chance to dialog publicly--for her leadership and congratulate her as the new Appropriations chair. I congratulate the gentlewoman, and we look forward to working with Mrs. Lowey. I also want to thank the Republican leader, our ranking member of the committee, Ms. Granger, for her steadfast leadership and help in navigating so many essential issues that are before us today. Madam Chair, I want you to know that I support the underlying bill without the complicating amendments and urge its passage. I believe that this is a good bipartisan piece of legislation to help those negatively affected by serious and devastating weather events that have occurred throughout the previous year, and we should be working together to provide the needed disaster assistance and unite to rebuild communities damaged by these hurricanes, typhoons, and earthquakes, as well as volcanoes. But let us be honest. This bill would sail through the Congress--it would sail through this body--if we could get past the paralysis of this moment that is dividing Democrats from Republicans, the Speaker from the President, the House from the Senate, and on and on. Let's put all of those considerations aside for just a moment and provide the needed support to our agricultural communities who are hurting and those who are in need.…”