Cory Booker

And that 2012 reduction in preference--that's putting a lot of pressure. It has obviously had a very severe impact, right?

As we lose U.S. mariners, we lose sealift capacity to support U.S. military during times of War and these national disasters.

I am not Thor, the Norse god, and this is not Mjolnir, his hammer, but I do have the power now.

I'd love to hear a little bit more about that.

My concern with this language is that the majority of this money would be spent on preparing for a law enforcement response, while CVE is intended to create partnerships for community groups.

I just want to jump right in with regards to CVE. I was happy that this Committee passed two bipartisan bills, and has made it very much a priority.

I really need you to comment on something that I hear so much anger and frustration over from people.

the loss of jobs and the resulting loss of capacity is of concern.

And it just seems to me you're really drilling down on some logistics issues.

We also need a long-term strategy that bolsters and supports all sectors of the maritime industry.

Investing in our maritime infrastructure is critical for economic growth.

So just give me some basics. How many U.S.-flag international vessels does MARAD have--or, excuse me, the estimate needed to ensure that a sufficient number of certified U.S. mariners would be available to support activation of government…

I think everybody is pulling together really well on this.

The country's port vessels and merchant marine forces, we know, as has been said, are critical to this nation's economy.

Well, your minority representation is better than the U.S. Senate.

What changes do you anticipate in global shipping activity in the near and long term as a result of the Panama Canal expansion?

We appreciate the hard work you do. You all are dedicated public servants, and we're grateful for the work that you do.

I really am grateful for the leadership of Senator Carper and Senator Johnson in helping this Committee to come together around these issues.

I appreciate you going into the details.

So, you know, the real Ranking Member and power on this committee, Senator Nelson--we talked about this question.

I just feel a sense of urgency about it, and you, obviously, do as well from your comments.

I appreciate you acknowledging me as Chairman, because I have--I don't know if you know--I got a field promotion.

New Jersey is home to the Port of New York and New Jersey--which I think should be renamed the Port of New Jersey and New York.

budgets reflect priorities.

For many decades, the U.S. has relied on the U.S. Merchant Marine with its fleet of commercial vessels and crew of U.S. mariners to assist the military during times of war and national emergency.