Robert Torricelli: “I, too, would like to join in words of praise for Senator Byrd. Every Member of this institution knows the Senate of the…”

“I, too, would like to join in words of praise for Senator Byrd. Every Member of this institution knows the Senate of the United States has no finer scholar nor better defender of the U.S. Constitution than the Senator from West Virginia. I share his disappointment in the decision of the Court today that standing does not rest with Members of Congress. But, indeed, as Senator Moynihan noted, this is not only not a defeat, it is not even a retreat. The only two judges who were to consider this matter on its merits have reached the inescapable conclusion that by statute the Congress of the United States cannot rearrange basic constitutional powers as contained in the Constitution itself. There will be another day with other parties who will bring this matter before the Court on its merits. And on that date, this Court will again, as it has on so many occasions, preserve the basic structure of the U.S. Government as contained in the Constitution. On that day, Senator Byrd will have his victory. It is postponed, it is delayed, but it will not be denied. I once again offer my congratulations to the Senator from West Virginia on what will be his ultimate victory. I yield the floor.”