Robert Torricelli: “Mr. Chairman, never in my memory has a more simple amendment been brought before this institution. It hangs largely on…”

“Mr. Chairman, never in my memory has a more simple amendment been brought before this institution. It hangs largely on one word, ``may'' the United States establish the new military aid program and expansion of foreign aid in eastern Europe, or ``shall'' it do so? Is it mandatory? In my memory of this institution, I have never known this Congress in its enthusiasm for foreign aid to mandate an expansion of that program to other countries. But indeed, unless my amendment is accepted, that is exactly what we will do today: Add 4 countries in eastern Europe on a mandatory basis, requiring military aid. Now, I know this is a large institution and we represent very different districts with different electoral experiences. But I cannot believe that anyone in this institution feels that it is a mandate from their constituents in the second month of this new Congress as a matter of the highest priority to come here to this floor to expand foreign aid. I do not think anybody knew it was in the contract. I do not think anyone would have been for it if they did. But you have got one opportunity to take it out today; change the word ``shall'' expand foreign aid to ``may,'' based on the judgment of the administration.”