Watson Coleman: “if I may, in contrast to the very partisan tone of the Estrada filibuster and this partisan divide that is stopping us…”

“if I may, in contrast to the very partisan tone of the Estrada filibuster and this partisan divide that is stopping us from moving forward, I want to spend a few minutes talking about an issue in which we come together and perhaps which should be a model. I am pleased to join my distinguished colleagues, Senator Hagel and minority leader Daschle, as an original cosponsor of this landmark renewable fuels legislation. Senator Daschle is from our neighboring State. We have mutual interests. We understand the needs of our farmers. We are looking at working together, which I think is such a good thing. The Minnesota AgriGrowth Council points out renewable fuels like ethanol and biodiesel promote the 3 E's: economic development, environmental protection, and energy independence. Let me talk briefly about the economic development benefit first. I ran for the Senate on jobs. The best welfare program is a job. The best housing program is a job--creating jobs--and economic development. That is what mayors do. That is what they understand is important to moms and dads. We get results. There were 18,000 more jobs in St. Paul when I left than when I began. The legislation we introduce today means economic development--it means jobs, revitalization, and new businesses--particularly for rural Minnesota. Minnesota is a leader in renewable fuels.”