Jeff Bingaman: “Chairman Bingaman, I commend you for convening this hearing to discuss an issue that is vital to the future well being…”

The President, in my view, could not have chosen a better nominee for the position than Mike.

He has demonstrated, on numerous occasions, his ability to find solutions to very difficult problems and to find solutions that could gain the support of Democrats, Republicans and Independents alike.

I wouldn't be here without it.

I would certainly like to thank Senator Bingaman, who just retired just very recently, for the strong support that he has shown me over the years, and including support for this nomination.