I would like to see some progress.

Investigative journalism plays an essential role in American democracy by exposing those who violate the public trust.

I would like to state my appreciation for America's merchant mariners who are not often recognized for the work they do.

This is an important set of topics. I want to thank you for holding this hearing, and in particular for your focus on shielding consumers and investors from fraud, abuse, and deception.

Thank you for your questions and I want to associate myself with your remarks in pushing for transparency.

I wonder what kind of new thinking is going on within the Department to keep pushing this in terms of lowering those numbers.

I did not see anything on the Southwest.

I hope that we move like our Governor, Governor Richardson, did to push commuter rail especially in the big areas.

I hope you can talk a little bit about that initiative, Secretary LaHood.

We must ensure that our National Surface Transportation Policy is guided by the need to promote economic growth while protecting public safety and the environment.

President Obama's stimulus plan is helpful but--as Secretary LaHood has pointed out--it will not be enough to meet all of our Nation's transportation challenges.

I therefore appreciate Secretary LaHood's strong commitment to safety and his interest in exploring innovative ways to reduce death and injury from impaired driving.