Political Quotes

“this afternoon we begin consideration for the Fiscal Year 2002 Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act. The legislation we take up today was reported unanimously from the full Committee on Appropriations last Thursday. Before I begin my description of the contents of this bill, I want to share one strongly felt opinion with my colleagues. It is my opinion, I believe--I have a real suspicion that Senator Domenici, the ranking member of the subcommittee, will agree--that this subcommittee has always been among the most bipartisan in the Senate. As I look back over the time that my role was filled by Bennett Johnston, I know he and Senator Domenici had an outstanding relationship. They worked very closely together. This bill was always one of the first to come up. This bill is the second to come up this appropriations cycle. I have tried--and I have no doubt, based on my experience with Senator Domenici, that he has tried--to be as bipartisan as possible on this bill. Despite the unusual circumstances this year with the shift in power of the Senate, this tradition has continued unabated. My friend, the senior Senator from New Mexico, and I have, with the tireless efforts of our very professional and good staff, produced a bill that we acknowledge is not perfect. But it addresses the important issues facing our Nation. There are many important issues we are dealing with in this legislation. We received 300 more requests than last year on this bill.”