On the recordApril 15, 2013
I, like every Member of the Senate, am shocked and saddened by the news from Boston today. There were explosions near the finish line at the Boston Marathon. My thoughts go out to all those who were injured, and my condolences go to the families and friends of those affected by this tragedy. I commend the first responders and the observers who rushed toward danger to help those who were hurt. We will continue to monitor the news from Boston. President Obama has spoken to a number of people, including the mayor of Boston and Governor Deval Patrick. They have pledged every resource available to help those who were affected and to find and bring to justice the perpetrators. The President will be speaking to the Nation in about 20 minutes. I will do whatever I can to support the people of Boston and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, as we all will, during this difficult time. I ask unanimous consent that all time be yielded back on the nomination, and following a moment of silence in observance of the tragic events which took place in Boston earlier today, the Senate then proceed to vote on the confirmation of the nomination. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there objection? Without objection, it is so ordered. Under the previous order, the Senate will observe a moment of silence. (Moment of Silence.)
