On the recordDecember 21, 2012
first, I would like to congratulate Senator Mikulski on a fine first day on the floor as chair of Appropriations. We are all excited about it on both sides of the aisle and expect great things of that committee next year. Perhaps there will be a change--we will get appropriations bills done, get them on the floor, and move them under her leadership. I also want to thank Senator Landrieu, who is not here, who really helped out as well, as well as Senator Murray and Senator Feinstein. I thank them very much. I also thank the staff, which really is professional. In England, they are a civil service. It is the highest calling, it is professional, and it works hard no matter who is in charge. They do a great job. You are our English civil service, which is a very high compliment. Mr. President, I yield the floor, and I suggest the absence of a quorum. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The clerk will call the roll. The legislative clerk proceeded to call the roll.
