George Voinovich

The current structure falls short in comparison to a model that provides additional accountability and reasonably insulates the organization from political interference

The current structure falls short in comparison to a model that provides additional accountability and reasonably insulates the organization from political interference

I am very proud of the role public transit played in leading a tremendous resurgence in a city that, quite honestly needed help.

My champion on this project is a friend of many in this chamber, George Voinovich.

It is really triple happiness.

DERA is one of the most cost-effective clean air Federal programs and it does indeed provide an economic and health benefit of some $13 for every dollar of moneys that are spent.

It is really a win-win-win situation.

He would be a good one, if we can convince him.

I think one of the really important things about this endeavor is that--General Clapper, you understand how important it is...

I would like to say, again, thank you very, very much for the good work that you have done.

We still believe that identifying long-term funding for all of the reform efforts would help, especially as the money becomes tighter and congressional decisionmakers such as yourself have to prioritize.

In the past, GAO has suggested that the Joint Reform Team provide Congress with 'long-term financing requirements for security clearance reform.'

Senator Voinovich and I introduced legislation to institutionalize these reforms to the security clearance process.

We enjoyed working with you.

Thank you very much. I think you have really done a good job as Director of Management and Chief Performance Officer.

My hope is that enough progress would have been made on this that you all could say that this is off the high-risk list.

I think, General Clapper, or somebody needs to just say to them, 'Look, we have decided that if they have this kind of clearance, it ought to be acceptable in your shop.'

There are some wonderful things that are happening in committees in the Senate.

I am grateful to Senator Akaka for calling this hearing.

What kind of peer pressure does your organization exert on your judges in terms of meeting high standards?

And you are anticipating that you are going to have more money because of the appropriations, but you have to hold that in abeyance until the appropriation is made?

I think that is unconscionable.

I am sure Senator Akaka has had people come up to him and say, 'That person is on Social Security disability and they have another job,' or, they are painting their house or whatever the case may be.

It is going to fall apart again.