Joseph T. Burns: “I support the nomination of Condoleezza Rice to be our next Secretary of State. She will replace a great patriot and a…”

“I support the nomination of Condoleezza Rice to be our next Secretary of State. She will replace a great patriot and a man I call my friend, Secretary of State Colin Powell, who has served over the past 4 years with decency, strength and selflessness. While I am sad to see him go, I look forward to working with Condoleezza Rice in her new capacity and know she will serve tirelessly and thoughtfully in the challenges ahead. As President Bush's national security adviser, Condoleezza Rice was instrumental in developing the nation's response to September 11th. Ms. Rice understands as good as, or better than anyone, the global political forces at work. Her great intellect and sound judgment will lend themselves well to the office--one which is America's face to the world. She has served our country well in the past, and I have full confidence in Condoleezza Rice's abilities as Secretary of State. I urge my colleagues to quickly move to a vote on her nomination and approve Ms. Rice as our next Secretary of State.”