Political Quotes

“I claim the time in opposition. I rise in reluctant opposition to this amendment. It transfers $10 million to the grid deployment account from the energy efficiency and renewable energy account for the purposes to enhance the security of existing electrical transformers from cyber threats and from physical attacks from individuals. While I very much support the intent behind this amendment to enhance the security of existing electrical transformers from cyber threats and physical attacks, I cannot support the source of the funds for the amendment, the energy and efficiency and renewable energy accounts, which have already been cut by 43 percent. Further cutting these programs, even for noble purposes, is not in our Nation's interest. We can choose to give up American leadership in these technologies by cutting further innovation, or we can embrace the future of the global energy economy on all levels. I point out that the Department of Energy's work to support and secure the transformer supply chain spans across the Office of Electricity, Grid Deployment, and Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response with other programs also contributing. I hope the gentleman can continue to work toward his objective, but we will oppose this particular amendment. Mr. Chair, I yield back the balance of my time.”