Don Nickles: “I understand the Senator didn't like my first question because she is trying to give the Guard and Reserve additional…”

“I understand the Senator didn't like my first question because she is trying to give the Guard and Reserve additional compensation and additional pay but through a tax credit which goes to their employer which may take some time to get directly to the guardsmen or reservists who have been activated. If you want to pay them more, why don't you pay them more? Why don't you move an amendment through the DOD authorization bill? We did just last night under the good work of Chairman Warner--or pay more through the Appropriations Committee so they would be paid on a monthly basis. I am not sure I agree with the Senator that there should be a differential. She may make an eloquent argument, but if she feels compelled they should be paid more, pay them more. But don't you think there is something lost by giving a tax credit that may or may not be funneled to the employees? It may take some time. There may be some lag. There may be some fraud, or it might not happen. But if you want to pay them more, pay them more.”