On the recordJanuary 14, 2003
I am embarrassed by their objection. The resolution the majority leader introduced is basically pro forma. It should have been done on the first day. It recognizes the newly elected Senators and the committees on which they have chosen to serve. It also recognizes the new chairmanships as a result of the elections. That is only appropriate. It is only proper. It is only fitting. It is normal course. It is standard practice. And it should have been done by unanimous consent, without any objection. It has happened every year I have been in the Senate--or every other year. We do it at the beginning of every new Congress. But this year, for whatever reason, our colleagues on the Democrat side decided to object. They indicated they would filibuster. I urge them not to. I urge them to keep in mind we do serve and are privileged to serve in probably the greatest deliberative, elected body in the history of the world.
Source
govinfo.gov
