Jeff Merkley actually said...

"It's nice when occasionally stakeholders can come together and wrestle with the very difficult issues about how to share this precious resource."

"We thank Senators Merkley and Wyden for introducing this bill that represents a balance amongst varied basin interests."

"I introduced this bill with my colleague, Senator Wyden, in early August."

"I look forward to working with the Chair, Ranking Member, Senator Wyden, and other members of the committee to move this legislation forward."