Arlen Specter: “In the absence of any other Senator in the Chamber, let me say I again invite any Senator or any constituent who has a…”

“In the absence of any other Senator in the Chamber, let me say I again invite any Senator or any constituent who has a problem with this bill to come see me. I know Senator Leahy feels the same way. With all the outstanding work he has done, and our staffs, we want to do what we can to answer all of the problems. As we get ready for the vote on the motion to proceed this afternoon, we have certainly outlined the seriousness of the issue. Since I spoke earlier, I have been reviewing the testimony or the argument yesterday of Senator Durbin who spoke about the problem. No doubt there is a problem that has to be addressed. That is the issue on the motion to proceed. Senator Durbin made a comment that he didn't know how the $140 billion was arrived at. It was arrived at by his leader, then-Senator Daschle, in collaboration with Senator Frist. He said he hadn't been able to find out where the money is coming from. He could if he would make an inquiry. We had to subpoena the records, but there is transparency. We know where the money is coming from. I haven't had a chance to read his statement in full, but I will no doubt have more to say about it. I suggest the absence of a quorum. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The clerk will call the roll. The legislative clerk proceeded to call the roll.”