Arlen Specter: “it is with reluctance, again, that I am compelled to oppose the Reid amendment. I like public broadcasting, but this…”

“it is with reluctance, again, that I am compelled to oppose the Reid amendment. I like public broadcasting, but this bill has been crafted with some 300 programs. Public broadcasting is getting a $10 million increase. This is in the face of some very substantial problems which were raised with public broadcasting on the sale of lists to political organizations. Public broadcasting is very important, and with tight budget constraints, I think $350 million is an adequate allocation. I must say, as the Senator from Nevada mentioned ``Sesame Street,'' again, it is a family matter. My three granddaughters are mad about ``Sesame Street.'' On goes the television, and their behavior is a model. This budget can only stretch so far. It is crafted for more than 300 programs. The better course is to take the $10 million increase, and $350 million is sufficient.”