I think in a broad sense we are at a point now where we are getting close to the point at which we will vote on the bill itself--the recovery bill--the Recovery and Reinvestment Act. We have heard a lot of debate and discussion about parts…

Senator Mikulski led the way to pass a Lilly Ledbetter Act, a tremendous achievement for those who are victims of discrimination.

President Obama signed into law the Children's Health Insurance Bill. Great achievement.

You've been so good to bring us together. You've labored in this vineyard a long time.

I believe all three are essential: Timely, meaning we cannot sit on this for too long; we have to act. I think that is essential; targeted, in the sense we cannot have broad spending. We have to make sure we target the dollars to…

the U.S. healthcare system scored 65 out of 100 possible points on 37 indicators of performance

If the international community invested a total of $5 billion annually, we would reduce emissions caused by clearing tropical forests by 20 percent in the year 2020

submerged is a frightening word to States, such as New Jersey, that have 127 miles of incredibly important coastline

more than 20 percent of the world's global warming pollution each year comes from deforestation

This is not in the national interests or security interests of the United States.

I think transparency is at the heart of it, because once we have transparency, then there's an opportunity to really sort of see what the implications of policy are.

I want to underscore Darfur and Sudan. The Secretary indicated the need to make sure that the personnel commitments are made to that region to stop the human rights violations and genocide.

This is not about just simply being a good neighbor; this is about policies that are in the national interest and security of the United States.

I agree precisely with what you said. I think it's exactly what we need to do.

This is an especially significant time in our Nation's history, not only because we're starting a new administration, but because I think on the issue of health care we've finally arrived at a point where there is a consensus.

Thank you Mr. Chairman and I'd like to say at the outset what an honor it is to be here today as a new member of the HELP Committee.

I have a profound commitment to the issues that fall within this committee's jurisdiction and I look forward to working together with my colleagues on issues of vital importance to the American people.

I would welcome your thoughts, if you've had a moment--after you're confirmed--to decide whether that is the most effective way for us to proceed.

I think OSCE could play a critical role in dealing with Russia, because Russia is a participating state.

As we embark on a new era of hope and change and responsibility, our health care system tops the list of priorities.

I just want your commitment that we will pursue these issues and you will work very closely with this committee as to how we complete our responsibility to make sure those who have committed war crimes are held accountable.

We have to understand that, for us, it's obviously critical that this be addressed; it is a direct and immediate threat to us, as the President and the Secretary have said.

I fully support and appreciate the importance of cooperating and working with the international community.

The magnitude of this challenge requires a comprehensive approach developed working with the Iraqi government, the regional states, the United Nations and other institutions to address the full range of needs.

Burma, and its reclusive and repressive regime, may represent one of the most intractable challenges for the global community.