Political Quotes

“I would like to begin this discussion with just a brief commendation of my own for the gentleman from New Mexico (Mr. Skeen) who has provided such a great service to his constituents, to his State, and to America for many, many years. I think it is appropriate and fitting that he was recognized for the outstanding work that he has done over many years. I am sure that very much of what is in this bill I would be happy to agree with. And let me start with recognition that the funds that are in here to fight the forest fires are an important topic for us to consider. First of all, there is no question this has been a devastating season for forest fires. It has been incredibly costly, and devastating to many Americans. The point I want to make is we should not be putting this into this bill, an appropriation bill for fiscal year 2003. We should be putting this into the supplemental bill, which is long overdue, which would make the funds available much sooner, whatever the appropriate amount is.”