Failed Republican economic policies had brought the financial system dangerously close to a complete meltdown and had driven the economy into its deepest recession since the 1930s.

Under Democratic leadership, the 111th Congress moved swiftly to enact the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which has jump started economic activity.

Let me get something clear. There are a hundred and three operating nuclear reactors, commercial reactors in operation generating spent fuel waste.

All of these have contracts for ultimate waste disposal with the federal government?

We are the Budget Committee, not the Energy Committee, and it is not our job to draft energy bills.

I think it is a bit irresponsible to at least articulate to the American people, to the Congress, why you think we need a new policy direction.

Nobody should be financially destroyed due to a catastrophic illness.

Every child in America deserves health care coverage. We cannot continue to place selfish ideology above the health of our children.

Insurance companies should not be allowed to cherry pick those who they cover based upon pre-existing conditions.

We must respect the right of individuals to choose health insurance and providers.

There must be universality of access to health care.

Mr. Garrett. I thank the chairman and I thank the witness, Dr. Romer, for being here today.