Political Quotes

“Let's talk about the policy and then the politics. Everything seems to be in the case of politics. Most Members of the body would like to pass some legislation this year that would improve GI benefits for those who serve and leave and for those who continue to serve. Putting this bill, the Webb bill, on the supplemental emergency funding for the war, a mandatory entitlement program put on a supplemental emergency spending bill for the war is not the way to go. Having a supplemental involving spending for the war that can't be amended is not the way to go. Putting the bill on the firefighter- police officer legislation is not the way to go, but it is the only way I had to go. I have sat down with Senator Webb and his staff. I hope we can find common ground. I have never doubted the desire of Senators Webb or Warner to increase the benefit. Senator Webb's service to the country has been extraordinary in combat, as Secretary of the Navy, as has Senator Warner's. Obviously, they have a desire and some expertise in this area to upgrade basic GI benefits. I share that desire and hope this body can do something necessary. But as Senator Kyl said, quite frankly, I don't agree with their approach. The need is there, but the first thing all of us in this body should do is not compound a problem our current forces have, and that is retention.”