On the recordFebruary 14, 2013
I thank the Presiding Officer. While they were killing our soldiers in Iraq. He refused to sign a letter to President George W. Bush, he said, to engage in direct unconditional comprehensive talks with the Government of Iran. He was for that, telling Bush to do it unconditionally. He voted against comprehensive Iranian sanctions. He was one of two Senators who failed to sign a letter to President Clinton showing unconditional support for the State of Israel. I would argue that this man's record, when it comes to Iran and Israel, and statements he has made, puts him well out of the mainstream. The Washington Post was right when they said he is on the fringe. And now is not the time to have somebody on the fringe serving as Secretary of Defense when it comes to Iran and Israel. For that reason, I will vote no. I will oppose cloture because debate should continue. When we get back, unless there is a real bombshell, I will vote for cloture and move on to his nomination. I yield the floor. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Senator from Michigan.
