Thomas Daschle: “I will comment on the progress that the majority leader referenced with regard to both the Governmental Affairs…”

“I will comment on the progress that the majority leader referenced with regard to both the Governmental Affairs Committee work as well as the task force. This is one of those, unfortunately, all too rare occurrences where there is real bipartisan partnership and participation. Both Senator Collins and Senator Lieberman deserve great credit for bringing the committee to a point where they can begin the markup this morning. It is our expectation that we will address that important legislation next week. In fact, we have made a decision that on Thursday we will have a special caucus just to talk about the legislation. I hope we can work through that bill and complete it, as the majority leader has proposed. Also, Senator Reid and Senator McConnell have done an outstanding job in narrowing the focus, as we look at ways with which to improve oversight. That, too, is on track. It would be my hope that we would complete our work on congressional reorganization as well before the end of this session. Given the progress they have made, I am optimistic about our prospects for doing exactly that.”