Thomas Daschle: “I also express my congratulations to Senator Stevens and Senator Byrd for their masterful effort in getting the Senate…”

“I also express my congratulations to Senator Stevens and Senator Byrd for their masterful effort in getting the Senate to this point, and for the managers of the bill itself. As Senator Lott has indicated, this was not an easy task. All the way to the very last moment it looked as if this could have been derailed. It wasn't, in part because of leadership and in part because of cooperation. I think we have done a good thing today, an important thing. It is important we finish this work prior to the time we leave. This bill will now go to the President, as it should. I know he will sign it. I think we are ending the way we should have ended, on a high note with a good deal accomplished. I thank the Senator.”