Thomas Daschle: “I have great respect for the Republican leader and appreciate very much his efforts at asserting his ability to bring…”

“I have great respect for the Republican leader and appreciate very much his efforts at asserting his ability to bring his caucus's agenda to the Senate. When we were in the minority, we tried to do that on many occasions, and I certainly do not deny him the right to do it. Let me make sure everybody understands the state of play. The current bill pending is the Railroad Retirement Act. Our Republican colleagues have filed an amendment that actually combines the comprehensive energy bill with the question about whether or not we ought to drill in ANWR with the question on whether or not we ought to allow cloning in this country. I must say, in all my years, I do not recall a more unusual marriage of issues involving public policy than this one. What the Republicans are saying is not only should they have the right to offer this amendment but they want to extend debate on their own amendment. They actually are now advocating we not vote for cloture, which is the Democratic position.”