Thomas Daschle: “I simply want to respond to the distinguished Senator from Vermont and, as always, thank him for his kind words and…”

“I simply want to respond to the distinguished Senator from Vermont and, as always, thank him for his kind words and support for the resolution and, as always, his willingness to be helpful. I am also pleased with the unanimity with which the Senate has expressed itself this afternoon. It was the right thing to do. It was important that we did it in a timely manner. Again, let me reiterate my thanks to the distinguished Republican leader for the tremendous cooperation he has shown in allowing the Senate to move as quickly as it has. It sends as clear and unequivocal a message as I believe we are capable of sending. We strongly disagree with the decision made today. We will authorize our Senate legal counsel to intercede on behalf of our position before the court. That is the right thing to do. I am very pleased we were able to say it as strongly as we have on a bipartisan basis that we have today. I yield the floor. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Senator from Utah is recognized.”