Thomas Daschle: “I have said it publicly and privately, I think this is a serious issue. I believe there is a way with which to resolve…”

“I have said it publicly and privately, I think this is a serious issue. I believe there is a way with which to resolve this matter. But I don't think it does any of us any good, or the industry any good, or our country any good to pass a bill out of the Senate knowing it will be vetoed. I don't know why we would do that. I have heard the argument, ``Well, we can clean it up in conference.'' Mr. President, I don't know why we don't clean it up here. We have as clear a letter as any I have ever seen from this administration which says the current draft will be vetoed. I don't know how you get any more definitive than this. If we were serious--and I really believe that there are a number of serious and well-intentioned Senators who want to see this resolved--I think this is the test of seriousness, because I believe that the Senators who truly want to see an accomplishment rather than an issue will take this letter seriously. I am very hopeful that in the not too distant future we will see some final agreement that will allow us to vote on an overwhelming basis on this issue. I want to support it. Most of us will support it.”