Thomas Daschle: “let me just say how gratified we are that the distinguished Chair of the Senate Labor and Human Resources Committee has…”

“let me just say how gratified we are that the distinguished Chair of the Senate Labor and Human Resources Committee has made such a remarkable effort to resolve the outstanding reservations that some may have with regard to the bill that she and Senator Kennedy have worked on now for some time. She has been persistent, and I believe that ultimately she will be successful. I am very hopeful that we can continue to work to pass this important health reform legislation in a timely way. I believe she has demonstrated remarkable patience in her effort. I feel confident that at some point in the future when we are able to bring this piece of legislation to the floor, it will not take long. I think there is broad recognition of the need to do much of what she has proposed in the legislation. I think it would be significant movement forward, and I think it could be one of the most consequential of our accomplishments in the 104th Congress. I commend her for her effort and look forward to working with her.”