Jim Cooper: “Then how can you say it was well defended? It was not well defended. That is why we are having this hearing.”

I request the witnesses keep their opening remarks to no more than 5 minutes, and that members respect the same time limit for their questioning.

I am worried about the partisan tone of your questions.

I thank the gentleman. I appreciate his kind words about me and do any other members have questions they would like to bring up now?

This hearing will come to order. I would like to begin by thanking our distinguished panel of witnesses.