Political Quotes

“I am pleased to offer this renewable fuels amendment on behalf of myself and Senator Daschle, as well as a number of other Senators on both sides of the aisle who have worked on this important issue for a number of years. I think the fact that the Democratic leader and I have joined together to offer this amendment demonstrates the significance of this particular issue as well as the broad bipartisan support that this compromise package enjoys. I do want to take this opportunity to commend all of the cosponsors of the amendment, many of whom came to the floor yesterday morning to speak, for their hard work, their dedication over the years in forging this agreement. I also note that the President has made passage of this amendment a priority, and I commend him for his commitment to getting this done. This particular amendment will enhance America's energy independence and energy security by increasing the use of domestically produced, clean, renewable fuels. As the chairman of the Energy Committee has pointed out many, many times, America is dangerously dependent on foreign oil. We currently import 60 percent of the oil we consume, and that number is increasing. One of the major goals of this energy bill we are debating on the floor of the Senate is to reduce our dependence on foreign oil. This amendment is a critical component of that effort.”