Orrin Hatch: “Before we vote once again on the balanced budget amendment, let me pay tribute to some of my colleagues who have…”

“Before we vote once again on the balanced budget amendment, let me pay tribute to some of my colleagues who have tirelessly and courageously fought for the passage of this crucial measure. First, let me mention the senator from Illinois, Paul Simon, the primary Democrat sponsor of this bipartisan amendment. His leadership on this issue will be missed in the years ahead. Senator Thurmond and Senator Heflin have been long-time leaders on this issue. Senator Craig and Senator Coverdell have also fought long and hard for this measure. I would also especially like to thank the 11 freshman Republican Senators who joined us at the beginning of the Congress, all of whom leapt immediately into the fray in support of the amendment when it came up in the very first month of this 104th Congress. But one Senator stands above them all in his tenacity, dedication, and commitment to providing a better future for our children and grandchildren--an America like the one he grew up in, fought for, and has served all of his life. I am of course referring to our leader in this effort, Senator Robert Dole. His effort on this amendment is consistent with his decades of service on behalf of Americans of this and future generations.”