Political Quotes

“During the 6 years that I chaired the Senate Intelligence Committee, I watched Dr. Gates effectively work to build a consensus on sensitive issues. Democrats and Republicans had equal seats at the table. During these 6 years, in no small part because of his bipartisanship spirit and his respect for the oversight and policymaking role of Congress, our committee had only a tiny handful of rollcall votes and none of them was close. We simply worked with each other and with the executive branch, often represented by Dr. Gates, until a consensus was reached. I believe I am the only current Member of the Senate who was a member of that committee at that time. All have retired from this institution. I remember those days quite well. It was a warming experience to see yesterday. I know full well he won the hearts and minds of all. He is noted for his ability to cross the aisle and work out consensus opinions, reach decisions which are always, in his judgment and the judgment of others, in the best interests of our country. This demonstrates Dr. Gates' qualification for the position of Secretary of Defense.”