Political Quotes

“I rise this afternoon--14 days since the Senate first turned to consideration of the Fiscal Year 2001 Defense Authorization Bill--to, once again, emphasize the importance of the Senate passing this critical legislation. Our troops deployed around the world, many in harm's way, their families here at home, and all those who have answered the call to duty before them are waiting on the Senate to act. Since June 6 when the Senate first began consideration of the Defense Authorization bill we have had productive debate and dialogue. The Senate has spent four days debating and voting on this legislation, and the Committee has done a great deal of work during the 'down time'-- when the Senate was considering various appropriations bills--in clearing many of the amendments that are in order on the authorization bill. I urge my colleagues to work with the Committee on any remaining amendments so that we can pass this bill in the Senate and send a strong signal of support to our troops.”