Patrick Leahy actually said...

"The Senate Appropriations Committee is one of the great institutional pillars of the Senate."

"Senator Stevens believed that the Appropriations Committee was a place where good ideas rather than political party should carry the day."

"Based on my experience with Jim on the Appropriations Committee, if confirmed, NASA can expect to have a deputy administrator who will push an agenda of common sense and cost-effective solutions."

"It's a hallmark we are working to restore now."