Rick Larsen

Just like in 1958, our defense industry today is having a hard time getting clear requirements from the DOD.

I think it does a very good job of laying out the complexity of the issues as it offers some findings and recommendations of the policy of providing the military with new weapons and capabilities.

These anecdotal accounts help give us an understanding of the real-world experiences small businesses face and the challenges they face while trying to do contracting with a very large government bureaucracy.

We must ensure that this continues both for our warfighter and because it creates jobs here in the U.S.

DOD must continue its efforts of building a strategic dynamic contracting process, one that ensures those who have great products do not fall by the wayside.

Just an observation in the first 8 to 10 years of this decade when there seemed to be relative plenty to the defense budget, we were getting the same complaints.

Small and medium-sized businesses need to be part of the defense industrial base, and that means rethinking the current model.

In these current economic times, we must make good use of every tax-dollar we spend on defense.

However, we must ensure that the needs of the military to provide for national security and defense are not shortchanged.

If we cut these programs, we harm our ability to grow the economy and create jobs.

We need a responsible budget that protects the economic progress we have made and lays a foundation for future economic growth.

We should be telling young adults 'America will invest in you,' but the Republican budget cuts delay and may end the dream of higher education for many.

It is clear that today's pirate is no Jack Sparrow.

Piracy, particularly off the Somalia coast, is a disruptive threat to world shipping.

What does the Lord require? Do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God. These words from the prophet Micah are as true today as they were when first spoken. They provide guidance to how we in Congress can lead by example for everyone…

There are a lot of senior leaders in the legislative and executive branch that do not understand this threat.

Bioterrorism is a serious threat, and it will become even more so if we don't take appropriate actions.

Bioterrorism could place at risk the lives of hundreds of thousands, and cause $1 trillion in economic disruption, per event.

It is one of those where there is no end in sight at this point.

It is a problem that exists in large part because of the desperation of the pirates themselves.

I hope that you will involve me and my office as well, in trying to sort this out.

Recovery dollars are already going to work in Washington State and in my district.

I look forward to working with you and Chairman Oberstar to make a significant investment in our Nation's transportation infrastructure.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman, for the opportunity to testify before the Subcommittee on behalf of high priority project requests.

The previous Administration has left us with defense spending plans that are both unsustainable and unrealistic.