Herb Kohl: “The simple truth is that current funds are insufficient due to worsening conditions in the world. Those conditions…”

“The simple truth is that current funds are insufficient due to worsening conditions in the world. Those conditions include the ongoing conflict in Darfur and food shortages in the south of Sudan; drought conditions in Ethiopia; flooding in Bangladesh; infestations of locusts in western Africa; and ongoing fighting and refugee conditions in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Chad, Rwanda, and Uganda. By far, the vast majority of spending in this supplemental is to support our efforts in Iraq. While it is important we show the world we are a strong nation, it is also important we show the world we are a compassionate nation. In his inaugural address, the President spoke forcefully about ending tyranny and spreading democracy. Everyone shares those objectives. We also know those objectives cannot be achieved solely by force or gesture politics. Instead, they demand a commitment to diplomacy and human compassion. I am proud this amendment has drawn bipartisan support. I am grateful to Senator DeWine and the other cosponsors for their help. I hope this amendment will meet with the approval of all Senators, and I ask for its adoption. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there further debate on the amendment? The Senator from Mississippi is recognized.”