Russ Feingold: “I have with me a number of State Department and international reports from which I would at some point like to read.…”

“I have with me a number of State Department and international reports from which I would at some point like to read. They describe further some of the horrific human rights abuses that have been perpetrated by the Lao Government. Senators Coleman, Kohl, Dayton, and I have drafted a resolution condemning these abuses and urging the Lao Government to allow international access to vulnerable populations. I don't want to shut this place down, but this is a very important issue, and it is my intention to remain on the floor and to prevent us from transacting any business unrelated to the conference report before us until we reach agreement to pass this important resolution. I realize I do not have the votes to block NTR from passing, but I cannot stand by and let that pass without insisting the Senate take strong action noting and condemning the Lao Government's actions.”