Russ Feingold

Senate vacancies are no less significant than vacancies in the House.

We do not talk about federalism when we talk about the right to vote.

I believe that those who want to be a U.S. Senator should have to make their case to the people whom they want to represent.

Let us get on with the process of having government for the people and by the people.

this amendment reformed the Senate selection process by instituting direct elections.

I strongly oppose that. I think the notion that people have a right to vote for their House Members or their Senators applies with equal force.

The record of this hearing will be a significant aid to Members of Congress, and hopefully State legislatures who will have to decide, of course, how to vote on the amendment if we are able to get it to them.

I do not think that temporary appointments, whether for 3 months, 6 months, or in some cases, for up to 2½ years, is the right way to fill seats in a body that since the 17th Amendment has been elected by the people.

I hope both the House and Senate will take a look at that.

I think it is something to think about, but I would basically say my fear is that we do not have good health care.

I view this issue, at base, as a voting rights question.

Thank you, Chairman Feingold.

I want to thank my colleagues who have participated for their insights as well, and I look forward to working with all of you as we move this amendment through the legislative process.

I believe in addressing this matter we must look at the history of our electoral processes.

There is nothing in FISA to suggest the President may disregard the statute.

I cannot think of any facts that would make that TSP constitutional in 2005 when it was revealed.

I am not aware of any case in which the Supreme Court has upheld the exercise of a commander-in-chief power in category three.

I think the Supreme Court has made very clear that September 11th did not trigger a radical rebalancing of our constitutional system of shared and separated powers.

I think it has been very useful.

Iran poses a threat for a number of reasons, including its nuclear ambitions, its missile capabilities, and its support for terrorist groups.

I think Iran as a power in the region, it's very important for us, but probably less apocalyptic in the sense that they can help us or hurt us in our dealings with Iraq and with Afghanistan.

I would add that Iran is a very disturbing country, but any country that watches another country invade the country to its west and the country to its east is going to get a little nervous and edgy.

I commend you for having this hearing and for your proposal to establish an independent commission of inquiry.

one of the most important tasks for the new President was going to be restoring the rule of law in this country.

my constituents want to know why they can only get news about what is happening in Minnesota's government rather than about the laws and budget of Wisconsin.