"We have had in our country the highest levels of long-term unemployment since the Great Depression."
"I very much appreciate the effort of the Chairman and the Ranking Member, and Senators Murray and Isakson in getting us to the place we are now."
"Powerful special interests always get a say in Washington, but today I want to make sure that some of these seniors' voices are heard."
"The Older Americans Act has been a nearly 50-year promise enacted in the same year that we created Medicare."
"I am very pleased that we are holding this hearing today with the nominees in attendance."
"I'm concerned about patient access when the approved drug is not available for reasons other than a shortage."
"It's critical that patients continue to have access to these treatments, but it is also important to make sure that the compounded drugs that people count on are safe."
"Last year's tragic meningitis outbreak underscored the importance of updating Federal compounding policy."
"I believe it is critically important that we do everything in our power to eliminate Medicare waste."
"I want to have you address the growing unemployment problem for persons with disabilities."
"I believe that you will be a very strong advocate for workers."