Jay Rockefeller: “There is no question--as a matter of both principle and of national security--that the Chief of the National Guard…”

I thank Senator Leahy for attempting to address my concerns about this bill. I thank his committee staff for working with my committee staff to insert clarifying report language.

Just as a follow-up to the question of funding which was addressed, CBO actually has come out with an estimate on what all of this would cost. It is not $20 billion; it is in the area of zero up to $10 billion over that period of 4 years.

I come today with a spirit of reflection and optimism about our future. I am also compelled towards an honest assessment of where we are as a body--of the promise of what we can achieve when we don't shy away from compromise and what we…

If confirmed, I pledge to consider all relevant facts and public comments in the docket.