Jay Rockefeller: “I have followed closely both the confirmation hearing of Dr. Rice before the Foreign Relations Committee and the floor…”

“I have followed closely both the confirmation hearing of Dr. Rice before the Foreign Relations Committee and the floor debate on her nomination. After considerable reflection, I have decided to vote in favor of Dr. Rice's confirmation, although I must state for the record that I do so with some reservations. I intend to support her nomination primarily because I believe the foreign policy of the United States must reflect a spirit of bipartisanship. Amidst the complex challenges that we face in the war on terrorism, this country cannot afford enduring divisions on international issues. We must return to common ground, not least so that the rest of the world recognizes our single purpose and our resolve. I should note, parenthetically, that restoring that lost unity depends equally upon the majority party, as upon my party. Dr. Rice has the credentials to be Secretary of State. As National Security Adviser, she has proven an eloquent advocate for the administration's policies. At her confirmation hearing, she made clear our need for effective diplomatic engagement worldwide. I welcomed that emphasis. Perhaps most importantly, Dr. Rice has the President's utmost confidence--this will, I am certain, be an asset in her dealings with other nations, as well as in working with other agencies in our own Government.”