Robert C. Byrd: “I am opposed to entitlements in appropriations bills.”

In closing, may I say that the President's request includes $658 million for construction of the U.S. Embassy in Iraq.

We need important changes in our great health benefit program. TRICARE, to ensure a superior benefit for the long-term.

I cannot support this item unless there are some limitations on it, unless Congress can exercise its power over the purse, as the Constitution provides.

My top priority will be to learn what challenges the DOD IG office needs to address and to ensure the adequacy of resources required to accomplish its mission.