Political Quotes

“I rise today to put my full support behind the conference report for H.R. 1, the No Child Left Behind Act. It has been a true honor to serve on the conference committee for this important legislation, especially as a freshman Member of the Senate. I would first thank the leaders of the conference for their hard work and determination to complete this legislation for the President's signature this year. Senators Kennedy and Gregg worked every day with great determination on this legislation without partisan rancor, and Chairman Boehner and Representative Miller showed the same determination and steadfastness. I am pleased that Congress has finally completed action on one of President Bush's top domestic priorities this year. President Bush and Secretary Paige deserve commendation for their commitment not only to this legislation, but also to the education of our Nation's children. Never before has a President shown such commitment to the issue of education. In March I addressed this body for the first time as a U.S. Senator on the topic of education. Little did I know the opportunity I would be given to be a member of the conference committee to reauthorize of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act. At that time I stated the following: Our public schools are failing our children. And unless we address this problem now--today--we will bear the consequences for a generation or more.”