News
March 6, 2012
Press Release
I think all of us here agree with the vitally important mission that the SEC plays in protecting consumers and investors. The financial crisis highlighted the need to have a robust 'cop on the beat' to make sure the American people are protected. Dodd-Frank gave the Commission important new responsibilities in this regard, and implementing and enforcing the numerous changes of the law is a vital part of making sure the SEC can better address abuses of the securities markets and protect investors.
Issues:
March 5, 2012
Press Release
During this hearing, I am particularly interested in learning more about how you prioritize your many areas of responsibility since your portfolio covers such a broad spectrum of issues ranging from get-rich-quick schemes to consumer privacy, among many others. The budget request for the coming fiscal year is $300 million, which is a decrease from the current year, so I look forward to hearing about whether this amount is adequate to cover your diverse needs.
Issues:
February 29, 2012
Press Release
Our responsibility is to ensure that the dollars provided by the American taxpayer for the weapons complex are spent pursuant to a coherent strategy and as wisely as possible. I want to make clear to you that there is nothing I take more seriously in my role as a Member of Congress than the issues surrounding the decisions of war and peace in general, and nuclear weapons in particular.
Issues:
February 29, 2012
Press Release
During this time of fiscal restraint, you have been asked to tighten your belt. In doing so, I question whether this budget is properly balanced in a way that maintains critical operations without robbing Peter to pay Paul.
Issues:
February 29, 2012
Press Release
This budget supports historic transitions to democracy, rebuilds agricultural systems, confronts growing environmental challenges, helps communities affected by humanitarian disasters and disease, and drives sustainable development by forming new partnerships with companies, universities, NGOs, and philanthropies.
Issues:
February 29, 2012
Press Release
In a time that the role of government, the size of government and the very function of government if being questioned at unprecedented levels, I believe that it is important that we also analyze the vital role government plays to help improve our lives and increase safety and access to quality medication.
Issues:
February 28, 2012
Press Release
Even though the economy continues to show signs of a recovery to many people continue to on hang by a thread. Families are barely making ends meet, and in many cases the reason they still are putting food on the tableor do not have to choose between paying bills or food---is because food programs such as SNAP and WIC are there to help.
Issues:
February 28, 2012
Press Release
I am pleased that President Obama continues to recognize the energy challenges facing this nation with this budget request and I appreciate the budget's strong statement that America 'will not cede leadership in clean energy.'
Issues:
February 17, 2012
Press Release
This agency has been the largest contributor to the poor and hungry. And in my opinion will lead the way forward as the provider of nutritional food for a healthier America. For a century and a half, the USDA has been there to help rural Americans. It has been there to protect our nation's food supply. And it has been there to offer food assistance to families when they are most in need. Today, the mission of the USDA has never been more important.
Issues:
February 16, 2012
Press Release
As I look over your budget request Mr. Secretary, I am struck by the wide-ranging responsibilities carried out by the Department of the Interior. I welcome your efforts to balance these responsibilities as a steward of significant aspects of America's natural and cultural heritage.
Issues: