Statement by Senator Edward M. Kennedy on the Passing of His Sister, Eunice Kennedy Shriver
Statement by Senator Edward M. Kennedy on the Passing of His Sister, Eunice Kennedy Shriver
Eunice is now with God in heaven. My sister Jean and I, and our entire family, will miss her with all our hearts. I know that our parents and brothers and sisters who have gone before are filled with joy to have her by their side again.
My earliest memory of Eunice is of a young girl with great humor, sharp wit, and a boundless passion to make a difference. She understood deeply the lesson our mother and father taught us—much is expected of those to whom much has been given. Throughout her extraordinary life, she touched the lives of millions, and for Eunice that was never enough.
STATEMENT OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY ON HOUSE PASSAGE OF HATE CRIMES LEGISLATION
Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement on passage by the House of Representatives of the Matthew Shepard hate crimes legislation. Kennedy is the sponsor of similar legislation in the Senate.
“I commend the House for its action to strengthen the inadequate existing federal law on hate crimes. No members of society – none – deserve to be victims of a violent crime because of their race, their religion, their ethnic background, their disability, their gender, their gender identity, or their sexual orientation. It’s long past time for Congress to do more to prevent hate crimes and insist that they be fully investigated and prosecuted when they occur. This important legislation is supported by a broad coalition of over 300 law enforcement, civic, religious and civil rights organizations and I look forward to prompt action by the Senate.”
STATEMENT OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY ON CONFIRMATION OF KATHLEEN SEBELIUS AS HHS SECRETARY
WASHINGTON, DC— Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, today released the following statement on the Senate’s confirmation of Governor Kathleen Sebelius of Kansas as Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services:
“With the confirmation of Governor Sebelius, the commitment of the Administration and Congress to passing health care reform this year now moves into high gear.
SENATE PASSES BIPARTISAN BILL TO EXPAND AND STRENGTHEN NATIONAL SERVICE
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Barbara A. Mikulski (D-Md.), Edward M. Kennedy (D-Mass.), Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) and Mike Enzi (R-Wyo.), today applauded Senate passage of the Serve America Act (S. 277), the most sweeping overhaul and expansion of national service programs in 16 years. Continuing the bipartisan tradition of national service legislation, the bill was written by Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee Chairman Kennedy and Senator Hatch. Senators Enzi and Mikulski were also integral in crafting the bill, and bringing it to a quick vote on the Senate floor.
SENATORS EDWARD M. KENNEDY AND KAY BAILEY HUTCHISON INTRODUCE CANCER LEGISLATION
WASHINGTON, DC— Senators Edward M. Kennedy and Kay Bailey Hutchison today introduced the 21st Century Cancer Access to Life-Saving Early detection, Research and Treatment (ALERT) Act, a bill to comprehensively address the challenges our nation faces in battling this disease. This is the first sweeping cancer legislation introduced since the National Cancer Act in 1971, authored by Kennedy.
The 21st Century Cancer ALERT Act will provide critical funding for promising research in early detection, and supply grants for screening and referrals for treatment. These measures will also ensure patient access to prevention and early detection, which is supplemented by increased access to clinical trials and information.
The bill places an emphasis on strengthening cancer research and the urgent need for resources to both prevent and detect cancers at an early stage. The bill strives to give scientists the tools they need to fight cancer and to understand more thoroughly how the disease works. Through fostering new treatments, increased preventative measures and funding for research, the ALERT Act begins a new chapter in how Americans will live with and fight cancer.
Senator Kennedy receives prestigious Profile in Courage Award
On Sunday March 8, 2009, Senator Edward M. Kennedy was presented with the John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award at a celebration for his 77th birthday.
Statement of Senator Edward M. Kennedy on Honorary Knighthood
WASHINGTON D.C. – Senator Edward M. Kennedy today released the following statement after the British government announced he will be designated a Knight Commander, Order of the British Empire:
“I’m deeply grateful to Her Majesty the Queen and to Prime Minister Brown for this extraordinary honor. I have always prized the opportunity to work with the British government and strengthen and deepen the role of our two countries as leading beacons of democracy in the world. I am proud that I was able to play a part in the decades-long effort to bring peace to Northern Ireland. I also think of my ties to Britain that stretch back across the years—from my childhood to the Kennedy Scholars today who come from Britain to study in America. It was from Britain that my oldest brother left for his last mission during World War II. It is in Britain that a portion of land at Runnymeade, where the Magna Carta was signed, is now designated as American soil and dedicated to President Kennedy as a gift of the British people.
KENNEDY ON PRESIDENT OBAMA’S FISCAL YEAR 2010 BUDGET
WASHINGTON – Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, today released the following statement on President Obama’s Fiscal Year 2010 Budget:
“I commend President Obama for presenting Congress with an honest budget that makes the tough but necessary choices to get our country back on track. This budget ends an era of irresponsibility and accounting gimmicks, cuts taxes for middle class Americans and makes sound investments essential for a strong economic future for our nation.
STATEMENT OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY ON INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE: A VITAL PART OF THE NEW HEALTH CARE
The American health care system urgently needs repair and reform. Today as a nation, we spend 16% of our gross domestic product on health care, more per capita than any other country in the world. Yet health outcomes of Americans are ranked 37th in the world by the World Health Organization. Our system is often called a “sick care” system, not a health care system, because it is designed to treat diseases and illnesses, instead of promoting good health and wellness over the life spans of our people.
Genuine health reform therefore requires a major transformation in our national mindset on how we care for ourselves and others. It must incorporate and encourage disease prevention activities and lifestyle changes that promote long-term health and well-being. The current incentives in our health care system that lead to over-treatment and mistreatment must be changed to promote high-quality, appropriate, and coordinated health care. The nation’s alarmingly high and growing rates of obesity and chronic disease today are a clear call to action.
STATEMENT OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY ON SENATE PASSAGE OF ECONOMIC RECOVERY AND REINVESTMENT ACT
WASHINGTON, DC— Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement today in response to passage by the Senate of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. The bill passed the Senate today by a vote of 61-37 and will now go into conference with the House of Representatives.
“Now, more than ever, we need a strong economic recovery package that creates jobs, strengthens the safety net, and invests wisely in the nation’s future. I’m pleased that my colleagues in the Senate have passed such a strong bill, and I look forward to prompt and successful negotiations with the House to send the final bill to President Obama to sign. It’s time to end this economic nightmare and begin a new era of prosperity and growth for our country.”
KENNEDY STATEMENT ON THE ECONOMIC RECOVERY PLAN
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, today released the following statement:
“Although we need no other indicator, Friday’s job loss report confirms that our economy remains in a free-fall. Now, more than ever, we need a strong economic recovery package that creates jobs, strengthens the safety net, and invests wisely in the nation’s future. Americans are hurting far too much already. Without this action, the consequences will be even more disastrous for our workers and their families.
STATEMENT OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY ON CHILDREN’S HEALTH INSURANCE PROGRAM BEING SIGNED INTO LAW
WASHINGTON, DC— Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, today released the following statement on the signing of the Children’s Health Insurance Program into law:
“Our country has just made a clear commitment to guarantee quality, affordable health care to 4 million more American children. Four million more children will have a family doctor and enjoy the opportunities in life that come from a childhood lived in good health. Four million more families will no longer have to make impossible choices between paying for medical care of a sick child or meeting other urgent family needs. I commend President Obama for making this bill one of his earliest priorities and Congress for answering that call in a bipartisan way. It bodes well for our goals of enacting comprehensive health reform for all our people.”
STATEMENT OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY ON TOM DASCHLE
WASHINGTON, DC—Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, today released the following statement after former Senate Majority Leader Tom Daschle withdrew his name from consideration as Secretary of Health and Human Services:
“Tom Daschle is a public servant of high character and deep devotion to this country. He is strongly committed to health care reform and would have been an outstanding Secretary of Health and Human Services. Even though he has withdrawn his name, I know that Tom remains dedicated, as am I, to achieving quality, affordable health care for all Americans. Tom will remain a respected voice in this important debate, and I look forward to continuing to work with him.”
New York Times Praises Kennedy-Hatch Serve America Act
Now is the moment for the new president and Congress to harness the sense of idealism and unity evident amid the huge crowds that massed in the nation’s capital by greatly expanding the opportunities for sustained and productive national and community service," the New York Times wrote in an editorial today. "A smart blueprint for doing exactly that was just introduced in the Senate by Edward Kennedy, the Massachusetts Democrat, and Orrin Hatch, Republican of Utah. Building on the ongoing success of AmeriCorps, Bill Clinton’s signature domestic service program, and relying on its administrative framework, their Serve America Act would rapidly expand the number of full-time and part-time national service volunteers eligible for minimal living expenses and a modest educational stipend at the end of an intensive year of work by 175,000 from the current level of 75,000."
STATEMENT OF EDWARD M. KENNEDY ON DECLINING JOB NUMBERS
WASHINGTON, DC— Today’s report shows a loss of 524,000 jobs – it’s now a full year of consecutive monthly job losses. The national unemployment rate rose to 7.2% and the number of unemployed Americans rose to 11.1 million.
“Today’s depressing news highlights the magnitude of the challenge we face in revitalizing our economy. The nation’s strength has always come from its workforce, and we need to take major steps now to get our citizens back to work. With President-elect Obama, we’ll certainly do all we can to create millions of needed jobs and set a strong new course for our economy and our country.”
STATEMENT OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY AT THE NOMINATION HEARING FOR HILDA SOLIS
I am pleased to welcome our distinguished nominee for Secretary of Labor, Representative Hilda Solis. And I thank Senator Feinstein for her gracious introduction.
This is not an ordinary hearing, because we do not live in ordinary times. American families are suffering in ways we haven’t seen in many years. And the crisis is growing worse every day.
Every morning working families wake up to more bad news. More jobs lost. More pensions gone. More dreams that disappear.
Just this morning, we learned that we lost another 524,000 jobs last month. That is not just a number. It is families like Paula Stein’s. Paula worked hard for 30 years. A year ago, she lost her job. Now she can’t find work.
Kennedy ties helped secure waiver: Bosts Bay State healthcare law
By Kay Lazar, Globe Staff | October 7, 2008
It was the dog days of summer, and secret negotiations between Massachusetts leaders and federal officials had dragged on for months.
The word was that future funding for the state’s first-in-the-nation healthcare law looked bleak.
But then, something shifted in the talks. And now, four months later, state leaders are jubilant that Washington will send more money than most had dreamed possible to keep the state’s pioneering program afloat.
News of the $10.6 billion in federal aid arrived last week.
At a time when many other states are lamenting the lack of support from Washington for health programs, how was it possible for a state known for its liberal leanings to win such backing from a conservative administration?
SENATE PASSES LEGISLATION TO GUARANTEE ACCESS TO STUDENT LOANS
Washington, DC-The Senate passed legislation today to guarantee that students will have continued access to the loans they need for college. The legislation extends for one year Senator Kennedy’s Ensuring Continued Access to Student Loans Act, which was signed into law last May and has stabilized the student loan market, so that students currently attending college will have the resources they need to stay in college. The extension means this needed financial assistance will continue to be available through the 2009-2010 college year. The House passed the legislation earlier this week.
Melissa Wagoner, spokeswoman for Senator Edward M. Kennedy, released the following statement on today’s Senate action: "As the financial markets continue their downward spiral, Congress has taken action to guarantee ensure that college students will have the financial assistance they need. Despite the turmoil on Wall Street, we must send the message to students and families that their college dreams won’t be ruined. This legislation ensures that the loans students rely on to pay for college will continue to be available."
KENNEDY STATEMENT ON MEDICARE VOTE
WASHINGTON, DC— Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, today released the following statement on the Medicare vote:
“I return to the Senate today to keep a promise to our senior citizens – and that’s to protect Medicare. Win, lose or draw, I wanted to be here. I wasn’t going to take the chance that my vote could make the difference.
STATEMENT FROM THE OFFICE OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY
“Senator Kennedy is returning to his home in Hyannis Port today. His doctors are pleased with his progress since surgery a week ago, and he will continue to recuperate at home before starting the next phase of his treatment. He is thankful for the extraordinary care of the doctors and nurses at Duke, and also for the continued prayers and well wishes from the people of Massachusetts and all over the country. In the interest of family privacy, there will not be regular updates regarding the Senator’s daily schedule or treatment plans moving forward.”
Against the Wind
For Americans of a certain age, Ted has been the Kennedy we saw grow old, in contrast to his martyred brothers, whom we remember for their vibrancy, and whose precluded later years we can only guess at. But for the majority who are too young to recall his brothers, he has been, as one interviewer put it to me last month, a symbol of permanence in politics.
KENNEDY ON IMMIGRATION DETENTION HEALTH CARE
An urgent aspect of the immigration issue is the appalling lack of medical care available for immigrants held in custody of the Department of Homeland Security’s Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Senator Menendez and I have introduced legislation today, the Detainee Basic Medical Care Act of 2008, to require the Secretary of Homeland Security to deliver timely and effective medical and mental health care to individuals in its custody.
KENNEDY PRAISES SENATE PASSAGE OF STUDENT LOAN BILL
WASHINGTON, DC—Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, issued the following statement on Senate passage of the Ensuring Continued Access to Student Loans Act of 2008:
KENNEDY ON PETRAEUS ANNOUNCEMENT
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement in response to the announcement that General David Petraeus will become the next commander of the U.S. Central Command.
KENNEDY COMMENDS ADMINISTRATION’S SUPPORT OF STUDENT LOAN PROGRAM
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement in response to the letter sent by Margaret Spellings, Secretary of Education, Henry M. Paulson, Secretary of the Treasurer, and Jim Nussle, Director of the Office of Management and Budget, stating the Administration’s support of the student loan program amidst the credit crisis.
KENNEDY ON EQUAL PAY DAY, IN SUPPORT OF LILLY LEDBETTER FAIR PAY ACT
Today is Equal Pay Day. It is a time to rededicate ourselves to the core principle of equal pay for equal work, a principle at the heart of this nation’s commitment to fairness in the workplace. When President Kennedy signed the Equal Pay Act in 1963, he reminded us that protection against pay discrimination is “basic to democracy,” and those words are still true today.
KENNEDY ON RESTORING EQUAL PAY, CIVIL RIGHTS FOR ALL
The Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act will ensure that the bipartisan equal pay laws enacted by overwhelming majorities in Congress do what they are supposed to do—protect workers against pay discrimination.
KENNEDY IN SUPPORT OF THE FAIR PAY RESTORATION ACT
Earlier this month, we honored the 40th anniversary of the death of Dr. Martin Luther King. Each year on this anniversary we get together and speak glowingly of Dr. King’s life and work. These words are important – make no mistake. But even more important than honoring Dr. King with words, is honoring Dr. King with action. Today, we have the opportunity to do that by passing the Fair Pay Restoration Act. The right to equal pay for equal work is a fundamental civil right. Indeed, Dr. King was in Memphis on that fateful day in April 1968 to protest pay discrimination against black Memphis sanitation workers.
KENNEDY COMMENTS ON ECONOMIC CRISIS, IMPACT ON WORKERS
Speaks before the Massachusetts Building and Construction Trades
It’s a privilege and an honor to address the members of our Massachusetts Building Trades. You’re the ones who build our communities so well—our homes, our schools, our roads, our bridges, and our office buildings. You’ve worked hard as well to build a better life for yourselves and your families in our Commonwealth. Now, we also need your help in rebuilding this great nation of ours.
KENNEDY ON CLIMATE CHANGE AS A CHALLENGE FOR PUBLIC HEALTH
In recent years, the public awareness and concern about climate change have reached unprecedented levels. We’re learning what climate change means for the earth, with melting ice caps and the rising sea levels. But important as that is, the issue is about much more than that. It’s also about us and our children and our grandchildren. People in all countries will be affected by changes in the earth’s climate, and one of the principal consequences will be for our personal health. We’re holding this hearing today because climate change will have a direct impact on health, and it’s time to pay attention to this problem.
KENNEDY REACTION TO BUSH ON IRAQ
WASHINGTON, DC—Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement in reaction to President Bush’s remarks on Iraq earlier today.
“It’s abundantly clear that President Bush is simply trying to “run out the clock” and hand off the mess to the next President. Giving General Petraeus “all the time he needs” is more of the same open-ended commitment the American people have rejected. It does nothing to force the Iraqis to take responsibility for their own future and make tough accommodations, and it breaks faith with our men and women in uniform who are bearing the heaviest burden of the President’s failed policy.”
KENNEDY ON 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF NORTHERN IRELAND PEACE AGREEMENT
WASHINGTON, DC— Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement in remembrance of the 10th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement in Northern Ireland.
“Today, we celebrate the 10th anniversary of the historic Good Friday Agreement, which put Northern Ireland on the path to reconciliation and peace after decades of violence, bloodshed and deep mistrust.
KENNEDY ON STUDENT LOAN HOUSE MARK-UP
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement in response to the House Education and Labor Committee markup of legislation related to student loans. Chairman Kennedy introduced student loan legislation last week.
Senator Kennedy’s legislation would reduce students’ and families’ reliance on high-cost private loans by increasing federal aid and would take important steps to strengthen the student loan program. Schools can ensure that students eligible for federally-backed loans can access them through the Direct Loan program, which does not rely on capital from the volatile private market. The Senator has urged schools to consider this option to protect their students. His legislation, however, also takes steps to strengthen the Federal Family Education Loan program to ensure that students can continue to access loans from private lenders if they so choose. The bill provides an alternative capital source for lenders who need it to continue making federal loans, at a minimal cost to taxpayers.
KENNEDY ON 4,000 AMERICAN CASUALTIES IN IRAQ
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement in response to the announcement that 4,000 American troops have lost their lives in Iraq.
KENNEDY ON FDA BUDGET INCREASE
WASHINGTON, DC— Yesterday, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement in response to the passage of budget amendment # 4148, which will increase the amount allocated for the FDA by $71 million, for a total increase for FY 2009 of $375.
KENNEDY ON EEOC ‘ENGLISH ONLY’ AMENDMENT PASSAGE
WASHINGTON, DC— Yesterday, Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement in response to the passage of Senator Alexander’s budget amendment, #4222, which reduces the EEOC’s budget by $670,000.
KENNEDY ON GONZALES DHS RESIGNATION
WASHINGTON, DC— Yesterday, Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement in response to the announcement that Emilio Gonzales, the director of Citizenship and Immigration Services at the Department of Homeland Security, will resign on April 18th.
KENNEDY RESPONDS TO PRESIDENT’S REMARKS ON FISA
WASHINGTON, DC—Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement in response to President Bush’s remarks on FISA this morning.
“Once again, the President continues to try to bully the Congress and mislead the American people on the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act. He refuses to accept that under our system of government, neither the President nor the telecommunications companies gets to decide which laws to follow and which to ignore.
KENNEDY IN SUPPORT OF DEMOCRATIC BUDGET
Our budget puts working families first – not Wall Street, but Main Street America.
Long before the experts began sounding the alarm, working families knew that our economy wasn’t working for them. They know that when the economy is wrong, nothing else is quite right.
Their mortgages were going up and banks were foreclosing on their homes.
Gas prices and heating oil prices were going through the roof.
KENNEDY ON PRESIDENT’S VETO OF ANTI-TORTURE LEGISLATION
WASHINGTON, DC—Senator Edward M. Kennedy today released the following statement on President Bush’s forthcoming veto of the Intelligence Authorization Bill. The bill includes a provision requiring all U.S. government interrogations to comply with the Army Field Manual, which prohibits techniques widely regarded as torture, such as waterboarding, attack dogs, and electric shocks.
KENNEDY ON CREDIT MARKET SITUATION AND STUDENT LOANS
Americans are anxious about their economic futures. They’re seeing volatile markets, disappearing jobs, home foreclosures, rising debt, and declining benefits. Now the crisis in the credit markets stemming from irresponsible lending practices in the mortgage industry may impact their ability to secure student loans at fair rates so their children can go to the college of their choice.
KENNEDY ON DECLINING JOB NUMBERS
WASHINGTON, DC— Today’s jobs numbers show a loss of 63,000 jobs. Senator Edward M. Kennedy issued the following statement:
"The bad economic news continues to mount. Today’s job losses—the worst in five years—emphasize the urgent need for more effective action. Extending and improving unemployment benefits is the best way to bring immediate help to the millions who are out of work and provide a much-needed jump-start to our economy. Congress should have included this support in the recent stimulus law, and we should correct that mistake as soon as possible.”
KENNEDY ON UNEMPLOYMENT AND THE NEED TO HELP WORKING FAMILIES
In recent weeks, we’ve seen numerous warning signs that our economy is headed in the wrong direction. Working families know better than anyone that times are tough. They worry about putting food on the table, heating their homes, paying their medical bills, and paying their mortgages. Perhaps more than anything, they’re worried about their jobs.
KENNEDY QUESTIONS FBI DIRECTOR MUELLER ON NATURALIZATION PROCESS
Last year, after it was announced that the fees for naturalization would be more than doubled from $330 to $595, almost a million and a half immigrants applied for naturalization, and 1 million of them are still waiting. These are people who have made America their home. They’ve raised their families here, worked hard and paid taxes. Thousands of them have served in our armed forces, many in Iraq and Afghanistan, and they deserve to become citizens if they qualify.
Until this Administration, citizenship applicants could rest assured that they would be sworn in as new citizens within six months after they applied for naturalization. Prior to last year, this Administration was itself completing the adjudications within seven months. But now it is projecting delays of 16 to 18 months. This is an outrage.
KENNEDY HONORS SISTER AT NAMING OF EUNICE KENNEDY SHRIVER NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF CHILD HEALTH AND HUM
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy attended a ceremony to rename the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) in honor of his sister, Eunice Kennedy Shriver. A life-long supporter and advocate for people with disabilities, Mrs. Shriver was also inducted into the NIHCH Hall of Honor for her role in founding the institute 45 years ago.
KENNEDY RESPONDS TO PRESIDENT’S REMARKS ON FISA
WASHINGTON, DC—Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement in response to President Bush’s remarks on FISA this morning.
KENNEDY ON LEGISLATION PREVENTING TORTURE
WASHINGTON, DC— Yesterday, Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement on the passage by the United States Senate of the Intelligence Authorization Bill, which includes provision that will require all U.S. Government interrogators to comply with the Army Field Manual’s standards on interrogation.
KENNEDY ON HHS CREATION OF PATIENT SAFETY ORGANIZATIONS
WASHINGTON, DC— Yesterday, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement in response to the new regulation proposed by the Department of Health and Human Services, which establishes Patient Safety Organizations (PSOs).
KENNEDY ADDRESSES HEALTHCARE WORKFORCE ISSUES
To create a healthy nation we must not only have health care professionals that are excellently trained—we need health care professionals that are excellently trained in the right fields and practicing in the communities that need them the most. Over the years, experts have predicted a physician shortage, only to change those projections years later. We’ve heard of shortages in one specialty or another, only to have that prediction change as well. But one thing that has remained constant is the need for a strong network of primary care providers.
KENNEDY ON PASSAGE OF FOREIGN INTELLIGENCE SURVEILLANCE ACT
The Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act is one of our landmark statutes. For three decades, it has carefully regulated government surveillance in a way that protects both our national security and our civil liberties and prevents the government from abusing its powers. It is because FISA enhances both security and liberty that it has won broad support over the years from presidents, Congress, and the public alike.
KENNEDY ON PRESIDENT’S ECONOMIC REPORT
WASHINGTON, DC—Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, today released the following statement in response to the publication of the President’s annual Economic Report.
KENNEDY APPLAUDS PASSAGE OF HOUSE HEA BILL
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement applauding the passage by the United States House of Representatives of a higher education reauthorization bill.
KENNEDY ON PASSAGE OF ECONOMIC STIMULUS PACKAGE
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement on the passage of the Senate economic stimulus package.
KENNEDY ON CONGRESSIONAL BUDGET OFFICE COST ESTIMATES OF THE FEDERAL STUDENT LOAN PROGRAMS
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, released new data from the Congressional Budget Office reaffirming that the Federal Direct Loan Program costs less to taxpayers than the Federal Family Education Loan Program, the program that subsidizes banks to make federal student loans. According to CBO’s analysis, the FFEL program currently costs taxpayers $14.55 more per $100 loaned than the Direct Loan program. CBO’s analysis takes into account changes to FFEL program subsidy rates enacted in the College Cost Reduction and Access Act (CCRAA), which was signed into law in September 2007, and is based on the updated budget baseline released by CBO in January.
KENNEDY ON 9.5% STUDENT LOAN SCANDAL
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, the U.S. Department of Education informed Congress that seven Federal Family Education Program lenders will be allowed to resume billing for “9.5% loans,” the category of student loans under which lenders are eligible to receive an inflated 9.5% rate of return. The decision follows the completion of audits which identified that the seven lenders hold $650 million in student loans that are eligible for the 9.5 percent subsidy. Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, issued the following statement:
KENNEDY ON FISA VETO THREAT
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement in response to the Attorney General and the Director of National Intelligence threatening a veto of the FISA bill.
Kennedy Endorses Barack Obama
The stories have been pouring in from Senator Kennedy’s endorsement of Barack Obama. Here are a few:
The Kennedy Mystique
David Brooks, New York Times, 1/29/08
The Kennedy endorsements will help among working-class Democrats, Catholics and the millions of Americans who have followed Caroline’s path to maturity. Furthermore, here was Senator Kennedy, the consummate legislative craftsman, vouching for the fact that Obama is ready to be president on Day One.
Ted Kennedy Matters
Marc Ambinder, The Atlantic, 1/28/08
Ted Kennedy matters. Forget the casual association of his name with blocks of Democrats Obama needs to do better with, like union members and downscale workers, Latinos and older liberals.
It allows Obama to further clarify what, for him, the Old Politics is all about—that is, it allows him to separate the Politics of the Clintons from the politics of Democrats before the Clinton administration—a party dominated by the Kennedy dynasty and their patrons, in many respects. And the The New Kennedy is even more of an attractive figure, in some respects. He has never shirked the responsibility of Democrats to beat up Republicans, but throughout his career, he has demonstrated a long arm for compromise. Most recently, He worked with President Bush on No Child Left Behind and with Mitt Romney (whether Romney currently accepts it or not) on health care in Massachusetts.
KENNEDY ON HOUSE ECONOMIC STIMULUS AGREEMENT
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement in response to the announcement that an economic stimulus deal has been reached in the United States House of Representatives.
KENNEDY ON PRESIDENT’S BROKEN PROMISES
I predict that after hearing the President’s speech Monday night, Americans will be more convinced than ever that it’s time for change.They’ve heard seven long years of broken promises from this Administration.That’s what this election is all about. Electing leaders who will keep faith with the hopes and needs of working Americans.
On Monday night, I fear we won’t hear a plan for the issues that matter most to Americans.
KENNEDY ON HOUSE CHIP VOTE
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement in response to the United States House of Representatives failing to override President Bush’s veto of the Children’s Health Insurance Program. "American families want real solutions to the problems they face. There is no priority more urgent than providing affordable health care for children. Our CHIP legislation has been approved by strong bipartisan majorities in the House and the Senate, and it’s outrageous that the President and his allies in Congress continue to stand in the way of the change that the American people demand."
KENNEDY ON BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD HEALTH INSURANCE PLAN
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement in response to the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association’s introduction of the “Pathway to Covering America: Ensuring Quality, Value, and Access,” a plan to secure health insurance for all Americans.
KENNEDY, COLLEAGUES QUESTION MUKASEY ON WATERBOARDING
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy and nine Senate colleagues sent the following letter to Attorney General Michael Mukasey, asking him to clarify his positions on waterboarding and other interrogation techniques. Attorney General Mukasey was previously asked about his stance on whether or not waterboarding constitutes torture on multiple occasions, but more than two months have passed since his confirmation. The letter asks specifically if Attorney General Mukasey believes that waterboarding, as well as other forms of coercive techniques, are illegal under United States law.
The Moment That Carried This Day
Washington Post
By Allison Silberberg
Monday, January 21, 2008; A15 As we honor the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. today, it bears remembering how the holiday came to be.The legislation proposing creation of a federal holiday was not at all assured in the fall of 1983. The Democratic-controlled House had passed its bill in August with bipartisan support, but Democrats in the GOP-controlled Senate faced a fight despite support from some prominent Republicans. President Ronald Reagan was against this type of memorial. Many Republicans said they opposed it for economic reasons, arguing that our nation couldn’t afford another federal holiday.
Home Heat Help Here
By Robin Kaminski
Lynn Dailey Item
1-18-08
LYNN - A total of $450 million in emergency relief funds were released Wednesday by the federal government to assist needy families, with roughly $27.2 million targeted for Massachusetts.
Record low temperatures have all but squeezed cash strapped families across the city struggling to keep their households warm, and they are still in danger of running out of heat in the dead of winter according to Lynn Economic Opportunity, Inc. (LEO) Executive Director John Mogielnicki.
Congress keen on economic stimulus
By MARILYN GEEWAX
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Published on: 01/17/08
Washington — With economic news growing bleaker by the day, leaders in Congress pledged Wednesday to work together to quickly brighten the outlook.
"Help is on the way," Sen. Edward Kennedy (D-Mass.) said after a hearing where former Treasury Secretary Lawrence Summers recommended that the government spend up to $150 billion to ward off a potentially "long and severe" recession.
"We are prepared to take action," Kennedy said following Summers’ testimony.
House leaders also are worried about the economic damage being done by rising oil prices, a slumping housing market and a credit crunch. After a meeting with House Minority Leader John Boehner (R-Ohio), House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) said she is "optimistic" that action will come soon.
Expert Says $150 Billion Stimulus Needed
Jan. 17, 2008
By ANDREW TAYLOR – 2 days ago
WASHINGTON (AP) — The economy has worsened to the point where Congress should pass an economic stimulus bill of up to $150 billion, former Treasury Secretary Lawrence Summers told lawmakers Wednesday.
Summers, an economics professor at Harvard University, had previously said $50 billion to $75 billion in tax cuts and pump-priming government spending is needed to boost the sagging economy. Now, his recommendation is double that — though perhaps employing a "trigger" that would release the money only if the economy worsens further.
$450 million in federal home heating aid given to states
Jan. 17, 2008
By KIMBERLY HEFLING Associated Press Writer
The Associated Press
WASHINGTON
The Bush administration on Wednesday released $450 million in emergency relief funds, including nearly $5 million for Rhode Island, to help needy residents pay soaring heating bills.
Lawmakers and heating aid advocates had pressed President Bush to provide additional funding to states through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.
Rhode Island is in line for $4.47 million in emergency money. The state was already getting about $13.4 million from the basic LIHEAP program. About 30,000 households relied on LIHEAP aid last year, officials said.
"With temperatures dropping and energy prices rising, this release of LIHEAP contingency funds is sorely needed," Sen. Jack Reed, D-R.I., said in a statement. "This emergency funding will help thousands of working families and seniors in Rhode Island keep their heat turned on this winter."
KENNEDY ON ECONOMIC DOWNTURN
When the economy is wrong, nothing else is right for working families. Hard-working families are losing their jobs, their homes, their health care and their hope. More and more families across America wish they could look to the future, but they’re just trying to get through today.We’re here to say, “We hear you. We’re here to work for you.”Under the leadership of Senator Reid and Speaker Pelosi, we’re ready to sit down with our Republican colleagues and the White House to develop responsible legislation that will help families through these tough times and begin the task of rebuilding the economy for the future.
KENNEDY ON IRAQ SURGE ANNIVERSARY
WASHINGTON, DC— Yesterday, Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement on the anniversary of President Bush’s announcement of the surge strategy in Iraq.
“When President Bush announced the surge one year ago, he said a successful strategy for Iraq goes beyond military operations. He said the surge will give the Iraqi government the “breathing space it needs to make progress in other critical areas… and reducing the violence in Baghdad will help make reconciliation possible.”
KENNEDY RESPONDS TO BUSH ON NCLB ON THE EVE OF ANNIVERSARY
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement in response to President Bush’s remarks on the No Child Left Behind Act made today at the Greeley Elementary School in Chicago, Illinois. Tomorrow is the sixth anniversary of the enactment of the law.
How To Fix ‘No Child’
With renewal of the No Child Left Behind Act high on the agenda for the new session of Congress, it’s no surprise that the 2002 law—the Bush administration’s signature domestic initiative—has become a political football in this intense campaign season. The administration continues to speak glowingly of the law while Democratic candidates blast it. But simplistic campaign rhetoric hardly reflects what’s actually happening on school reform.
KENNEDY ON DOJ INVESTIGATION INTO CIA INTERROGATION TAPES
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement in response to the Department of Justice’s announcement that a criminal investigation has been opened into the destruction of CIA interrogation videotapes.
KENNEDY ON IRAQ WAR FUNDING
I support this amendment.It is wrong to provide yet another blank check to President Bush for his failed Iraq policy. I support our troops, but I oppose this war. Our military has served nobly in Iraq and done everything we have asked them to do. But they’re caught in a continuing quagmire, and the long hoped—political solution is still as elusive as ever.
KENNEDY ASKS FBI FOR INTERROGATION TAPES
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy sent the following letter to Robert S. Mueller III, Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, regarding the destruction by the CIA of videotapes of the interrogation of two detainees.
KENNEDY ON SECOND BUSH VETO OF CHIP
WASHINGTON, DC— Yesterday, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement in response to President Bush vetoing the Children’s Health Insurance Program for the second time.
KENNEDY REACTION TO BUSH ON HEAD START ENACTMENT
I applaud President Bush for enacting this landmark reauthorization of the Head Start program. By an overwhelming margin, Congress has elected to keep Head Start on its successful path, and to enable the program to thrive and improve. With this bill, we’re reaching out early to make greater opportunities available for thousands of our neediest children. We’re providing a fairer chance for very young children to grow up healthy and safe. We’re preparing them to enter school ready to learn, and to graduate from high school ready to go on to college and achieve the American dream.
KENNEDY ON PUBLIC SAFETY EMPLOYEE-EMPLOYEE COOPERATION AMENDMENT
Public safety workers are on the front lines of our effort to keep communities in America safe. They’re on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, doing backbreaking, difficult work. They never blink or falter. They do their duty and they do it well. · When devastating fires raged through Southern California, they battled the blazes. · When the I-35 bridge collapsed in Minneapolis, they were first on the scene.· When massive tragedy hit New York City on 9/11, their heroic work inspired the nation and restored our spirit.
KENNEDY COMMENTS ON PRESIDENTS’S EMERGENCY PLAN FOR AIDS RELIEF
There are many issues before us that have wide-ranging effects on vast numbers of people. But few are as consequential as our response to the global HIV/AIDS epidemic where entire societies are at risk.Sometimes history is changed by great leaders, by wars, or by scientific breakthroughs. And sometimes history is transformed by something as tiny as a virus. We have seen the devastating effects of HIV/AIDS on our own shores with our own citizens. The fight against HIV/AIDS here at home continues as we are reminded that our responsibilities here at home are far from over.
KENNEDY AND COLLEAGUES ON THE IRAQI REFUGEE PROVISIONS IN THE DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION CONFERENCE REPOR
Provisions provide refugee status for Iraqis associated with the United States who are under threat of persecutionWASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senators Edward M. Kennedy, Gordon Smith, Carl Levin, and Sam Brownback released the following statements on the signing of the Department of Defense Authorization Conference Report which contains provisions that would provide refugee status for Iraqis associated with the United States who are under threat of persecution.
STATEMENT OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY ON CIA INTERROGATION TAPES
The torture debate took another deeply troubling turn yesterday. The nation learned the CIA had destroyed videotapes of its employees in the act of using torture or other harsh interrogation techniques on detainees. Those tapes were not shown to Congress. They were not shown to any court. They were not shown to the bipartisan 9-11 Commission. Instead, they were destroyed.
SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY ON INCREASING FDA RESOURCES
There are some debates in Washington that you need to be an expert to understand. And there are others that are as plain as the headlines in the morning paper.Here’s the headline from the Washington Post from November 11th: “Chinese Government Admits Toys Contained ‘Date Rape’ Chemical.”November 29th from the Post: “Bad Pet Food May Have Killed Nearly 350.”September 27th from the Associated Press: “Hamburgers may be tainted with E. Coli”October 31st from the New York Times: “Chinese Chemicals Flow Unchecked to Market.”And here’s one just from today.
KENNEDY RESPONDS TO BUSH ON IRAN
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement in response to President Bush’s remarks on Iran. “Obviously, we have to address continuing challenges from Iran. We need to ratchet up our diplomacy and continue working with the international community. But it’s time for the President to look at the cold hard facts on Iran and walk back from the over-heated rhetoric. The last thing America needs is to be misled into another war based on hype and trumped up intelligence.”
KENNEDY IN SUPPORT OF HARD- WORKING AMERICAN FAMILIES
In an address in Virginia the day before Thanksgiving, President Bush described America as “a nation of great prosperity” with a “strong and growing economy” where it is possible for “people of all backgrounds to rise in society and realize their dreams.” As we return from Thanksgiving and look to the Christmas season, we’d all like to believe that vision. We all want to live in a land of opportunity where – with hard work and sacrifice – we can make our dreams come true.
KENNEDY RESPONDS TO BUSH ON NATIONAL PRIORITIES
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement in response to President Bush’s remarks this morning. “Instead of working together to confront the serious issues facing our nation here at home and abroad, this Administration and its Republican allies in Congress continue to play politics. The American people spoke loudly in the last election and Republicans have yet to receive the message. It’s incomprehensible that while this Administration spends half a trillion dollars on a war in Iraq with no clear end in sight, President Bush says we can’t afford the important programs that would provide health care coverage to poor children, money for our schools, and funding for important cancer research programs here at home. Americans are sick of political theater and want to see results.”
KENNEDY ON TROOP WITHDRAWAL LEGISLATION
I oppose the minority leader’s effort to provide yet another blank check to President Bush for his failed Iraq policy. I will support legislation approved yesterday in the House of Representatives requiring the President to begin to bring our combat troops out of Iraq in one month and complete the withdrawal by December of next year. I hope the Senate will support it. And I hope President Bush will sign it into law.
STATEMENT OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY ON HOUSE PASSAGE OF THE HEAD START CONFERENCE REPORT
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement in response to the passage by the United States House of Representatives of the Head Start Conference Report. “Today’s vote by the House of Representatives will give the nation’s low-income children a better Head Start on the American Dream.
KENNEDY ON BUSH VETO OF LABOR HHS BILL
Last week, Congress took bold action on behalf of American families by sending an appropriations bill to the President that has important new investments in the every day needs and hopes and dreams of the American people. It’s the bill that funds our investments in education, in health care and in American jobs. These are not optional investments. They’re not just nice little programs that can be funded one year and cast aside the next.These investments are about hope and opportunity for our children. They are about the dignity of middle class and working families all across America. They are about our national strength. Unfortunately, it appears once again that the every day concerns of the American people have fallen on deaf ears in the White House. This morning, the President vetoed this pro-family, pro-child, pro-worker legislation.
STATEMENT OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY ON THE FOREIGN INTELLIGENCE SURVEILLANCE ACT
This is an important mark-up. The Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act is one of our landmark statutes. For nearly 30 years, it has regulated government surveillance in a way that protects both our national security and our civil liberties and prevents the government from abusing its powers. It is because FISA enhances both security and liberty that it has won such broad support over the years from presidents, members of Congress, and the public alike.
KENNEDY ON HOUSE PASSAGE OF ENDA
WASHINGTON, DC— Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement in response to the passage by the United States House of Representatives of the Employment Non- Discrimination Act.
STATEMENT OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY ON LABOR HHS
More than any other appropriations bill that we will consider this year, this bill is about the strength and well-being of America’s families. It gives our children a chance for a better education. It keeps workers safe and makes sure they are paid a proper and legal wage to support their families. It invests in improved health care to keep our families healthy and strong.This is what Americans want us to invest in – better education, better jobs and better health care.
STATEMENT OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY IN OPPOSITION TO THE NOMINATION OF MICHAEL MUKASEY
The Department of Justice is in dire need of new leadership to guide our nation back to its constitutional moorings. Under Attorney General Alberto Gonzales, the Department lost its way as a genuine force for justice. It too often served as a rubber stamp for the White House and as a facilitator and enforcer of political objectives rather than the rule of law. After a period of such tarnished leadership in the Department, we need a clear, decisive and straightforward Attorney General who is not afraid to stand up for the constitution and the rule of law – even if it means disagreeing with the President of the United States.
KENNEDY ON SENATE CHIP VOTE
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement in response to the passage by the United States Senate of the Children’s Health Insurance Program.
“Today’s Senate vote was an important measure of our humanity. Now it’s time for the President to measure up. For the sake of our children and for the sake of our nation, I urge the President to sign this bipartisan compromise children’s health legislation.”
STATEMENT OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY ON MUKASEY NOMINATION
I intend to oppose the nomination of Michael B. Mukasey to be the next Attorney General of the United States. This is a nomination I had hoped to support. There is no doubt the Department of Justice is in desperate need of new leadership. Under Attorney General Alberto Gonzales, the Department was transformed from a genuine force for justice into a rubber stamp for others in the Administration who cared little for the rule of law. The Office of Legal Counsel, and the Attorney General himself, repeatedly authorized programs of torturing detainees and wiretapping Americans that were both illegal and immoral. Career attorneys who spoke up were marginalized or transferred to dead-end jobs. U.S. attorneys were fired if they refused to take orders from the White House as to who should be prosecuted.
KENNEDY CALLS ON PRESIDENT BUSH TO GET CHILDREN THE HEALTH CARE THEY NEED
It’s a privilege to join my colleagues to support children’s health. I commend too the former Assistant Surgeon General, Dr. Woodie Kessel for his courage in speaking out for children. He has worked tirelessly for children’s health in Republican and Democratic Administrations alike – and he recognizes that a strong, bipartisan CHIP bill is the most important step we can take to improve the health of America’s children.
We’re here today to say there’s no higher priority in America than our children. When we shortchange our children, we shortchange our future.
It’s almost unimaginable that an American President could tell American parents that we can’t afford health care for American children.
SENATOR KENNEDY IN RESPONSE TO DEPT. OF EDUCATION’S NEW STUDENT LOAN ETHICS REGULATIONS
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Chairman of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, released the following statement in response to the Department of Education’s new regulations for student loan ethics.
“The new regulations are largely consistent with the reforms the Senate passed earlier this year, and should help curtail inappropriate relationships between college and lenders that make federal student loans. But there’s more to be done—lenders who offer private student loans should also be covered by these rules. I look forward to ensuring they are as the renewal of the Higher Education Act moves forward.”
KENNEDY FIGHTS FOR CHILDREN’S HEALTH INSURANCE
Today, we continue our debate on the Children’s Health Insurance Program. Yesterday, I spoke of the legislation that is before the Senate, and described the many concessions that the bipartisan coalition supporting this bill has made to broaden support for our proposal.
It is important to discuss and understand the specifics of the legislation, and our debate will make sure that our colleagues will be able to sort the truth from the many fictions about this bipartisan proposal.
But the core of our debate is not about this provision or that subclause – it’s a fundamental choice on priorities.
STATEMENT OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY ON THE DREAM ACT
WASHINGTON, DC— Today, Senator Edward M. Kennedy released the following statement in response to the failure by the United States Senate to bring the DREAM Act to the floor for debate.
“By refusing to take up the DREAM Act, the Senate has once more crushed the hopes of thousands of talented, young men and women who know no other home but America. The Administration’s eleventh hour opposition to the bill indicates that the White House has little interest in making even an obvious down payment on immigration reform, preferring to deny dreams and deport young men and women who have so much to give this country. The vote may have failed, but the debate is far from over. I’m confident that, in the end, the DREAM Act will become law, but not before more lives are ruined by today’s inaction.”
STATEMENT OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY ON THE NOMINATION OF MICHAEL MUKASEY FOR ATTORNEY GENERAL
United States Senate Judiciary Committee Hearing Today, the Senate Judiciary Committee will begin hearings on the nomination of Michael Mukasey to be the Attorney General of the United States. The nomination comes at a critical time. The next Attorney General will make decisions on issues of vital importance to all Americans. The nation faces challenges on national security, civil rights and civil liberties, criminal justice, immigration, and many other pressing topics. Unfortunately, the Department has failed to meet these challenges under this Administration. Instead, as the scandal over the firing of U.S. Attorneys has shown, the Department has spent the past few years playing politics with the rule of law, and the nation’s interests have suffered as a result. The next Attorney General will face enormous challenges in restoring the rule of law in both the Department of Justice and the Administration. Every member of the Senate, and especially members of the Judiciary Committee, has a duty to ask thorough questions about how these challenges will be addressed.
STATEMENT FROM THE OFFICE OF SENATOR EDWARD M. KENNEDY
"As part of a routine evaluation of Senator Kennedy’s back and spine, MRI studies picked up an unrelated, asymptomatic blockage in the Senator’s left carotid artery. This morning, Senator Kennedy underwent preventive surgery at Massachusetts General Hospital to remove the blockage. The surgery, which was performed by Doctor Richard Cambria, was routine and successful. After a very brief recovery period, Senator Kennedy will resume his normal schedule in Washington and in Massachusetts."
STATEMENT FROM OFFICE OF SENATOR KENNEDY
"Senator Kennedy was released from Massachusetts General Hospital yesterday following Friday’s successful surgery to remove blockage in his carotid artery. After a few days of rest at home in Hyannis Port, the Senator will return to the Senate."
