Politics, Paul Wellstone told us, is about the improvement of peoples lives. I know that the work ive been able to do has improved peoples lives. I would do it all over again in a heartbeat. For a decade now every time i would get tired or discouraged or frustrated, i would think about the people i was doing this for and it would get me back up on my feet. I know the same will be true for everyone who decides to pursue a politics that is about improving peoples lives. And i hope you know that i will be fighting alongside you every step of the way. With that, mr. President , i yield the floor. Mr. Sullivan madam president . The presiding officer the senator from alaska. Mr. Sullivan madam president , i ask that following disposition of the balash nomination the senate proceed to consideration of executive calendar 167 as under the previous order. The presiding officer without objection. Mr. Sullivan madam president , i have five requests for committees to meet during todays session of t