now, this is the most meaningful work that i have ever been a part of, and in fact, it is the cause of my life. and i knew it wouldn t be easy. there s a reason that no earlier president was successful in passing health reform, and despite decades of attempts, but throughout the legislative battles, the supreme court challenge, a contentious re-election, and years of votes to turn back the clock, we are making progress. tremendous progress. and critics and supporters alike are benefiting from this law. my professional work as a legislator, and insurance commissioner and governor have been tremendously helpful in navigating the policy and the politics of this historic change. but at the end of the day, health is personal. it is personal to all of us. family illnesses and personal health challenges touch us to our core. i have spent time as a daughter navigating care for ill parents.
the humphrey building where your office will be are the words of the namesake, and what hubert humphrey said is the moral test of government is how that government will treat those who are in the dawn of life, the children, those who are in the twilight of life, the elderly, and those who are in the shadow of life, and that really, i think describes what we do at hhs. from our work on birth to kindergarten initiatives to providing for the elderly, and disabled, our employees help their friends and neighbors everyday. the researchers in nhih labs and the scientists working to improve new drugs and devices are helping to change the face of humanity by advancing new cures, research, and innovation. we are advancing public health in the u.s. and around the globe with anti-smoking efforts and promoting maternal and child health. and finally behavioral health and physical health issues are