Senator Leahy

Hello everyone!

Senator Leahy

My name is Janice Ryan and I'm a staffer for Senator Leahy

Senator Leahy

The Senator is on his way back to the office from the Senate floor - the Senate is in the middle of a series of votes on election reform right now.

MSD MSD

Hi Janice. We're the grade four from Morrisville, all watching you with great excitement!

Senator Leahy

Did you see me wave?

MSD MSD

Yes!!!!!!!!!!!!

Senator Leahy

How is the weather in Morrisville today??

MSD MSD

The kids say hot, warm and sunny. Of course us adults are all wearing sweaters.

Senator Leahy

I am from Sheldon in Franklin County and I know that my family is looking forward to some warmer weather..

Senator Leahy

If any of you ever get a chance to visit Washington, DC in the spring, you should take it - it is the most beautiful time of year here.

MSD MSD

Yes, we're looking forward to warmer weather, too. Although we'll miss the skiing and snowboarding.

Senator Leahy

Here is the Senator

MSD MSD

Hey, we can see you wonderfully!

Senator Leahy

I am sorry for the delay. we are voting on the senate floor and i rushed over here. How are you?

MSD MSD

We are GREAT! We are so excited to be doing this with you. Are you ready for our first question?

Senator Leahy

I'm Pat Leahy even though it has Matt's name

Senator Leahy

Go ahead with the question

MSD MSD

Out of every job in the world, why did you choose to be Senator?

Senator Leahy

I think it is the best job in the world. I am fortunate that my fellow Vermonters let me represent my native state. Being a Senator lets me get involved in everything from dairy policy to the Middle East

MSD MSD

What are you doing about global warming?

Senator Leahy

We have got to cut down emissions from power plants and from our cars. This is something all nations must be involved in. But the USA uses nearly half of the world's energy so we do have a responsibility - but also countries that are cutting down their rain forests and destroying their own environment have to help

MSD MSD

Is it possible to win the war on terrorism? If so, how?

Senator Leahy

We and our allies will face terrorist attacks for years to come. Even tho we are the world's only military superpower it will take more than that to protect us. We need to work more with other countries to establish democracies, eliminate poverty, work to give hope to others etc.

MSD MSD

Is anyone else in your family involved in politics?

Senator Leahy

My family has stayed out of politics. I am the only one altho my wife was elected a justice of the peace recently. I have a son who is a lawyer in Burlington but he does not seem interested in politics and my daughter and other son do not seem interested

MSD MSD

What is the difference between democrats and republicans, and why did you choose to be a democrat instead of a republican or independent?

Senator Leahy

When I first ran for office Vermont was primarily a Republican state. I found the Democratic party more open to everyone at that time. I have found myself comfortable with most - but not all - the positions taken by my party especially in the areas of health care and education.

MSD MSD

Have you ever considered running for president?

Senator Leahy

I have not considered running for President. I want to use my seniority to help Vermont. The Senate is the only place where a small state like ours can be equal to the rest of the country.

MSD MSD

How has 9/11 affected you personally, and professionally?

Senator Leahy

After 9-11 I received one of the two deadly anthrax letters and have received a number of threats . Because of that I have to have security but I still go to Vermont several times a week flying commercially and I still enjoy just being home - like many I think I appreciate home and family even more now

MSD MSD

What is the best part of your job?

Senator Leahy

I meant several times a month regarding flights

Senator Leahy

The best part of the job is the variety. Being able to have so many interesting things to do. Even better is being able to get home to my tree farm in Vermont and seeing people i have known all my life.

MSD MSD

Are other senators helping you ban land mines in the rest of the world?

MSD MSD

What are your thoughts on the Israeli/Palestine conflict?

Senator Leahy

A number of Senators, including Senator Jeffords , have joined in my effort. Some of us are meeting with Queen Noor this afternoon to work on the ban.

Senator Leahy

I understand you are going to e-mail me a photo or two - and this wave is for you!

MSD MSD

Yes, we are. We're going to send four or five pictures of the class and of you on the big screen that we're looking at. Hopefully, you'll enjoy them.

Senator Leahy

I am glad Sec. Powell is going to the Middle East. President Bush was right to seek a cease-fire and I hope there will be one. Suicide bombers on one side and military action on the other will never bring about peace.

Senator Leahy

I wish I was there with you to take the pictures!

Senator Leahy

I have time for one more question and than have to go back to the floor.

MSD MSD

Do you think Governor Dean will make a good president?

Senator Leahy

Governor Dean is very talented and as qualified as anyone I know running. If he was President he could do a very good job.

MSD MSD

Thanks so much for taking the time out of your busy day, and for watching out for all Vermonters. We hope you can come visit our class someday. You're welcome anytime. We'll be sure the lunch is yummy!

Senator Leahy

Have to go and vote again but the best part of THIS day was being with you. Here's another wave!

Senator Leahy

Thank you all for coming to chat with Senator Leahy today - this is Janice again, as the Senator is off to the floor for another vote. Have a great afternoon and thanks again!

MSD MSD

Janice and Brian for all the help. It was very successful. The kids love it.