[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 22 (Thursday, February 15, 2001)]
[Senate]
[Page S1457]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      CONFIRMATION OF JOE ALLBAUGH

  Mr. DOMENICI. Mr. President, Mr. Joe Allbaugh is fully qualified to 
serve as the next FEMA Director, and I will vote to confirm his 
nomination.
  Most recently, Mr. Allbaugh served as the national campaign manager 
for President Bush. Prior to that Mr. Allbaugh was then-Governor Bush's 
chief of staff. In that capacity, he was responsible for management of 
crises and emergency response. On many occasions, he worked closely 
with FEMA and the related state agencies. Clearly, Mr. Allbaugh has the 
management experience needed to run this important federal agency.
  The position of FEMA Director is very important to me and the people 
of New Mexico. Nine months ago the Los Alamos community was devastated 
by fires accidentally started by the U.S. Park Service. More than 400 
homes were destroyed and many businesses were affected. Last summer, we 
worked hard to pass legislation to compensate the victims.
  FEMA was charged with the task of processing the victims' claims, and 
in part they have tackled this undertaking admirably. However, the 
number of complaints has been mounting as the February 26 deadline for 
some final settlements fast approaches. Frankly, I am greatly concerned 
about the delays and mishandling of some of the claims--a concern 
shared by Mr. Allbaugh.
  Mr. Allbaugh assured me that this issue would be addressed 
expeditiously. I am confident that he will make it a top priority to 
resolve these complaints and carry out FEMA's duties under the 
legislation. I look forward to working with him, and I believe he will 
be a superb FEMA Director.

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