On Monday, the war in Iraq will again be the focus of the U.S. Senate as it continues deliberations on H.R. 1585, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008. Senate Democrats are committed to bringing a responsible end to the war. With the number of Senate Republicans voicing opposition to President George W. Bush's failed war strategy, I am hopeful that we can begin to end our military occupation of Iraq.

On Tuesday, I will chair the Subcommittee on Oversight of Government Management hearing on progress made in implementing improvements to the Department of Defense's supply chain, ensuring that we can get our troops the supplies they need.

On Wednesday, the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs will discuss the unique role of our inspectors general and proposals to strengthen their authority. Inspectors general conduct audits and evaluations to review the effectiveness, efficiency, economy, and integrity of various governmental departments, programs and operations, including those performed by its contractors and grantees.

Thursday morning, I will participate in an event co-sponsored by Preserve America and the Congressional Historic Preservation Caucus announcing their first round of grants for 2007, including grants of $150,000 to develop a visitor infrastructure for Honolulu's Chinatown and $51,727 for an Ewa Village Heritage Tourism plan.