"Last year’s elections brought to light significant concerns with electoral systems throughout our country.  Our nation’s democracy was founded on the idea of one person, one vote.  However, possessing the right to vote is not enough.  Every vote must be counted and access guaranteed. 

"I am pleased that the Help America Vote Act passed by the House this week takes a meaningful step toward election reform by providing for the replacement of all punch card voting systems as well as providing funds to support the recruitment and training of poll workers, to encourage voters to vote, and to establish accurate lists of registered voters.  This bill will help eliminate many of the problems seen in last year’s elections by requiring states to meet minimum federal election standards while leaving states the freedom to adopt further voluntary election standards. 

"Also this week, the House approved the final version of the Elementary and Secondary Education Authorization Act.  During my campaign, I made improving education a major priority.  I am pleased that this education reform legislation includes provisions that will ensure greater accountability for our schools through annual testing in grades 3 through 8, provide more and better-qualified teachers, and  fund school construction and after school programs.  This bill will make our schools stronger and our students better prepared to meet the challenges of the 21st Century.  I look forward to President Bush signing it into law very soon."

“The construction of Interstate 49 is critical to the future economic development of western Arkansas,” Ross said.  “When finished, it will provide an important transportation corridor for trade with Canada and Mexico, and it will bring needed jobs to this area.  This year, we have made progress in obtaining money necessary to finish construction from Texarkana to Louisiana, and to continue work from Alma to Mena.  I look forward to working with John as we fight to complete this important highway project.”  

“The Interstate 49 corridor is essential to meeting the expanding needs of the region,” Boozman stated.  “Completion of the road from Fort Smith to Texarkana is vital to the economic growth of the Third District of Arkansas.  In addition, the corridor will provide safer means of transportation for all those traveling in western Arkansas.  With a joint effort, I am confident that Mike and I will be successful in obtaining the funding necessary for the corridor.”