WASHINGTON, DC – I thank the Senate for their confirmation of Dr. Raymond Orbach as the department's first Under Secretary for Science. President Bush has placed a renewed emphasis on strengthening our nation's basic science research and education as part of the American Competitiveness Initiative. Ray will help oversee the expansion of basic science research at the department, including the doubling of the government's basic science budget over the next decade.  With additional focus on basic science, our nation will continue to be the economic leader of the world.  I congratulate Ray on today's confirmation and look forward to his continued service to the department and the nation.