Jesse Helms

Mr. HELMS

Mr. HELMS. Mr. President, at the close of business Friday, September 25, 1998, the federal debt stood at $5,523,820,694,890.03 (Five trillion, five hundred twenty-three billion, eight hundred twenty million, six hundred ninety-four thousand, eight hundred ninety dollars and three cents). One year ago, September 25, 1997, the federal debt stood at $5,387,704,000,000 (Five trillion, three hundred eighty-seven billion, seven hundred four million). Twenty-five years ago, September 25, 1973, the federal debt stood at $459,982,000,000 (Four hundred fifty-nine billion, nine hundred eighty- two million) which reflects a debt increase of more than $5 trillion-- $5,063,838,694,890.03 (Five trillion, sixty-three billion, eight hundred thirty-eight million, six hundred ninety-four thousand, eight hundred ninety dollars and three cents) during the past 25 years. Mr. President, I yield the floor and I suggest the absence of a quorum.

Mr. HELMS

Mr. HELMS. Mr. President, at the close of business yesterday, Thursday, September 24, 1998, the federal debt stood at $5,523,268,372,227.36 (Five trillion, five hundred twenty-three billion, two hundred sixty-eight million, three hundred seventy-two thousand, two hundred twenty-seven dollars and thirty-six cents). One year ago, September 24, 1997, the federal debt stood at $5,384,225,000,000 (Five trillion, three hundred eighty-four billion, two hundred twenty-five million). Five years ago, September 24, 1993, the federal debt stood at $4,381,848,000,000 (Four trillion, three hundred eighty-one billion, eight hundred forty-eight million). Twenty-five years ago, September 24, 1973, the federal debt stood at $459,783,000,000 (Four hundred fifty-nine billion, seven hundred eighty-three million) which reflects a debt increase of more than $5 trillion--$5,063,485,372,227.36 (Five trillion, sixty-three billion, four hundred eighty-five million, three hundred seventy-two thousand, two hundred twenty-seven dollars and thirty-six cents) during the past 25 years.

Mr. HELMS

Mr. HELMS. Mr. President, the fact that several U.S. military installations were among the targets of this spying is evidence that the Castro regime is a menace to the national security of the United States. According to a reliable 1996 report, Cuban commandos have been training in Vietnam at least since 1990 to carry out strikes against U.S. military bases, precisely the target of the attempted infiltrations of last week. Mr. President, the Clinton Administration simply cannot and must not default on its clear obligation to respond to this and other hostile actions by Cuba. First, the Federal Bureau of Investigation is obliged to pursue this espionage conspiracy relentlessly. Any and all Cuban personnel working in any diplomatic posts in Washington, D.C., and at the United Nations, who had contact with this spy ring should be detained, prosecuted, and/ or expelled without delay. Future requests by Cuban ``diplomats'' to travel beyond the confines of Washington, D.C., or New York--particularly to South Florida--should be summarily denied. Second, U.S. officials, exile groups, and citizens who have been, or are, targets of Cuban spies should be warned by U.S. authorities of this threat. Third, it is imperative to hold the Russians accountable for their continued eavesdropping on U.S. defense and commercial communications at the state-of-the-art intelligence facility at Lourdes, Cuba. According to reliable published reports, sensitive U.S. information gathered at Lourdes is in the possession of Castro's Cubans and made available to other rogue states to use against the United States. The Russians compensate Castro for this spy platform through a generous oil-for-sugar deal--at a time when Moscow looks to the United States and the international community for multi-billion-dollar hand-outs of the American taxpayers' money. Mr. President, the Clinton Administration at this very moment is contemplating a huge increase in U.S. aid to Russia, has therefore soft-peddled this grave security threat for too long. The removal of the Lourdes facility and an end to the related compensation to the Cubans must be given top priority in U.S.-Russian relations--and as a subject to be considered in the instances of future U.S. aid proposals. Fourth, this hostile espionage should put to rest the absurd notion-- conceived by the Cuban regime and being considered by Administration officials--that the United States should ``cooperate'' with the Cuban government to fight drug trafficking in the Caribbean. Any serious talk about anti-drug cooperation should be deferred until after Castro surrenders the half-dozen senior Cuban officials who have been indicated in U.S. courts for smuggling drugs into the United States. Fifth, senior Administration policy makers have informed members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee staff that they see no connection between the spy ring and the Clinton plan to give U.S. food aid to the United Nations for Cuba. In light of the espionage revelations, it is incumbent upon the State Department and U.S.A.I.D. to make certain that any food that the Administration proposes to donate to needy Cubans must be conducted entirely through international, independent relief groups operating under scrupulous monitoring. And, sixth, Mr. President, Americans have long awaited the Clinton Administration's getting around to holding Castro's officials accountable for the terrorist attack carried out by Cuban MIGs on two unarmed Cessnas in February 1996. The fact that this attack on two small planes which were over international waters went unpunished has emboldened the Castro regime to act against us. The Department of Justice should proceed promptly with an investigation of this incident in connection with the indictment of the Cuban officials involved. It should be done under section 32 of title of the U.S. Code for the willful, premeditated destruction of two civil aircraft resulting in the deaths of Pablo Morales, Carlos Costa, Mario de la Pena, and Armando Alejandre. Mr. President, the Clinton Administration has an obligation to defend America's national security against any country determined to do us harm. Surely, decades of fighting tyrants has taught us that appeasement and unilateral concessions serve only to tempt our enemies. If the Administration fails to hold Castro accountable for his repeated acts of treachery against us, it will tempt him to escalate them.

Mr. HELMS. Mr. President, the recent discovery of a sophisticated spy ring operating in U.S. territory is a wake-up call to all who assume that Fidel Castro is no longer America's tireless enemy. The Federal Bureau of Investigation is to be congratulated for its excellent work, and, I ask unanimous consent that the Bureau's press release (dated September 14, 1998) be printed in the Record.

Mr. HELMS

Mr. HELMS. Mr. President, at the close of business yesterday, Wednesday, September 23, 1998, the federal debt stood at $5,517,883,379,683.46 (Five trillion, five hundred seventeen billion, eight hundred eighty-three million, three hundred seventy-nine thousand, six hundred eighty-three dollars and forty-six cents). One year ago, September 23, 1997, the federal debt stood at $5,382,650,000,000 (Five trillion, three hundred eighty-two billion, six hundred fifty million). Five years ago, September 23, 1993, the federal debt stood at $4,380,953,000,000 (Four trillion, three hundred eighty billion, nine hundred fifty-three million). Ten years ago, September 23, 1988, the federal debt stood at $2,587,266,000,000 (Two trillion, five hundred eighty-seven billion, two hundred sixty-six million). Fifteen years ago, September 23, 1983, the federal debt stood at $1,354,045,000,000 (One trillion, three hundred fifty-four billion, forty-five million) which reflects a debt increase of more than $4 trillion--$4,163,838,379,683.46 (Four trillion, one hundred sixty-three billion, eight hundred thirty-eight million, three hundred seventy-nine thousand, six hundred eighty-three dollars and forty-six cents) during the past 15 years.

Mr. HELMS

Mr. HELMS. Mr. President, at the close of business yesterday, Wednesday, September 22, 1998, the federal debt stood at $5,515,818,621,727.95 (Five trillion, five hundred fifteen billion, eight hundred eighteen million, six hundred twenty-one thousand, seven hundred twenty-seven dollars and ninety-five cents). One year ago, September 22, 1997, the federal debt stood at $5,378,804,000,000 (Five trillion, three hundred seventy-eight billion, eight hundred four million). Five years ago, September 22, 1993, the federal debt stood at $4,395,748,000,000 (Four trillion, three hundred ninety-five billion, seven hundred forty-eight million). Ten years ago, September 22, 1988, the federal debt stood at $2,587,230,000,000 (Two trillion, five hundred eighty-seven billion, two hundred thirty million). Fifteen years ago, September 22, 1983, the federal debt stood at $1,354,474,000,000 (One trillion, three hundred fifty-four billion, four hundred seventy-four million) which reflects a debt increase of more than $4 trillion--$4,161,344,621,727.95 (Four trillion, one hundred sixty-one billion, three hundred forty-four million, six hundred twenty-one thousand, seven hundred twenty-seven dollars and ninety-five cents) during the past 15 years.

Mr. HELMS

Mr. HELMS. Mr. President, Mark Twain was right on target with his comment that everybody was talking about the weather but nobody was doing anything about it. Well, in our time almost everybody is indeed talking about family values but, thank goodness, many voices are being lifted in a concerted effort to do whatever is necessary to reverse a dangerous trend in America. It's a trend that has been leading America down the slippery slope to self destruction. The remedy? The preservation and restoration of the moral and spiritual principles and priorities laid down by our Founding Fathers a couple of centuries ago. Given the time, I could identify hundreds of souls across this land who are hard at work in this massive restoration project--Bill and Elaine Bennett, for example. And in this Senate there are many who speak out with some regularity on the subject. I am proud of them, and in today's special frame of reference, I am specially proud of the distinguished Senator from Michigan, Spence Abraham, and all the cosponsors of S. 1645, The Child Custody Protection Act which is the pending business. Mr. President, like, I pray, the majority of Americans, I was outraged by news reports that a 13-year old Pennsylvania girl was taken by a non-relative to another state to have an abortion without her parents' knowledge. Not knowing the whereabouts of a child, is surely a parent's worst nightmare. But, Mr. President, how much more frightening would it be for parents, if federal law permitted a stranger to perform an abortion on their child. Abortion is a medical procedure, potentially, which may cause psychological and physical complications. But this frightening scenario happened, and it will continue to happen if Congress does not pass the ``Child Custody Protection Act''. This pending legislation ensures that state laws requiring parental notification before an abortion can be performed on a minor will not be circumvented by crossing a state line. In other words, the parents in Pennsylvania will have their rights protected, so that, in turn, they can protect their 13-year old daughters from this traumatic experience. Of course, if we were talking today about a medical procedure, other than abortion, there would be no need to defend a parent's right to be informed. But, this major money-making industry is worrying its pocketbook will be affected if parents are able to discourage their daughters from having an abortion. Abortion advocates are once more pulling out their deceitful tricks and desperately trying to defeat this bill. Even Senators who disagree on the legality of abortion should feel comfortable with this legislation, because the vast majority of Americans agree that parental notification laws need to be protected. A recent poll conducted by Baselice & Assoc. shows that 78% of Americans strongly believe that it should be unlawful to take a minor across state lines to obtain an abortion without her parents' knowledge. It comes down to this: Congress has an obligation to protect parental rights. Congress needs to protect states, like Pennsylvania, that have decided that parents have a right to be notified about their daughters' intent to destroy an unborn child--a decision, by the way, that even the Supreme Court has deemed constitutional in Planned Parenthood vs. Casey. The parents in Pennsylvania are courageous, and they have not minced their words. They state unequivocally that they will not be pushed aside when it comes to being involved with their daughters' well-being. It is up to those of us in Congress to stand by the parents in Pennsylvania and the other states which have passed laws protecting parental authority. To be precise, twenty-two other states have passed laws similar to Pennsylvania's--North Carolina being one of them. The parents of North Carolina have exercised their rights as voters and have also said that no abortion shall be performed on their daughter without their knowledge. The question Congress needs to ask itself is this: Whose rights are we going to protect, those of abortionists--or parents? Are we going to tolerate that abortionists, who desire nothing more than to make a pretty penny off of young girls who are in a vulnerable state of mind, have more rights than the parents who love and care for their daughters more than anyone else in the world. Congress needs to be unmistakably clear that the job of deciding what is best for a teenager belongs to parents, not abortionists. Simply put, America cannot afford to allow parental authority to be undermined. With the breakdown of so many families, it is absolutely critical that nothing further be done to weaken the relationship between parents and their children. While there are numerous contributory factors to society's ills today--the disintegration of the American family is, in my judgement, the primary culprit. By passing the ``Child Custody Protection Act,'' we are saying that the custody of children both rightfully and fundamentally belongs to responsible parents. I pray that the Senate will follow the overwhelming decision of the House of Representatives and protect a parent's right to decide what is best for their daughter.

Mr. HELMS

Mr. HELMS. Mr. President, at the close of business yesterday, Monday, September 21, 1998, the federal debt stood at $5,510,750,292,549.80 (Five trillion, five hundred ten billion, seven hundred fifty million, two hundred ninety-two thousand, five hundred forty-nine dollars and eighty cents). Five years ago, September 21, 1993, the federal debt stood at $4,392,902,000,000 (Four trillion, three hundred ninety-two billion, nine hundred two million). Ten years ago, September 21, 1988, the federal debt stood at $2,596,653,000,000 (Two trillion, five hundred ninety-six billion, six hundred fifty-three million). Fifteen years ago, September 21, 1983, the federal debt stood at $1,354,377,000,000 (One trillion, three hundred fifty-four billion, three hundred seventy-seven million). Twenty-five years ago, September 21, 1973, the federal debt stood at $459,603,000,000 (Four hundred fifty-nine billion, six hundred three million) which reflects a debt increase of more than $5 trillion-- $5,051,147,292,549.80 (Five trillion, fifty-one billion, one hundred forty-seven million, two hundred ninety-two thousand, five hundred forty-nine dollars and eighty cents) during the past 25 years.

Mr. HELMS

Mr. HELMS. Mr. President, the American Petroleum Institute has reported that for the week ending September 11 that the U.S. imported 8,694,000 barrels of oil each day, 667,000 barrels a day less than the 9,371,000 imported during the same week a year ago. While this is one of the rare weeks when Americans imported slightly less foreign oil than the same week a year ago, Americans still relied on foreign oil for 58 percent of their needs last week. There are no signs that the upward spiral will abate. Before the Persian Gulf war, the United States imported about 45 percent of its oil supply from foreign countries. During the Arab oil embargo in the 1970's, foreign oil accounted for only 35 percent of America's oil supply. All Americans should ponder the economic calamity certain to occur in the United States, if and when, foreign producers shut off our supply-- or double the already enormous cost of imported oil flowing into the United States: now 8,694,000 barrels a day at a cost of approximately $104,154,120 a day.

Mr. HELMS

Mr. HELMS. Madam President, at the close of business Friday, September 18, 1998, the federal debt stood at $5,516,026,623,213.76 (Five trillion, five hundred sixteen billion, twenty-six million, six hundred twenty-three thousand, two hundred thirteen dollars and seventy-six cents). One year ago, September 18, 1997, the federal debt stood at $5,374,489,000,000 (Five trillion, three hundred seventy-four billion, four hundred eighty-nine million). Twenty-five years ago, September 18, 1973, the federal debt stood at $460,592,000,000 (Four hundred sixty billion, five hundred ninety-two million) which reflects a debt increase of more than $5 trillion-- $5,055,434,623,213.76 (Five trillion, fifty-five billion, four hundred thirty-four million, six hundred twenty-three thousand, two hundred thirteen dollars and seventy-six cents) during the past 25 years.

Mr. HELMS

Mr. HELMS. Mr. President, at the close of business yesterday, Thursday, September 17, 1998, the federal debt stood at $5,514,091,417,890.65 (Five trillion, five hundred fourteen billion, ninety-one million, four hundred seventeen thousand, eight hundred ninety dollars and sixty-five cents). One year ago, September 17, 1997, the federal debt stood at $5,394,894,000,000 (Five trillion, three hundred ninety-four billion, eight hundred ninety-four million). Five years ago, September 17, 1993, the federal debt stood at $4,389,958,000,000 (Four trillion, three hundred eighty-nine billion, nine hundred fifty-eight million). Twenty-five years ago, September 17, 1973, the federal debt stood at $460,362,000,000 (Four hundred sixty billion, three hundred sixty-two million) which reflects a debt increase of more than $5 trillion-- $5,053,729,417,890.65 (Five trillion, fifty-three billion, seven hundred twenty-nine million, four hundred seventeen thousand, eight hundred ninety dollars and sixty-five cents) during the past 25 years.

Mr. HELMS

Mr. HELMS. Mr. President, at the close of business yesterday, Wednesday, September 16, 1998, the federal debt stood at $5,510,133,012,971.17 (Five trillion, five hundred ten billion, one hundred thirty-three million, twelve thousand, nine hundred seventy-one dollars and seventeen cents). One year ago, September 16, 1997, the federal debt stood at $5,391,866,000,000 (Five trillion, three hundred ninety-one billion, eight hundred sixty-six million). Five years ago, September 16, 1993, the federal debt stood at $4,388,882,000,000 (Four trillion, three hundred eighty-eight billion, eight hundred eighty-two million). Ten years ago, September 16, 1988, the federal debt stood at $2,597,622,000,000 (Two trillion, five hundred ninety-seven billion, six hundred twenty-two million). Fifteen years ago, September 16, 1983, the federal debt stood at $1,354,702,000,000 (One trillion, three hundred fifty-four billion, seven hundred two million) which reflects a debt increase of more than $4 trillion--$4,155,431,012,971.17 (Four trillion, one hundred fifty- five billion, four hundred thirty-one million, twelve thousand, nine hundred seventy-one dollars and seventeen cents) during the past 15 years.

Mr. HELMS

Mr. HELMS. Mr. President, one of the most tragic and saddest days in our nation's history was the day the Supreme Court ruled in Roe v. Wade that unborn babies can legally be killed by their mothers. Each of us who has fought, heart and soul, to undo that damaging decision, understood so well on January 22, 1973, that we had yet to see what devastation would come of such a horrendous rule. Indeed, when a nation condones instead of condemns the inhumane procedure known as partial birth abortion, it is clear our worst fears have come true. I am grateful to the distinguished Senator from Pennsylvania (Mr. Santorum) for his strength and conviction in standing up in defense of countless unborn babies. Rick Santorum's willingness to lead the fight on behalf of passage of the Partial Birth Abortion Ban Act is a demonstration of courage. Our hearts and prayers go out to him and Karen, for their loss of their precious baby son, Michael Gabriel. Mr. President, since May 20, 1997, when the Senate voted 64-36 to outlaw the partial birth abortion procedure, a six-pound baby girl was born in the state of Arizona. Of course, there have been countless other precious little lives who have graced this world with their presence since that time. What is exceptional about this baby girl, is that she is the first known survivor of the partial birth abortion procedure. Amazingly enough, while the abortionist was in the process of performing the partial birth abortion, this little one's life was spared when it was realized that she was further along in her gestational development than thought. Incidentally, it is due to this type of unawareness regarding the developing stages of a baby growing inside a mother's womb, that has led to the senseless murder of millions of the most innocent human beings. Thankfully, this baby girl is no longer faceless. Although, her head has been marred by the instruments of the abortionist, and she may carry this scar as a reminder of her close encounter with death, she has been given a name and a home. Not surprisingly, one of the millions of couples who are anxiously waiting to adopt, has taken her into their loving family. Proving once more, there is no such thing as an unwanted baby, just unwanted by some. I sincerely pray, Mr. President, that this country has not grown completely stone-cold in its response to the sanctity of human life. But, that Americans would be moved to reevaluate their views on the troublesome issue of abortion when they hear of the baby girl in Arizona, who was just minutes away from having her life cruelly and painfully ended. More specifically, I pray one individual in particular will not for a third time, turn a deaf ear to the countless cries of the other unborn babies who may not be as fortunate to have their lives miraculously spared. I am of course referring to the President of the United States, who has signed the death sentence of the most innocent and helpless human beings imaginable by twice vetoing the underlying legislation. President Clinton, and his cadre of extreme pro-abortion allies, have sought to explain the necessity of a procedure that allows a doctor to deliver a baby partially, feet-first from the womb, only to have his or her brains brutally removed. However, well-known medical doctors, obstetricians and gynecologist have repeatedly rejected the assertion that a partial birth abortion is needed to protect the health of a women in a late-term complicated pregnancy. Even the American Medical Association wrote a letter endorsing the Partial Birth Abortion Ban Act. Mr. President, there is much to be said about the facts surrounding the number of partial-birth abortions performed annually and the reason they are performed--or at least the given, stated reason. It is hard to overlook the confession of Ron Fitzsimmons, executive director of the National Coalition of Abortion Providers, who admitted that he, himself, had deceived the American people on national television about the number and the nature of partial-birth abortions. Mr. Fitzsimmons now estimates that up to 5,000 partial-birth abortions are conducted annually on healthy women carrying healthy babies. This is a far cry from the rhetoric espoused by Washington's pro-abortion groups who maintain that only 500 partial-birth abortion are performed every year, and only in extreme medical circumstances. Mr. President, it is time for the Senate to once and for all settle this matter and pass the Partial-Birth Abortion Ban Act with a veto- proof vote and affirm the need to rid America of this senseless, brutal form of killing. It is also important to note that the American people recognize the moral significant of this legislation. The majority of Americans agree that the government must out-law the partial birth abortion. A poll conducted by CNN/Time in January of this year, shows that 74 percent of Americans want the partial birth procedure banned. In fact, more than two dozen states have passed legislation similar to the Partial-Birth Abortion Ban Act. Mr. President, regardless of the outcome, when the Senate votes on the question of whether to override President Clinton's veto of the Partial-Birth Abortion Ban Act, the impact will have grave consequences. For those who care deeply about the most innocent and helpless human life imaginable, failure to override the Clinton veto will border on calamitous. The President of the United States should have to explain to the American people why he will not sign this ban over and over again. The spotlight will no longer shine on the much-proclaimed right to choose. Senators have been required to consider whether innocent, tiny baby- partially-born, just 3 inches from the protection of the law-deserves the right to live, and to love and to be loved. The baby is the center of debate in this matter. I remember so vividly the day in January 1973, when the Supreme Court handed down the decision to legalize abortion. It was hard to find many people to speak up, certainly on the floor of the Senate, on behalf of unborn babies. But it is time, once again, for Members of the Senate to stand up and be counted for or against the most helpless human beings imaginable, for or against the destruction of innocent human life in such a repugnant way. The Senate simply must pass the Partial Birth Abortion Ban Act, and I pray that it will do it by a margin of at least 67 votes in favor of the ban.

Mr. HELMS

Mr. HELMS. Mr. President, at the close of business yesterday, Tuesday, September 15, 1998, the federal debt stood at $5,511,724,391,342.63 (Five trillion, five hundred eleven billion, seven hundred twenty-four million, three hundred ninety-one thousand, three hundred forty-two dollars and sixty-three cents). One year ago, September 15, 1997, the federal debt stood at $5,375,122,000,000 (Five trillion, three hundred seventy-five billion, one hundred twenty-two million). Five years ago, September 15, 1993, the federal debt stood at $4,388,003,000,000 (Four trillion, three hundred eighty-eight billion, three million). Ten years ago, September 15, 1988, the federal debt stood at $2,598,251,000,000 (Two trillion, five hundred ninety-eight billion, two hundred fifty-one million). Fifteen years ago, September 15, 1983, the federal debt stood at $1,354,786,000,000 (One trillion, three hundred fifty-four billion, seven hundred eighty-six million) which reflects a debt increase of more than $4 trillion--$4,156,938,391,342.63 (Four trillion, one hundred fifty-six billion, nine hundred thirty-eight million, three hundred ninety-one thousand, three hundred forty-two dollars and sixty- three cents) during the past 15 years.

Mr. HELMS

Mr. HELMS. Mr. President, at the close of business yesterday, Monday, September 14, 1998, the federal debt stood at $5,548,258,444,676.13 (Five trillion, five hundred forty-eight billion, two hundred fifty- eight million, four hundred forty-four thousand, six hundred seventy- six dollars and thirteen cents). Five years ago, September 14, 1993, the federal debt stood at $4,387,136,000,000 (Four trillion, three hundred eighty-seven billion, one hundred thirty-six million). Ten years ago, September 14, 1988, the federal debt stood at $2,597,643,000,000 (Two trillion, five hundred ninety-seven billion, six hundred forty-three million). Fifteen years ago, September 14, 1983, the federal debt stood at $1,354,836,000,000 (One trillion, three hundred fifty-four billion, eight hundred thirty-six million). Twenty-five years ago, September 14, 1973, the federal debt stood at $461,118,000,000 (Four hundred sixty-one billion, one hundred eighteen million) which reflects a debt increase of more than $5 trillion-- $5,087,140,444,676.13 (Five trillion, eighty-seven billion, one hundred forty million, four hundred forty-four thousand, six hundred seventy- six dollars and thirteen cents) during the past 25 years.

Mr. HELMS

Mr. HELMS. Mr. President, there was this lady of nobility, whom everybody called ``Lib,'' who was loved by everyone who knew her. She slipped away into eternity on August 15 prompting sadness among the multitudes whom she had helped and befriended during her busy lifetime. I met Mrs. Elisabeth Smith in 1972, the year I first became a candidate for the U.S. Senate. She came to our campaign headquarters in Raleigh's Sir Walter Hotel, announcing that she had come to support me--perhaps the most improbable Senate candidate in the history of the republic. And support me she did, vigorously, from the first campaign in 1972 down through the years until 1996, the year of my fourth reelection. That day in 1972, she had just retired after long service as a registered nurse in the office of a prominent Raleigh physician. There was never any question about her fervent love for her country, nor her devotion to the moral and spiritual principles laid down by the Founding Fathers. She agreed to take on the responsibilities of treasurer of four of the five campaigns conducted by the Helms for Senate campaign organizations. Year after year, Lib Smith was a sort of beloved ``mother hen'' to the throngs of volunteer campaign workers as well as those who bore primary responsibilities conducting the campaigns. She was a soothing influence when tempers festered. She was a reliable friend to all who needed her. And she performed perfectly and responsibly as the official Treasurer of every Helms for Senate campaign from 1978 through 1990. She was a faithful member of St. Timothy's Episcopal Church, the Diocese of North Carolina, and the Altar Guild. In her ``spare time'' she did the needlework for St. Timothy's Altar Vestments--as well as anything else that needed doing at her church. I learned only recently that she was renowned as a ballroom dancer-- and as an artist who painted many portraits of loved ones and friends. Her two children--son Phillip W. Smith and daughter Mrs. Gayle Bullock--provided her with four grandchildren and six great- grandchildren. Mr. President, I know of no one who enjoyed life more than Lib Smith. She brought joy and comfort to countless others. She was a wonderfully remarkable lady whom I will never forget and to whom I shall always be grateful.

Mr. HELMS

Mr. HELMS. Madam President, at the close of business Friday, September 11, 1998, the federal debt stood at $5,547,277,485,008.59 (Five trillion, five hundred forty-seven billion, two hundred seventy- seven million, four hundred eighty-five thousand, eight dollars and fifty-nine cents). One year ago, September 11, 1997, the federal debt stood at $5,414,576,000,000 (Five trillion, four hundred fourteen billion, five hundred seventy-six million). Twenty-five years ago, September 11, 1973, the federal debt stood at $460,119,000,000 (Four hundred sixty billion, one hundred nineteen million) which reflects a debt increase of more than $5 trillion-- $5,087,158,485,008.59 (Five trillion, eighty-seven billion, one hundred fifty-eight million, four hundred eighty-five thousand, eight dollars and fifty-nine cents) during the past 25 years.

Mr. HELMS

Mr. HELMS. Mr. President, the American Petroleum Institute has reported that for the week ending September 4 that the U.S. imported 8,549,000 barrels of oil each day, 998,000 barrels a day more than the 7,551,000 imported during the same week a year ago. Americans relied on foreign oil for 57.2 percent of their needs last week. There are no signs that the upward spiral will abate. Before the Persian Gulf War, the United States imported about 45 percent of its oil supply from foreign countries. During the Arab oil embargo in the 1970s, foreign oil accounted for only 35 percent of America's oil supply. All Americans should ponder the economic calamity certain to occur in the U.S. if and when foreign producers shut off our supply--or double the already enormous cost of imported oil flowing into the U.S.: now 8,549,000 barrels a day at a cost of approximately $100,963,690 a day.

Mr. HELMS

Mr. HELMS. Mr. President, at the close of business yesterday, Thursday, September 10, 1998, the federal debt stood at $5,545,657,954,586.91 (Five trillion, five hundred forty-five billion, six hundred fifty-seven million, nine hundred fifty-four thousand, five hundred eighty-six dollars and ninety-one cents). One year ago, September 10, 1997, the federal debt stood at $5,410,105,000,000 (Five trillion, four hundred ten billion, one hundred five million). Five years ago, September 10, 1993, the federal debt stood at $4,384,113,000,000 (Four trillion, three hundred eight-four billion, one hundred thirteen million). Twenty-five years ago, September 10, 1973, the federal debt stood at $459,532,000,000 (Four hundred fifty-nine billion, five hundred thirty- two million) which reflects a debt increase of more than $5 trillion-- $5,545,657,954,586.91 (Five trillion, five hundred forty-five billion, six hundred fifty-seven million, nine hundred fifty-four thousand, five hundred eighty-six dollars and ninety-one cents) during the past 25 years. I yield the floor and suggest the absence of a quorum.

Mr. HELMS

Mr. HELMS. Mr. President, at the close of business yesterday, Wednesday, September 9, 1998, the federal debt stood at $5,548,476,705,773.12 (Five trillion, five hundred forty-eight billion, four hundred seventy-six million, seven hundred five thousand, seven hundred seventy-three dollars and twelve cents). One year ago, September 9, 1997, the federal debt stood at $5,408,443,000,000 (Five trillion, four hundred eight billion, four hundred forty-three million). Five years ago, September 9, 1993, the federal debt stood at $4,389,196,000,000 (Four trillion, three hundred eighty-nine billion, one hundred ninety-six million). Ten years ago, September 9, 1988, the federal debt stood at $2,600,050,000,000 (Two trillion, six hundred billion, fifty million). Fifteen years ago, September 9, 1983, the federal debt stood at $1,354,932,000,000 (One trillion, three hundred fifty-four billion, nine hundred thirty-two million) which reflects a debt increase of more than $4 trillion--$4,193,544,705,773.12 (Four trillion, one hundred ninety-three billion, five hundred forty-four million, seven hundred five thousand, seven hundred seventy-three dollars and twelve cents) during the past 15 years.

Mr. HELMS

Mr. HELMS. Mr. President, at the close of business yesterday, Tuesday, September 8, 1998, the federal debt stood at $5,548,700,311,164.48 (Five trillion, five hundred forty-eight billion, seven hundred million, three hundred eleven thousand, one hundred sixty-four dollars and forty-eight cents). One year ago, September 8, 1997, the federal debt stood at $5,411,319,000,000 (Five trillion, four hundred eleven billion, three hundred nineteen million). Five years ago, September 8, 1993, the federal debt stood at $4,391,317,000,000 (Four trillion, three hundred ninety-one billion, three hundred seventeen million). Ten years ago, September 8, 1988, the federal debt stood at $2,605,450,000,000 (Two trillion, six hundred five billion, four hundred fifty million). Fifteen years ago, September 8, 1983, the federal debt stood at $1,355,323,000,000 (One trillion, three hundred fifty-five billion, three hundred twenty-three million) which reflects a debt increase of more than $4 trillion--$4,193,377,311,164.48 (Four trillion, one hundred ninety-three billion, three hundred seventy-seven million, three hundred eleven thousand, one hundred sixty-four dollars and forty-eight cents) during the past 15 years.

Mr. HELMS

Mr. HELMS. Mr. President, at the close of business Friday, September 4, 1998, the federal debt stood at $5,547,400,016,580.17 (Five trillion, five hundred forty-seven billion, four hundred million, sixteen thousand, five hundred eighty dollars and seventeen cents). One year ago, September 4, 1997, the federal debt stood at $5,413,849,000,000 (Five trillion, four hundred thirteen billion, eight hundred forty-nine million). Twenty-five years ago, September 4, 1973, the federal debt stood at $458,627,000,000 (Four hundred fifty-eight billion, six hundred twenty- seven million) which reflects a debt increase of more than $5 trillion--$5,088,773,016,580.17 (Five trillion, eighty-eight billion, seven hundred seventy-three million, sixteen thousand, five hundred eighty dollars and seventeen cents) during the past 25 years.

Mr. HELMS

Mr. HELMS. Mr. President, at the close of business yesterday, Tuesday, September 1, 1998, the federal debt stood at $5,559,258,503,320.20 (Five trillion, five hundred fifty-nine billion, two hundred fifty-eight million, five hundred three thousand, three hundred twenty dollars and twenty cents). Five years ago, September 1, 1993, the federal debt stood at $4,398,851,000,000 (Four trillion, three hundred ninety-eight billion, eight hundred fifty-one million). Ten years ago, September 1, 1988, the federal debt stood at $2,603,539,000,000 (Two trillion, six hundred three billion, five hundred thirty-nine million). Fifteen years ago, September 1, 1983, the federal debt stood at $1,362,606,000,000 (One trillion, three hundred sixty-two billion, six hundred six million) which reflects a debt increase of more than $4 trillion--$4,196,652,503,320.20 (Four trillion, one hundred ninety-six billion, six hundred fifty-two million, five hundred three thousand, three hundred twenty dollars and twenty cents) during the past 15 years.

Mr. HELMS

Mr. HELMS. The senator is correct.

Mr. HELMS

Mr. HELMS. I strongly oppose this amendment, which seeks to provide funds to the Preparatory Commission for the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty. As I advised the President on January 21, of this year, at the conclusion of Senate debate on NATO expansion, the Foreign Relations Committee would then turn its attention to several other critical, pressing matters which could affect the security of the American people and the health of the United States' economy. Chief among these are the agreements on Multilateralization and Demarcation of the 1972 Anti- Ballistic Missile (ABM) Treaty. The President promised more than a year ago to submit these treaties for the Senate's advice and consent, but we are yet to see that promise fulfilled. Nevertheless, the Foreign Relations Committee intends to pursue hearings on a number of associated issues--such as the recent Rumsfeld Commission report--with the presumption that the President's promise will be honored in the near term. Indeed, Mr. President, in listening to various justifications for the proposed amendment (which discuss the ongoing development of nuclear weapons by India, Pakistan, North Korea, Iran, Iraq, etc.) I was struck by the urgent need--not for another arms control treaty--but for a national missile defense to protect the United States from these nuclear weapons when they are mounted on intercontinental ballistic missiles. Let me repeat that for the purpose of emphasis. The last thing the United States needs is another arms control treaty. In presuming to fund the Preparatory Commission, and in attempting to dictate to the Foreign Relations Committee that CTBT consideration take precedence over the planned ABM Treaty hearings, the Senator from Pennsylvania (Mr. Specter) obviously is willing to place a higher priority on the test ban than on protecting the American people from ballistic missile attack. Sure, I have heard the White House and the liberal media attempt to spin India's and Pakistan's actions into a justification for the CTBT. And some seem to have bought it hook-line-and-sinker. But as the Senate Foreign Relations Committee heard a week after the Indian tests, from several expert witnesses, India's nuclear tests demonstrate that the CTBT is a complete sham from a nonproliferation standpoint. Mr. President, this Senator will take no part in papering over India's actions with another ban on nuclear testing. The world already has one such treaty, called the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty (NPT). We should demand that India sign on to that treaty, which already has 185 States Parties and has been in force since 1970, not a ``Johnny- come-lately'' CTBT, which is--in all respects--a far weaker version of the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty. The point is, Mr. President, there would be no cause for worry about Indian nuclear tests if India has agreed not to have these weapons in the first place. On the other hand, only less than two dozen countries have ratified the CTBT, of whom only 6 are on the list of the 44 key countries which, pursuant to Article 14 of the treaty, must ratify before it can enter into force. In other words any one of these 44 countries (for example, India, Pakistan, North Korea, or Iran) can single-handedly derail the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty's (CTBT) entry into force. That is why, Mr. President, the CTBT is so low on the Committee's list of priorities. It has no chance of entering into force in the foreseeable future, regardless of what the U.S. Senate does, and regardless of whether we waste funds on the Preparatory Commission. I regret that it was necessary to come to the Senate floor and explain such an obvious fact. All of this, of course, is without respect to the fact that the CTBT, by preventing tests to ensure the safety and reliability of the U.S. nuclear deterrent, is a bad idea from a national security standpoint, but that is a debate better reserved for a time and place when the CTBT realistically has a chance of entering into force. In sum, Mr. President, I oppose the Specter amendment on both jurisdictional and substantive grounds. Now it is my understanding, on the basis of assurances given by the staff of the Foreign Operations subcommittee, that no funds can be provided to the Preparatory Commission without notification to and approval by the Foreign Relations Committee. However, that said, this amendment is part and parcel of the Clinton Administration's effort to cover up the collapse of its nonproliferation policy. By promoting the CTBT with no mention of the NPT, the Clinton Administration and Senator Specter propose a course of action that will de facto legitimize Indian and Pakistani possession of these weapons, just so long as they are not caught testing them. Such a policy sets a poor precedent--if one is worried that other countries, such as Iran and Iraq, might seek to withdraw from the NPT, and escape international opprobrium by signing on to the CTBT as a declared nuclear power. Instead, the Senate should demand that India and Pakistan join the NPT, and should insist on vigorous international sanctions against proliferant countries, to be lifted only after their nuclear programs have been rolled back. India's nuclear testing also is compelling, additional evidence pointing to the need for a national missile defense to protect the United States. Because India can readily reconfigure its space-launch vehicle as an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), its actions clearly constitute an emerging nuclear threat to the United States. For this reason, it is time that the Foreign Relations Committee review the antiquated ABM Treaty, which precludes the United States from deploying a missile defense. Sad to say, the Specter amendment plays into the hands of those who seek to detract attention from this effort. Finally, Mr. President, India's (and Pakistan's) actions should make clear to all just how vital the U.S. nuclear deterrent is to the national security of the United States. What is needed, at this time, is not a scramble for an arms control treaty that prohibits the United States from guaranteeing the safety and reliability of its nuclear stockpile. What is needed is a careful, bottoms-up review of the state of the U.S. nuclear infrastructure, which I fear is in sad repair after six years of a moratorium. I expect that, after undertaking such a review, the United States will find that the CTBT is the very last thing the United States should consider doing. Mr. President, I do hope Senators will oppose the Specter amendment.