Commenting on the confirmation, Senator Pete Domenici (R-NM), chairman of the Senate Energy Committee, said:

"Mr. Orbach brings an impressive background in science and academia to this post. We created this position in the energy bill as part of a broader push to expand DOE's commitment to and expertise in science. I think Mr. Orbach will ably lead that charge."

Secretary Bodman issued the following statement after the administering the Oath:

"Today marks an important occasion not only for my good friend Ray Orbach, but also for this department, as we elevate our science mission. As the primary supporter of physical science research in the country and home to ten national laboratories, the Department of Energy's Office of Science provides the nation and the world untold promise for discovery."

"As Under Secretary for Science, Ray will be tasked with the department's implementation of President Bush's bold new initiative, the American Competitiveness Initiative. The American Competitiveness Initiative will help us expand the United States' leadership in math and science and will allow us to continue to grow our nation's economy. I congratulate Ray on his swearing-in and look forward to his continued service to the department and to the country."