mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
COMMERCE, JUSTICE, SCIENCE, AGRICULTURE, RURAL DEVELOPMENT, FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION, INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT, MILITARY CONSTRUCTION, VETERANS AFFAIRS, TRANSPORTATION, AND HOUSING AND URBAN...
Jeanne Shaheen (Democrat, NH) \u2014 2019-10-31

I rise to honor the life and legacy of my friend and former colleague, Senator Kay Hagan of North Carolina. There have been several eloquent tributes to prgtoken Kay. I am sure we will hear many more in the days to come. They all note her profound grace, her fighting spirit, her charm, and of course, I agree with all of those remarks. prgtoken I want to especially extend my very sincere condolences to her husband, Chip; to her children, Jeanette, Tilden, and Carrie; and to her father Joe. prgtoken The news of her death on Monday was deeply felt here in the Senate. Kay and I were in the same class of freshmen Senators. We came in, in 2008, and as the only two women in that class, we became fast friends. But of course, it wasn't hard to make friends with Kay Hagan. She never met a stranger. She had contagious optimism and joy, and she drew everyone in with her smile and kindness. prgtoken Kay was first in the Senate, not as a Senator, but as an intern, where she had the job of operating the elevators. Of course, those were the days when women Senators were few, and they were often appointed to fill temporary vacancies. So I am sure it was a very powerful moment when Kay took the elevator here in the Capitol for the first time as a United States Senator, only the second woman from her State, North Carolina, to do that. prgtoken Kay and I often compared notes about our new roles as Senators. We talked about our families and the challenges of commuting to and from DC. I remember Kay showing me and the other women in the Senate pictures of her daughters' weddings and beaming with excitement. She was so tremendously proud of her children and so appreciated the support she received from them and from Chip during her campaigns for public office. prgtoken Of course, in addition to her character, Kay had boundless energy. Growing up, she studied ballet, and she aspired to be a professional dancer. And I remember she told me about her ``magic bag'' that she took with her everywhere, so she could exercise in the morning. It carried a yoga mat and everything else she needed to exercise. She recommended that I get one, and of course, I was never quite energetic enough to do that. prgtoken In addition to yoga, Kay loved early morning runs, Pilates, and swimming. It was that swimming that brought Kay some early ``notoriety.'' I use that term in quotes because Kay wanted to use the Senator's swimming pool in the mornings, but when she first got here, there was a sign on the door that said it was for men only. What we learned, after Kay did a little bit of investigating, was it was because some of the male Senators were not interested in wearing appropriate swimming attire when they swam. prgtoken Well, Kay put a quick stop to that, and it wasn't long before all of the men were wearing swim trunks, and Kay was swimming laps in the pool with them. prgtoken That was Kay. She was incredibly kind, but she was also tough.
INTRODUCING THE THREE SEAS RESOLUTION
Marcy Kaptur (Democrat, OH) \u2014 2019-10-31

. Madam , I rise to introduce a resolution supporting the Three Seas Initiative to bolster energy infrastructure security in Central and Eastern Europe. I am pleased to co-lead this bipartisan effort with the ranking member of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Europe, Eurasia, Energy, and the Environment, Adam Kinzinger. prgtoken Energy security is national security. For years, Russia has sought to undermine liberty and security in Europe by forcing Central and East European nations into reliance on Russia for their energy needs. They do this through projects including the Nord Stream 2 and TurkStream, Russian gas pipelines. prgtoken Thankfully, 12 of our closest allies in Central and Eastern Europe have banded together to increase their energy autonomy through collective financing of energy infrastructure projects: the Three Seas Initiative. prgtoken This resolution makes clear U.S.'s strong support for the initiative and encourages member nations to take action on joint financing of future projects. Additionally, it encourages the member nations to consider financing of clean energy projects as the world addresses our dire climate change crises. prgtoken In the face of increased Russian aggression, the U.S. must play a leading role in energy security in Europe, and I urge my colleagues to support this important resolution.
EDUCATING MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS AND OPTIMIZING WORKFORCE EFFICIENCY AND READINESS FOR HEALTH ACT OF 2019
Janice D. Schakowsky (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2019-10-31

. Madam , I am grateful to Representatives Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan, Steve Stivers, Kenny Marchant, William Keating, Zoe Lofgren, and Lauren Underwood for their support of H.R. 2781, the Educating Medical Professionals and Optimizing Workforce Efficiency and Readiness (EMPOWER) for Health Act. They wanted to cosponsor this bill but were unable to be added in time. prgtoken When H.R. 2781 passes the Senate and is signed into law, we will increase the diversity of our health care workforce, improve geriatrics education and training to address gaps in caregiving and health care for older adults, and grow the critical pediatric health care workforce. I look forward to working with my colleagues as we continue our efforts to make sure health care is more equitable and accessible for our constituents.
DIRECTING CERTAIN COMMITTEES TO CONTINUE ONGOING INVESTIGATIONS INTO WHETHER SUFFICIENT GROUNDS EXIST FOR THE IMPEACHMENT OF DONALD JOHN TRUMP, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES
Jamie Raskin (Democrat, MD) \u2014 2019-10-31

. We will afford the President all the due process protections that were afforded to his predecessors in a similar situation. That includes the ability to attend hearings, question witnesses, and submit evidence. prgtoken As recently as Friday, the Federal courts have reaffirmed that the House is the sole judge of impeachment, and we set the rules here. These rules are fair and strong and will make sure that we can and we will defend the Constitution of the United States.
MICHIGAN REHABILITATION ASSOCIATION
Andy Levin (Democrat, MI) \u2014 2019-11-1

. Madam , I rise to honor the Michigan Rehabilitation Association, which celebrates 70 years of exemplary service on November 1, 2019. prgtoken What began as a professional association for rehabilitation practitioners is now among our state's leading voices working on behalf of people with disabilities. But they have not just been passionate advocates: they have given rehabilitation professionals new opportunities to grow and develop their skills, in turn allowing them to better serve the people of Michigan. prgtoken I want to thank the Michigan Rehabilitation Association for its hard work over the past 70 years. I wish them many more years of success.
HONORING THE PASSING OF ARIZONA TEACHER, CATHY CANEZ
Tom O’Halleran (Democrat, AZ) \u2014 2019-11-1

. Madam , I rise today to pay my respects to Cathy Canez, a special education teacher from my district, who passed away earlier this year in a tragic accident. prgtoken Cathy was a beloved teacher, friend, and community member in the Miami unified school district for more than 25 years. prgtoken Her kindness, sense of humor, and dedication to the success of her students has allowed her legacy and impact to reach beyond the classroom. prgtoken I've been married to a teacher for fifty years; I saw how hard my wife Pat worked to educate young people and improve their lives holistically. prgtoken Teachers have one of the most important jobs in our society, and a great teacher like Cathy had the power to affect the lives of so many. prgtoken Cathy was taken from us too soon. prgtoken Arizona has lost an incredible role model and educator, but I know she will not soon be forgotten.
RECOGNIZING CLIFFORD H. LONG, CHAIRMAN OF THE EMERALD COAST MILITARY AFFAIRS COUNCIL
Matt Gaetz (Republican, FL) \u2014 2019-11-1

. Madam , today I rise to recognize Mr. Clifford Long, Chairman of the Emerald Coast Military Affairs Council. Mr. Long served the area in this role since 2007. In 1998, the Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce bestowed a special ``President's Award'' upon him to recognize his many years of dedication to the Military Affairs Council and Florida's military mission. prgtoken Mr. Long contributed his expertise and guidance in many different capacities. He served as Chairman of the Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Council from 1989 to 2007 and as chamber president from 1971 to 1972. Mr. Long also served on the Board of Directors for the Okaloosa County Economic Development Council's Defense Support Initiative. prgtoken His life was lived in service to our community, serving as liaison and support between local business and the military community. He was a strong advocate for the region's military presence, and worked diligently with the highest levels of Air Force leadership. He dedicated his life to contributing to the growth of the defense presence in Northwest Florida, and advocating for military officers. He was a true patriot. prgtoken In 2002, Mr. Long was awarded the Air Force Association ``Civilian of the Year'' award at their annual conference recognizing his outstanding efforts and dedication to the military and its mission. That same year, he was named a ``Life Director'' of the Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce, recognizing the many years he dedicated to the growth and development of the chamber and the local area. prgtoken Madam , on behalf of the United States Congress, it is my honor to recognize Mr. Clifford H. Long, and his life of service to Northwest Florida. I thank him for his impact on our community, and send my deepest condolences to his entire family.
HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF MR. WILFRED GEORGE PERKINS
Doug Lamborn (Republican, CO) \u2014 2019-11-1

. Madam , I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Mr. Wilfred George Perkins, a cherished family man, business owner, and faith leader. Mr. Perkins, a lifelong Colorado resident and pillar of the Pikes Peak region passed away on October 19, 2019, at the age of ninety-one. prgtoken Will was born in Montrose, Colorado. After graduating from Colorado College in 1949, he married the love of his life, Bessie Lea Hastings, in 1950. Their remarkable sixty-nine years of marriage produced children, Pamela (Ted) Walker, Tom (Cheryl) Perkins, Karen (Jeff) Sheets, and Sandra (Bentley) Tate, along with fourteen grandchildren and eighteen great-grandchildren. prgtoken Mr. Perkins was a second-generation automobile enthusiast and salesman. Will owned and operated Perkins Motors from 1958 to 1985. He also served two terms as the president of the Chrysler National Dealer Council. Will was highly regarded in the business world. He was a role model for his peers and community leaders around the state and the nation. Even competitors admired Will's humble attitude and spiritual consistency. Upon retiring, Mr. Perkins passed the family business on to his son, Tom, and later his grandson, David. prgtoken Will's public testimony to the power of the Gospel was bold, clear, and compelling. If there was one thing that Will hung his hat on, it was that he was a faithful follower of Jesus Christ. He wanted people to know about the life they could have if they would open up their hearts to the Lord. He generously supported numerous ministries, including: The Navigators, Young Life, Springs Rescue Mission, International Students, Inc and Focus on the Family. Will and Bessie attended Village Seven Presbyterian Church for forty-seven years. Will faithfully sang in the church choir and encouraged fellow believers to become engaged in their communities, whether it be politically or spiritually. prgtoken Mr. Perkins truly made the culture of the 5th Congressional District as beautiful as our natural surroundings. The Colorado Front Range has lost a Christian statesman, but we will benefit from Will's legacy for generations to come.
RECOGNIZING PINK STABLE
Rick Scott (Republican, FL) \u2014 2019-11-5

as a member of the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize a small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit at the heart of our economy. This week, it is my privilege to honor a business that provides quality women's clothing while also fostering economic development within its immediate community. It is my pleasure to recognize Pink Stable of Camden, SC, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. prgtoken Pink Stable is a boutique located in historic downtown Camden. Established in 2014, Kathryn Couch's business provides both classic and trendy clothing at an affordable price for women of all ages. Kathryn filled an empty space in Camden's downtown after noticing there were few places where women could buy contemporary clothing with an element of southern flair. After securing private financing, she began implementing her unique business plan and quickly developed a loyal customer base. Currently, the business is expanding their brand and brainstorming ideas to create a greater following outside of Camden. Their Instagram page has amassed over 4,000 followers. This social media outlet is used to scale their business and provide merchandise to a wider range of potential customers. prgtoken Since its founding, Pink Stable has also made a significant positive impact in the community by maintaining its commitment to customer service and quality products. Through the Main Street South Carolina Program, the city of Camden has allocated $32.5 million to revitalize the historic downtown area and expand the local economy. Kathryn's business has helped inspire others to consider opening shops and restaurants in downtown Camden. Pink Stable has become an integral part of the community, proving that a Camden-based business can flourish through determination and a well-executed business plan. prgtoken Kathryn was recently awarded with the honor of South Carolina Young Entrepreneur of the Year by the South Carolina Small Business Administration in 2019 for her outstanding contributions. Pink Stable's success has led Kathryn to open another small business in the Camden area, Evelyn's Bridal Store, which was recognized as South Carolina's Best Bridal Store in 2017. I am honored to recognize Kathryn and the entire team at Pink Stable as the Senate Small Business of the Week. Their boutique is a great example of how strategic vision and determination can create commercial success, and I look forward to watching their continued growth.
DEMOCRATIC LEGISLATION
Mitch McConnell (Republican, KY) \u2014 2019-11-5

now, on another matter, last week the Nation saw several pivotal moments that shed light on the current state of the ic Party. Here in the Senate, as I mentioned, chose to filibuster funding for our national defense for the second time in 2 months. This funding was agreed to in the bipartisan, bicameral deal that Pelosi and the ic leader signed onto just a few months ago, but now they have walked away from the agreement they signed and filibustered funding for our military commanders. prgtoken Yesterday, we saw the Iranian regime celebrate--celebrate--the 40th anniversary of the taking of the American Embassy and the beginning of the Iranian hostage crisis. The familiar slogan, ``Death to America,'' was on full display. It was especially sobering to watch this display and remember that our own U.S. military commanders do not have the certainty they need for strategic planning because here in Washington found it politically advantageous to block it. prgtoken Over in the House, Pelosi continues to stall the U.S.-Mexico- Canada Agreement. USMCA would bring tens of billions in new commerce and create 176,000 new American jobs, but House would rather pursue prgtoken political theater. So American workers and farmers are still waiting. prgtoken However, while our ic colleagues block these bipartisan priorities, at least they are not shy about what they do support. We have seen what prioritize. We remember the Green New Deal, an effort to grab unprecedented control over American families' daily lives. Designing, building, or furnishing a home or business? want Washington to dictate how you do that. Commuting, traveling for vacation, mowing your lawn? They would like you to do that without gasoline or jet fuel sooner rather than later. Make a living producing, refining, or delivering affordable American energy? They want you to find another line of work whether you like it or not. That is the Green New Deal. prgtoken There is also the matter of Medicare for None. That is the scheme that would take the program that millions of American seniors rely on, throw away everything except the label, and paste that onto a new, one- size-fits-all, Washington-run insurance plan that would be mandatory for every American. Medicare, gone. Private plans and the popular Medicare Advantage Program, gone. Every health insurance plan that Americans get on the job, which over 180 million people depend on, gone. prgtoken This is literally what several of the leading ic Presidential contenders have endorsed--a new nationwide experiment in socialism. And every single American--man, woman, and child--would be the subject of this experiment, whether that is what we want for our families or not. From this mandatory one-size-fits-all insurance plan to new price controls that would limit lifesaving cures, our ic colleagues are rallying
RECOGNIZING RHINO METALS, INC.
James E. Risch (Republican, ID) \u2014 2019-11-5

as a member and former chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each month I recognize and celebrate the American entrepreneurial spirit by highlighting the success of a small business in my Home State of Idaho. However, in honor of Veterans Day on November 11, this month I will honor a veteran-owned small business for each of the 10 days the Senate is in legislative session. The personal sacrifices made by America's veterans have protected the very freedoms and values that give each of us and our children the ability to achieve the American dream. The skills veterans learn as members of the military are invaluable and undoubtedly contribute to Idaho's flourishing veteran business community. I am proud of the sacrifices veterans have made to protect our country and that they are choosing Idaho to call home when they complete their service in the military. As your U.S. Senator from the great State of Idaho, it is my pleasure to recognize Rhino Metals, Inc in Caldwell as the Veteran-owned Idaho Small Business of the Day for November 5, 2019. prgtoken Rhino Metals, Inc is owned and operated by U.S. Air Force veteran Don Suggs and is known for its quality, hand-crafted products. The company began in the 1990s as an aircraft restoration business and eventually expanded to sell gun safes, tool chests, and custom furniture. Suggs was inspired to open Rhino Metals following his time serving in the Air Force as a fighter pilot flying a McDonnell Douglas F-4 airplane, known as the ``rhino'' for its toughness and long nose. prgtoken After transitioning back to civilian life, Suggs used the skills and work ethic acquired during his military service to build his business. Rhino Metals makes an effort to give back to fellow veterans seeking to reenter civilian life. As a result, Suggs employs a large number veterans and remains committed to the values he learned while serving in the U.S. Air Force. prgtoken Congratulations to Don Suggs and all of the employees at Rhino Metals, Inc for being selected as the Veteran-owned Idaho Small Business of the Day for November 5, 2019. You make our great State proud, and I look forward to your continued growth and success.
NATIONAL VETERANS SMALL BUSINESS WEEK
Chuck Grassley (Republican, IA) \u2014 2019-11-5

veterans, meaning our veterans of war or veterans in uniform who have not been in a war environment, have a big impact on the American economy. There are 2.5 million veteran-owned businesses in the United States that account for more than $1.1 trillion in revenue. In Iowa, there are 26,119 veteran-owned businesses that employ 51,801 people and bring in $10.9 million. prgtoken Iowa is working hard to attract veterans and help them start and expand their businesses. I honor these hard-working entrepreneurs who have served our country by joining my colleagues in recognizing this week, the week of November 4, as National Veterans Small Business Week. prgtoken .
Tribute to Major General Jeff Burton (Executive Session)
Mitt Romney (Republican, UT) \u2014 2019-11-5

I wish to congratulate MG Jeff Burton, a man of remarkable achievement and character, on a career dedicated to public service. After 7 years of serving as the adjutant general of the Utah National Guard, Major General Burton leaves behind a distinguished legacy. prgtoken The Utah National Guard provides military forces that are ready to assist both State and Federal authorities in times of emergency and in times of war. It is comprised of 7,300 soldiers and airmen from the Utah Army National Guard and the Utah Air National Guard. prgtoken As adjutant general, Major General Burton oversaw the training and military preparation of soldiers and airmen throughout the State. He is a principled and dedicated leader who has set a high standard of conduct for the men and women under his command. prgtoken Major General Burton and his wife, Charn, have always cared for and supported Guard members and their families, particularly in the tragic times of loss. Their devotion to the servicemen and servicewomen of Utah cannot be overstated. prgtoken Major General Burton's life of service extends beyond his time as adjutant general. He was an assistant professor at both Brigham Young University and Utah Valley University, where he taught military science. prgtoken He was awarded the Bronze Star for his exceptionally meritorious service as the commander of the 1457th Engineer Combat Battalion during Operation Iraqi Freedom, during which his unit played a significant role in the initial ground war. Under his leadership, his unit also helped to rebuild the country after its having been devastated by conflict. prgtoken Our great State of Utah owes Major General Burton a debt of gratitude for his decades of service. We wish the honorable general all the best in his next chapter. prgtoken Thank you, Major General Burton, for your service to our State and to our Nation. prgtoken .