mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
LEGISLATIVE SESSION
Charles E. Schumer (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2024-5-2

after spending decades pushing for a national abortion ban, packing our courts with rightwing, extreme judges, and annihilating Roe v. Wade, hard-right s have created a race to the bottom when it comes to reproductive rights. prgtoken This week, Florida outlawed abortion after just 6 weeks, before many women even know they are pregnant. The Arizona Supreme Court recently upheld a Civil War-era law from 1864 banning abortion almost entirely, without exception for rape or incest. And 19 other States across America now have near-total bans or severe restrictions on abortions, beyond the standards set by Roe. prgtoken Let's not forget how we got here, because the extreme abortion bans in Florida and Arizona didn't happen in a vacuum. They are the result of MAGA s' decades-long campaign to annihilate Roe and plunge our country into chaos. Remember, boasted he was ``proudly the person responsible''--those are his words--for the disastrous decision to end Roe. prgtoken The extreme abortion bans are also a direct consequence of the Senate agenda to install rightwing, anti-abortion judges at every level of the Federal court system, including the hard-right Supreme Court Justices who voted to end Roe. Remember, most of the same s are on record supporting a national abortion ban. prgtoken The bottom line is that the extreme abortion bans are a direct consequence of s getting into power. That is precisely what s will do, given the chance to govern. They will try to take us back to 1864, with draconian abortion bans and attacks on Americans' personal freedoms. prgtoken And, make no mistake, s in Arizona will have to answer for their anti-abortion record in November. s in Florida will have to answer for their anti-abortion record in November. s across America will still have to answer for their anti-abortion record in November. Federal Aviation Administration Authorization prgtoken , on the FAA, today, the Senate will continue to move forward on FAA reauthorization. We just have 8 days to go before the current FAA authorization expires. So it will take bipartisan cooperation to get this done before the deadline. prgtoken Both parties have every reason in the world to get FAA done as quickly as possible and as smoothly as possible to keep our skies safe, our airports safe, and our Federal employees taken care of. I hope the Senate can come together to get this important legislation finished. Federal Judiciary prgtoken , on judge shopping, the central principle of America's justice system can be boiled down to four words we all know so well: ``equal justice under law.'' When you go to court, a judge's personal preferences should make no difference in the outcome. prgtoken But, recently, the hard right has turned ``equal justice under law'' o
ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS
John Barrasso (Republican, WY) \u2014 2024-5-2

I rise today to recognize and honor the 50th anniversary of the Art Museum at the University of Wyoming--UW--in Laramie, WY. This important cultural icon will celebrate the occasion during its annual fundraising gala on May 18, 2024. prgtoken The University of Wyoming Art Museum prides itself on connecting people from all walks of life to experience the power of the arts and cultural heritage. It possesses over 11,000 art objects in its permanent collection. Regional, national, and international exhibits and local activities are designed to engage visitors in thoughtful dialogues regarding our collective humanity. prgtoken This well-esteemed museum had humble beginnings. In 1971, UW Art Department Chair James Boyle and Art History Professor James Forrest established the university's first museum dedicated to art. Both believed a university needed a tangible collection of all genres of art, media, and cultures in order to have a viable visual art program. Forrest became its first director. prgtoken The small museum was housed in the lower level of the fine arts building. Its two exhibition spaces occupied what are now dance studios in the Buchanan Center for the Performing Arts. During this time, the museum focused on building its collections and conducting outreach around the State. prgtoken In 1988, Director Charles Guerin recognized the need for a larger space to display UW's collections. He applied for--and received--a $400,000 Challenge Grant from the National Endowment for the Arts, NEA. This grant was the largest ever awarded by the NEA at that time. A robust capital fundraising campaign followed. Supporters, donors, and artists raised an astonishing $7.5 million for the first phase of the new art museum facility. prgtoken The University of Wyoming broke ground on the project in October 1990. The 137,000-square-foot building took 3 years and cost $19 million to complete. On September 10, 1993, then Wyoming Governor Mike Sullivan and UW president Terry Roark cut the ribbon to officially open the Centennial Complex. Today, it houses the art museum and the American Heritage Center. prgtoken Internationally acclaimed architect Antoine Predock designed the iconic Laramie landmark. His inspiration for the cone-shaped building was an ``archival mountain,'' mirroring neighboring Medicine Bow Peak to the west and Pilot Knob to the east. The galleries of the art museum represent the rendezvous sites of the pre-settled West, where people gathered to trade, socialize, and exchange ideas. prgtoken For 50 years, the UW Art Museum has placed art at the center of education. Its ``Museum as Classroom'' concept features innovative educational and public programs for all ages. The Ann Simpson Artmobile and the Touring Exhibition Service were created in 1982. These remarkable outreach programs share quality artwork with Wyoming communities that often have limited access to original art. The dedicated staff
TRIBUTE TO TOM HARPER
James Lankford (Republican, OK) \u2014 2024-5-2

I rise today to offer my sincere gratitude to Tom Harper, a lieutenant colonel in the Army National Guard. From his beginning as an infantryman in the Florida Army National Guard, he graduated--distinguished--from the Georgia Military College as an artillery officer who served five operational tours, across three continents. prgtoken A peerless expert in appropriations and military construction, Lieutenant Colonel Harper sought to increase the Army National Guard's contribution to the Nation's security. He recently served as a legislative liaison on Capitol Hill, dedicated to the relationship and understanding between our branches. prgtoken Throughout his military career, Lieutenant Colonel Harper remained principled--in combat and in counsel--offering his best wisdom and giving our Nation his unreserved courage. I have personally seen the excellence of his service to our Nation. I wish him the best in his next chapter of service to our Nation.
TRIBUTE TO BRETT FORBES
Eric Schmitt (Republican, MO) \u2014 2024-5-2

I rise today to honor Brett Forbes of Bonne Terre, MO, for his inspirational participation on Team USA's Paralympics powerlifting team. prgtoken Brett, an 18-year-old from St. Francois County, was born with spina bifida, but has never let his condition keep him from playing sports. Brett's siblings also share his love for athletics; his older brother Drew is an NFL offensive lineman for the Cleveland Browns, and his older sister Holly plays professional basketball overseas in Australia. prgtoken Since Brett was 6 years old he excelled at wheelchair basketball and committed to training to be a powerlifter. His hard work earned him the opportunity to compete on behalf of Team USA at the World Para Powerlifting American Open in St. Louis, MO. His performance was underscored by his 341-pound lift that broke the American rookie record. Brett did not even realize he was competing for the record, but told reporters that he was simply doing what he trained for. Brett was awarded gold and bronze medals, but his greatest achievement has been his moving story and lesson to all athletes to work hard in order to reach your goals. prgtoken Brett Forbes is truly a champion of Missouri. He demonstrates a resilient work ethic that encourages all of us to cultivate the skills and talents we possess to reach new heights. I am proud to recognize his work on the U.S. Paralympics powerlifting team and commend his parents for encouraging his and all of their children's athletic endeavors. Brett is a wonderful representative for Missouri and, more broadly, the United States on the world stage. I wish him continued success and am excited to see all this young man will accomplish in the future.
LEGISLATIVE SESSION
Tom Cotton (Republican, AR) \u2014 2024-5-2

I thank Senator Boozman. prgtoken I join with Senator Boozman to honor former Senator David Pryor--a great Arkansan, statesman, and dedicated public servant. prgtoken David Pryor first entered public office in the Arkansas State House of Representatives when he was only 26 years old. Not even 6 years later, his fellow Arkansans elected him to Congress, where he served in the House for 6 years. In 1972, he narrowly lost a race for Senate against a longtime ic incumbent, having pushed the race into a runoff, but the grace and magnanimity he showed in defeat that year led him directly to victory 2 years later when he was elected Governor in 1974. After two successful terms in the Governor's mansion, he was elected to this body in 1978. He served here with distinction for 18 years. prgtoken Over the course of his storied political career, David Pryor won an impressive 12 elections and served the people in public office for more than 30 years. prgtoken He was a reformer who opposed segregationist policies of his own party, championed the interests of seniors and farmers, and was respected by friend and foe alike. He fought for better conditions in our nursing homes, lower prescription drug prices for our sick, and the Taxpayer Bill of Rights to give relief to the average American. prgtoken He led Arkansas through recession and recovery and left an enduring legacy on our State government. Throughout his time in political office, he kept a plaque on his desk with three simple words: ``Arkansas comes prgtoken first''--an example that continues to inspire me and Senator Boozman and all of those who serve the Natural State. prgtoken After leaving the Senate, he didn't just retire or fade quietly away or tend to his own private affairs; rather, he continued to serve others. He supported the University of Arkansas, he established the David and Barbara Pryor Center for Arkansas Oral and Visual History, and he contributed to a series of academic and humanitarian ventures. prgtoken David Pryor leaves behind a loving family, including his wife, Barbara, of 66 years; three sons, including Mark, who also served in the Senate for 12 years; and two sisters. My prayers and the prayers of so many Arkansans are with the whole Pryor family during this moment of their grief. prgtoken But David Pryor also leaves behind a grateful State. When he retired from the Senate, he said: Arkansas owes me nothing, and I owe Arkansas everything. prgtoken I would submit that is not quite right. Our State does owe David Pryor quite a bit. It owes him a debt of gratitude for a life well lived and committed to public service and inspiring so many others. prgtoken He fought for what he believed would make Arkansas better, and for that, we will remember the life and legacy of David Pryor with fondness, respect, and gratitude. prgtoken .
REMEMBERING COACH BOB TYLER
Cindy Hyde-Smith (Republican, MS) \u2014 2024-5-2

I wish to pay tribute to the life and service of a Mississippi coaching legend and close personal friend, Coach Bob Tyler, who passed away on April 28, 2024. prgtoken Born and raised in Water Valley, MS, Coach Tyler attended Water Valley High School and, later, the University of Mississippi. prgtoken Following his service in the U.S. Army, Coach Tyler began his remarkable 45-year career as a coach and teacher. This journey started at Water Valley High School, with stops at high schools in Okalona, Corinth, Senatobia and Meridian. After posting an impressive 91-19-6 record over 11 years at the high school level, Coach Tyler began coaching at the collegiate level, including years at Northwest Community College, North Texas State, Millsaps College, and on John Vaught's Ole Miss staff, Bear Bryant's Alabama staff, and prgtoken as head football coach and athletic director at Mississippi State University. prgtoken Induction into the Mississippi Association of Coaches Hall of Fame, the Mississippi State Athletics Hall of Fame, and the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame, are among the numerous honors awarded to acknowledge Coach Tyler's achievements. In 2023, the North Mississippi Fish Hatchery was also renamed the ``Bob Tyler Fish Hatchery,'' in his honor. prgtoken Coach Tyler's accomplishments and impact extended far beyond the football field. Following his retirement from coaching, he would go on to serve as deputy director of the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks, help start the Archery in Mississippi Schools program, and support the Fallen Officers Memorial. He also served as the director of economic development for Yalobusha County for 15 years until 2022. prgtoken Coach Tyler, an active member of the First Baptist Church of Water Valley, MS, was a dedicated family man, married to his high school sweetheart and wife of 69 years, Dale. They raised three children-- Breck, Cam, and Drew--and wholeheartedly welcomed eight-grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. prgtoken For myself and all those who knew Coach Tyler, I honor his years of service and a life well lived. He will be remembered as a great Mississippian, who dedicated his life to the game that he loved and to the generations of players and people that he educated on the field and in life. prgtoken I pray his family and friends find solace in that legacy. My condolences go out to all of them.
JOHN C. STENNIS CENTER FOR PUBLIC SERVICE--PUBLIC SERVICE REVIEW
Trent Kelly (Republican, MS) \u2014 2024-5-2

it is my great privilege to serve on the Board of Trustees of the John C. Stennis Center for Public Service which, as part of its mission, seeks to encourage young people to careers in public service. Public Service Review, a quarterly publication produced by the Center, does just that. I would like to encourage anyone seeking hope for our nation's future to read the recently released Fall 2023 edition of Public Service Review. prgtoken In this issue you will find students' reflections from their time serving on their college campuses and in their state and federal governments as well as interviews of public servant leaders. Featured students include Arielle Galinsky of Tufts University, Sam Guerrero of the University of Alabama, Rohini Achal of the University of Washington, Jacob Greenberg of the University of Vermont, Kennedy Guest of the University of Mississippi, Weiss O'Connor of the U.S. Air Force Academy, Anusha Fathepure of the University of Oklahoma, and Avraham Spraragen of Georgetown University. prgtoken The work of these students shows their passion for serving and their commitment to bettering our country. On behalf of my fellow Stennis Center Board of Trustees members, U.S. Senator Chris Coons, Mr. Tom Daffron, U.S. Representative Terri Sewell, and U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, I would like to congratulate the Stennis Center on a wonderful publication and encourage everyone to read Public Service Review Fall 2023 at www.stennis.gov.
COMMENT INTEGRITY AND MANAGEMENT ACT OF 2024
Jake LaTurner (Republican, KS) \u2014 2024-5-6

such time as I may consume. prgtoken Every American deserves the opportunity to participate in our political system, which includes sharing their views on agency rulemaking. prgtoken Agencies are required to provide an opportunity to participate in rulemaking by submitting written views or data on draft rules. prgtoken Recent advances have expanded the ability for the public to comment on proposed rules electronically. However, agencies may struggle to manage computer-generated or mass comments. prgtoken H.R. 7528, the Comment Integrity and Management Act, provides additional support to agencies navigating these new challenges by allowing them the flexibility necessary to manage electronic comments. prgtoken The bill requires agencies to verify that any comment submitted electronically has been submitted by an actual human. The bill also provides agencies with additional authorities to assist in processing and analyzing mass comments submitted electronically. prgtoken It requires agencies to identify, to the extent practicable, if the comment is a mass comment and indicate this identification on any publicly available copy of the comment. prgtoken This bill also requires agencies to establish and make public any policies prgtoken they have regarding how they will handle computer-generated and mass comments in the rulemaking process. prgtoken Further, this legislation requires the Office of Management and Budget to issue implementing guidance to agencies and requires the Government Accountability Office to submit a report to Congress. prgtoken It is time that our Federal agencies adapt their processes to accommodate the latest technologies. prgtoken I thank Representative Clay Higgins for his idea and work in developing this forward-thinking legislation. prgtoken , .
WELCOMING THE HONORABLE TIMOTHY M. KENNEDY TO THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
John Kennedy (Republican, LA) \u2014 2024-5-6

I thank Congressman Nadler, my colleagues in the New York delegation, , and Leader Jeffries. prgtoken , I stand before you humbled by the opportunity God has given us to be together in this moment, this awesome and magnificent responsibility that has been granted to me by the people of western New York. prgtoken I am grateful to those who have entrusted me with their vote and their confidence to represent our beloved Buffalo-Niagara region in the United States Congress. prgtoken I want to take a moment to recognize my family, who is here with me, my wife, Katie, and our children, Connor, Eireann, and Padraic. I also want to recognize my parents, Martin and Mary Kennedy, and my in-laws, Dave and Jane Duerk. My brother, John, also made the visit down, along with many other family members and friends. I am grateful that they can all join us here today. prgtoken Looking down on us are our baby angel, Brigid, along with so many other family members and friends who have passed on and whose spirits remain with us here today on this auspicious occasion. They are no doubt toasting and celebrating in Heaven above. prgtoken Calling Buffalo, New York, and America home were the O'Briens and O'Donohues, Wilsons and Flynns, Dobmeirs and Stearns, McCarthys and Duffys. Mixed all together, the result is a Kennedy. prgtoken I hail from the City of Good Neighbors, the community of good neighbors; the original home of the Seneca Nation of Indians; the village of Buffalo, burned to the ground by the British in the War of 1812, and rebuilt and incorporated in 1832; the western terminus of the Erie Canal, helping to transform our Nation through improved commerce; a border community with our greatest ally, Canada, to the north; a region surrounded by Great Lakes; and, in between, one of the greatest wonders of the world, Niagara Falls. The grandeur of the falls is only surpassed by the people who have defined the region around us. prgtoken Today, we stand as a community of patriotic citizens who have always championed democracy and freedom, from the days of serving as a final stop on the Underground Railroad to the Niagara Movement, the precursor of the NAACP, which was formed in our community. The equality and justice these leaders strove for over a century ago has yet to be fully achieved, and there is still so much more work to be done. prgtoken In Buffalo-Niagara, we walk in the footsteps of Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr Mary Talbert, Shirley Chisholm, and so many other civil rights leaders. In their spirit, we march on. prgtoken It was Niagara Falls that made Buffalo the City of Light. While we have seen our share of darkness, Buffalo is seeing a resurgence that generations prgtoken only dreamt of, as a melting pot of ethnicities and cultures are helping to redefine our region and an economic renaissance has taken hold. We are a working-class community with a belief in achieving a better life an
LUKE LETLOW POST OFFICE BUILDING
James R. Baird (Republican, IN) \u2014 2024-5-7

unfortunately, due to a district commitment, I was unable to cast five votes today. Had I been present, I would have voted: prgtoken YEA on Roll Call No. 182, Kelly, PA Amendment No. 3 to H.R. 6192; prgtoken NAY on Roll Call No. 183, the Motion to Recommit on H.R. 6192; prgtoken YEA on Roll Call No. 184, Passage of H.R. 6192, Hands Off Our Home Appliances Act; prgtoken YEA on Roll Call No. 185, Consideration of the Veto Message on H.J. Res. 98, Providing for congressional disapproval of the rule submitted by the National Labor Relations Board relating to ``Standard for Determining Joint Employer Status''; and prgtoken YEA on Roll Call No. 186, Suspend the rules and pass H.R. 7423, Luke Letlow Post Office Building.
PIMA COUNCIL ON AGING SALUTES CENTENARIANS
Juan Ciscomani (Republican, AZ) \u2014 2024-5-7

let me be clear: Our border is broken and has been for a long time. prgtoken For 3 years, Americans across the Nation, and especially in border communities like mine, are suffering the consequences of this historic crisis every single day. prgtoken The ineffective open-border policies implemented by Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas have made our country less safe at a time when the world is most dangerous. prgtoken Disturbingly, new documents subpoenaed by the Homeland Security Committee uncover the egregious lengths Secretary Mayorkas goes to to ensure inadmissible migrants are let into the United States. The committee found that DHS used over 50 airports, including in my home State of Arizona, to help illegally process more than 400,000 inadmissible migrants into the country through their unlawful mass parole program. prgtoken Implementing this program was not done for the benefit of the public or for urgent humanitarian need. It was done as an unlawful sleight of hand by Secretary Mayorkas to hide the true scale of the crisis he created from the American people. prgtoken The Immigration and Nationality Act clearly states that parole may only be granted on a case-by-case basis for significant public benefit or urgent humanitarian need. prgtoken These flights are none of these things. Granting mass parole to hundreds of thousands of inadmissible migrants in this district is in direct violation of the law and is yet another in a long list of failures by the DHS Secretary that has been derelict in his duties.
Vote on Welton Nomination (Executive Session)
John Thune (Republican, SD) \u2014 2024-5-7

. The following Senators are necessarily absent: the Senator from Wyoming (Mr. Barrasso), the Senator from Indiana (Mr. Braun), the Senator from Arkansas (Mr. Cotton), the Senator from Oklahoma (Mr. Lankford), the Senator from Kentucky (Mr. Paul), the Senator from Florida (Mr. Rubio), and the Senator from Alabama (Mr. Tuberville). prgtoken Further, if present and voting: the Senator from Kentucky (Mr. Paul) would have voted ``nay.''