mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
TRUMP ADMINISTRATION'S DISASTER RESPONSE
Luis V. Gutiérrez (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2018-9-13

. Madam , before I respond to President 's claim that the rescue and recovery effort in Puerto Rico a year ago after Hurricane Maria was ``one of the best jobs that's ever been done,'' I want to make a few things clear. prgtoken First of all, everyone is praying for our friends and neighbors along the eastern seaboard who will be facing the wind and rain of Hurricane Florence today. I support them and the first responders who are helping and the people running shelters and delivering medicine to the sick and the injured; and I fully support FEMA, Homeland Security, and State and local governments for what they are doing, especially the brave men and women on the front line in harm's way today. prgtoken Secondly, in the last few weeks, the official death toll of Hurricane Maria was raised to 3,000 based on a meticulous study by George Washington's Milken Institute of Public Health, and the number is based on facts and the truth. More people died in Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico than died in Hurricane Katrina and that died in the attacks on September 11. prgtoken That is not fake news, . prgtoken The temptation is to fault FEMA and the job they did in Puerto Rico. I want to make clear, individuals at FEMA and FEMA as an agency did heroic work in Puerto Rico, and FEMA continues to do that work. prgtoken I flew with FEMA pilots 10 days after the storm hit, and I saw their work up close. It is clear that they saved lives. prgtoken But let me also be very, very clear. With 3,000 people dead, for the President to say that Puerto Rico was a success, a triumph of his Presidency, is simply delusional. prgtoken Only in the President's mind could he give himself an A-plus. Only in the President's mind could we go a year without an apology to the American people for his incompetence in managing a crisis where 3,000 people died, . And now he denies that they are even dead. prgtoken It takes a man of humility, honor, and compassion to admit when he has made a tremendous and deadly mistake in caring for the American people; and we know we do not have a man in the White House who is capable of such emotions of empathy, of basic human decency. prgtoken This Congress has failed to provide any meaningful oversight for fear they might embarrass the President with the facts. prgtoken Thursday will mark 1 year since the storm hit, and think back a year ago. The popular and charismatic mayor of San Juan, Carmen Yulin Cruz, called for help on national TV, saying people are dying. The President had a meltdown because he doesn't like being criticized by women, so the mayor's words were more than the President could take. prgtoken Most of us knew at the time, and all of us know now a year after the storm, the mayor was right and the President was wrong. People died. He was dead wrong. prgtoken Disasters require preparedness and rapid response, but FEMA was not fully prepared, and they were not fully supported in the r
JUDGE RUSSELL B. SUGARMON POST OFFICE BUILDING
Steve Cohen (Democrat, TN) \u2014 2018-9-13

I rise today in support of this body's action to pass HR. 5439, a bill I introduced to designate the U.S. Postal Office at 1320 Autumn Ave. Memphis, Tennessee as the ``Judge Russell B. Sugarmon Post Office.'' prgtoken I want to thank my colleagues from the Tennessee House delegation, Representatives Roe, Duncan, Fleischmann, DesJarlais, Cooper, Black, Blackburn, and Kustoff, all of whom cosponsored this legislation honoring a great American. I also want to thank Chairman Gowdy and Ranking Member Cummings for reporting this bill favorably out of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. prgtoken Born in Memphis, Tennessee in 1929, Judge Russell B. Sugarmon is heralded for his contributions to the City of Memphis and his work to reverse the tide of racism in Tennessee, paving the way for future black leaders in the area and inspiring their efforts to increase their representation in elected, ic bodies. prgtoken Working alongside notable Memphis pioneers and leaders in the fight for racial justice and equality, Judge Sugarmon was instrumental in using the courts to desegregate public transportation, restaurants and public facilities and the desegregation of Memphis public schools. prgtoken As a trailblazer for African-Americans in public office and a leader in the Civil Rights Movement, it is only fitting that we enshrine our recognition of Judge Sugarmon's contributions to the City of Memphis and the African American community by naming the 1320 Autumn Ave. Post Office in Memphis, Tennessee in honor of his legacy. prgtoken s in the House for voting to pass this measure honoring Judge Russell B. Sugarmon, an exemplary American and titan of his time. prgtoken I urge my colleagues in the Senate to quickly take up this bill and send the legislation to the President's desk. prgtoken The bill was ordered to be engrossed and read a third time, was read the third time, and passed. prgtoken The title of the bill was amended so as to read: ``A bill to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 1325 Autumn Avenue in Memphis, Tennessee, as the `Judge Russell B. Sugarmon Post Office Building'.''. prgtoken A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.
CONGRATULATING DR. LEANA WEN
Nanette Diaz Barragán (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2018-9-13

I rise today to congratulate Dr. Leana Wen. prgtoken Dr. Wen is the new president of Planned Parenthood. Dr. Wen is an immigrant. Her family came here from China, and they were granted political asylum when she was a child. She is a Rhodes Scholar, and she grew up poor in my congressional district in Compton, California. prgtoken She has worked to close the racial health disparities that are happening in healthcare and to reduce infant mortality. She has been a voice against cuts to healthcare. And she is a champion for health clinic funding across the country, to make sure they can continue to serve low-income families. prgtoken I am proud to say that she is a fighter, and I am proud to say that she grew up in Compton, California. prgtoken With that, Dr. Wen, congratulations. I am looking forward to working with you and Planned Parenthood.
HONORING DR. MICHAEL A. BASTON
Nita M. Lowey (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2018-9-13

I rise today to honor Dr. Michael A. Baston on his inauguration as Seventh President of Rockland Community College (RCC) in Suffern, N.Y. on September 13, 2018. prgtoken Dr. Baston began his career as a public interest lawyer, representing educational and social justice organizations and this work led him to pursue a career in academia. He joined RCC from LaGuardia Community College in Queens, part of the City University of New York, where he held several key leadership positions, including Vice President for Student Affairs and Associate Provost. Known for his work in integrating student success initiatives to advance college completion through guided pathways, Dr. Baston also helped grow LaGuardia's grant funding with a special focus on diverse and underserved student populations. prgtoken During his distinguished career, Dr. Baston's work has been featured in the Chronicle of Higher Education, Atlantic, Diverse Education, Community College Times, Education Advisory Board, MSNBC, and Handbook for Student Affairs in Community Colleges. Dr. Baston was selected as a member of the inaugural class of Aspen Institute Presidential Fellows for Community College Excellence where he explored systemic issues impacting the educational access pipeline and student success. prgtoken He holds a BA from Iona College, a JD from Brooklyn Law School, and an EdD from St. John Fisher College. Named by Diverse Issues in Higher Education magazine among the most Notable Education Leaders of 2017, Dr. Baston is an extraordinary man whose dedication and determination have inspired all who know him. prgtoken , Dr. Baston's numerous accomplishments have left a lasting impact on the communities he has served and he has pledged to broaden the scope, reach and influence of RCC in the years ahead. I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing the extraordinary leadership and vision of Dr. Michael Baston and to welcome him to Rockland Community College.
UPON THE RETIREMENT OF MICHAEL THERIAULT
Jackie Speier (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2018-9-13

I rise along with ic Leader Nancy Pelosi, to commend the extraordinary service of Michael Theriault, the retiring Secretary-Treasurer of the San Francisco Building and Construction Trades Council, after 13 years of service to the council and many years of service to the San Francisco Bay Area. prgtoken Mike graduated from St. John's College in Santa Fe, New Mexico. He became an Apprentice in Ironworkers Local 377 in 1985 and in that position was named Apprentice of the Year. He was so successful as an apprentice and journeyman that in 2001 Local 331 selected him to be the Business Representative, and then elected him to the position in 2003. He would later remark that his skill at negotiating agreements came in large part from his understanding of the day-to-day realities of working at a job site. As he noted, ``Understanding of the work, the flow of work, is more important to union leaders in the trades than in most other unions . . . you come to union leadership after actually having run work.'' prgtoken In addition to serving as a delegate to the San Francisco Building and Construction Trades Council, Mike represented his local as a delegate to councils in San Mateo, Marin, Sonoma-Lake-Mendocino and Humboldt-Del Norte counties. For any of you who know the geography of California, you would instantly realize that Mike has been a busy man. It's 350 miles and a 6\1/2\ hour drive between San Francisco and Crescent City in the most northern county of California. It takes the fortitude of an ironworker to make that trip on a regular basis, representing the interests of members whose livelihoods depend upon Mike's skills and dedication to their wellbeing. prgtoken These counties are also the core counties comprising the Golden Gate Transportation District, the entity that built and manages the Golden Gate Bridge. Mike was appointed a director of the bridge district in 2011. The bridge itself is a testament to the skill of his members from generations ago through to our times. prgtoken In addition to serving on these other entities, Mike served on the Executive Board of the San Francisco Labor Council, the Executive Board of the California State Building and Construction Trades Council, on the Executive Committee of the San Francisco Housing Action Coalition, and as a member of the SPUR Board of Directors. prgtoken In the depths of the Great Recession, Mike fought hard for work via the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act so that the 40% unemployment rate in his hall would be dramatically reduced. He noted to us and to our staff that people were losing their homes and their hopes. Over $400 million in federal funding was delivered to help construct the new Transbay Terminal. That Act, championed by then- Nancy Pelosi and supported by the entire Bay Area delegation, literally created the foundation of the project. Other policies created by the City of San Francisco also contributed mightily to a resu
SPECIAL ENVOY TO MONITOR AND COMBAT ANTI-SEMITISM ACT OF 2018
Steny H. Hoyer (Democrat, MD) \u2014 2018-9-13

I want to add my voice to those of my colleagues who have expressed strong support for this bill, H.R. 1911. It is imperative that the United States leads in the effort to stamp out anti-Semitism both at home and around the world. That's why we need an ambassadorial-level special envoy to monitor and combat anti- Semitism. prgtoken In recent years, we've witnessed a disturbing rise in attacks against Jews and Jewish communities all around the world. Americans were deeply shaken last year by the virulent anti-Semitism on display in our own country during the white-supremacist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia. I continue to be alarmed by attacks on Israel and its policies that employ rhetoric historically associated with anti- Semitism and that repeat old patterns of singling out the Jewish State in ways that mimic ancient biases. There must be no place for such rhetoric or activities in our country or anywhere that calls itself a free and democratic society. prgtoken I commend Ranking Member Engel of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, along with Reps. Lowey, Schneider, Deutch, and Veasey, for their hard work with the bill's cosponsors to ensure bipartisan passage of this legislation. I hope it will send a strong message throughout the world that the United States will never waver in its effort to end the scourge of anti-Semitism and defend our ally Israel.
NATIONAL QUANTUM INITIATIVE ACT
Eddie Bernice Johnson (Democrat, TX) \u2014 2018-9-13

. Madam , such time as I may consume. prgtoken Madam , I rise in support of H.R. 6227, the National Quantum Initiative Act. prgtoken I want to take a moment to thank Chairman Smith for introducing this good legislation, of which I am a proud original cosponsor. I also want to express my appreciation for the deliberative, bipartisan process by which this bill was developed over the past year. prgtoken H.R. 6227 is the product of engagement with key stakeholders in industry, academia, and the Federal Government. prgtoken The Science, Space, and Technology Committee held a hearing on quantum technology last October. At that hearing, we heard from agency, university, and industry representatives about the recent breakthroughs in quantum sensing, quantum communication, and quantum computing. We also heard about the priorities for Federal investment in quantum research and the need for a strategic and coordinated approach going forward. prgtoken In addition to the hearing, committee staff held numerous bipartisan meetings and roundtables to inform the development of this bill. prgtoken Quantum information science and technology promises to revolutionize the way we solve problems. Many believe that quantum computing technology has the potential to accelerate progress on some of the most pressing challenges, including how to address climate change and understand complex diseases like cancer. prgtoken While it is difficult to predict how far-ranging the societal and economic impacts of quantum computing will be, recent breakthroughs demonstrate that we are rapidly clearing the necessary engineering hurdles. It is truly an exciting time for this bill and for the wide range of innovators who are planning to take advantage of these new breakthrough capabilities. prgtoken The race is on to build the world's first quantum computer capable of solving problems that have long eluded conventional computers. Not unlike the space race in the 1960s, the stakes in today's quantum race are high. Global leadership in quantum computing brings with it a military and intelligence edge, as well as a competitive advantage in what many expect to be a massive industry in decades to come. prgtoken At this time, when China, Europe, and Russia are investing heavily in quantum research and technology development, it is imperative that we do everything we can to maintain our global standing as the leader in this area. We must invest more in research. We need to ensure that we are educating and training the next generation of top quantum scientists and engineers. And we should do more to encourage partnerships between academia, industry, and government. prgtoken The National Quantum Initiative Act will set us on the right path. H.R. 6227 directs the President to establish a 10-year National Quantum Initiative Program, with the National Institute of Standards and Technology, the National Science Foundation, and the Department of Energy p
RECOGNIZING MR. LORENZO CANDELARIA
Michelle Lujan Grisham (Democrat, NM) \u2014 2018-9-13

I rise today to recognize Mr. Lorenzo Candelaria, whose family's farm has played an integral role in our community's food system and culture for over 300 years. Mr. Candeleria is the owner of Cornelio Candelaria Organics, located in the South Valley. prgtoken Mr. Candelaria's family has lived in New Mexico for 500 years and farmed in the Atrisco Valley for seven generations over the course of 300 years. Originally, the Candeleria family farm produced crops such as corn, beans, squash, and New Mexico's world famous chiles. Mr. Candelaria has expanded to make other produce like cucumbers, melons, asparagus, and blackberries. prgtoken Mr. Candelaria has also certified his land as USDA Organic, a significant investment that illustrates his desire to pass the farm down to future generations. He uses an acequia system to irrigate his land, an especially sustainable process that restores the underground water tables. Rather than focusing on only one crop, Mr. Candelaria is committed to responsible farming practices like crop rotation, which is healthier for soil fertility. prgtoken Mr. Candelaria is also dedicated to teaching farming skills and life lessons to young people in our community. Every summer, he invites interns to work on the farm in order to learn about his responsible agricultural practices as well as how to operate the equipment. He also regularly invites student groups from local prgtoken schools to learn about agriculture and nutrition issues. prgtoken , I want to thank Mr. Lorenzo Candelaria for all the valuable contributions him and his family have made to our community. His organic produce has been a wonderful option for local shoppers and restaurants looking for healthy options, and his warmth and generosity have helped shape the lives of so many young people in the Albuquerque area.
HONORING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE EVERSON MUSEUM OF ART
John Katko (Republican, NY) \u2014 2018-9-17

I rise today in celebration of the Everson Museum of Art's 50th anniversary. Everson has long been the premier art museum in Central New York, helping drive the regional economy and contributing to the identity of our community. Located at 401 on Street in downtown Syracuse, the building is considered a leading example 1960s architecture. prgtoken Everson traces its roots back to 1897, when art historian George Fisk Comfort established the Syracuse Museum of Fine Arts. The museum grew rapidly and was constantly changing its location to house an extensive collection. It was not until 1968 that a permanent museum was built, made possible through a generous donation by Helen Everson. In honor of Mrs. Everson's gift, the new art collection was renamed Everson Museum of Art. prgtoken The museum is home to nearly 11,000 pieces of art, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and videos. Notable works are portraits of George Washington, Edward Hick's The Peaceable Kingdom and several Marja Vallila sculptures. Additionally, Everson holds the distinction of displaying one of the first video art collections in the United States. prgtoken , I ask my colleagues in the House to join me in recognizing Everson Museum of Art's 50th anniversary. Under the excellent leadership of Director Elizabeth Dunbar, it is my hope the museum continue to thrive for many years to come. Furthermore, I encourage my colleagues in the House to applaud all talented artists and their contributions to communities around the country.
IN RECOGNITION OF MR. DAVID DeSILVA
David G. Valadao (Republican, CA) \u2014 2018-9-17

I rise today to commend Mr. David DeSilva on being inducted into the California Agricultural Teachers Association Hall of Fame. prgtoken David DeSilva was born and raised in California's Central Valley. His passion for teaching agriculture was developed from a young age. Growing up on a dairy farm, David's parents instilled in him a deep appreciation for agriculture. He worked alongside them on the farm and was heavily involved in the Future Farmers of America organization. After graduating from California Polytechnic University, San Luis Obispo, Mr. DeSilva began his career in education at Hanford High School. prgtoken After five-years at Hanford High School, Mr. DeSilva continued his career at College of the Sequoias in Visalia, California. He would remain in this position for thirty-years, retiring in 2014. Mr. DeSilva's tenure at College of the Sequoias was impressive and reflective of his dedication to agriculture and his students. As the agriculture division chair at the college, he was well respected by his peers and viewed as a leader on agriculture issues. Many of his former students have become agricultural teachers, industry leaders, and business owners. prgtoken Mr. DeSilva's impact extended far beyond the classroom. Locally, he created and implemented the California Crop Center at the World Ag Expo in Tulare, California. It is known as a hub of activity for a wide variety of the top crops grown in the state. He was also responsible for the development of College for Kids, a summer agriculture program for children. Mr. DeSilva's influence eventually led to international opportunities. He promoted agriculture at colleges in the Ukraine, Russia, and even Haiti. prgtoken Whether locally or internationally, Mr. DeSilva's goal remained the same: working with young students and increasing the community's knowledge about agriculture. Even in retirement, he remains actively involved with the Knights of Columbus organization and local Future Farmers of America chapters. Throughout Mr. DeSilva's childhood, nearly four-decade career, and into retirement, agriculture education has been a defining purpose for his life. prgtoken To be inducted into the California Agricultural Teachers Association Hall of Fame, an individual must be a retired agriculture educator with proven dedication for vocational agriculture, agriculture education, and the Future Farmers of America organization. Mr. DeSilva has consistently demonstrated his dedication to this field throughout his life and is unequivocally deserving of this honor. prgtoken , I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in commending Mr. David DeSilva on his dedicated service to the Central Valley and on being inducted into the California Agricultural Teachers Association Hall of Fame.