mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
LEGISLATIVE SESSION
Mitch McConnell (Republican, KY) \u2014 2023-10-26

I was devastated to hear the news last night of a deadly shooting in Lewiston, ME. I know the entire Senate stands behind our colleagues Senator Collins and Senator King as they help their State marshal its response. prgtoken We pray especially for the victims of this senseless violence, for their families, and for the law enforcement personnel working tirelessly to save lives and bring the suspect to justice. of the House Mike Johnson prgtoken , now, on an entirely different matter, yesterday, I spoke with the newly elected of the House, Mike Johnson. I congratulated him on his victory, and I expressed my support as he begins to steer the House majority. prgtoken We have a lot of work ahead of us. House and Senate s need to work together on a number of urgent priorities, beginning with supplemental appropriations for a number of our national security priorities. So I look forward to meeting with the soon to begin this important work. Israel prgtoken , every day brings new harrowing details of the terrorist attacks of October 7, and we continue to learn more about the role Iran plays in aiding and abetting terror. Just yesterday, new reports indicated that hundreds of terrorists from Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad traveled to Iran last month for specialized combat training with Tehran's murderous Quds Force. prgtoken Of course, waiting for specific evidence of tactical involvement really misses the point. Iran is the world's leading state sponsor of terror. It has spent decades supporting proxy terrorists who share their hatred for Israel and America precisely so Tehran can maintain plausible deniability. We cannot lose sight of this savage charade. Evil will continue to target the United States and our allies, whether we pay attention to it or not. prgtoken And the threats our adversaries pose are all connected. Iran doesn't just underwrite terrorist attacks on Israel; it outfits Russia with drones to help kill Ukrainians. China doesn't just menace Taiwan; it helps Iran circumvent international sanctions by trading consumer goods for oil. And Russia isn't just pummeling a sovereign neighbor; it has joined China for joint naval exercises in the Sea of Japan, as well as off the coast of Alaska. prgtoken Our adversaries' ambitions are not local. They have been showing us for years that they are determined to challenge American leadership, undermine our interests, and weaken our alliances. prgtoken But on every front, the administration's response has fallen short. The President was hesitant to deter Russia's aggression in the first place and has dithered about helping equip Ukraine to defeat it. He has prioritized engagement with China on climate policy over building resilient supply chains with trusted allies. prgtoken And just listen to his administration's jaw-dropping naivet
ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2024
Richard McCormick (Republican, GA) \u2014 2023-10-26

. Madam Chair, I am glad it is agreed that this is a problem nationwide. I am focused on my district, however. I think I am the representation for my district. prgtoken I think, in fiscal year 2023, the operations and management budget for the Army Corps was 11 percent more than the previous year, at $5.08 billion instead of $4.57 billion, which makes our case that there is no reason to use these funds to close the most popular destination for people from all over to come to our lake in our district. prgtoken Therefore, Madam Chair, I now, more than ever, think it is important to protect our outdoors. Keep the campgrounds around Lake Lanier open and accessible to the public. prgtoken Madam Chair, .
TRIBUTE TO SHAWN GREMP
John Barrasso (Republican, WY) \u2014 2023-10-26

I would like to take the opportunity to express my appreciation to Shawn for his hard work as an intern in my Washington, DC, office. I recognize his efforts and contributions to my office, as well as to the State of Wyoming. prgtoken Shawn is a native of Casper. He recently graduated from the University of Wyoming, with a degree in criminal justice and a minor in psychology. He has demonstrated a strong work ethic, prgtoken which has made him an invaluable asset to our office. The quality of his work is reflected in his great efforts over the last several months. prgtoken I want to thank Shawn for the dedication to our office. It is a pleasure to have him as part of our team.
MILITARY CONSTRUCTION, VETERANS AFFAIRS AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2024--Continued
Susan M. Collins (Republican, ME) \u2014 2023-10-26

before I address the amendment offered by Senator Braun, let me thank the Senator from Washington State for her very kind comments expressing condolences to the people of Maine. prgtoken Our hearts are so heavy today. This heinous attack, which has robbed the lives of at least 18 Mainers and injured so many more, is the worst mass shooting that we could ever imagine in our State. This is a dark day for our State. prgtoken I am grateful for the expressions of support and offers of help and condolences that I have received from my colleagues and friends across the Nation as well as from the administration. prgtoken I have had conversations both last night throughout the night and early prgtoken this morning with President , Secretary Mayorkas, Attorney General Merrick Garland, and special advisor to the President Tom Perez, who has been particularly helpful in mobilizing resources for the State of Maine so that this killer can be captured. S.J. Res. 44 prgtoken It is hard to transition from the terrible attack in Maine to talk about the Braun amendment, but that is what I must do. prgtoken First, let me make a very important point. What we are talking about is whether the legislative branch of government should make decisions about government spending or whether that decisionmaking should be given entirely to the executive branch when it comes to specific projects. prgtoken We are not talking about adding more money; we are talking about who makes the decision. And, indeed, in our Senate appropriations bills, less than one-half of 1 percent of the funding is allocated to congressionally directed spending projects. prgtoken This process has provided opportunities for Members of Congress from both parties who understand the needs of their constituents far better than every Federal Agency to advocate for specific investments in their local communities. prgtoken As Chair Murray has said, we have included safeguards to promote transparency and accountability. First, we prohibit for-profit entities from eligibility. Second, we require public disclosure to ensure that spending decisions are made in the light of day. For the appropriation measures before us today, each Member's CDS request has been posted online since April. There is no secrecy here. They also include a certification that neither the Member of Congress nor members of their immediate family have any financial interest in the CDS items that they have requested. prgtoken Further, the disclosure tables for each bill list each Member who submitted a request for a particular project that was funded. These tables have been available online since this past summer when the bills were considered and approved in committee. prgtoken The directed investments of these three bills that we are considering will make a difference to our constituents. They include funding to support agricultural research, local transportation a
PROVIDING FOR CONGRESSIONAL DISAPPROVAL UNDER CHAPTER 8 OF TITLE 5, UNITED STATES CODE, OF THE RULE SUBMITTED BY THE FOOD AND NUTRITION SERVICE RELATING TO "APPLICATION OF BOSTOCK V. CLAYTON...
Ted Cruz (Republican, TX) \u2014 2023-10-26

I rise today to support Senator Marshall's resolution of disapproval of this outrageous rule. prgtoken I have to say, as I sat here on the Senate floor, I listened to my friend from Hawaii give his floor remarks. As I listened to what he said, I wrote down some of what he said. He said ``Kids need to eat.'' He said ``Don't take the food away from children.'' And he said ``Don't drag children into the culture wars.'' prgtoken I have to admit, , I felt like I was in ``Alice in Wonderland'' and that I had gone through the looking glass because I agree emphatically with all three of those statements; and, for a moment there, I thought the Senator from Hawaii had given a speech in support of this resolution of disapproval. prgtoken What is this issue about? Understand what it is about. It is and the who are taking food away from children. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has told schools: We will cut off your school lunch funding. We will take the food off of your plates and out of your mouths unless the schools comply with the administration's radical transgender policies. prgtoken It is and the and every who votes in favor of this policy who are saying: We are going to take food away from kids. Why? Because to today's ic Party, feeding children-- and, mind you, we are talking about low-income kids, many of whom the only food they get that day, they get at school--and the are going to say: We are taking away your food. Why? Because today's Party is committed to the proposition that a boy who identifies as a girl should be allowed to use the girls' restrooms; should be allowed to shower with teenage girls, even if the girls don't want it; that 10-, 12-, 14-, 15-year-old girls should be forced to shower naked next to someone who is biologically male. This is not hypothetical. Members of the Judiciary Committee listened to the testimony of Riley Gaines, a national champion swimmer who was forced, under these same idiotic policies, to shower in a shower next to someone biologically male with full male equipment. She wasn't asked for her consent. I ask the women in this Chamber: How many of you would be excited to be forced to shower with someone biologically of the opposite sex? prgtoken Today's ic Party has embraced the radical and extremes. When it comes to sports, their view also is that boys should be able to compete against girls in sports and men should be able to compete against women in sports. And this is happening all over the country. prgtoken I believe in women's sports. I believe in girls' sports. I have two young daughters. Sports are amazing for girls to learn discipline, hard work, and teamwork. Title IX has opened doors for young women to go to college. And yet the ' extreme transgender ideology is destroying girls' sports and women's sports. prgtoken This is not a matter o
CONGRATULATING "THE VOICE OF THE GRIZ" PETER CHRISTIAN TO HONOR HIS 50 YEARS IN PUBLIC BROADCASTING AND HIS IMPACT ON MISSOULA RADIO AND THE MONTANA GRIZZLIES
Ryan K. Zinke (Republican, MT) \u2014 2023-10-26

I rise today to express my congratulations to an iconic Montanan and the Voice of the Griz, Peter Christian and celebrate his 50 years in broadcasting. This Montana legend and esteemed member of the community has won 25 first-place `Craney' awards from the Montana Broadcasters Association for his news coverage on KGVO based out of Missoula, Montana. Beloved by thousands of fans across many generations, Peter has also been the Public Address Announcer for the Montana Grizzlies at Washington Grizzly Stadium since 1998. prgtoken On behalf of the people of Montana's first Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Peter Christian for his meaningful contributions to our community through public broadcasting. prgtoken Bravo Zulu, Peter.
RECOGNIZING THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF TURKISH REPUBLIC DAY
Pete Sessions (Republican, TX) \u2014 2023-10-26

today I stand to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Turkish Republic Day, a significant milestone that encapsulates a century of the Turkish people's dedication to resilience, progress, and liberty. This is not just a celebration of Turkey's freedom but also a testament to the enduring friendship between the United States and Turkey, allies whose shared values lay the foundation for a bright future. prgtoken Central to our relationship is the substantial economic partnership that we have cultivated. This bilateral relationship extends across critical sectors including defense, energy, and commerce. It is within this sphere of trade and investment that both nations encounter vast untapped potential, promising mutual prosperity. prgtoken We engage in a strong trade relationship, exchanging billions of dollars annually worth of essential goods. Turkey ranks as a key market for American enterprises, while Turkish investments on American soil continue to spur job creation and innovation, enriching our local communities. prgtoken We recognize that our commercial relationship, albeit robust, has room for growth. Turkey's strategic location, bordering countries across the Eurasian region, positions it as a pivotal ally for U.S. interests now more than ever. Turkey is an attractive destination for foreign direct investment and economic collaboration, particularly in emerging sectors like technology, renewable energy, and healthcare. prgtoken As we mark Turkey's centennial Republic Day, it is incumbent upon us to recommit to nurturing this partnership. By emboldening our economic ties and exploring collaborative ventures, we can co-create a pathway towards sustained economic vitality and security. This celebration is not just about reflecting on Turkey's admirable past; it's about forging ahead, side by side, towards a prosperous and peaceful future. prgtoken I extend heartfelt Republic Day greetings to the Turkish people. Here's to a friendship that, built on mutual respect and common aspirations, will continue to flourish for generations.
HONORING SPEAKER MIKE JOHNSON
Joe Wilson (Republican, SC) \u2014 2023-10-26

what an extraordinary day that we have, the beginning of the speakership of Mike Johnson of Louisiana. prgtoken I hope everyone will see his acceptance speech last night. They need to look at that. It was a conservative, very clear voice calling for limited government, expanded freedom, and reduced regulations to provide for a strong America. It is such a positive message. He promised to be with the people, and he is so much with the people, he is sitting in the front row. No has ever sat in the front row. This is another first. prgtoken In addition to that, Mike Johnson is going to address omics, the most extraordinary inflation in 40 years, where American families have lost $7,000. He is going to stop the war on fossil fuels so that we have fuels and energy independence. He is going to be for a strong America, and that is how we are going to deter the dictators around the world who have invaded Ukraine, who have invaded Israel, who threaten the people of Taiwan. prgtoken America will be strong. prgtoken We will have a dynamic . We look forward to his leadership, and again, America is back on track.
HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF JIM HENRY
August Pfluger (Republican, TX) \u2014 2023-10-26

I rise today to honor the life and the legacy of Mr. Jim Henry. prgtoken Mr. Henry's legacy is one of true innovation and foresight. His pioneering work in the Permian Basin oilfields, particularly in opening the Wolfberry play, laid the groundwork for the shale revolution that reinvigorated the entire region. His dedication, expertise, and tireless efforts transformed not only the industry but also the lives of countless families throughout America and beyond. prgtoken Beyond his professional accomplishments, Mr. Henry was known for his generous spirit and philanthropy. He understood the importance of giving back to the community that had given him so much. prgtoken As a prominent businessman in Midland, Texas, said, he was a legend and a sweet man at the same time, a rare combination. prgtoken His legacy will be forever woven into the fabric of the Permian Basin, a testament to the power of vision, hard work, and dedication. prgtoken Mr. Henry's family and loved ones are in my prayers and in my thoughts. Our community will continue to honor Jim's remarkable achievements and his positive impact on the world.
CONDEMNING HAMAS AND ANTISEMITIC STUDENT ACTIVITIES ON COLLEGE CAMPUSES IN THE UNITED STATES
Josh Hawley (Republican, MO) \u2014 2023-10-26

1 week ago, I came to this floor to try and pass this very resolution that condemns the violent, genocidal, anti-Semitic rhetoric and actions on our college campuses all across this country. Sadly, I was blocked by one of my ic colleagues. And since then, the situation at our universities has only worsened. prgtoken I offer you just two examples. I could multiply these examples, sadly, but let's just take two. prgtoken On Tuesday of this week, just 2 or 3 miles from where we stand now on the floor of the U.S. Senate, at the George Washington University, pro- Hamas students projected onto the side of the university library various anti-Semitic, anti-Israel, pro-genocide slogans, including ``Glory to Our Martyrs,'' in reference to the terrorists who attacked the State of Israel, and not just the State of Israel, but who committed cold-blooded murder of babies, cutting off their heads, shooting women and children in their homes, executing soldiers as they lay sleeping in their barracks. prgtoken These same students projected other slogans onto the library wall: ``Free Palestine From the River to the Sea''. prgtoken What does that mean? Well, it is a reference to Hamas's longstanding call for the extermination of the State of Israel. prgtoken Let's just be clear. This is a reference to their call for genocide of Jews in the Middle East and everywhere they can get their hands on them. This is what is going on, on our college campuses. prgtoken If you talk to the students who were there at George Washington University prgtoken that night, what they will tell you is, they feared for their safety; they feared for their lives; they don't know if they are any longer welcome on campus or physically safe on campus. prgtoken What did the university do in the wake of this attack? Well, the answer has become all too familiar. Virtually nothing. They issued a statement saying that the students weren't authorized to project these genocidal slogans onto the library wall, and that is about it. prgtoken We have to do a heck of a lot better than that. prgtoken Last night, at Cooper Union, an institution of higher education in the State of New York, Jewish students were barricaded inside their own library as a pro-Hamas group rampaged through the building shouting violent slurs at these students and then pounded on the library doors seeking to gain entrance. prgtoken This morning's New York Post reads: ``Cooper Union barricades Jewish students inside library as pro-Palestinian protesters bang on [the] doors.'' prgtoken The students who were there last night spoke of being herded into the library, of campus security saying they didn't think they could protect them; campus security then locking the doors to the library to try and keep the Jewish students inside and an angry mob assembling. prgtoken There are photos of this. Don't take my word for it. The video is available everywhere. Go look for yourself. prgtoken An angry
ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2024
Matthew M. Rosendale, Sr. (Republican, MT) \u2014 2023-10-26

FY 2022, Corps of Engineers, $8.34 billion. FY 2023, $8.66 billion. FY24, $5.57 billion. prgtoken We cannot continue to reward bad behavior. prgtoken A recent project in Texas, the Ike Dike coastal barrier project, is currently projected to cost $57 billion, representing the largest civil engineering project in United States history, which is 68 percent higher than the recent estimate of $34 billion. prgtoken There is not a contractor that has built a home that would have a homeowner abide by those types of terms and conditions. prgtoken How can the Army Corps of Engineers be allowed to receive such a massive amount of funds when their project estimates are so routinely off base? Their time frames with which they are estimating to complete them are just as bad. prgtoken A project in Michigan for the New Lock at the Soo is currently projected prgtoken to cost $394 million more than the administration's proposed funding. prgtoken The list goes on and on and on. We cannot continue to reward this bad behavior. prgtoken , once again, we have seen these projects go over budget and over time. The Corps of Engineers should not be rewarded, and I urge my colleagues to support this amendment.
MILITARY CONSTRUCTION, VETERANS AFFAIRS AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2024--Continued
Mike Braun (Republican, IN) \u2014 2023-10-26

Americans are hurting more than I think in any other time since I have been here for sure: high inflation--I calculate in the 5 years I have been here, we have added 15 trillion to our national debt--struggling to make ends meet and I think inflation, and all of this is DC's fault. prgtoken Starting in 2021, Congress kept passing huge spending bills. We have never gone off of it since then. We now borrow a trillion dollars every 6 months; it used to be annually. Massive spending packages sail through this place because they are packed with pet projects. We have even brought back earmarks. Earmarks give Representatives, give Senators, the incentive to be big spenders. We should cut every earmark out of this bill and ban them permanently and quit loading up our kids and grandkids with the debt to pay for all this. prgtoken Shameful, in my mind.
HONORING THE NORTH CENTRAL MASSACHUSETTS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AS THE 2023 CHAMBER OF THE YEAR
James P. McGovern (Democrat, MA) \u2014 2023-10-26

I rise today to celebrate the recognition by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce as the 2023 Chamber of the Year. I am so proud that the North Central Chamber of Commerce is the first Chamber of Commerce in Massachusetts and New England to be recognized with this prestigious national honor. The Chamber will be celebrating this success at their Congressional Luncheon on November 1, 2023. Congresswoman Lori Trahan and I will jointly celebrate this monumental achievement. prgtoken The North Central Chamber demonstrates excellence in operations, member services, and community leadership. The Chamber provides immeasurable support to budding and established entrepreneurs in the region, which helps our businesses thrive. From new programs supporting Latinx small business, to revamping highly trafficked tourism destinations, the Chamber tirelessly works to improve the life of residents and guests to Central Massachusetts. prgtoken This recognition affirms what my constituents already know: the North Central Chamber of Commerce goes above and beyond for all. The Chamber's commitment to continued improvement is what makes them so successful. prgtoken And, of course, , I would like to recognize the countless partners that help the Chamber excel at their work. North Central Massachusetts's educational, economic, non-profit, cultural, and governmental organizations each have seamlessly integrated into the Chamber's purview. The over 700 businesses and organizations the Chamber assists rightly trust the Chamber to help them serve the twenty-seven communities across North Central Massachusetts. prgtoken , I am proud to celebrate the remarkable contributions of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. Congratulations to such a great organization for another year of phenomenal work.