mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
FINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2024
Debbie Wasserman Schultz (Democrat, FL) \u2014 2023-11-8

. Mr. Chair, I recognize my dear friends, Chairman Womack and Ranking Member Hoyer, and I do mean that in the truest sense of the word, for their work on this bill, which does contain several of my priorities. prgtoken I do want to respond quickly to the chairman's comments about the border really being the problem with fentanyl coming across into the United States and that it is not necessary to fund the Office of National Drug Control Policy. prgtoken When you focus on safety, making sure that you can keep people safe from harm that they can't avoid on their own, we need layers of protection. So it is a fool's errand to cut an office like the Office of National Drug Control Policy because we aren't doing enough, in your mind, to handle drug entries into the country from the border. It is ``both/and'' when it comes to safety, not ``either/or.'' prgtoken Unfortunately, this bill, although it does contain several of my priorities, has so many misguided, toxic, and extreme provisions that it will make us all less safe and careens our government once again toward a shutdown. prgtoken This is a bill that is rather unsung. I always try to come and talk about this bill. It does have a whole lot of acronym agencies that have far reach into Americans' protection, security, and safety. It is so important that we make sure we shine a little bit of a spotlight on it as a result. prgtoken This bill does prioritize reducing pool and spa deaths by providing $2.5 million for programs authorized under my Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act, for which I appreciate the chairman's help. As the leading cause of unintentional death for children under 5 in the United States, drowning is clearly a public health threat that we must confront. prgtoken However, sadly, overall this bill makes all of our constituents less safe. This bill handcuffs consumer watchdogs, leaving hardworking families more vulnerable to fraud or dangerous deadly products. It guts the Consumer Product Safety Commission's already paltry budget, slashing resources at an agency that has a major focus on protecting children and families. We need prgtoken to keep families safe, not make them nervous to choose products when they walk down the aisles of a store. prgtoken On top of protecting scammers and cheats, this bill hurts public servants and threatens our national security. prgtoken How does it do that? The same s who claim to support our national defense and Armed Forces would cut the National Security Council in this bill and the Office of Terrorism and Financial Intelligence. prgtoken The same s who boast how tough they are on heroin and fentanyl actually cut the Office of National Drug Control Policy in this bill. prgtoken Don't believe s who claim to be the party of law and order, either. This bill actually underfunds multiple levels of our Federal courts and the public defenders. This bill basically waves white-collar crimi
Elections (Executive Session)
Charles E. Schumer (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2023-11-8

another election night in America, another win for women's choice, another win for democracy, another win for the ic agenda of jobs, infrastructure, and lowering costs for the middle class. prgtoken Another terrible defeat for the MAGA agenda. Americans don't want hard-right extremists to govern this country. At stake last night was a woman's right to choose in Ohio, the Governorship in Kentucky, cannabis reform in Ohio, control of the legislature in Virginia, State Supreme Court seats, and so much more. prgtoken In almost every major election, ic candidates and ic issues prevailed. This continued and strengthened the trend of ic victories last year. There is no possible takeaway from last night other than this: Americans fiercely oppose MAGA extremism, fiercely oppose total abortion bans, and want bipartisan leaders who can put America's needs first. prgtoken After last night's results, I have a message to my colleagues: When the MAGA agenda can't win in deep red Kentucky or in Ohio or help you in Virginia, it is time to recognize MAGA extremism is the wrong answer, not just for the country, but even for the GOP. prgtoken I hope s in Congress see that after last night, extremism must be rejected and bipartisanship embraced. Time will tell if House s choose the right path. prgtoken I want to say one more thing about the results in Ohio. With strong support, the people of Ohio have voted to legalize the recreational use of marijuana. Americans think it is long past time to enact cannabis reform. So here in the Senate, I will continue to work with colleagues on both sides and my good friend Senator Brown to keep moving on bipartisan cannabis legislation as soon as we can. prgtoken Last night shows just how precious and vital and sacrosanct our system of elections is. It shows how much work we have to do to preserve democracy so that it can survive in the 21st century.
FINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2024
Maxwell Frost (Democrat, FL) \u2014 2023-11-8

. Mr. Chair, my colleagues on the other side of the aisle will make this about criminal-on-criminal activity. One of the core tenets of this office is for community violence intervention, one of the only such programs in our country that go into communities, find out people who are most likely to shoot someone, and people who are most likely to be shot, create relationships, and intervene before the violence happens. This office is working to solve exactly the problem that was just iterated by the other side. prgtoken I hope if my colleagues follow their own logic that they will vote ``no'' on this amendment so we can save lives across the entire country.
VETERANS DAY
Benjamin L. Cardin (Democrat, MD) \u2014 2023-11-8

on this Veterans Day, I want to express my profound admiration for the unwavering service and sacrifices of our veterans. Their commitment to our Nation, its people, and the values we hold dear transcends generations. Democracy requires constant vigilance, and it is facing tough challenges at home and abroad. Despots and authoritarians worldwide would like nothing more than to see us retreat from defending freedom. But in the face of adversity, the United States stands resilient thanks to the courageous men and women who have worn the uniform. prgtoken From the American Revolution, where the Maryland Line fought bravely under General George Washington, to the defense of Fort McHenry in Baltimore that inspired the Star-Spangled Banner during the War of 1812, to today, where Maryland is home to almost 400,000 veterans, our State has a proud history of fighting for freedom. prgtoken Our veterans are among the best our country has produced. Each one answered the call to serve their country, leaving friends and family to go in harm's way. In today's divisive world, I especially want to thank our veterans for coming together from all walks of life to serve a purpose greater than themselves. Our veterans come from all over the country, from all backgrounds, races, and religions. Time and time again, veterans put their country before themselves and make sacrifices that most Americans do not even realize. They miss birthdays, anniversaries, births, funerals, and countless other life events so they can stand guard on the frontlines of our Nation's defense. Most servicemembers volunteer to join the military not long after graduating high school or college. Some serve a few years, and others make the military a career. All of them have earned the title of veteran. prgtoken In Maryland, prominent military installations stretch across the State from Aberdeen Proving Ground in the north to Patuxent River in the south. Marylanders have always answered the call when our liberties have been attacked. During World War II, Maryland produced over 5,000 B-26 Marauder aircrafts that bombed Nazi fortifications in advance of Allied landings on D-Day. Baltimore's shipyards built 384 Liberty cargo ships during the war to transport troops and supplies to Europe. Marylanders have stood shoulder to shoulder, unphased in the face of monumental challenges. prgtoken Marylanders from across the State continue to volunteer to serve our country, both overseas and at home with our Active-Duty military components, Reserves, and National Guard units. Our veterans' dedication to country and democracy is felt around the world. Unfortunately, many of our veterans know all too well the cost of war. Our brave men and women continue to serve their communities even after their time in uniform is over. prgtoken Our veterans are humble patriots, and while I know they appreciate the public thanking them for their service, I want to encourage
ADDRESSING VOTES ON H. RES. 559, H.R. 340, H.R. 3774, AND H. RES. 798
Betty McCollum (Democrat, MN) \u2014 2023-11-8

I rise to address my votes on bills passed through the House of Representatives under suspension of the Rules the week of October 30. 2023: H. Res. 559, H.R. 340, H.R. 3774, and H. Res. 798. prgtoken I voted no on H. Res. 559 because it contained language that could insinuate U.S. support for potential military action against Iran at a moment when de-escalation is necessary. This legislation was overly broad, and without an opportunity for proper debate on the House Floor, this bill has the potential to give license to the United States to use any means, including military action, against Iran without Congressional approval. prgtoken I voted no on H.R. 340, the Hamas International Financing Prevention Act, because it was intentionally amended to delay humanitarian aid to Gaza, where people are suffering without access to food, drinking water, fuel, and medical care. The United States has rightly designated Hamas as a terrorist organization since 1997--but holding Hamas accountable cannot come at the expense of Palestinian civilians living in Gaza, roughly 40 percent of which are under 14 years of age. This is dangerous, as civilians must be protected under international law. prgtoken I voted no on H.R. 3774, the SHIP Act, because the bill contains overly broad language that would have serious impacts on the global economy and the U.S. economy as well. Sanctions are one of the most important and impactful diplomatic tools that we have in managing our relationships and security around the globe. The Executive Branch that administers them needs to be able to adjust and scale sanctions for them to be effective. The waiver within this bill provides the Executive with limited flexibility--rendering the waiver provision nearly unusable. prgtoken I voted yes on H. Res. 798 condemning the support of Hamas, Hezbollah, and other terrorist organizations at institutions of higher education because every student deserves a safe environment in which to learn and live. This resolution fails to mention the concurrent rise in anti-Muslim and anti-Arab hate. It is a glaring omission not to include other protected classes. Antisemitism and Islamophobia are on the rise in the U.S and hatred in all its forms is unacceptable and must not be tolerated anywhere. prgtoken All people deserve safety and security, and the only sustainable path forward is one where international human rights and international law are at the forefront and democratic ideals are upheld. Peace must remain our utmost goal in the days, weeks, and months ahead.
ORDERS FOR THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2023
Sheldon Whitehouse (Democrat, RI) \u2014 2023-11-8

I finally ask unanimous consent that when the Senate completes its business today, it stand adjourned until 10 a.m. on Thursday, November 9; that following the prayer and pledge, the Journal of proceedings be approved to date, the morning hour be deemed expired, the time for the two leaders be reserved for their use later in the day, and morning business be closed; that upon the conclusion of morning business, the Senate proceed to executive session to resume consideration of the Almadani nomination postcloture; further, that following the disposition of the Almadani nomination, the Senate vote on confirmation of the McMillion nomination, and that at 1:45 p.m the Senate vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the de Alba nomination; finally, that if any nominations are confirmed during Thursday's session, the motions to reconsider be considered made and laid upon the table and the President be immediately notified of the Senate's action.
FINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2024
Matt Cartwright (Democrat, PA) \u2014 2023-11-8

. Mr. Chair, I rise in opposition to this amendment. prgtoken For more than 50 years, the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission has worked to fulfill its statutory mission to protect the public against unreasonable risk of injuries and deaths associated with consumer products. prgtoken By cutting the CPSC's budget by half, this amendment would gut the agency's staff and undermine its mission. prgtoken It is an extreme measure that would place children, families, and communities around the country at greater risk of injury and death from product prgtoken hazards. This amendment would leave consumers vulnerable to products that pose a fire, electrical, chemical, or mechanical hazard or that can injure children. prgtoken Mr. Chair, I strongly oppose this amendment, and I urge a ``no'' vote. prgtoken Mr. Chair, .
FINANCIAL SERVICES AND GENERAL GOVERNMENT APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2024
Eleanor Holmes Norton (Democrat, DC) \u2014 2023-11-8

. Mr. Chair, I thank my good friend for yielding. prgtoken Mr. Chair, I strongly oppose this amendment. prgtoken This amendment would prohibit the use of funds in this bill for the purchase or construction of any new building in the District of Columbia. The purchase or construction of new Federal buildings can save taxpayers money and improve government operations. prgtoken The ongoing consolidation of the Department of Homeland Security's headquarters at St. Elizabeth's in the District of Columbia is a prime example of how new construction can result in significant savings for taxpayers. prgtoken The Department is currently housed in more than 50 separate locations throughout the national capital region, and 79 percent of those leases will expire in the next 5 years. Consolidating the Department at St. Elizabeth's will reduce the Department's leasing portfolio and costs by at least 20 percent in accordance with the Reduce the Footprint policy of the General Services Administration as required by Congress and is estimated to result in $1.17 billion in savings. prgtoken If this amendment were adopted, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and the Office of Intelligence and Analysis would be forced to extend expensive short-term leases at significant taxpayer cost. prgtoken The consolidation of the Department at St. Elizabeth's is important for streamlining operations and coordination among key Department agencies and offices. prgtoken Mr. Chair, I urge my colleagues to oppose this amendment.
LEGISLATIVE SESSION
Thomas R. Carper (Democrat, DE) \u2014 2023-11-8

good afternoon. prgtoken I rise to join my two colleagues who just spoke in opposition to S.J. Res. 38, a Congressional Review Act resolution to disapprove of the administration's temporary waiver of the ``Buy American'' requirements for the electric vehicle charging infrastructure. prgtoken Why is this important? Why should Americans care about this issue? Well, we continue to see, on almost a daily basis, daily reminders that our planet is on fire. Scientists tell us that we are running out of time to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and to avoid the worst of the climate crisis. The rest the world is looking at us. The rest of the world is looking at us, the United States, for leadership right now on this issue. Instead, we are voting on a resolution that President will certainly veto. That means it will not go into effect. prgtoken Having said all of that, let me explain why I oppose the resolution offered by our colleague from Florida. The way this resolution works is more than a little bit confusing, so let's take a couple of minutes to try to make clear what it would actually do. My colleagues have already referred to this. To better understand that, it is important to understand how we got to this point. prgtoken As I mentioned, addressing the existential threat of climate change is one of the most challenging events we currently face as a planet. We also know that our transportation sector, including the cars, trucks, and vans on our roads, is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. economy. In fact, the cars, trucks, and vans we drive create nearly 30 percent of our greenhouse gas emissions in America. prgtoken To that end, we included $7.5 billion--billion with a ``b''--in the bipartisan infrastructure law to help build out a national network of electric vehicle charging infrastructure, supporting our climate goals and creating jobs--lots of jobs--right here in America. prgtoken We are already seeing the impact of our investment. Since enacting the bipartisan infrastructure law nearly 2 prgtoken years ago, the electric vehicle charging industry has announced investments of over $500 million in more than 40 plants for assembling American-made EV chargers. Let me say that again. The electric vehicle charging industry has announced investments of over $500 million in more than 40 plants for assembling American-made EV chargers. These plants in States like Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Illinois, and North Carolina are bringing more manufacturing jobs back to the United States--back to the United States. That means relying less on countries like China to enable our clean energy transition. prgtoken If enacted, Senator Rubio's resolution would undermine this progress. His resolution would create greater uncertainty for our domestic EV charging industry, directly contradicting our goal of having this equipment made and assembled right here in the U.S. of A. That is
ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS
Cindy Hyde-Smith (Republican, MS) \u2014 2023-11-9

I wish to recognize the 50th anniversary of Intercessors for America--IFA--a ministry that has faithfully served believers by encouraging effective prayer and fasting for the Church, our Nation, and our elected leaders, including those of us elected to Congress. At the time of IFA's founding, the Watergate scandal, the Vietnam war, pervasive drug use, and the Supreme Court's tragic decision to legalize abortion on demand in Roe v. Wade had shaken the moral foundations of our Nation. In the 50 years since, IFA's ministry has been important in rebuilding a society that once again respects the Judeo-Christian principles and moral values that lie at the heart of America. prgtoken The founding leaders of IFA, including Derek Prince and John Beckett, began their first activities at a large dining table where John Talcott and his wife Roselyn wrote a prayer letter, which was mailed to a group of like-minded people who recognized the need for God to intervene to heal our Nation. Over the past 50 years, IFA has grown from these beginnings to inform, connect, and mobilize intercessors across America, in churches and communities nationwide, to pray for our Nation and our leaders. prgtoken In its work, IFA follows the teaching of the Apostle Paul in 1 Timothy 2:1-3: ``I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity. This is good and pleases God our Savior, who wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth.'' prgtoken Nowhere could this impact of the power of prayer, including the prayers of many IFA intercessors, be better seen than the Supreme Court's historic decision in 2022 in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization to overturn the moral stain of Roe v. Wade. This moment was a testament to God's faithfulness, and underscores the importance of the work we have ahead of us to rebuild a culture where God's gift of life is respected and cherished. prgtoken It is an honor to recognize Intercessors for America and to celebrate its 50-year anniversary, in gratitude for its work, through prayer and intercession for public officials, to restore our moral values, protect the right to life and the family, and to bring about a renewal of faith, so that God may continue to bless our Nation.
REST IN PEACE, AVA FORRESTER
Stephanie I. Bice (Republican, OK) \u2014 2023-11-9

I rise today with a heavy heart to say good- bye to Ava Forrester, one of the last World War II Rosie the Riveters. Ava worked on the left wing of the C-47 cargo transport aircraft in Oklahoma City. prgtoken I had the tremendous honor of meeting Ava on her 105th birthday this last April. She was optimistic about life, willing to try anything, and funny, too. prgtoken It is imperative that we remember the legacies of women like Ava, who stepped up to serve her country in a time of need. Their work allowed the American war effort to be successful and powered an unprecedented age of American ingenuity. prgtoken It seems only fitting that as we approach Veterans Day, I have the blessing to recognize Mrs. Forrester. Rest in peace, Ava.