mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
PERSONAL EXPLANATION
Salud O. Carbajal (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2018-1-12

deadly mudslides have destroyed homes and claimed at least seventeen lives in my district. These mudslides have devastated the communities in my district--many of which are still recovering from the horrific Thomas Fire. In order to be with my constituents and assist the community in recovery efforts, I decided to return to Santa Barbara, California. As a result, I missed votes on January 10, 2018 and January 11, 2018. prgtoken Had I been present, I would have voted: prgtoken Aye on Roll Call No. 17--the Counter Terrorist Network Act; prgtoken Aye on Roll Call No. 12--the DHS Overseas Personnel Enhancement Act of 2017; prgtoken Nay on Roll Call No. 10--H. Res. 681, a rule providing for consideration of S. 140; prgtoken Nay on Roll Call No. 9--Motion on Ordering the Previous Question on the Rule, and prgtoken Nay on Roll Call No. 8--H. Res. 682, a rule providing for consideration of S. 139.
ORANGE PARK ACRES
Mimi Walters (Republican, CA) \u2014 2018-1-12

It is my honor to rise today in recognition of Orange Park Acres, a beautiful rural community located in my district in Orange County, California. prgtoken This community has stood the test of time, and stands today as a living reminder of our county's humble beginnings of horse drawn buggies, dirt roads, and miles of pristine natural landscape. prgtoken Orange Park Acres serves many Orange County residents as a retreat from the noise and congestion of city life, offering miles of quiet trails to enjoy with family and friends in our own backyard. prgtoken This year, , Orange Park Acres will celebrate 90 years since its establishment. prgtoken Through the dedication of the community members who call this hidden gem home, I am confident that Orange Park Acres will enjoy many more years of prosperity to come. prgtoken Once again, I would like to wish the community of Orange Park Acres a Happy New Year filled with celebrations and pride over the many accomplishments of the past 90 years.
IN RECOGNITION OF MR. JAMES GANDY
Michael C. Burgess (Republican, TX) \u2014 2018-1-12

I rise today to recognize the exemplary work of Mr. James Gandy and congratulate him on his retirement. Mr. Gandy has served as the President of the Frisco Economic Development Corporation (FEDC) for 22 years, and in that time, has witnessed firsthand the economic boom that transformed Frisco from a small farm town to the economic hub it is today. prgtoken During his tenure, the FEDC facilitated more than 345 projects with an economic impact of $31.1 billion to the Dallas-Fort Worth Metropolitan area. As a result of his work, more than 27,000 direct on- site jobs have been created, amounting to one fifth of the jobs in Frisco today. Mr. Gandy played a key role in bringing the Stonebriar Centre Mall and globally recognized brands--including the Dallas Cowboys--to this once-small town. As a direct result of the completion of these projects, Frisco is the proud host to more than 6 million visitors per year. prgtoken Mr. Gandy's record of achievement does not stop there. This Frisco community leader was integral to forging public-private partnerships to create sports and entertainment venues, including the Ford Center at the Star, the Dr. Pepper Ballpark and Arena, the Toyota Stadium, and the Frisco Superdome. prgtoken As a result of his hard work, Mr. Gandy has received attention not only at the local level, but also from around our state. Under his leadership, the FEDC was awarded the 2017 Economic Development Leadership/Innovation award from the North Texas Chapter of CoreNet Global. The Dallas Business Journal, in the year 2012 and 2015, ranked the FEDC as number one among North Texas economic development agencies, and the FEDC was recognized as high performing in both 2013 and 2016 by Atlas Advertising. prgtoken He is truly an exemplary North Texas leader. Before serving on the FEDC, Mr. Gandy served on the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce as the Director of Economic Development for the City of Seguin, and as the President of the San Marcos Chamber of Commerce. prgtoken It is clear that Mr. Gandy has worked tirelessly to bolster the Frisco economy. Under his leadership at FEDC, the City of Frisco has seen an increase of the tax base of 38 times what it was when he took office. On behalf of the citizens and businesses of Frisco, I want to thank James Gandy for the unparalleled impact he has made on the city and wish him a very happy retirement.
HUMAN TRAFFICKING AWARENESS MONTH
Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (Republican, FL) \u2014 2018-1-16

as we observe Human Trafficking Awareness Month, I would like to recognize organizations in my home district of Miami that are working to put an end to this modern day slavery. prgtoken As a tourist destination and a gateway to the Americas, south Florida is a preferred spot for criminals to commit these types of outrageous human rights violations. But thanks to organizations like Kristi House and The Women's Fund of Miami-Dade, there is a critical campaign afoot to bring public awareness and to stop this terrible scourge. prgtoken St. Thomas University has created the Human Trafficking Academy, which offers training and technical assistance to law enforcement, lawyers, and the general public. prgtoken Resources like the Human Trafficking Miami Hotline, led by our esteemed Miami-Dade State attorney's office, serves victims and survivors of human trafficking by encouraging calls to 305-350-5567. prgtoken We are also blessed to have devoted law enforcement officers who are committed to a zero tolerance campaign to protect victims, to prosecute and dismantle traffickers. prgtoken As you can see, , south Florida is dedicated to fighting this crime. A future free of human trafficking is out there, and I urge every American to make that a reality.
POARCH BAND OF CREEK INDIANS LAND REAFFIRMATION ACT
Matt Gaetz (Republican, FL) \u2014 2018-1-16

I thank the gentleman from Montana (Mr. Gianforte) for yielding me time, and I thank the gentleman from Alabama (Mr. Byrne) for his leadership on this issue. prgtoken , I rise in support of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians Land Reaffirmation Act and encourage my colleagues to do the same. prgtoken The Poarch Creek have been in Alabama and northwest Florida since the War of 1812, but they were only recognized federally in 1984. Soon afterward, prgtoken the Poarch Creek obtained land in both Florida and Alabama, land that was held in trust. prgtoken The Poarch Creek contribute greatly to the Florida and Alabama region. Their unique history forms a vital part of our culture, and their businesses strengthen our region's economy and create jobs. They give back to our community from museums to scholarships to services for the elderly and students and much more. prgtoken But if lands currently in trust lost their status, the Tribal economy could be shattered, businesses could close, incomes could plummet, and we would have robbed our Nation of a great part of its cultural heritage, all in the name of a confusing legal decision. prgtoken This good bill reaffirms the trust status of the Poarch Creek land. It is fair, just, and important, and I encourage my colleagues to support it.
TRIBUTE TO THE 2017 ELLIS ISLAND MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENTS
Darin LaHood (Republican, IL) \u2014 2018-1-16

I rise today to congratulate the 2017 recipients of the prestigious Ellis Island Medal of Honor. prgtoken Presented annually, the Ellis Island Medals of Honor pay tribute to our Nation's immigrant heritage, as well as individual achievement. The Medals are awarded to U.S. citizens from diverse ethnic backgrounds who exemplify outstanding qualities in both their personal and professional lives, while continuing to preserve the richness of their particular heritage and culture. We honor these outstanding individuals because the important work they do today creates a better world for all of us tomorrow. This momentous occasion was celebrated with a patriotic ceremony on Ellis Island and a recommitment by the leaders of the organization to their mission of honoring diversity, fostering tolerance and promoting religious and racial unity across America. prgtoken Since the Medals' founding, more than 2,500 American citizens have received the Ellis Island Medal of Honor, including seven American Presidents, numerous United States Senators and Congressmen, two Nobel Laureates, and many athletes, artists, clergy, and military leaders. This Medal is not about material success, nor is it about the politics of immigration; it is about the people who have committed themselves to this nation, embraced the opportunities America offers, and most importantly, who have used those opportunities to not only better their own lives but make a difference in our country and in the lives of its people. prgtoken Citizens of the United States hail from every nation known to man. The iconic metaphor of this nation as a veritable melting pot of cultures continues to ring true, and it is this diversity that adds to the unique richness of American life. It is the key to why America is the most innovative, progressive and forward thinking country in the world. The Ellis Island Medals of Honor not only celebrate select individuals but also the pluralism and democracy that enabled our forbearers to celebrate their cultural identities while still embracing the American way of life. This award serves to remind us all that with hard work and perseverance anyone can still achieve the American dream. In addition, by honoring these remarkable Americans, we honor all who share their origins and we acknowledge the contributions they have made to America. I commend NECO and its Board of Directors headed by my good friend, Nasser J. Kazeminy, for honoring these truly outstanding individuals for their tireless efforts to foster dialogue and build bridges between different ethnic groups, as well as to promote unity and a sense of common purpose in our nation. prgtoken , I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the good works of NECO and in congratulating all of the 2017 recipients of the Ellis Island Medal of Honor. 2017 Ellis Island Medal of Honor Recipients Ken Aagaard, David B. Agus, MD, The Honorable Dr. Buzz Al
RAPID DNA ACT OF 2017
Chuck Grassley (Republican, IA) \u2014 2018-1-16

I stand today in support of S. 139, the FISA Amendments Reauthorization Act. prgtoken As we know, the first responsibility of the U.S. Government is to protect our citizens. To do so, we must make sure that those who protect us have the tools to keep us safe. This bill does exactly that. It provides the intelligence community and law enforcement with the right tools, but it also minds the civil liberties and the privacy protections that our Constitution requires, especially given the ever- changing technological landscape. prgtoken The importance of our country's safety and security has been highlighted in several events from just the past 2 years. We often get lost in the constant news cycle, but let's not forget that New York City suffered three significant terrorist attacks in the last 15 months alone. prgtoken In September 2016, a terrorist detonated a pressure-cooker bomb in New York's Chelsea neighborhood. A second pressure-cooker bomb was found a few blocks away but didn't detonate. Earlier that day, a bomb went off near the start of a Marine Corps charity race. prgtoken This past October, Sayfullo Saipov drove a rented truck onto the bike lane and pedestrian walkway on the West Side Highway. He mowed down numerous civilians, killing eight and injuring 12 others. prgtoken And this past December, Akayed Ullah detonated a bomb in New York City's subway tunnel to the Port Authority Bus Terminal, injuring several people near him. He told investigators that he did it in the name of ISIS. prgtoken In June 2016, Omar Mateen shot and killed 49 and injured 53 others in Orlando, also an act in the name of ISIS. prgtoken In September 2016, a terrorist stabbed 10 people at a mall in St. Cloud, MN. prgtoken In November 2016, a terrorist injured 13 after driving into and trying to stab students and teachers at Ohio State. prgtoken And in December 2015, we had the San Bernardino shooting, where terrorists killed 14 and injured 22. prgtoken We have also seen terrorist incidents evolving around the world, especially impacting our friends in Europe. prgtoken In the United Kingdom alone, there have been at least a half dozen terrorist attacks in the past year, including a subway bombing in London, injuring 30 people; a van plowing down pedestrians on London Bridge, injuring 48 and killing 8 people; the Manchester concert bombing, in which 22 people were killed; and the attack on the British Parliament in London, killing 4, including a person from Utah. prgtoken All of these attacks and more show that the threats are real, and we must protect our country by lawful constitutional means. Congress has done so by providing lawful authority such as section 702. The section 702 program has been called ``the most significant tool'' in the NSA arsenal for the detection and disruption of terrorist threats. The NSA Director has said publicly that ``there is no alternative way'' to replicate section 702 collection. Some estimat
HONORING RELIGIOUS FREEDOM DAY
Glenn Thompson (Republican, PA) \u2014 2018-1-16

I rise today on Religious Freedom Day to celebrate the numerous faiths that people hold across this great Nation. prgtoken Today, we commemorate the 232nd anniversary of the passing of a State law that has shaped and secured our important legacy on religious liberty. prgtoken On January 16, 1786, the Virginia General Assembly passed the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom. The bill, written by Thomas Jefferson, states: ``. . . all men shall be free to profess, and by argument to maintain, their opinions in matters of reli- gion. . . . '' prgtoken Just a few years later, this bill served as the inspiration for the First Amendment, which affirms our right to choose and exercise faith without government coercion or retaliation. prgtoken Today, Americans from diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds remain committed to the values of faith, honesty, integrity, and patriotism. prgtoken , our Constitution and laws guarantee Americans the right not just to believe as they see fit, but to freely exercise their religion. prgtoken We observe this day in our homes and schools and houses of worship because we have the freedom and the right to do so.
HONORING FORMER CONGRESSMAN AND CINCINNATI MAYOR TOM LUKEN
Steve Chabot (Republican, OH) \u2014 2018-1-16

I rise this evening to honor former Congressman and Cincinnati Mayor Tom Luken, who passed away last week at the age of 92. prgtoken Tom Luken was a ic stalwart and something of a local political legend representing the people of Cincinnati for 15 years in this body. prgtoken I learned firsthand just how tough a politician he was when I ran against Tom in 1988. He won. But I also learned a great deal about Tom Luken, the man, during that race. He was a dedicated public servant who always focused on the needs of the people he represented. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. prgtoken As many probably know, his son Charlie was also Cincinnati mayor and also served in this body for a term. prgtoken , even though we were from different political parties and disagreed on a lot of issues, I have always respected Tom for his commitment and dedication to our community and to our Nation. I hope that his wife, Shirley, and his entire family know just how much Tom Luken will be missed.
AMERICAN INNOVATION $1 COIN ACT
Sean P. Duffy (Republican, WI) \u2014 2018-1-16

I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 770) to require the Secretary of the Treasury to mint coins in recognition of American innovation and significant innovation and pioneering efforts of individuals or groups from each of the 50 States, the District of Columbia, and the United States territories, to promote the importance of innovation in the United States, the District of Columbia, and the United States territories, and for other purposes, as amended.
200TH ANNIVERSARY OF MEXICO, MAINE
Susan M. Collins (Republican, ME) \u2014 2018-1-16

today I wish to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the town of Mexico, ME. Mexico was built with a spirit of determination and resiliency that still guides the community today, and this is a time to celebrate the generations prgtoken of hard-working and caring people who have made it such a wonderful place to live, work, and raise families. prgtoken The year of Mexico's incorporation, 1818, was but one milestone in a long journey of progress. For thousands of years, the land of fields, streams, and forests of what is now Oxford County was the home of the Abenaki. The reverence the Abenaki had for the natural beauty and resources of the region is upheld by the people of Mexico today. prgtoken In 1789, the Massachusetts General Court granted 30,000 acres on the banks of the Androscoggin River to Colonel John Holman, a hero of the American Revolution. Officially named Township Number 1, the new settlement was popularly known by its growing population as Holmanstown. Upon incorporation in 1818, the townspeople chose a name that was inspired by the ongoing struggle by the country of Mexico for independence from Spain and that reflected their own commitment to American liberty. prgtoken With the mighty Androscoggin River providing power, Mexico soon was home to many lumber, grain, and textile mills. When the first paper mill opened across the river in Rumford in 1893, the people of Mexico were part of the skilled and dedicated workforce that built a great Maine industry. The prosperity produced by hard work and determination was invested in schools and churches to create a true community. prgtoken Today visitors and residents alike enjoy Mexico's scenery, historic buildings, and outdoor recreation opportunities. The energy and planning that are going into Mexico's 200th anniversary celebration demonstrate the pride townspeople have in their town. prgtoken The celebration of Mexico's 200th anniversary is not merely about the passing of time; it is about human accomplishment. We celebrate the people who, from the dawn of our Nation to our time, have pulled together, cared for one another, and built a great community. Thanks to those who came before, Mexico, ME, has a wonderful history. Thanks to those there today, it has a bright future.
DOYLESTOWN TOWNSHIP BICENTENNIAL
Brian K. Fitzpatrick (Republican, PA) \u2014 2018-1-16

I rise today to recognize a school in my district. On November 30, 2017, Souderton Area High School was recognized as a National Banner Unified Champion School by the Special Olympics International headquarters. prgtoken Through the diligence and compassion of Athletic Director Dennis Stanton and Supervisor of Special Education Megan Zweiback, the introduction of unified sports into the school has greatly enhanced the curriculum of special-needs students and allowed them to compete with other students in interscholastic competition. prgtoken One of only four schools in the Nation and the first in Pennsylvania to have been honored in this respect, I am proud of the work done at Souderton Area High School to support and enhance the education and recreational development of all students.
100TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FIRST VOTE CAST BY A WOMAN IN THE STATE OF NEW YORK
Claudia Tenney (Republican, NY) \u2014 2018-1-16

I rise today to recognize the 100th anniversary of the first vote cast by a woman in the State of New York. 100 years ago, the residents of Lisle, New York, and Broome County held a special election to decide if liquor could be served in the town of Lisle. This was the first vote held in the State of New York after women had just recently gained the right to vote just 2 months prior, thanks to the efforts of other famous New Yorkers who are memorialized in our historic Capitol rotunda: Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and Lucretia Mott. prgtoken On January 25, 1918, shortly after 6 a.m right before the polls opened, on a cold, snowy day in the southern tier, the Ladies of Lisle lined up outside to cast their first vote. When the doors opened, a woman named Florence B. Chauncey was the first to step forward and place her ballot in the box at the Lisle Village Hall. prgtoken This year, on January 5, a historic marker was unveiled at the old Lisle Village Hall to commemorate this momentous occasion. This extraordinary act will now be memorialized forever on the Main Street in Lisle.
RELIGIOUS FREEDOM DAY
J. French Hill (Republican, AR) \u2014 2018-1-16

I rise today, on Religious Freedom Day, to recognize the importance of religious freedom throughout the world and to celebrate the 232nd anniversary of the passing of the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom. prgtoken As a Catholic, my faith plays a significant role in every aspect of life and fosters a respect for the religious rights and freedoms of others. prgtoken Fundamental American values, among which are commitments to religious freedom and human rights, will always be cornerstones of both U.S. domestic and foreign policy. prgtoken Written by Thomas Jefferson, the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom is the forerunner of the First Amendment protection for religious freedom and the principle of separation of church and state. prgtoken As a member of the Religious Minorities in the Middle East Caucus, I will continue to advocate for the rights of individuals to express their feelings without living in fear of violence and persecution.
TAX REFORM
Mitch McConnell (Republican, KY) \u2014 2018-1-16

. Now, on a final matter, in the wake of last month's historic tax reform legislation, the news is filled with stories of economic optimism and increasing prosperity for workers and middle- class families. prgtoken In fact, I am proud to announce that earlier today I spoke with the leadership of Humana, which employs more than 12,000 people in my home State of Kentucky. Yesterday they notified their staff that they will be accelerating pay incentives for associates and raising the minimum hourly wages for both part-time and full-time employees--all thanks to tax reform. For these Kentucky workers, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will mean more money in their paychecks. prgtoken Just last week, the international automaker Fiat Chrysler announced that it will invest 1 billion new dollars prgtoken in the Warren Truck Assembly Plant just outside of Detroit. The production line for Ram heavy-duty trucks is leaving Mexico and coming back to America. This will create 2,500 new jobs and inject relief right into the local economy. According to officials who announced the change, all this is only happening because tax reform is remaking the business climate in our country. prgtoken Besides the revival in manufacturing, Fiat Chrysler announced a new wave of $2,000 bonuses for 60,000 hourly and salaried employees. They will join a growing list of more than 150 companies that have announced plans to distribute significant bonuses, permanent pay raises, more generous retirement contributions, or other benefits to their employees, all thanks to tax reform. prgtoken Prior to tax reform, companies that wanted to manufacture goods in America and hire American employees faced the highest statutory corporate tax rate in the developed world. American workers were ready to clock in, but our outdated burdensome Tax Code told potential investors to move along and find somewhere else to set up shop. Those days are over, thanks to the President and majorities in the House and Senate that voted to modernize our Tax Code. prgtoken Now we are the ones with a competitive advantage. The Wall Street Journal's editorial board believes that our tax reform will benefit investment in the United States ``at the expense of high-tax countries such as Germany.'' The Journal also reports that China ``fears the tax changes could make the U.S. a more attractive place to do business.'' That is China. It is becoming clear that these fears are entirely justified, and it is good news for families and workers in Kentucky and all across America. prgtoken .