mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
MOTION TO DISCHARGE
Mike Braun (Republican, IN) \u2014 2021-11-3

. We are here today because of the vaccine mandate. When I got back home over the break, I never had so many friends and fellow business owners who actually made it a point to find me and tell me that this can't be happening. prgtoken With the full navigation that we have taken through COVID, I have always been clear: Take it seriously. We don't know how this is going to end up. prgtoken It has been over a year and a half. The point back in Indiana is that most businesses, schools, all organizations have put protocols in place to where it has not been an issue. It has been a nonissue of, really, transmissions within the workplace. prgtoken We finally get through it, we found the rhythm of what works, and now you have a mandate that says: Hey, Federal employees, Federal contractors--they contacted me too. Some think they will lose 10 to 25 percent of their workforce. Businesses are in the same place. prgtoken When you look at what we have done, where we are, it just does not make sense. That is why I am leading the Congressional Review Act effort to try to get all Senators on my side--some on the other side of the aisle--to say: Hey, we don't need it. Enough is enough. prgtoken Look at the practical reasons because businesses and other organizations have tried and they have been successful at keeping their employees and their customers safe and healthy. This is coming at a point in time where it is going to be salt in the wound. It prgtoken will be the biggest wallop these entities have had, especially when we have been paying them to keep their employees, up to 500 employees. Now we are going to force them to lose them en masse down to 100. It doesn't make sense. That is why I am glad I am leading the effort and glad other Senators are here talking about it. prgtoken Please pull back on something that is beyond the pale, that we don't need, and that is going to hurt the places we have been trying to help. prgtoken I yield to the Senator from Florida.
RECOGNIZING MR. JAMES ``JIM'' HAROLD RABBERS
Fred Upton (Republican, MI) \u2014 2021-11-3

. Madam , I rise today to recognize the life of Mr. James ``Jim'' Harold Rabbers of Stevensville, Michigan who passed away on October 11, 2021. prgtoken Jim was a true Michigander through and through. He was a loving husband, and caring father and friend to all. Born and raised in Southwest Michigan, he attended Lakeshore High School and went on to attend Western Michigan University. After college, Jim went on to sell insurance and build warm relationships throughout the Stevensville community. He was a fan of all sports and had a special place in his heart for the Wolverines. He could talk sports all day long, but his real gift was forming friendships that stood the test of time. prgtoken Jim participated in sports throughout high school and played and officiated intramural sports in college. He even met the love of his life, Mary, playing softball and volleyball at St. Paul Lutheran Church. Mary had just come into town as a new teacher at a local school. The pair quickly bonded over their love of sports and competitive spirits and married in the summer of 1986. They became parents to four wonderful children: Derek Rabbers (Claire), Chelsea Rabbers, Megan Spaude (Jason), and Travis Rabbers. Jim and Mary have been blessed with three grandchildren: Wesley, Jay and Samuel Rabbers. prgtoken Jim is survived by his wife, four children, daughter and son-in-law, three grandchildren, his brothers: Thom (Rhonda) Rabbers and Dan (Diana) Rabbers, his sisters: Susan (Robert) Vandervleit and Jodi Rabbers, as well as a number of extended family members.
MOTION TO DISCHARGE
Roger Marshall (Republican, KS) \u2014 2021-11-3

. Well, thank you Senator. Indeed, there are more options out there. There are, indeed, more tools in the tool shed that we can use. We plan to oppose any efforts to enforce 's vaccine mandate with all the other tools at our disposal, including blocking cloture on any continuing resolution in the absence of language protecting Americans from the mandates. In fact, 50 GOP Senators recently supported this as an amendment to the CR in September. prgtoken Senator Blackburn, I know that you also would be concerned about using any type of future funding to enforce this unconstitutional mandate.
MODIFYING PURCHASE TREATMENT OF CERTAIN BARGAIN-PRICE OPTIONS
Michael Guest (Republican, MS) \u2014 2021-11-3

. Madam , such time as I may consume. prgtoken I rise today in support of H.R. 2220, which would allow the General Services Administration, or GSA, to enter into bargain-price purchasing agreements in situations where the buying of Federal property is the cheaper alternative to a long-term lease. prgtoken Designed as a measure to bring free-market efficiency into Federal real estate, H.R. 2220 would save taxpayers from costly, long-term lease contracts where bargain purchases better suit the situation. prgtoken For example, the Tacoma Union Station purchase approved by the Transportation Committee earlier this year shows the benefits of allowing these bargain-price purchases. Prior to a scoring rule change, the GSA negotiated a $1 purchase price of the facility in order to undertake necessary seismic and building system modernizations. prgtoken By purchasing the property, the GSA will be making the needed investments to modernize the facility for Federal use while realizing a lease cost avoidance of approximately $6.4 million and protecting American taxpayer dollars. prgtoken This legislation provides a commonsense correction that will continue this committee's work in reducing the taxpayers' burden in Federal real estate. prgtoken I appreciate the chair and ranking member of the committee for bringing this legislation to the floor and my colleague and friend from Indiana, Congressman Greg , and his office's work on this issue in the previous Congress. prgtoken I urge my colleagues to support this bill, and .
Election Results (Executive Calendar)
Tom Cotton (Republican, AR) \u2014 2021-11-3

last night, the American people sent an unmistakable message to the ic Party: We don't like your agenda, we don't want your agenda, and we won't vote for your agenda or for you. prgtoken During this election, the ic Party was exposed for what it has become: a party that holds police, parents, and patriotism in contempt. And now the have paid the price. The will continue to pay that price until they reject the repugnant radicalism that has infected their party. prgtoken The ic defeat last night was not in a single State or one county or some isolated municipality. It was not some isolated incident. It was not the result of just a single quirky issue or a bad candidate. It was a nationwide disaster and wipeout for the ic Party. prgtoken After 12 years of uninterrupted statewide victories in the Commonwealth of Virginia, appear to have lost not one, not two, but all three statewide races this year, along with control of the Virginia House of Delegates. And the only reason they didn't lose the Virginia State Senate is the State senate wasn't on the ballot last night. prgtoken I would remind you that Virginia is not a swing State, as you may have heard this morning to excuse the ' terrible performance. won Virginia by 10 points. It has been 12 years since Virginia voted for a . Virginia is a ic State and has been for more than a decade. Yet, now, 's acolytes have been soundly defeated by Governor-elect Glenn Youngkin, Lieutenant Governor-elect Winsome Sears, and Attorney General-elect Jason Miyares. It is remarkable how quickly the President's party has frittered away all of the good will in Virginia. prgtoken Now, I have also heard some try to explain away the loss in Virginia by saying Terry McAuliffe was a bad candidate. Now, I certainly have no grief for Terry McAuliffe, but I would say that Terry McAuliffe was such a bad candidate that he also is causing the ic Governor in New Jersey to lose. won that State by 16 points, and at this moment, the Governor's race is too close to call--too close to call. So it is at least a 16-point swing even if the ic Governor squeaks it out. prgtoken Oh, by the way, the ic State senate president, one of the key power brokers in New Jersey, appears to be on his path to losing to a truckdriver who spent a grand total of $153 on his campaign but someone who said: I am a dad and I am a grandfather, and I think that we are taxed too much and that we need better representation. prgtoken If anyone had told Governor Phil Murphy and the yesterday that this would be a close race, he would have been laughed out of the room. Yet outrage against ic policies is rampant even in deep blue New Jersey. prgtoken Looking across State lines in New York, there was a similarly shocking outcome, wit
DEFEND THE RIGHTS OF THE UNBORN
Mary E. Miller (Republican, IL) \u2014 2021-11-3

. Madam , yesterday the Supreme Court heard oral arguments in the Texas heartbeat case. prgtoken I pray that the Justices find wisdom and compassion to defend the rights of the unborn. prgtoken So many of my constituents were horrified to learn that the FDA was actually purchasing fetal tissue to surgically implant baby skulls into mice. Thank God President defended life and stopped this horrific practice. prgtoken We opened this session with a prayer to ``Creator God.'' God is the creator of human life, which begins at conception. Abortion is an offense to God, and we are bringing the wrath of God down upon our Nation. prgtoken Madam , I urge us as lawmakers and Americans to repent and change course. Every child is made in the image of God, and every child is precious.
HONORING THE HEROIC SERVICE OF 2020 VETERAN OF THE YEAR GARTH D. LLOYD
Elise M. Stefanik (Republican, NY) \u2014 2021-11-3

. Madam , I rise today to honor Garth D. Lloyd for his recognition as the 2020 Veteran of the Year. prgtoken Garth Lloyd was born and raised in Rochester, New York. In 1969, Mr. Lloyd was drafted into the U.S. Army and deployed to Vietnam with the 2nd Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division as an 11 Bravo, Infantryman. Coincidentally, Mr. Lloyd's former battalion is now assigned to 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division at Fort Drum. prgtoken While bravely defending his country, Mr. Lloyd was seriously wounded in action by a booby trap on February 12, 1970 and evacuated to the United States. Subsequently, Garth was medically discharged as a Specialist 4th class. For his courageous service, Mr. Lloyd was awarded the Purple Heart, Air Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Good Conduct Medal. prgtoken After the war, Mr. Lloyd continued to serve his community by working at the water treatment plant in the city of Saratoga Springs. Upon his retirement in 2012, Garth began volunteering at the Saratoga County VA Mentor Program, where he served as a mentor and friend to numerous disabled veterans. Mr. Lloyd has also spent many years volunteering his time as a docent at the New York State Military Museum. He works closely with the Docent Advisory Committee and the education opportunity program, which engages middle and high school students visiting the museum. Mr. Lloyd, and his wife Diane, have instilled their commitment to service in their son, a physician's assistant at Albany Medical Center, and their three grandchildren. prgtoken The Veteran of the Year Award is a prestigious recognition co- sponsored by the Friends of the New York State Military Museum and the Capital District of New York Chapter of the Association of the United States Army. Garth Lloyd has led a life devoted to selfless service and volunteerism and it is clear why he was chosen as the 2020 Veteran of the Year. On behalf of New York's 21st District, I would like to thank Garth for his service and congratulate him on his recognition as the 2020 Veteran of the Year.
EXPRESSING SOLIDARITY WITH CUBAN CITIZENS FOR FUNDAMENTAL FREEDOMS
Mario Diaz-Balart (Republican, FL) \u2014 2021-11-3

to Ranking Member Green, also to my friend also from Florida (Mr. Deutch) in particular, and to my good friend Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz, I thank you for your leadership. prgtoken , on the 11th of July, the Cuban people went to the streets demanding one thing: freedom after 62 years of repression. That was 4 months ago. Many of those who hit the streets were arrested, and many of those remain in prison in the worst possible conditions. Several have held hunger strikes to protest their unjust and cruel imprisonment. prgtoken Unfortunately, there has been very little solidarity from the administration. The administration has yet to even use technology available to the United States Government and even the private sector to provide internet so the Cuban people can communicate. The administration has failed to even support adequate funding for broadcasting into Cuba through the Office of Cuba Broadcasting. prgtoken , I fear that the administration will use remittances or even humanitarian aid or other ways to prop up the regime. Having said that, that is why I am so grateful to Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz, who has not given up and who has not stopped working to try to bring a resolution to the floor. prgtoken This resolution is a compromise. It is a compromise resolution, and although, as you have heard before, , many of my colleagues and I would have liked a stronger resolution such as the one that I introduced in July, which, again, the House leadership has refused to bring forward, this resolution does express solidarity with the Cuban people. Again, that is why I am so grateful to Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz. prgtoken I mention her, but I also need to mention Congressman McCarthy; Albio Sires; Maria Elvira Salazar; Carlos Gimenez; Mr. Mark Green, whom I mentioned; Michael McCaul; and Ted Deutch for their solidarity. prgtoken , I urge my colleagues to support this resolution for the cause of freedom and human rights in Cuba so that the Cuban people know that they are not alone and that we are with them. prgtoken Again, while we would like to be stronger, I am grateful for those who have worked day in and day out to finally bring this forward. prgtoken Patria y vida. Cuba will be free. They must know, and they will know, that they are not alone.
MOTION TO DISCHARGE
Marsha Blackburn (Republican, TN) \u2014 2021-11-3

it is no secret that President 's COVID-19 vaccine mandates have drawn major opposition here in the Senate. My colleagues and I have introduced multiple pieces of legislation that chip away at the various impractical, unethical, and downright unconstitutional aspects of this latest power grab. prgtoken Last week, I introduced the Keeping our COVID-19 Heroes Employed Act, which would pull essential workers out from under these mandates and stop the White House from unilaterally firing them for refusing to submit to a shot. Think about how ludicrous that is. This, of course, is the heart of the issue. prgtoken These pieces of legislation are not anti-vaccine. In fact, our opposition isn't about vaccines at all. I have been vaccinated, and I encourage people to talk to their physicians. This is all about the precedent the administration is trying to set; namely, that it prgtoken is acceptable for the Federal Government to stand between a patient and their doctor and to overrule science and personal choice in the name of their personal political agenda. prgtoken I think my colleague Senator Marshall knows a thing or two about preserving the importance of that doctor-patient relationship. prgtoken Is that correct, Senator?
FREDERICK P. STAMP, JR. FEDERAL BUILDING AND UNITED STATES COURTHOUSE
David B. McKinley (Republican, WV) \u2014 2021-11-3

I thank the chairman for his support on this, as well as the ranking member on our side. prgtoken , I rise today to honor an individual who represents the very best of West Virginia and recognize him as one of our country's most respected and thoughtful jurists, the Honorable Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. prgtoken Judge Stamp began his tenure as a Federal judge when he was confirmed in 1990 to the United States District Court for the Northern District of West Virginia, where he would preside as chief judge. prgtoken In West Virginia, Judge Stamp is known for his commitment to service above self. This is evident from his military service, his time spent in the West Virginia legislature, his work as a private attorney, and for his support of countless community organizations. He has been a steadfast and respected pillar of West Virginia, living there his entire life. prgtoken Having raised two adult children, Judge Stamp and his wife, Joan, are valued members of the Wheeling community. And Judge Stamp has already been honored by his selection to the Wheeling Hall of Fame. prgtoken Humble to the extreme, but humble by nature, it is a testament to his character that Judge Stamp would never personally seek this type of recognition. But he has earned it and his peers would like to see that recognition for him. prgtoken , I am so proud that Congress is taking this opportunity to honor such a great American by naming the building in which Judge Stamp has spent the majority of his professional service and public life, the Frederick P. Stamp, Jr. Federal Courthouse in Wheeling, West Virginia. prgtoken , I urge the adoption of this resolution and I thank the chairman for his support.
CONGRATULATING ATLANTA BRAVES AS 2021 WORLD SERIES CHAMPIONS
Andrew S. Clyde (Republican, GA) \u2014 2021-11-3

. Madam , I rise today to congratulate the 2021 World Series champions, the Atlanta Braves. prgtoken After a stunning six-game World Series against the Houston Astros, culminating in a shutout victory last night, the Braves brought home the Commissioner's Trophy for the first time since 1995. prgtoken I, along with millions of Georgians, am incredibly proud of this Braves team for their unparalleled talent, electric team spirit, and unwavering determination. prgtoken Candidly, last night's victory was poetic justice after the Major League Baseball commissioner caved to the woke left and stole the All- Star game from Georgia earlier this year over Georgia's new election law reform that made it easier to vote and harder to cheat. prgtoken While ill-advised political ploys fade away, World Series championships are forever. prgtoken Chop on, Atlanta Braves.
RECOGNIZING WILLIE JETT
Tom Emmer (Republican, MN) \u2014 2021-11-3

. Madam , I rise today in recognition of St. Cloud area school district superintendent Willie Jett. Willie will be retiring from his role as superintendent at the end of this school year, ending 8 years in service to the district. prgtoken During his tenure, Willie has been an advocate for students, a leader for faculty, and an ally to parents. When the district experienced challenges, Willie focused on a student-centric approach to education. Willie's leadership prioritized the performance of each student and provided the support they needed to thrive. prgtoken Willie led the St. Cloud school district through times of crisis and change. He helped schools rebuild after fires and successfully navigated the COVID-19 crisis. Willie oversaw the construction of the new St. Cloud Tech High School and an early childhood education center. Willie even participated in one of our Congressional telephone townhalls to answer questions about remote learning for families across the St. Cloud community. prgtoken Willie remains a friend and leader in our community. Willie's presence in the St. Cloud school district will be missed. prgtoken Madam , I thank Willie for all of his work, and I wish him good luck in the next chapter of his life.
ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS
John Boozman (Republican, AR) \u2014 2021-11-3

I rise today to honor Carolyn Pollan, who passed away at the age of 84 on Saturday, October 23, 2021. prgtoken Carolyn Pollan was a native of Fort Smith, AR, who dedicated her life to serving the Natural State. She was elected to the Arkansas House of Representatives in 1975 and was one of only three women serving in the State legislature at the time. She served until 1999, becoming the longest serving woman and in Arkansas House history. prgtoken Throughout her career, Carolyn was a champion of Arkansas' families and children. Her leadership in developing policies to help kids and families landed her in more positions to create positive change for future generations. prgtoken She created and chaired the children and youth committee--a new committee specifically designed to address problems affecting children--and served on the education committee and legislative council, as well as the joint budget committee. In addition, she formed the first domestic abuse hotline and established the Arkansas Commission on Child Abuse, Rape, and Domestic Abuse. She also crafted legislation that brought about major, positive changes to teaching at- risk youth. Over 250 pieces of legislation she sponsored were passed, many of them positively impacting Arkansas's families and children. Family, friends, and colleagues say no one came close to matching her passion on these issues. Additionally, Carolyn was the first woman appointed as associate speaker pro tempore of the State House. prgtoken Carolyn also cared deeply about education. For 25 years, she served on the John Brown University Board of Trustees--the first woman to do so--and became a Trustee Emeritus. She also created the Pygmalion Commission in 1993, which continues to improve educational outcomes for at-risk students in Arkansas. Additionally, she served on numerous educational boards and committees. Carolyn chaired the Southern Regional Legislative Council Education Committee and Southern Legislative Council Education Committee, served in the Office of Technology Assessment of the Congress Advisory Board for the National Study of Computers in Education, and on several educational boards within the U.S. Department of Education and U.S. Department of Labor. prgtoken Carolyn also worked for Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee for 3 years, where she helped enact welfare and workplace reforms and managed the State's multimillion-dollar tobacco settlement. She served on the development committee of the Clinton School of Public Service and was a founder and board president of the Arkansas Center for Health Improvement within the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, which has significantly improved the health of Arkansans since its founding. prgtoken She has been honored by numerous organizations in recognition of her accomplishments. Carolyn was included in the Top 100 Women in Arkansas by Arkansas Business Magazine and was honored as one of 10