mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
NATIONAL DEFENSE STRATEGY AND AFRICA
James M. Inhofe (Republican, OK) \u2014 2020-1-16

as chairman of the Armed Services Committee, my top priority is ensuring the effective implementation of the National Defense Strategy. I rise today to speak about the importance of Africa as a key front in our global efforts under the NDS to compete with China and Russia, defend U.S. national security, and combat radical terrorist groups like al-Qaida and ISIS. The NDS says competition with China and Russia is ``the central challenge to U.S. prosperity and security.'' This is where DOD is rightly focusing its attention. But China's and Russia's growing influence isn't restricted to Europe and the Indo-Pacific. Recent actions by China and Russia clearly demonstrate that both countries view Africa as a critical battlefield to fulfill their global ambitions and challenge U.S. interests. prgtoken Over the past 20 years, I have conducted 164 African country visits. I can tell you it is no coincidence that China established its first overseas military base in Djibouti--strategically located on one of the most important maritime transit routes in the world. I visited Djibouti last February and saw first-hand China's military base and their encroachment on the Port of Djibouti. Elsewhere, China is using cash and debt to trap countries and force them to put their infrastructure and potentially their very sovereignty on sale. For example, 90 percent of African exports depend on ports and China is funding, building, or operating at least 46 port projects in sub-Saharan Africa. In addition to giving China a potential stranglehold on African prosperity, it also provides China access to critical maritime routes and chokepoints. prgtoken At the same time, Russia is using its armed forces, mercenaries, and the sale of Russian arms to buy influence, exploit Africa's natural resources, and to prop up leaders sympathetic to Russian interests and hostile to those of the West. And while the NDS states that competition with China and Russia should be DOD's top priority, it makes clear that we cannot afford to lose sight of the continuing threat posed by radical terrorist groups like al-Qaida and ISIS. prgtoken Africa has been and must remain a key theater for our counterterrorism efforts. Today, more than a dozen terrorist groups with ties to al-Qaida and ISIS, like Al-Shabab, are operating across the continent. Many of these groups have ambition to attack Americans and our partners, as we saw last week when Al-Shabab militants in Kenya killed a U.S. servicemember and two DOD contractors. Without pressure the threat these groups pose to the United States will grow unchecked. And this isn't a recent development--I have seen this come up time and time again on my visits to the continent. It is why I pushed the DOD for years to stand up an Africa command. People forget that we didn't always have a dedicated military presence in Africa, despite its strategic importance. It was managed through three separate combatan
STATEMENT ON THE UNITED STATES-MEXICO-CANADA AGREEMENT IMPLEMENTATION ACT
Susan M. Collins (Republican, ME) \u2014 2020-1-16

trade with Canada and Mexico is vitally important to Maine's economy, supporting numerous small businesses and more than 53,000 jobs in our State. prgtoken In reviewing the text of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, the replacement for the deeply flawed NAFTA, my paramount concern was ensuring that Maine workers will be protected. After careful assessment of the benefits USMCA will have for those employed in Maine's manufacturing industry, agriculture sector, and small businesses, I will vote in support of the USMCA. prgtoken According to the U.S. International Trade Commission, USMCA is projected to have a positive impact on all broad industry sectors, increasing employment by 176,000 jobs and increasing real GDP by $68.2 billion. This agreement also makes important improvements to labor and environmental standards and brings these issues into the core of the agreement. This is a step in the right direction for modernizing trade agreements. prgtoken Dana Connors, president & CEO of the Maine State Chamber of Commerce, said: Our border countries are important trade partners for Maine businesses, in fact, trade with our friends to the north is vital to many Maine businesses on a daily basis. The Maine State Chamber of Commerce thanks Senator Collins for her support of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The USMCA's passage is vital for Maine businesses, will restore trade uncertainty and help our economy to continue to thrive. prgtoken One out of five Maine manufacturing firms exports to Canada and Mexico, and the majority of these are small- and medium-sized companies. Without tariff-free trade, Maine's manufactured goods exported to Canada and Mexico could face $6.3 million to $26 million in additional tariffs, jeopardizing Maine jobs. Companies like New Balance, which employs hundreds of Mainers at its facilities in Norridgewock, Norway, and Skowhegan, and Texas Instruments in South Portland, depend on a stable North American supply chain. prgtoken Amy Dow, director of public relations and government relations for New Balance, said: On behalf of our company's Maine associates, New Balance supports the passage of the USMCA that will enable the continued success and future growth of our three manufacturing facilities in Maine. Senator Collins' support and leadership on this trade agreement has been vital to ensure that our factories can continue to produce thousands of pairs of shoes annually for export to the Canadian market. prgtoken Stephen Bonner, Texas Instruments vice president for worldwide government relations, said: Texas Instruments is a long-time supporter of predictable, open-market based trade policies. We're pleased that the new USMCA includes strong digital trade and intellectual property provisions to adapt the agreement to the 21st century economy, and s
PROVIDING FOR CONGRESSIONAL DISAPPROVAL OF RULE SUBMITTED BY DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION RELATING TO ``BORROWER DEFENSE INSTITUTIONAL ACCOUNTABILITY''
Brett Guthrie (Republican, KY) \u2014 2020-1-16

I rise in opposition to the resolution, but I think what we all support and what we all agree on is that individuals who are harmed by fraudulent practices should have their debts forgiven. prgtoken And let's just look at where we are. This is 20 years this has been on the books. For 20 years, 60 cases were filed--60, I will emphasize that. Since 2015, at the end of the previous administration, 287,000 cases have been filed. prgtoken So we all want to know if there is fraud. We don't want fraud. We don't want people harmed by fraud, individuals harmed by fraud to have to pay that back. And remember, the money is going to our hardworking taxpayers. prgtoken So that is all this rules says. It says that there is fraud; you are harmed by fraud; and you don't have to pay it back as an individual. prgtoken Let's just look at an example of that. prgtoken What if the fraud of a school is they advertise a work placement rate of 85 percent and it is only 50 percent. Well, that is fraud. But if you were one of the 50 percent who got a job, were you harmed? You got your education; you got a job; you moved forward. Should the taxpayers forgive your student loans when you got the education and got the job that you were moving for? prgtoken That is all. We are trying to make it reasonable. The 287,000 cases that are sitting before Secretary DeVos would be under the old rule. This is the new rule going forward, so people will know what it is and understand that, one, we are fighting fraud. If you were harmed by fraud and you can prove that as an individual, you still get your loans forgiven. prgtoken I think it is reasonable. I think that it sets a process in place that people can understand. It has it going forward. I support the rule, and I oppose this resolution.
CONGRATULATING THE CENTRAL METHODIST UNIVERSITY MEN'S SOCCER TEAM
Vicky Hartzler (Republican, MO) \u2014 2020-1-16

. Madam , a year ago I stood on the House floor to pay tribute to the Central Methodist University Eagles Men's Soccer Team of Fayette, Missouri--located in Missouri's Fourth Congressional District--for winning the NAIA Men's Soccer National Championship. I have the distinct honor of sharing with you the news of a truly outstanding accomplishment: the Eagles have won the NAIA Men's Soccer Championship for a second consecutive year. Head Coad Alex Nichols and the Eagles defeated Hastings College of Nebraska 3-1 in the championship finale in Irvine, California. The win capped a 25-1 season for the Eagles as they set school records for most wins in a season and fewest losses in a season. This second-straight soccer national championship is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and determination that defines this team's work ethic. Congratulations to the Central Methodist University Eagles--Missouri's two-time national champs.
AZERBAIJAN--BLACK JANUARY
Robert B. Aderholt (Republican, AL) \u2014 2020-1-16

. Madam , this month, our friend and ally, the Republic of Azerbaijan marks the 30th anniversary of ``Black January.'' This time period symbolizes the beginning of the end of Soviet rule over Azerbaijan, an occupation that existed for much of the 20th Century. Violent conflict erupted in Azerbaijan's capital city of Baku on January 19-20, 1990 when Soviet troops killed over 100 Azeri demonstrators and wounded another 700. prgtoken In stark contrast to the violence of the Soviet military, the people of Azerbaijan continued their peaceful protests until declaring independence from the U.S.S.R. on October 18, 1991. prgtoken I ask my colleagues to join me in commemorating the events of Black January in Azerbaijan and honoring those who lost their lives in pursuit of freedom. The United States continues to stand with our ally and partner.
UNITED STATES-MEXICO-CANADA AGREEMENT IMPLEMENTATION ACT--Continued
Patrick J. Toomey (Republican, PA) \u2014 2020-1-16

I will make two quick points and then get to the point of order. prgtoken First of all, I disagree with the chairman. I do think the spending in this bill is neither strictly necessary nor appropriate, but that is not what the point of order is about. If my point of order is sustained and if the motion that is going to be made by the chairman is to be rejected, not a penny will be reduced in the spending of this bill, which is why I couldn't disagree more with my colleague from Oregon in his suggesting it is a Trojan horse for something. It doesn't cut spending by a dime from this bill. It simply means that by the end of the fiscal year, Congress will have to find an offset for this prgtoken very, very modest amount of money. It is an attempt to try to enforce some kind of compliance. Point of Order prgtoken , pursuant to section 314(e) of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974, I raise a point of order against the emergency designation on page No. 233, lines 4 through 8, of H.R. 5430.
CONSTITUTIONAL AND MORAL AUTHORITY
Mike Gallagher (Republican, WI) \u2014 2020-1-16

I thank the gentleman from Texas. prgtoken , last week, the House passed H.R. 535, the PFAS Action Act of 2019. This important legislation marks a critical step forward in addressing the public health crisis caused by so-called forever chemicals like PFAS. prgtoken According to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, certain compounds of PFAS, like PFOA and PFOS, are known to cause liver damage, thyroid disease, asthma, birth defects, and even some cancers. prgtoken Unfortunately, for many in northeast Wisconsin, this fight is personal and tragic. Anyone who has been to our small corner of the country knows that water is part of what makes northeast Wisconsin so special and beautiful. Unfortunately, this water, which is so central to our way of life, is under threat from chemicals like PFOA and PFOS. prgtoken While until recently, PFAS was an unknown contaminant. Recent studies give us a better understanding of the risks posed by compounds like PFOA and PFOS. Not only have our communities been unwittingly placed at risk by these toxins, but it has taken far too long to get them the resources required to mitigate their effects. prgtoken As a result, these toxic chemicals have contaminated local water sources and literally poisoned the well from which Wisconsinites drink. prgtoken No one should be afraid to drink or use the water from their tap. The fact that this is the case for many across the country, including in northeast Wisconsin, and in Peshtigo, in particular, means one thing: We must act with a sense of urgency to defend our communities and protect the clean water that underpins our way of life. prgtoken As a member of the PFAS Task Force, I am committed to finding ways to combat PFAS and its negative effects on our communities. prgtoken Last year, Representative Delgado and I introduced the PFAS Right-to- Know Act, a bipartisan bill that would require PFAS to be listed on the Toxics Release Inventory and require manufacturers, processors, and producers to report their usage of PFAS chemicals to the EPA. prgtoken Signed into law last month as part of the 2020 National Defense Authorization Act, this bill provides communities with a better understanding of where these toxins come from so we can better combat their effects. While this was an important first step, there is more to be done. prgtoken The PFAS Action Act builds on last year's progress through a number of important provisions. It designates prgtoken PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances to ensure that all those responsible for contamination do their part to clean up and restore our waters and habitats. It establishes stronger drinking water standards to give States and communities the resources they need to mitigate contamination. It strengthens the Clean Water Act to include PFOS and PFOA as toxic pollutants. prgtoken This legislation will be critical in protecting waters in northeast Wisconsin and across the country for current and fu
ADDRESSING SUICIDE PREVENTION
Chris Stewart (Republican, UT) \u2014 2020-1-16

I rise to speak about the Suicide Prevention Act. prgtoken I read this statistic on the House floor before, but it bears repeating: every 9 minutes someone in the United States commits suicide. And for every suicide-related death, there are 25 attempts. These are truly heartbreaking statistics, and they hit close to home. prgtoken I have met with the family and friends of those who have taken their own life. I have heard their stories and I am responding to their pleas for help. prgtoken This bill is part of a longstanding commitment to reverse this troubling trend. It is bipartisan, it is bicameral, and it would provide for new resources to turn the tide on this dire situation. prgtoken Part of the problem when it comes to effectively addressing suicide is that medical and other professionals have outdated resources and stale data. The current data collection efforts regarding suicide are often years out of date, and this limits the ability of State and local health organizations, as well as community organizations, to recognize the trends early and intervene. prgtoken , I am asking my colleagues here in the House and the Senate to respond to those who are crying for help. This legislation makes so much sense, we should make it a priority.
CONGRATULATING STEVEN H. PERDUE FOR RECEIVING THE 2019 DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD
Jack Bergman (Republican, MI) \u2014 2020-1-16

. Madam , it is my honor to recognize Steven H. Perdue for receiving the 2019 Distinguished Service Award from Traverse Connect. Through his exceptional leadership and steadfast devotion to his community, Steve has become an indispensable part of Northern Michigan. prgtoken Since 1929, the Distinguished Service Award has been given to leaders who have had a tremendously positive impact on the Traverse City area. Through his decades of service to his community, Steve has shown himself to be more than deserving of this honor. Founded in 1974, Grand Traverse Industries (GTI) provides comprehensive services for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. As President and CEO of GTI, Steven has led these efforts since 1980. His exceptional work has helped thousands of persons with disabilities in the Grand Traverse Area find meaningful employment. prgtoken Steve's selflessness has been previously recognized on multiple occasions, for instance receiving the 2007 Sara Hardy Humanitarian of the Year Award from the City of Traverse City. Outside of his work at GTI, Steve has served in a variety of leadership roles in the Idaho Special Olympics, the Idaho and Michigan State Trade Associations, the TC Area Chamber of Commerce, the Small Business Council, and the Traverse Bay Economic Development Corporation. He also serves on the Board of SourceAmerica, a national nonprofit that creates job opportunities for those with disabilities. The impact of Steve's work on the people of Michigan cannot be overstated. prgtoken Madam , it's my honor to congratulate Steven H. Perdue for receiving the 2019 Distinguished Service Award. Michiganders can take great pride in knowing the First District is home to such a selfless leader. On behalf of my constituents, I wish Steve all the best in his future endeavors.
TRIBUTE TO LINDA ROST
Steve Daines (Republican, MT) \u2014 2020-1-16

this week I have the honor of recognizing Linda Rost of Fallon County for being named Montana's 2020 Teacher of the Year. prgtoken Linda is a highly qualified science teacher at Baker High School with a master's degree in science education from Montana State University. Linda has been inspiring students and motivating them to dig deeper when it comes to science education. The folks in Fallon County are very proud of Linda's prestigious recognition. prgtoken Because of the size of Baker High School, Linda teaches multiple age groups. While it is a joy, it is also one of the many challenges that comes from teaching at a small rural school. Linda goes above and beyond to find a variety of ways to connect with each student ensuring they understand the course material in a fun and engaging way. prgtoken The Montana Teacher of the Year award is a long and competitive process. After interacting with several selection committees made up of top education leaders from across Montana, Linda was selected as the 2020 winner. Linda will now go on to represent Montana in the 2020 National Teacher of the Year competition. prgtoken It is my honor to recognize Linda for her dedication to teaching young Montanans. Fallon County and Montana are very fortunate to have a teacher like Linda to ensure that our rural students are getting the highest quality education possible.
ANNIVERSARY OF ROE V. WADE
Ron Estes (Republican, KS) \u2014 2020-1-16

. Madam , today I address the first and most fundamental right guaranteed to every individual--the right to life. prgtoken Next week marks the 47th anniversary since the tragic ruling in Roe v. Wade. In that time, more than 60 million lives have been lost to abortion. prgtoken That's 60 million babies who were never given the chance to fulfill their potential as a future doctor, farmer, artist, or maybe Member of Congress. prgtoken Last year, I helped support efforts by the administration to update Title X guidelines so that tax dollars for family planning services don't go to abortion providers. prgtoken This year we have built on our pro-life efforts by introducing the Down Syndrome Discrimination by Abortion Prohibition Act to protect the most vulnerable of the unborn. prgtoken We have accomplished great victories for life over the past three years, however we know there is more to be done. prgtoken That's why I want to thank the hundreds of thousands of Americans from Kansas and throughout our country who will be convening in Washington next week to stand for life. prgtoken We know that research has proven what pro-life Kansans have already known--that is life is precious and it begins at conception. prgtoken As a dad of three and a Kansan, I stand in support of fellow Kansans and Americans who are a voice for the voiceless.
REMEMBERING CHRIS ALLEN
Pat Roberts (Republican, KS) \u2014 2020-1-16

I rise today to pay tribute to the life of Chris Allen, who worked as my senior economic policy adviser. It is fitting that I do so on the Senate floor because Chris Allen would be the first one to tell you he loved his job. prgtoken This statement was delivered so frequently and with such sincerity that one was compelled to look inward and remind one's self of what a privilege it is to work in the U.S. Senate on behalf of the American people. prgtoken Chris Allen was a student of history and a lover of politics. Ladies and gentlemen, Chris Allen loved tax policy. If that doesn't tell you what a special person he was, I don't know what does. prgtoken Chris's attitude about his job extended to his coworkers. He loved his coworkers. When he was on my staff, Chris was always willing to help junior staff, senior staff, or interns. It didn't matter--he had time for you. He rolled up his sleeves and pitched in. He gave you advice. He truly cared. prgtoken When it came time for my 2014 campaign, Chris spent his vacation days with me in Kansas--knocking on doors, walking in parades, and being a force of positive energy no matter what we faced. Normally these are grueling tasks but not for Chris. He had fun. He loved it. prgtoken As a matter of fact, posted on the wall of our little Hart kitchen, we have a selfie on election night of my crew at the victory party. The picture is entitled ``This is what victory looks like.'' And right smack-dab in the middle is one smiling Chris Allen. Now, when I am heating up my coffee, I look at Chris in the picture, and I can feel his joy as he is surrounded by our family of staffers. prgtoken Elections weren't his only love. Chris Allen loved a cold beer. He loved a natty jacket. He loved loud pants. Sometimes he loved wearing them together. He loved his lacrosse. He loved his Baltimore neighborhood. He loved all things English and French. He loved researching his ancestry. prgtoken Chris Allen loved his parents, his in-laws, his brothers, his nieces and nephews, but nothing compared to his love for Lynda, Lucie, and Sophie. He was not just a proud dad who boasted of his daughters' accomplishments big and small; he was better. He was a father who took delight in the things his daughters said and did, big and small. They were cherished. May they understand today and always that we loved Chris, and he loved them. prgtoken I always looked forward to my briefings with Chris. For one, he got my jokes. He understood my references to radio and television shows and personalities that my other staff would have to research and look up. But he was also understanding of the history of the issues, even those not in his portfolio. prgtoken He was an excellent steward of my priorities on the Finance Committee, so much so they stole him from me. At the time I told him, ``Listen, you still work for me, you are just sitting down the hall.'' prgtoken To illustrate Chris' popularity, I would
PROVIDING FOR CONGRESSIONAL DISAPPROVAL OF RULE SUBMITTED BY DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION RELATING TO ``BORROWER DEFENSE INSTITUTIONAL ACCOUNTABILITY''
Virginia Foxx (Republican, NC) \u2014 2020-1-16

such time as I may consume. prgtoken , when I have had the privilege of being in that chair, I have often been reminded to ask Members to refrain from making comments about the President or Members of the Cabinet. I am not hearing that being said this morning, and I would just like to call it to the 's attention. prgtoken I would also like to say that as long as people are getting up on the floor and misrepresenting what is happening in this administration, I will continue to remind them that the rule that is being enforced is the -era rule, and any students who are being harmed are being harmed as a result of that. prgtoken , .