mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
National Police Week (Executive Session)
Sherrod Brown (Democrat, OH) \u2014 2024-5-16

each year during Police Week, we honor the law enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their communities. prgtoken This year, we will add the names of four Ohioans to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial who laid down their lives this year and last year: Officer Timothy James Unwin, III, of the Springfield Township Police Department; Deputy Sheriff Marcus Zeigler of the Hamilton County Sheriff's Office; Deputy Sheriff Joshua Hamilton of the Preble County Sheriff's Office. prgtoken Sadly, we know already of two names that will be added to the memorial next year: Jacob Derbin of the Euclid Police Department, who was senselessly ambushed and killed in the line of duty last weekend. He leaves behind a father who was part of the department, the same Euclid Department. prgtoken I spoke at length to the chief of police in Euclid last week. The young man was engaged to be married. His grandfather had also been a policeman at a suburban police department in Cleveland. prgtoken We also add the name next year of Lieutenant Rodney Osborne of the Southern Ohio Correctional Facility, who tragically died in an accident during a training exercise. prgtoken Each of these losses is a tragedy for a family, for a community, and surely for their fellow officers. prgtoken These Ohioans' lives are a reminder of the ideals we should strive for. We need officers who are true public servants in the best sense of the word, people who give themselves to the community, people like these brave men. prgtoken These Ohioans gave so much. prgtoken Officer Timothy James Unwin, III, was a Cincinnati native who dedicated more than 8 years to serving Ohio communities in both the Hamilton County Sheriff's Office and the Springfield Township Police Department. prgtoken In his free time, he enjoyed staying active and working on cars. His colleagues, friends, and family members remember his smile and remember his always positive energy. He was always helping others. He wanted to make the world a better place. prgtoken He lost his life in a tragic car crash while responding to a call for help from fellow officers. prgtoken Deputy Sheriff Marcus Zeigler began his career in the private sector working in security and defense before joining the Hamilton County Sheriff's Department. That is the Cincinnati area in Southwest Ohio. prgtoken He was proud to serve as a deputy. While he was only with the department for 9 months, he made an impression on his colleagues and his community. He always had a smile on his face. He was always happy to lend a hand. He was eager to grow in his career. prgtoken His family was the most important thing to him. Our thoughts are with his wife and his five children. prgtoken Deputy Sheriff John Hamilton was a former U.S. Navy Reservist and Army National Guard member who served in the Preble County Sheriff's team. He was known for his unwavering commitment to our country and to the Prebl
LEGISLATIVE SESSION
Charles E. Schumer (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2024-5-16

tomorrow will be 100 days since Senate s blocked the strongest border security bill we have seen in a generation. prgtoken For the last 2 weeks, I have come to the floor with my ic colleagues calling on both sides to set partisanship aside and work together to fix the problems on our southern border. prgtoken America is proudly a nation of immigrants. We always have been, and we always will be. Most Americans know our country is made stronger because of immigration, but they also know the current condition of border security is simply not acceptable. prgtoken It is a problem going back many years, going back many administrations. After decades of neglect, our border security needs an update. Our immigration rules need reform to provide more opportunity and fairness and humane treatment to those who seek opportunity in America. And the only way we fix the border long term is through bipartisan legislation. prgtoken Let me say it again: The only way we fix the border long term is through bipartisan legislation like the one we had in the Senate 3 months ago. prgtoken The bipartisan Border Act was precisely the kind of proposal s and have been trying to produce for years. It contained the strongest border security provisions in a generation. It would have overhauled our asylum laws, hired thousands of new border agents, invested in cutting-edge technology to stop the flow of fentanyl, and given the President new authorities to close the border. prgtoken Now, of course, our bipartisan border bill wasn't perfect--not every supported this bill--but unlike other border bills, it was designed to pass both Chambers in divided government. prgtoken If our border security bill was good enough to win the support of the actual Border Patrol agents, shouldn't it have been enough to win the support of Senate s? prgtoken And speaking candidly, when our bill was first released, many of our colleagues were surprised at how strong it was, even if only in private. I dare say, a significant percentage of the caucus would have supported it. prgtoken If both Chambers would have voted on our bill without outside interference, I am confident it would have passed and reached the President's desk. But as we all know, swooped in and told his MAGA supporters to kill the bill. prgtoken In fact, he was proud to kill it. ``Please, blame it on me,'' he said. Those were 's words after our bill went down, and I certainly don't think it is smart of him to brag about killing an issue most people want to see fixed. treats this like a game, but most Americans just want to see the border fixed regardless of who does it. prgtoken have not walked away from trying to get something done on the border. We want to work with our colleagues on border security, just as we showed we were serious when we worked with them e
NIH IMPROVE Act (Executive Session)
Laphonza R. Butler (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2024-5-16

today, I rise on the heels of Mother's Day to bring attention to the healthcare crisis facing America's mothers-- most particularly Black mothers and the Black maternal health crisis. prgtoken I begin by acknowledging the invaluable contribution mothers make each day, kissing scraped knees and chasing monsters out of the closet. Mothers are indeed our Nation's true superheroes. prgtoken All across the country, mothers are the driving force for our economy. According to the Center for American Progress, mothers are to thank for most of the economic gains enjoyed by middle-class families over the past 50 years. Their data covering 1970 to 2013 show that women's increased labor force participation and increased earnings grew the U.S. economy by 13.5 percent, which translates to an additional $2 trillion in economic activity. prgtoken According to the Department of Labor, 40.5 percent of working mothers are equal, primary, or sole income earners for their family--a fact that is especially true for Black mothers. In the United States, Black mothers are a critical part of our labor force, and 80 percent of them are the breadwinners for their families. prgtoken But these same mothers face a healthcare system that is failing them. The United States has the highest rate of maternal mortality in the world amongst high-income nations. Thousands of women in America have lost their lives due to pregnancy-related causes in recent years and over the past decade. While the birthrate in this country has declined by roughly 20 percent, maternal mortality rates have steadily risen. prgtoken This crisis is exacerbated in communities grappling with a lack of access to essential maternal healthcare. According to a report produced by the March of Dimes, one-third of the counties in the United States are considered maternity care deserts, meaning there are no hospitals providing obstetric care, no birth centers, and no obstetric providers. Imagine your loved one preparing to give birth and bring new life into your family having no choice but to drive hours away from home to seek care. prgtoken We know from the data that this crisis has not been felt equally. Among Black and Native indigenous communities, maternal mortality rates are two to four times higher compared to those of White communities. prgtoken The good news is that champions in this Chamber have spent years laying the groundwork in our path toward rectifying this crisis. In 2018, then-Senator, now-Vice President introduced the initial Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act. The prgtoken Momnibus, now led by the very own Senator Booker from New Jersey, is a comprehensive legislative package that would make historic investments to address every dimension of the Black maternal health crisis. I am proud to serve as a cosponsor of this much needed legislation. prgtoken The good news is that, since leaving this Chamber, Vice President has remained consi
ORDERS FOR MONDAY, MAY 20, 2024
Brian Schatz (Democrat, HI) \u2014 2024-5-16

I ask unanimous consent that when the Senate completes its business today, it stand adjourned until 3 p.m Monday, May 20; that following the prayer and pledge, the morning hour be deemed expired, the Journal of proceedings be approved to date, 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 Lanham nomination; further, that if any nominations are confirmed during Monday's session, the motions to reconsider be considered made and laid upon the table, and the President be immediately notified of the Senate's actions.
COMMEMORATING ANNIVERSARY OF BROWN V. BOARD OF EDUCATION
Katie Porter (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2024-5-16

I rise to commemorate the passing of the past president of the Orange County Realtors, Jeffrey Jackson. prgtoken Jeff's presidency came at a tumultuous time for real estate, with changes to commission structures, historically low inventory, and high interest rates. Those challenges didn't inhibit his willingness to serve. As his association stated, he willingly embraced the opportunity. prgtoken Jeff was a passionate advocate, and the struggles of his clients to find housing drove him to fight for housing for all. He fulfilled all of his roles, including at the State and national associations, until the final weeks of his battle with cancer. prgtoken Jeff had four loves: his Hoosiers; his dog, Niles; jazz; and housing. He moved to California in 2010 and, in 2014, began his 10-year real estate career. prgtoken Jeff was loved by many, including me, and he will be dearly missed. Pausing Expansion of LNG Export Capacity
RECOGNIZING OLIVIA MACIAS
Brittany Pettersen (Democrat, CO) \u2014 2024-5-16

I rise today to recognize Olivia Macias for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. prgtoken Olivia has overcome many challenges along her journey to success, demonstrating perseverance at every step. Students who strive to make the most of their education, like Olivia, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Olivia's hard work, determination, and perseverance at Oberon Middle School and is clearly just the beginning of a bright and promising future. prgtoken It is my honor to congratulate Olivia Macias on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.
CELEBRATING LIRA ELECTRIC DURING SMALL BUSINESS WEEK
Steven Horsford (Democrat, NV) \u2014 2024-5-16

. Madam , I rise to recognize one of the greatest heavyweight boxers in history, Joe Louis. Tomorrow he is being recognized in Nevada in a tribute to celebrate both his professional and personal contributions to our communities. prgtoken Louis was one of the first Black men to be elevated to national hero status after he broke many racial barriers and advocated for civil rights. Known as the Brown Bomber, he held the heavyweight title for almost 12 years, defending it a record 25 times, and despite a 4-year hiatus from boxing to serve during World War II. prgtoken In addition to his boxing career, Louis was instrumental in breaking the color barrier in the PGA and paved the way for the first generation of Black professional golfers. prgtoken His legacy left an enduring impact on sports and civil rights, helping inspire future generations to fight for justice. I am proud to honor his memory and celebrate his lasting influence. National Police Week
POLICE OUR BORDER ACT
Pramila Jayapal (Democrat, WA) \u2014 2024-5-16

. Mr. Chair, here I was coming to the floor thinking that I could support an amendment that made sense to me about fighting the scourge of fentanyl, and I do support the amendment because I think data will be good for us. prgtoken I just would say to my friend across the aisle: Shutting down the border is not going to fix this problem. By saying that and by continuing to use those divisive talking points, he is moving us away from a solution to the really dire issue of fentanyl that is killing our communities. prgtoken Let's work together in a bipartisan way to actually deal with the scourge of fentanyl. Let's not put it on the border and let's not pretend that shutting down the border is going to help because, as I said, fentanyl poisoning rose under the administration, and did try to shut down the border until the courts prevented him from doing that. prgtoken The reality here is, we have a real problem. We have a real problem. I was willing to come to the floor and support this amendment because I think the data is important, and I hope my colleague across the aisle will recognize that sticking to the facts, as he did in his amendment, is the most important thing to actually addressing the issue of fentanyl. prgtoken Mr. Chair, .
RECOGNIZING THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF RELAY FOR LIFE OF CANTON AND PLYMOUTH
Debbie Dingell (Democrat, MI) \u2014 2024-5-17

I rise today to recognize the Relay for Life event of Canton and Plymouth on the 25th anniversary of their efforts in the fight against cancer. The contributions that it has made to the Canton and Plymouth communities and in support of cancer research are worthy of commendation. prgtoken Relay for Life began in 1985 when Dr. Gordon Klatt decided to raise money for the American Cancer Society (ACS) by walking around a track for 24 hours. Since then, Relay for Life has grown to over 5,000 annual events across the globe, raising over $5 billion in support of the ACS and cancer research, including in Canton and Plymouth, Michigan. Relay for Life brings together survivors, caregivers, and other community members to celebrate survivors, honor those who have lost the battle against cancer, and fight back against cancer as a united community. Today, Relay for Life is the largest annual not-for-profit fundraising event in the world, thanks in part to the efforts of the Canton and Plymouth Relay for Life. prgtoken Since 1999, the Canton and Plymouth communities have been participating in the ACS Relay for Life event, and they have helped the ACS fund over $80.52 million in cancer research in Michigan and support more than 3.2 million cancer patients and their families. The success of Relay for Life would not be possible without the many community members and organizations that support it. The Relay for Life hosts numerous fundraising events a year at community institutions, and many community businesses support the Relay for Life of Plymouth and Canton. Along with dozens of fundraising teams and hundreds of participants, the Relay for Life of Plymouth and Canton has become a staple of support and service for the community. prgtoken Dedicated to ending cancer as we know it and fighting for all who have been touched by cancer, Relay for Life of Canton and Plymouth has shown its commitment to supporting the community throughout the past 25 years. By funding 147 cancer researchers, aiding in resources for patients and caregivers, and bringing together a community of those touched by cancer, this event has commendably united and served the community. Relay for Life knows that everyone deserves to live a life without cancer and fights daily to make this possible. prgtoken , I ask my colleagues to join me today in celebrating the 25th anniversary of Relay for Life of Canton and Plymouth and the contributions it has made to the fight against cancer. For the last 25 years, the event has brought together the Canton and Plymouth communities in support of the common goal to end cancer. Thanks to the efforts of all participants and volunteers, millions of dollars have been raised to fund cancer research in Michigan and support countless patients and families during their battles with cancer. We thank Relay for Life of Canton and Plymouth for its service to Michigan and are excited to see how the event continues serving the c
CONGRATULATING PATRICIA "PATTI CAKES" BALDI ON HER RETIREMENT FROM THE WEIRS DRIVE-IN THEATER
Chris Pappas (Democrat, NH) \u2014 2024-5-17

I rise in recognition of Patricia ``Patti Cakes'' Baldi, who is being honored today for her retirement from running the iconic Weirs Drive-in Theater in Laconia, NH. While the Drive-in has been in operation since 1949, Patti Cakes purchased the property in 1974 and has since played an active part in continuing the theater's success. Throughout her career, Patti Cakes has been essential in adding three additional screens to prgtoken the theater as well as guiding her business through a global pandemic. prgtoken Since purchasing the Weirs Drive-in Theater, Patti Cakes and her team have cemented the theater's status as a staple attraction of the Lakes Region. Whether they came to see a summer blockbuster or participate in a community event, countless families from across the Granite State and beyond will forever cherish the memories they made at Weirs Drive-in Theater. prgtoken On behalf of my constituents in New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I want to thank Patti Cakes for the decades of entertainment and memories that she has provided to our community. I congratulate her again on her incredible career and I thank her for all that she has done to make our state such a wonderful place to live.
PERSONAL EXPLANATION
Brendan F. Boyle (Democrat, PA) \u2014 2024-5-17

on May 15, 2024, I missed Roll Call votes No. 198, No. 199, No. 200, No. 201, No. 202, No. 203, No. 204, No. 205, No. 206, No. 207, No. 208, No. 209, No. 210, No. 211, and No. 212 on the floor of the House of Representatives. I was temporarily ill and unable to vote. prgtoken Had I been present, I would have voted YES on Roll Call votes No. 200, No. 203, No. 204, No. 205, No. 206, No. 207, No. 208, No. 209, No. 210, No. 211, and No. 212. I would have voted NO on Roll Call votes No. 198, No. 199, No. 201, and No. 202.
CONGRATULATING DONNY WILLIAMS, BERTINA KING, AND ALAN JONES
Emilia Strong Sykes (Democrat, OH) \u2014 2024-5-17

this Police Week I rise to recognize three incredibly dedicated veteran detectives of the Akron Police Department who will be retiring from the force. prgtoken Detectives Bertina King, Alan Jones, and Donny Williams have served the Akron community for 33 years each for a combined total of 99 years of experience. prgtoken The trio started on the job together in 1991, and, since then, they have each left their own personal mark on the department. prgtoken Detective King made history as the first Black woman to join APD's major crimes unit. She also helped establish the sexual assault nurse examiner unit at the former St. Thomas Hospital to provide survivors of sexual assault with culturally sensitive and trauma-informed evaluation and treatment. prgtoken Recently, she led the effort to create the department's sexual assault kit initiative to investigate unsolved rape cases to bring justice to survivors. prgtoken Detective Jones is a part of the street narcotics uniform detail, which works to protect our communities from guns and drugs. He was also the first Black canine handler in the unit with his dog Midnight. prgtoken Finally, Detective Williams is the longest-serving member of the street narcotics unit starting just 1 year after the unit was created in 1992. prgtoken All three detectives have worked on high-profile cases and helped bring dangerous criminals to justice. This trio has exemplified what it means to serve our city with dignity and respect and have demonstrated the power of having a force that reflects and represents the community they are sworn to protect and serve. prgtoken We thank them for their many years of service and wish them the best in their well-deserved retirement.
RECOGNIZING CAPTAIN TOM CRAMBLETT
Earl Blumenauer (Democrat, OR) \u2014 2024-5-17

. Mr , today I rise to celebrate Captain Tom Cramblett for his 41 years of service on the Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler and designate May 30th as Captain Tom Day in Cascade Locks. prgtoken Tom has been part of the Columbia Gorge Sternwheeler community from the beginning. As a young man, Tom first saw the Sternwheeler as she was being constructed by the Nichols Brothers in Hood River. He was aboard on her maiden voyage in 1983, serving as a deckhand. Before long, Tom was promoted to engineer and within a couple years became captain. prgtoken With Captain Tom at the tiller, generations of guests have delighted at the Columbia River Gorge from the deck of the Sternwheeler, learning about the Gorge's history from Captain Tom. prgtoken Tom's understanding of the region is steeped in his reverence for its history and its people. A noted expert on the Lewis and Clark Expedition, Tom addressed a room full of historians at the Corps of Discovery's 200-year anniversary celebration as it passed through Cascade Locks in 2004. prgtoken Tom's own family history stretches back five generations in Cascade Locks. His great-grandfather operated a wood scow, supplying sternwheelers with fuelwood cut from local forests. prgtoken Earlier this year, Captain Tom and his crewmember George valiantly saved the Sternwheeler after it broke from its moorings during a winter storm. They boarded the ship from a footbridge over the old locks where the boat had drifted and become lodged. Facing almost certain destruction, Tom piloted the ship away from hazard and downriver through the wind and roiling swell to safety below the Bonneville Locks. prgtoken Broader than the Sternwheeler, Tom's commitment to the town of Cascade Locks is legendary. A man of many hats, Tom served as town mayor for eight years, coached youth sports, led the Boy Scouts, acted as the town's Santa Claus, and volunteered at the Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center Museum. prgtoken Tom and his wife Brenda married in 1982, and have two sons, Jared and Scott, who are both in the National Guard. Scott has his captain's license and serves as engineer on the Portland Spirit. prgtoken Tom has also trained a number of captains now operating on the Columbia River, and currently works part time on the Port of Cascade Locks' maintenance crew, working to keep Marine Park beautiful and available to the public. prgtoken A true living legend, we designate May 30th as Captain Tom Day, in light of his contributions and decades of service to the Cascade Locks community.