mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
REMEMBERING DAN CAMILLIERE
Christopher Murphy (Democrat, CT) \u2014 2023-3-2

I rise today to honor the memory of Mr. Dan Camilliere, who passed away earlier this year. Dan was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, pharmacist, State senator, and mayor who spent his prgtoken life dedicated to improving his beloved communities of Wethersfield and Hartford. prgtoken Born in Hartford in 1922, Dan spent his childhood there, attending Hartford Public schools, and graduating from the University of Connecticut College of Pharmacy in 1943. Shortly after his graduation, Dan enlisted in the U.S. Army. He was deployed to Paris, France, to the 217th General Hospital where he served on a medical train that carried wounded soldiers from Germany to France. After his service in World War II, Dan was honorably discharged in 1946 and returned to Hartford to continue serving those within his community as a pharmacist. prgtoken Upon his return to Hartford, he met his wife Rose DiSilvestro. After a short courtship, Dan and Rose would go on to marry, forming a lifelong bond that would continue for 66 loving years and would see them raise their daughter and son. Wherever he lived, Dan made a lasting impression. He was always immaculately dressed even when mowing the lawn, had a knack for building positive relationships with people from all walks of life, and was a great conversationalist. prgtoken In 1948, Dan and his brother-in-law opened their own pharmacy in Hartford, Rialto Pharmacy. Besides providing his knowledge and expertise to the public, Rialto Pharmacy turned into a hub for the area's Italian immigrants. Dan helped explain what each medication was and provided flexible payment plans for any immigrants that needed it. Dan's work in retail led him to pursue a second passion: retail politics. Dan was tapped by the Hartford powerbrokers to run for the city council. He was elected and became the youngest person to hold the seat at the time. This began Dan's long career in service to the community which would continue until his final days. prgtoken As a public servant, Dan was truly exceptional. After ably serving on the Hartford City Council, Dan was elected to the State senate, becoming public health chair where he championed the fluoridation of drinking water and screenings for newborns. He later became chief of the drug division for the State of Connecticut's Department of Consumer Protection. prgtoken The Camillieres moved to Wethersfield in 1970 where Dan and Rose raised their family. After Dan sold the pharmacy, he ran for the Wethersfield Town Council, serving as secretary for 17 years and, later, proudly served for two terms as mayor. Dan's trademark smile presided over town meetings on building new schools, repairing old buildings, and setting water rates. He was a regular sight at town Memorial Day parades and was a mentor to many in politics, serving on the ic State Central Committee. prgtoken I count myself as very lucky to have met Dan during my formative years in p
Nomination of Jonathan James Canada Grey (Executive Session)
Debbie Stabenow (Democrat, MI) \u2014 2023-3-2

I have two important things I would like to speak about today. And let me first start with a confirmation vote we will be having this afternoon on Judge Jonathan J.C. Grey to serve as the U.S. prgtoken district judge for the Eastern District of Michigan. prgtoken Both Senator Peters and I are strong, strong supporters and thank President for nominating him, and we look forward to colleagues joining us in a bipartisan vote, just as we had on the cloture vote, to make sure that he is confirmed today. prgtoken Senator Peters and I were both honored to introduce him and his family during his hearing in the Judiciary Committee in November, and I know his family is so very proud of him--as we are. Judge Grey is an outstanding choice to support the people of Michigan because he has been doing just that. Judge Grey is currently serving as a U.S. magistrate judge for the Eastern District of Michigan. As a magistrate judge, Judge Grey has presided over both civil and criminal cases. prgtoken Before that, he served as an assistant U.S. attorney in the Eastern District of Michigan and the Southern District of Ohio, where he prosecuted criminal offenses. prgtoken During the past 10 years, 95 percent of Judge Grey's practice has been in the Federal courts, whether as a magistrate judge or an assistant U.S. attorney. prgtoken He also worked as an associate at a law firm in Chicago, where he practiced labor and employment law and served as a law clerk for two Federal judges. prgtoken Given his incredible breadth of experience, it is no surprise that the American Bar Association's Standing Committee on the Federal Judiciary unanimously found him to be ``well qualified'' for this position. prgtoken Judge Grey was born in Mississippi and is a proud graduate of Morehouse College and the Georgetown University Law Center. And in the spirit of those two institutions, Judge Grey is a deep believer in giving back, both in Michigan and through his alma maters. prgtoken I can think of no better place for Judge Grey to continue to serve the people of Michigan and our country than on the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, and both Senator Peters and I urge our colleagues to vote yes to confirm Jonathan Grey this afternoon. prgtoken Remembering the Victims of the Michigan State University Mass Shooting prgtoken , as everyone knows, I am an incredibly proud MSU Spartan. I earned both my undergraduate and my graduate degrees from Michigan State University. And I have been so proud to represent the university in the Michigan Legislature, in the U.S. House, and the U.S. Senate. prgtoken I am a Spartan, as is Senator Peters, and I am horrified and heartbroken and I am angry because we are mourning three lives that were lost on February 13 when a gunman came to campus and randomly started shooting students. prgtoken Arielle Anderson, Brian Fraser, and Alexandria Verner were each full of hopes an
Nomination of Gordon P. Gallagher (Executive Session)
Michael F. Bennet (Democrat, CO) \u2014 2023-3-2

I wanted to come to the floor and share a few words about an upcoming vote we are going to have this afternoon, I guess it will be now, on Gordon Gallagher, President 's nominee for the U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado. prgtoken Judge Gallagher comes to this floor with a stellar reputation in Colorado and nearly 25 years in service to others, as a defense attorney for both indigent and paying defendants, a prosecutor in Mesa County, and as U.S. magistrate judge for the District of Colorado. prgtoken The judge credits his devotion to public service to his grandfather, who served as an air navigator during the Second World War and was shot down over Eastern Europe on his 49th mission. After the war, Gordon's grandfather came home to continue the fight for America's highest ideals, working to integrate housing in his local community. prgtoken And his example stuck with Gordon. So when he did a family trip to Colorado when Gordon was just 8 or 9, like everybody who comes to our State, he fell in love with it and fell in love with the Rocky Mountains. And years later, as a student at Macalester, he fell in love with a Coloradoan, his wife Christine. Gordon would eventually follow Christine back to Colorado, where he earned a law degree from the University of Denver. prgtoken After graduating, Gordon practiced at a law firm representing small businesses and served for nearly 4 years as a deputy district attorney for Mesa County, CO. Later, Gordon launched his own firm as a defense practitioner and began working with the Office of the Alternate Defense Counsel, representing clients who couldn't afford their representation. He spent over a decade in this role, fighting for the American ideal that everyone, no matter what their means, deserves equal representation before the law. In 2012, Gordon was appointed as a part- time magistrate judge for the U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado, a position he holds to this day. prgtoken Senator Hickenlooper and I recommended Judge Gallagher to this position because, unlike anyone currently on the district court, he has spent the majority of his career on the Western Slope of Colorado, a rural, mountainous part of our State with a specific perspective on issues that range from public lands to natural resources, to Federal regulation. prgtoken We need that perspective on the Federal bench. It has been too long. We haven't had an appointee from the Western Slope of Colorado in over 30 years, and Judge Gallagher is the perfect nominee to bring that perspective to the bench. prgtoken Over his career on the Western Slope, Gordon's work ranged from representing a young man charged with the manslaughter of his best friend to securing rehabilitative services for members of the Southern Ute and Ute Mountain Ute Tribes, to hearing traffic complaints in smalltown courts because sheepherders had blocked the local highway. prgtoken I know I am not
HONORING THE VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS DEPARTMENT OF VIRGINIA ON THEIR CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION
Abigail Davis Spanberger (Democrat, VA) \u2014 2023-3-3

I rise today to recognize the Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of Virginia on their centennial celebration on March 4, 2023. prgtoken For 100 years, the Virginia VFW has worked hard to protect and fight for our veterans to ensure that they receive the benefits that they have earned and deserve. They support veterans, servicemembers, and their families by providing opportunities through education, scholarships, and living assistance. prgtoken I thank the VFW for their relentless advocacy and support of those who sacrificed for our country. prgtoken , please join me in congratulating the Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of Virginia on 100 years of service to our veterans and to making the Commonwealth of Virginia a better place for our veterans and their families.
INTRODUCTION OF THE RESOLUTION OBSERVING THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE BIRTH OF JOHN LESLIE ``WES'' MONTGOMERY AND COMMEMORATING HIS CONTRIBUTIONS TO JAZZ MUSIC
André Carson (Democrat, IN) \u2014 2023-3-3

it is with great Hoosier pride and joy that I rise today to introduce a resolution celebrating the 100th anniversary of the birth of John Leslie ``Wes'' Montgomery. prgtoken Wes Montgomery was born in my hometown of Indianapolis, Indiana on March 6, 1923 to Frances and Tom Montgomery. He was naturally gifted in the musical arts and demonstrated his talents on the 4- and 6-string guitar in his youth. He was a self-taught musician who learned to play the guitar by listening to recordings of another jazz genius, guitarist Charlie Christian. Wes Montgomery developed a unique and innovative finger style playing technique by using the thumb to play base notes simultaneously with the melodic lines. This wonderful style helped to propel his success as a renowned jazz guitarist. prgtoken His musical gifts and performances became famous in jazz clubs in Indianapolis and he was recruited to tour with the Lionel Hampton Orchestra. In 1957, he joined his brothers Buddy and Monk to perform with other bands, and later released the album, the ``Wes Montgomery Trio'' and ``The Incredible Guitar of Wes Montgomery''. One of his biggest hits and most beloved albums was ``A Day in the Life'', which was rated the premier album on the Billboard Jazz Album chart, 2nd on the Billboard R&B Albums chart and 13th on the Billboard 200 chart. prgtoken Sadly, we lost this incredibly bright star far too soon, when he died at his home in Indianapolis on June 15, 1968, at the age of 45. But his music and his legacy still shine in our hearts and wherever his music is played. His beautiful and heartfelt music inspired generations of other musicians, and it continues to fill us with joy today. prgtoken , I hope my colleagues will join me in supporting this resolution to honor a Hoosier and an American music legend. I urge the House to support this resolution.
RECOGNIZING CONGRESSMAN BOB MICHEL ON HIS 100TH BIRTHDAY
Darin LaHood (Republican, IL) \u2014 2023-3-3

today, I recognize former Congressman Robert H. Michel, the longest serving Leader of the House of Representatives, born on this day 100 years ago. From his time in the U.S. Army on the front lines fighting for democracy in World War II to his long career in government service, Bob Michel sought to defend our freedom and the American Dream at every turn. prgtoken Leader Michel defined public service and bipartisanship during his 38 years serving in the U.S. House of Representatives. He cherished his time spent in the House, and he revered the institution. He was a product of Midwestern values that made our central Illinois community a great place to live, work, and raise a family. prgtoken Often known for being a patient listener, flexible goal setter, and gentle persuader, he remained committed to legislative compromise and appealing to the spirit of bipartisanship. Building relationships across the aisle and promoting civility and debate helped move legislation through the House Chamber. His common sense, middle-of-the- road policymaking left a legacy that will continue for centuries. prgtoken Congressman Michel's steadfast work to improve the lives of citizens of central Illinois stands as a model for progress to further the greater good and prosperity of America and Illinois. Peorians were always proud to have him fighting for them in Congress. On what would have been his 100th birthday, the legacy he left behind should serve as a reminder for how we as public servants can continue our work to move our country and democracy forward.
RECOGNIZING MRS. JENNIFER POOLE, CONSTITUENT SERVICES REPRESENTATIVE, ON THE OCCASION OF HER RETIREMENT
Barry Loudermilk (Republican, GA) \u2014 2023-3-3

I rise today to pay tribute to Mrs. Jennifer Poole, on the occasion of her retirement after 20 years of service to the United States House of Representatives. prgtoken Mrs. Poole began her career as a single mom on March 3, 2003, with the Office of Congressman John Linder (GA-07), and continued her service with the Office of Congressman Tom Price (GA-06) and then the Office of Congresswoman Karen Handel (GA-06). Mrs. Poole has been an invaluable member of my staff since 2017. She has worked cases related to every federal agency through the years, but excelled in working with Social Security, Internal Revenue Service, and Medicare cases. She has successfully completed thousands of cases, with immeasurable benefits being returned to our 11th Congressional District constituents. Guided by her faith, Jennifer has made a significant difference to Georgia constituents during some of their most challenging times. prgtoken Jennifer serves with uncommon zeal and tenacity; but more than that, her compassion and kindness are extraordinary. She exemplifies the very best of public service, and is an inspiration for us all. It is because of her dedication and impact to the community, that she will be greatly missed by our office and constituents. We wish her nothing but the best in retirement, allowing her to spend more time with her husband Scott, and children, Frankie and Mollie. I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mrs. Poole for her 20 years of exemplary service. prgtoken I thank Jennifer. God speed.
ORDERS FOR TUESDAY, MARCH 7, 2023
Charles E. Schumer (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2023-3-6

I ask unanimous consent that when the Senate completes its business today, it stand adjourned until 10 a.m Tuesday, March 7; 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 following the conclusion of morning business, the Senate proceed to executive session and resume consideration of the Ballou nomination postcloture; further, that all postcloture time on the Ballou nomination be considered expired at 11:30 a.m. and that the Senate vote on confirmation of the nomination; that the Senate recess following the cloture vote on the Schopler nomination until 2:15 p.m. to allow for the weekly caucus meetings; further, that if cloture has been invoked, at 2:15 p.m the Senate vote on confirmation of the Schopler nomination, and if cloture has been invoked on the Subramanian nomination, the confirmation vote be at 4:30 p.m.; finally, that if any nominations are confirmed during Tuesday'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.
Nomination of Robert Stewart Ballou (Executive Session)
Tim Kaine (Democrat, VA) \u2014 2023-3-6

I rise today in support of Magistrate Judge Robert Ballou of Virginia, nominee to be U.S. district judge for the Western District of Virginia. In about 10 minutes, we will move into a cloture vote to advance his nomination, and I am proud to stand in support of this great jurist. prgtoken Judge Ballou has deep and abiding ties to the Commonwealth. He was born in Roanoke, VA, just like my wife, and he graduated from the University of Virginia and then from UVA Law School. prgtoken Other than a judicial clerkship for the late Judge Peter Beer on the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana, Judge Ballou has spent his entire 35-year legal career in Virginia. Following that clerkship, Judge Ballou worked in private practice in both Richmond and Roanoke from 1988 through 2011. He built a successful civil litigation practice, and he regularly appeared in State and Federal courts. prgtoken Judge Ballou became a U.S. magistrate judge for the Western District of Virginia in 2011. is a lawyer and, I know, understands the role that magistrates play in the Federal court system. First, they usually have to go through a fairly rigorous application process where they are chosen by the sitting article 3 judges in the court to serve in the magistrate's role. And, second, once they are on, they have a wide variety of responsibilities in criminal procedure, in pretrial practice in civil cases, in mediations to try to help litigants find a path forward without the need for trials. prgtoken Judge Ballou is extremely well-regarded for his 12-year service as a magistrate judge. And one of the things that being a magistrate gets you is it gets you the opportunity to be before so many litigants and practitioners in the court--in this case, the Western District of Virginia--that, when you are up for consideration for a judgeship, there are a whole lot of reviews out there about whether or not you have got the judicial temperament, the work ethic, the fairness to be a good article 3 judge. prgtoken In over a decade as a magistrate, Judge Ballou has developed a sterling reputation on the bench. He is well-known. He is respected in the Western District of Virginia for running his courtroom in a fair and efficient manner while ensuring that all parties, even low-income people who might be unrepresented--often there are pro se cases before Federal courts--all parties are respected and heard. prgtoken The American Bar Association unanimously granted to Judge Ballou its highest rating of ``Well Qualified'' for this nomination. prgtoken Judge Ballou enjoys broad and deep support across the Virginia legal community. For example, former U.S. attorneys for the Western District of Virginia, who served under both ic and administrations for the last 20 years, wrote that Judge Ballou ``enjoys the highest reputation in the legal community for his intelligence, thoughtfulness, and prepa
VOTE EXPLANATION
Robert P. Casey, Jr. (Democrat, PA) \u2014 2023-3-6

on February 14, I successfully underwent surgery for prostate cancer. I am grateful to the doctors and other medical professionals who provided me with excellent care, and I am glad to be back in the Senate working for the people of Pennsylvania. As the result of my medical treatment, I required several weeks of recovery and thus missed several votes in the Senate. The outcome of these votes was unaffected by my absence, but I wish for the record to show, had I not been absent due to my cancer treatment and recovery, how I would have voted on the following votes: yea on vote number 11, on the confirmation of Gina R. Mendez-Miro to be U.S. District Judge for the District of Puerto Rico; yea on vote number 12, on the motion to invoke cloture on Lindsay C. Jenkins to be U.S. District Judge for the Northern District of Illinois; yea on vote number 13, on the confirmation of Lindsay C. Jenkins to be U.S. District Judge for the Northern District of Illinois; yea on vote number 14, on the motion to invoke cloture on Matthew L. Garcia to be U.S. District Judge for the District of New Mexico; yea on vote number 15, on the confirmation of Matthew L. Garcia to be U.S. District Judge for the District of New Mexico; yea on vote number 16, on the motion to invoke cloture on Adrienne C. Nelson to be U.S. District Judge for the District of Oregon; yea on vote number 17, on confirmation of Adrienne C. Nelson to be U.S. District Judge for the District of Oregon; yea on vote 18, on the motion to invoke cloture on Ana C. Reyes to be U.S. District Judge for the District of Columbia; yea on vote 19, on the motion to invoke cloture on Daniel J. Calabretta to be U.S. District Judge for the Eastern District of California; yea on vote 20, on confirmation of Ana C. Reyes to be U.S. District Judge for the District of Columbia; yea on vote 21, on the motion to invoke cloture on Lester Martinez Lopez to be an Assistant Secretary of Defense; yea on vote 22, on confirmation of Daniel J. Calabretta to be U.S. District Judge for the Eastern District of California; yea on vote 23, on the confirmation of Lester Martinez- Lopez to be an Assistant Secretary of Defense; yea on vote number 24, on the motion to invoke cloture on the nomination of Maria Araujo Kahn to be U.S. Circuit Judge for the Second Circuit. prgtoken Due to my medical treatment on February 14, I also missed committee hearings and other Senate business when the Senate was in session from February 14 to February 17.