mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
UNANIMOUS CONSENT REQUEST
Ron Johnson (Republican, WI) \u2014 2020-5-14

in reserving the right to object, there are many things that the Senator from Minnesota spoke to that I think most of us would agree with. prgtoken This COVID crisis has created all kinds of issues that need to be thoroughly discussed and thoroughly debated. I think there are a number of us on this side of the aisle--I am just one standing up--who object to this unanimous consent request. The good news for the Senator from Minnesota is, in talking with those colleagues, they also agree there is a fair number of elements in this bill with which they could probably find agreement. prgtoken I rise to certainly extend my hand in cooperation with the Senator from Minnesota. Let's work on these things together, although this is not a bill that comes through my committee's jurisdiction. I can say, in my committee, we work across the aisle. Staff does an awful lot of work, and we come to a conclusion. If it is not ready for a particular markup, we go back and get the work done. We frequently pass a piece of legislation by voice vote and then bring it to the floor when it has all been ironed out. There is no disagreement, and there is no objection, and we pass those bills by unanimous consent. prgtoken I think the problem here is that this bill has never had any kind of committee markup or any committee work whatsoever. So I would just suggest that the Senator from Minnesota work with her committee and her committee chair. I see the committee chair is here in the Chamber. Work on this. Try to find those areas of agreement. Then maybe we could pass this and maybe potentially pass this by unanimous consent. This piece of legislation is not ready. It hasn't gone through that process. As a result, I object.
CORONAVIRUS
Mitch McConnell (Republican, KY) \u2014 2020-5-14

this pandemic is weighing heavily on the American people. Roughly, 1.4 million Americans have been infected, more than 80,000 have died, and unemployment has not been this high since World War II. prgtoken Just a few months ago, millions of hard-working men and women were thriving and optimistic. They were making big plans across kitchen tables. Now all of that is in chaos. prgtoken The Chairman of the Federal Reserve reports that nearly 4 in 10 American households that earn less than $40,000 a year had somebody get laid off in the month of March alone. This emergency is very serious, so the Senate's response has been serious. prgtoken In March, Senate s designed and the full Senate passed the CARES Act. It pushed trillions of dollars to working families, job creators, and medical professionals. We sent direct cash to almost 130 million Americans. We delivered hundreds of billions of dollars in paycheck protection loans to small businesses, saving tens of millions of American jobs. We helped State and local governments defray coronavirus costs. We funded healthcare providers and testing. Even now, its programs are still taking effect, still coming online, still helping. The Senate took a blank sheet of paper and turned it into the largest rescue package in history. prgtoken We have taken this crisis seriously, but the House have taken a totally different approach. While we finalized the CARES Act, the House parachuted in with miscellaneous liberal demands that were completely unrelated to COVID-19--solar energy tax credits, airline emissions. One senior House called the virus a ``tremendous opportunity to restructure things to fit our vision.'' One Senate ic colleague asked: ``How many times are we going to get a shot at a $1 trillion-plus program?'' They told us exactly what they were up to, so we ignored the leftwing wish list and stayed serious, and the CARES Act is still helping Americans bridge these temporary shutdowns. prgtoken So let's fast-forward to today. The ic House is still not back in Washington. Its constitutional duty prgtoken stations are still unmanned, but the cannot stop salivating over the possibilities for partisan gain. prgtoken Former Vice President says he sees this tragedy as an ``incredible opportunity . . . to fundamentally transform the country.'' said it is an ``incredible opportunity . . . to fundamentally transform the country.'' prgtoken Pelosi said: ``I see everything as an opportunity.'' prgtoken A cochair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus said: ``For me, the leverage is that there is enormous suffering.'' ``The leverage is that there is enormous suffering.'' There are 80,000 Americans who have died and more than 20 million who have lost their jobs. I call that a crisis; they call it leverage. prgtoken This week, the published an 1,800-page seasonal catalog of leftwing oddities and called
HONORING FRANCIS M. HAGER
Greg Pence (Republican, IN) \u2014 2020-5-14

. Madam , I rise today to honor my friend and fellow veteran, Francis M. Hager, who recently passed away at the age of 87 in Columbus, Indiana. prgtoken Early in his life, Frank chose a path of service to our country by enlisting in the U.S. Army. After completing his service, he went on to pursue a career in engineering and worked at Cummins Engine Company for 35 years where he designed and patented several innovations. prgtoken Frank was a pillar of the Columbus community and a faithful member of the St. Bartholomew Church. He trained altar servers for over 50 years, sang in the choir, delivered communion to nursing homes, and was a welcoming face to all members of the parish. Frank valued spending time with his family and served as a role model for future generations through his civic leadership and commitment to country. prgtoken The family is lucky to have considered Frank a close friend. He was a generous person who will be remembered fondly and greatly missed. prgtoken May God rest his soul and bring comfort to his family and friends as we mourn his loss and celebrate Frank's life here on earth.
NATIONAL POLICE WEEK
Benjamin L. Cardin (Democrat, MD) \u2014 2020-5-14

I rise today to honor the bravery and dedication of our Nation's law enforcement personnel. Even under normal circumstances, police officers put their lives on the line every day to defend our communities; now, as our country struggles through an unprecedented public health crisis, policemen and women are taking on even more personal risk to keep Americans safe. They deserve our wholehearted gratitude and respect. prgtoken I am proud to cosponsor Senator Feinstein and Senator Graham's resolution designating May 10 through May 16 as National Police Week and emphasizing our support for the law enforcement officers across the United States who work to preserve our safety and security. The resolution also pays respect to the many police officers who prgtoken tragically fell in the line of duty in the last year, including Officer Kyle David Olinger of the Montgomery County, MD, Police Department. prgtoken Officer Olinger served with the Montgomery County Police Department for 2 years and had previously served with the Reading Police Department for 6 years. On April 18, 2019, Officer Olinger succumbed to complications of a gunshot wound he sustained on August 13, 2003, while making a traffic stop at the intersection of Second Avenue and Spring Street in Silver Spring. He observed one of the passengers in vehicle attempting to conceal a handgun underneath the seat. He ordered the man to drop the weapon before a struggle ensued. The man shot Officer Olinger in the neck, injuring his spinal column. The subject and the three other occupants drove away but were all apprehended a short time later. The man who shot him was convicted of attempted murder and subsequently sentenced to life in prison. Officer Olinger was paralyzed below his chest because of the shooting. He was married and had two sons. We will not forget his courage and the courage of his brothers and sisters on the force. prgtoken Police officers around the country have devoted their lives to protecting us, and we must do everything within our power to protect them, too. During the COVID-19 pandemic, that means ensuring that all law enforcement officers have the equipment, training, and resources they need to stay safe while they continue their duties. Even though there is an extremely contagious and dangerous virus spreading all over the U.S police forces cannot simply stop responding to crimes and emergencies. Policewomen and men, like healthcare providers and other essential workers, face a higher risk of contracting the coronavirus so that the rest of us can be safe and healthy. As of May 11, 2020, 101 officers have died from COVID-19. The least we can do is try to mitigate the risk that they face and save as many law enforcement lives as possible. prgtoken There are concrete steps that we can and must take to safeguard our Nation's police officers during this epidemic. First and foremost, it is critical that we make the required perso
HONORING THE LIFE OF CPL RORY PATRICK HAMILL
Andy Kim (Democrat, NJ) \u2014 2020-5-14

. Madam , I rise today because my community has lost a leader, a mentor, a friend, and a father. Corporal Rory Patrick Hamill of the United States Marine Corps tragically passed away on May 1, 2020 at the age of 31. prgtoken Rory leaves behind not just a legacy of decorated service to his country, but also of leadership, compassion and a commitment to helping those in need. Rory deployed three times with 2nd Battalion, 8th Marines in Iraq and Afghanistan before his medical retirement in 2012. During his time in service, Rory received the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Combat ``V'' for valorous actions in direct contact with an enemy, prgtoken two Combat Action Ribbons as well as many other awards, medals, and citations. Rory was also awarded the Purple Heart by President for the many injuries he sustained during his deployments, including the loss of his right leg. prgtoken Upon his retirement from the Marine Corps, Rory found his calling in learning about himself and Post Traumatic Growth, which led him to a career in motivational speaking. Rory also volunteered with the Veterans Diversion Program at the Ocean County Prosecutors office where he acted as a mentor to veterans who had found themselves in the legal system as a result of their experiences while serving. Most recently, Rory was enrolled in an accelerated Masters Program in pursuit of a degree in Social Work at Monmouth University, where he worked to identify successful pathways for Post 9/11-era Veterans to reintegrate into their communities in New Jersey. prgtoken Rory's commitment to his community and to those struggling is best said in his own written words: ``The more we share our pain, open up and discuss our mental health; the more power we take away from those same traumas that affect us, and the more we can begin to heal. In sharing my story, I have found purpose, catharsis, and humility. I have found my life's purpose in helping those who suffer as I used to. . . .'' ``This is what I live for. Helping my fellow brothers and sisters, showing them that there is a way to overcome any obstacle in their path; whether during service, or after.'' prgtoken Rory's impact on the veteran community was immeasurable, and his passing is a tragedy for our state and nation. It is now up to us to continue his legacy, to lift each other up and be there for those in our community that are struggling as Rory would have. My heart goes out to his family, his three children, and all of the friends who Rory touched through his work over the years. He will truly be missed.
STATEMENTS ON INTRODUCED BILLS AND JOINT RESOLUTION
Thomas R. Carper (Democrat, DE) \u2014 2020-5-14

I rise to talk about the Securing America's Clean Fuels Infrastructure Act, which I am introducing today with my good friend, the senior Senator from Tennessee. Our legislation would improve and expand the existing Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Investment Tax Credit, which is commonly known as ``30C.'' prgtoken The Securing America's Clean Fuels Infrastructure Act is about giving Americans a real choice when it comes to transportation, and it's about economic opportunity at a time when Americans need it most. On America's roads and highways today, gas stations are rarely farther than the next corner or next exit. That's not necessarily true for cleaner fuels. In order to meet our clean air and climate goals and lead the world in clean vehicle manufacturing, Americans must have greater access to hydrogen refueling and electric charging stations. Our legislation improves upon current tax credits to better incentivize companies to make investments today--rather than later--in the construction of clean fuel vehicle infrastructure nationwide. prgtoken Currently, 30C provides a 30 percent investment tax credit for alternative fuel vehicle refueling property, which includes electric charging stations and hydrogen refueling stations. This tax credit expires on December 31, 2020. Today, the 30C investment tax credit, as it is structured and interpreted by the Internal Revenue Service, only allows the credit to be used on a per-location basis rather than on a per-device basis, which means that only one charging station per public parking garage could qualify for the credit. That current structure and interpretation of the credit makes it difficult to finance multiple charging or refueling stations at one location, or to finance expansions of one location in the future. The Securing America's Clean Fuels Infrastructure Act makes clear that the 30C investment tax credit can be applied to each item of refueling property (such as each charger) rather than per location. prgtoken Additionally, the current $30,000 cap on business investments does not provide adequate support for the installation of today's fast- charging electric vehicle stations or hydrogen refueling stations. The Securing America's Clean Fuels Infrastructure Act increases the 30C investment tax cap for business investments from $30,000 to $200,000 for each item of refueling property. prgtoken Finally, this legislation will also extend the credit for eight more years, to December 31, 2028, ensuring that the business community has the certainty needed to make long-term investments in clean fuels infrastructure. prgtoken Our legislation is a commonsense way Congress can spur economic investments in our nation's aging infrastructure, help reduce transportation pollution, and support the millions of Americans that are considering buying a clean car today or in the future. That is why this bipartisan legislation has won broad support
RECOGNIZING AT&T CEO RANDALL L. STEPHENSON ON HIS RETIREMENT
Eddie Bernice Johnson (Democrat, TX) \u2014 2020-5-14

. Madam , I rise today to recognize and congratulate AT&T CEO Randall L. Stephenson on his retirement after an extraordinary career of service. prgtoken Mr. Stephenson began his career with Southwestern Bell Telephone in 1982 in Oklahoma. He served as the company's senior executive vice president and chief financial officer from 2001 to 2004, and from 2004 to 2007 he was chief operating officer, after which he took over as chief executive officer. He was also appointed to AT&T's board of directors in 2005. prgtoken Under Mr. Stephenson's guide, AT&T has committed $550 million since 2008 to its signature philanthropic initiative, AT&T Aspire, which drives innovation in education to promote student success in school and the workplace. He also led AT&T's breakthrough ``It Can Wait'' campaign--an education and awareness program to reduce distracted driving. The program has amassed more than 40 million pledges of support. Additionally, in 2018, Warner Media unveiled an industry-first Diversity and Inclusion Policy for talent in front of and behind the camera. prgtoken Madam , Mr. Stephenson's contributions to the city of Dallas, state of Texas, these United States, and across the globe are truly immeasurable. Therefore, on behalf of the U.S. House of Representatives and Texas' 30th Congressional District, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating Mr. Stephenson for reaching this milestone and wish him a fruitful retirement.
RECOGNIZING THE LIVES OF CHERYL AND CORRINA THINN
Tom O’Halleran (Democrat, AZ) \u2014 2020-5-14

. Madam , I rise today to honor the lives of Cheryl and Corrina Thinn, sisters and frontline workers who passed away in late April after battling the coronavirus. prgtoken Both Cheryl and Corrina served their communities for years, dedicating their lives to protecting the health and safety of the people on Navajo Nation, and selflessly continued their service on the frontlines of this ongoing public health crisis. prgtoken Cheryl served as a Navajo Nation juvenile detention officer and a Navajo Nation Emergency Medical Service member. She then went on to serve and care for her community through her work for the Tuba City Regional Health Care Corporation. She is survived by her son. prgtoken Corrina protected her community for 11 years as an officer with the Navajo Nation Police Department, eventually becoming a Senior Navajo Police Department Officer with the Tuba City District. She then earned a master's degree in social work and worked tirelessly to better the lives of Arizonans, working for health centers throughout the Navajo Nation as well as tribes throughout Arizona. Corrina is survived by two sons, a grandson, and a granddaughter. prgtoken My heart breaks for the loved ones of these devoted and compassionate frontline workers. prgtoken Pat and I are keeping Cheryl and Corrina's family, friends, and the entire Navajo Nation community in our thoughts as we continue to mourn their passing.
HEALTH AND ECONOMIC RECOVERY OMNIBUS EMERGENCY SOLUTIONS ACT
Ken Calvert (Republican, CA) \u2014 2020-5-15

I rise today in opposition to the HEROES Act. With $3 trillion in spending, there are plenty of giveaways for liberal priorities, such as handouts for illegal immigrants and failed pension systems, yet there is no funding for the defense industrial base. prgtoken Today, as we debate these measures, adversaries around the world are testing our ability to defend ourselves as we battle this virus and the economic impact. But instead of shoring up our defense industrial base, which is comprised of businesses in every one of our districts, the majority ignores the clear and present danger of those who wish to exploit this crisis. prgtoken China continues to secure its vision of regional dominance. Rather than spending billions of dollars to keep people dependent on the government, why not put them to work building more Virginia-class submarines, Joint Strike Fighters, amphibious combat vehicles, expeditionary sea bases, MQ-9 Reapers, satellites. prgtoken Let's accelerate the next generation of weapons systems, including the Columbia-class submarines, the new frigate, the B-21 Long-Range Stealth Bomber, the Army's Future Vertical Lift program. prgtoken The defense industrial base is comprised of hundreds of thousands of companies, from the primes to the 10-person shops making nuts and bolts. It is the small innovator that disrupts the system and provides leap-ahead technology. It is a critical industry that is completely ignored in the bill. prgtoken I am opposed to the bill for many reasons. It is a roadmap to an even more authoritative Federal Government, a first step toward a socialist system. But today I stand for the men and women of the United States Armed Forces and the defense community that supports them. As the beacon of freedom and democracy in the world, we must send a message that will not allow for bad actors to take advantage, and we will continue to be the world's superpower through our ability to project force to any corner of the world. prgtoken This bill is a retreat from our values and our place in the world. Americans don't want unlimited handouts and dependence; they want to work, innovate, and succeed. I urge a ``no'' vote.
HEALTH AND ECONOMIC RECOVERY OMNIBUS EMERGENCY SOLUTIONS ACT
Bill Posey (Republican, FL) \u2014 2020-5-15

I rise today in opposition to H.R. 6800. prgtoken A short time ago we were experiencing the greatest economic growth our nation has ever seen, businesses expanding, record low unemployment, more prosperity for Americans across the board. Suddenly we find our nation thrust into a major health crisis, a pandemic caused by a coronavirus outbreak which began in Wuhan, China. Today, we have lost more than eighty thousand Americans from the virus and our economy is struggling as nearly thirty million Americans have lost their jobs. prgtoken Early on we took steps as a nation, and in each state, to suspend economic activity in order to slow the spread of the pandemic to keep our health care system from being overwhelmed and that worked. prgtoken Hopefully many of the millions of job losses are only temporary, but some will be permanent losses. The longer the economy stays locked up, the more likely we are to lose these jobs permanently. prgtoken Most of the states are focusing on safely reopening in a manner that prevents outbreaks that would overwhelm the health care systems. Washington's focus should be on finding ways to support those efforts so that Americans can safely return to work and get our economy working again. prgtoken Unfortunately, the $3 trillion, 1,800-page bill before us today fails to focus on a path for a working economy. Instead, Pelosi's bill, written behind closed doors and with little input from the other 434 Members of Congress, perpetuates ``stay at home'' as far as the eye can see. That is an unsustainable path. No nation ever has, or ever will, survive unless we work toward getting Americans back to work. prgtoken Pelosi's bill provides $1 trillion dollars to bail out poorly run, indebted states and local governments. It is fundamentally wrong to use this pandemic as an opportunity to exploit Florida taxpayers, forcing them to bail out New York, Detroit, Chicago, California and other states and localities that are in debt because the politicians they elected over decades made bad budget decisions. prgtoken At a time when millions of American workers have lost jobs this bill provides billions of dollars in stimulus checks to illegal immigrants, grants amnesty and lifts immigration caps. That is counterproductive and will delay economic recovery and wage growth. This bill also asserts federal control over states elections and overturns long- standing law preventing taxpayer funding of elective abortions. Across its 1,800 pages are 65 references to `cannabis.' prgtoken This $3 trillion deficit spending bill does little to get Americans back to work, assist first responders, or defeat the pandemic. Americans want to get back to work. They want to safely open their businesses, return to their jobs and power-up this economy. They want their freedom. They want their lives back. And they want America to be strong and prosperous. Washington must listen to what Americans are saying rather than dicta