mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
Honoring Detective Lieutenant Kevin Collins (Executive Calendar)
John Boozman (Republican, AR) \u2014 2020-10-25

it is such an honor and such a pleasure to be with my fellow Senator from Arkansas, Mr. Cotton, as we rise to honor Pine Bluff Detective Kevin Collins, who died while in the line of duty, on Monday, October 5, as a result of injuries he sustained. prgtoken Detective Collins was a passionate person about law enforcement and serving the citizens of Pine Bluff. He served his community not only as an officer of the law but also as a mentor and a leader. prgtoken It was reported that he had wanted to be a police officer since he had been 3 years old. In an interview with the Pine Bluff Commercial in 2018, he said: ``Ever since I was little, I saw law enforcement as a service and something I could be proud of.'' He worked his entire life to achieve that dream, and it came true 5 years ago when he was hired by the Pine Bluff Police Department on June 8, 2015. prgtoken He was first assigned to the patrol division, and he worked his way up to the violent crimes unit. Detective Collins loved being a police officer, and he enjoyed building relationships with the men and women he worked alongside as well as with the citizens whom he served. prgtoken His colleagues appreciated his enthusiasm, his hard work, and dedication, which he demonstrated each and every day both in and out of uniform. prgtoken Detective Collins was passionate about making a difference in the lives of others. As a mentor to at-risk boys during the department's 2- week Youth Empowerment Camp, he was a role model for teens--encouraging good behavior and reinforcing the importance of making good decisions. prgtoken In his short time with the Pine Bluff Police Department, he had a long list of successes that include taking a large number of guns off the streets and earning the department's Officer of the Year for 2017 for his actions in saving a 95-year-old resident while responding to an apartment fire. prgtoken Detective Collins lived a faithful life devoted to Christ as a member of New Life Church Pine Bluff. prgtoken Pastor Matt Mosler says Detective Collins had a great heart for service. He took that heart for service and put his faith into action, taking the initiative to make his community better. prgtoken We rely on law enforcement officers like Detective Collins to keep communities safe, to keep us safe. His death is a tragic reminder of the risk law enforcement officers face each day when they put on their uniform and leave the comforts of their homes and their loved ones to serve and to protect. prgtoken Detective Collins was a true hero. Our hearts break for his family, his colleagues at the Pine Bluff Police Department, and community members. I pray they will find comfort from the outpouring of support for this beloved brother in blue. prgtoken Senator Cotton, I yield to you.
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Bill Cassidy (Republican, LA) \u2014 2020-10-25

I had the privilege to speak on the nomination of Amy Coney Barrett a couple of days ago, for her qualifications and the uniqueness she will bring to the Court, which will serve our country well. Today, I would like to speak on a different topic. prgtoken October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and I rise to pay respect to those who have lost their lives, to those who currently have disease, and to those who work so hard to save these patients. prgtoken A little personal--my wife, Dr. Laura Cassidy, is a retired breast cancer surgeon, so it is an issue which has always been very near to our house. prgtoken This year, it is estimated there will be almost 280,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer among women and about 2,600 among men--often not realized that men are affected as well. About 49,000 women are estimated to contract ductal carcinoma in situ, or so-called DCIS. About 43,000 Americans every year will die from breast cancer. prgtoken Breast cancer, of course, is hardest on the patient, but the diagnosis has a ripple effect through the family. I mentioned that my wife Laura is a retired breast cancer surgeon, and she would tell me that when she would deliver the diagnosis to a patient, she would look at the woman and say: ``You have breast cancer.'' The patient would be stoic, and her husband would cry. It points to the fact that while cancer is a terrible diagnosis for anyone, when that ``anyone'' happens to be the center of a family, it radiates out from her diagnosis to touch everybody in her immediate family, in the generation above, and perhaps the generation below. prgtoken We have been inspired to make gains against cancer in general but against breast cancer in particular for the centrality that women play in our society and, of course, the deadliness of breast cancer. prgtoken So it takes courage to address the disease if you have a diagnosis, and resiliency and determination just seem to develop in those who are so diagnosed. prgtoken The support of family and friends means a lot more to the patient than the family will ever know, so I encourage those who know somebody with breast cancer in particular that I am speaking of but any form of cancer to reach out. Simply being there could make a tremendous difference in the fight to survive. prgtoken Let me say, there is always hope. In addition to early detection, there are steps that people can take to reduce their risk of contracting breast cancer. Age is the primary risk--no, the primary risk factor, my wife used to say when speaking to a crowd, the primary risk factor for breast cancer is being a woman, to emphasize that all women have a risk for breast cancer. So don't just say that because I am not this or that, I am not at risk. Recognize that all women have a risk prgtoken Age would be the next risk factor, being that the older you are the more likely that you can develop it. Women who have children after age 35 may be at hi
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James Lankford (Republican, OK) \u2014 2020-10-25

for the past several years, I have heard some pretty remarkable stories from the other side of the aisle and from the national media. prgtoken We heard from an Atlantic article that the President called servicemembers killed in action ``losers.'' It was spread all over the place until it was refuted flatly by 14 different officials who were on the trip. prgtoken We heard claims that the administration has deployed Federal troops to Portland, and they were taking over the streets of Portland, until leadership of ICE and of DHS came to Congress and reported what actually happened, starting with, there were no Federal troops that went. There was Federal law enforcement there, but it is because it is a Federal building that was under attack. And they weren't just aimlessly roaming the streets arresting people, although they did arrest the people who threw Molotov cocktails at the building. prgtoken I have heard that the post office cannot handle the increased volume of mail, and the administration is intentionally trying to slow down the post office so mail can't come in, saying with frantic, breathless voices: It could be 100 million ballots coming in the mail. Can the post office handle it? Until you find out that 2 weeks before Christmas last year, the post office handled 2.5 billion pieces of first class mail just that 1 week--certainly they can handle 100 million ballots coming in over a month. prgtoken I heard last summer that the President had taken away toothbrushes from children at the border--until a group of us were actually at the border the very next week and went into that exact facility saying there are no toothbrushes there available for the children and saw a storeroom full of toiletries--yes, including toothbrushes. prgtoken I read the story and followed up with the ICE leadership about Muslims in our ICE detention facilities being forced to eat pork-- tormenting them by feeding them pork, against their faith--until we actually followed up on the facts of it and found that story was completely false. prgtoken It seems every day--sometimes multiple times a day--there is a new accusation that comes out to attack the administration and to challenge them on every angle of every direction you can possibly do it. prgtoken And then for the Presiding Officer--you know this full well because I sat in that same chair for 2 hours last night during our 30 hours of continuous debate, following Senate rules to conclude a confirmation of a Supreme Court Justice, and I was quite amazed at some of the things I heard while I sat in the chair. prgtoken I heard things like, well, Amy Coney Barrett should have never even come out of the Judiciary because boycotted coming, actually, to the hearing. If they don't come to the hearing, the nominee cannot come out; the s have broken the rules. prgtoken In fact, some of my colleagues went dangerously close to say: Because
Medical care for the uninsured could cost billions more (Executive Calendar)
Ben Sasse (Republican, NE) \u2014 2020-10-25

Senators have worked through the weekend and the clock is obviously winding down later today. Tonight after final confirmation vote, Judge Amy Coney Barrett is going to become Justice Amy Coney Barrett. For those of us who have been advocating for her--in my case it has been since the summer of 2017--that is welcome news. She is an unparalleled nominee and will be a dazzling originalist on the Supreme Court. prgtoken None of the baseless allegations that have been leveled against Judge Barrett have swayed any votes. didn't lay a glove on Judge Barrett in her confirmation hearing, and I think she ran circles around career politicians who want to outsource more lawmaking to unelected judges. Some folks are upset about that, and even though many of my male colleagues on the Judiciary Committee also complimented the Judiciary Committee chairman on a very well-run hearing, tragically, the minority leader--it seems that he has decided to make Dianne Feinstein a scapegoat for the unforgiveable sin of being unwilling to turn more of Judge Barrett's hearing into another Michael Avenatti clown show. I think that is just a painful moment in this institution's history, and it speaks volumes about how low some people are willing to sink in response to outside activists who would like to see bare- knuckle politics be the only thing that happens in the Senate. prgtoken Judge Barrett's opponents know that they don't have the votes. They know they don't actually have public support. They have seen the polling rise steadily week after week after week over the last month as the American public has gotten to know Judge Barrett better and learn more about her. They are more and more comfortable with her and less and less open to some of this sort of hyperbolic rhetoric that we have seen leveled against her. prgtoken This is actually my fourth consecutive hour on the floor this morning. I have heard a series of speeches and one of the things that is obvious is that there are a whole bunch of phrases that were written up. I don't know who wrote them up. I don't know how this process happens, but speech after speech after speech uses really similar prgtoken phrasing to try to alarm and disturb and unsettle the American people, and I think the cynicism is just really tragic. I have heard now, I think, four speeches in a row implying that when Judge Barrett becomes Justice Barrett later tonight, that obviously means the end of healthcare in America. The last speech, actually, included this phrase: A vote for Amy Barrett is a vote to end healthcare. The speech said: ``A vote for Amy Coney Barrett is a vote to end healthcare.'' prgtoken That isn't just preposterous, it is so destructive of the public good and of public trust, and I don't want this body to continue its decline, but I hope that next April, May or June, when the Supreme Court rules and when Care doesn't die--as no expert thinks this case is ac
Recognizing Craig Johnson and Aurash Zarkeshan (Executive Calendar)
James M. Inhofe (Republican, OK) \u2014 2020-10-25

I actually listened to the comments that were made by my good friend from Michigan, but I have to say this, that she is talking about someone who is considered by me and many others as arguably the most gifted jurist ever nominated to the U.S. Supreme Court. I want to talk about that. prgtoken I have something else to talk about first because I think people know Judge Barrett by this time, but they may not know a couple of people they should know about. prgtoken Earlier this year, Aurash Zarkeshan or ``Zark.'' Because of the complications of his name, he is called that by most of his close friends. prgtoken He was overjoyed. He had just graduated earlier this year from the Tulsa Police Academy and was sworn in as a police officer. That was his life's ambition. He was a guy who was so excited that he was taking that step. He was a shining example of everything that you want in a new officer. He was bright, engaged, committed to public service. He wanted to give back and make his community a better place. That was him. prgtoken At the end of June, only 6 weeks on patrol, he pulled over a car for a routine traffic stop. As we all know, there is no such thing as a routine law enforcement process. He and Sergeant Craig Johnson pulled over a car, and what happened next was horrifying and tragic. They were viciously shot in the head during that stop, despite many attempts to deescalate the situation. prgtoken Tragically, Sergeant Johnson succumbed to his injuries. While Zark remained in critical condition, Sergeant Johnson left behind his wife Kristi and sons, Connor and Clinton. That is him here on the left-- dashing young man. prgtoken In that moment of sorrow, the Tulsa community united in prayer and hope for the recovery of Zark. Since the shooting, Zark has undergone several surgeries. He spent months recovering in rehab. Throughout these months, Zark provided us with updates of his recovery and the progress he has been making. He even called into a class of new Tulsa Police Department recruits. He also went in person to his squad meeting and met with them. prgtoken His progress is truly remarkable. As Tulsa Police Captain Kimberly Lee put it, ``He really is an example for all of us.'' That is exactly right. Zark is a hero. He persevered through extraordinary pain and strife and is now making a speedy recovery. prgtoken Last week, on October 15, Zark returned home from 3 months of rehab, and he was met by friends and family and supporters who welcomed him with open arms. Our mayor, G.T. Bynum, declared October 15 Officer Aurash Zarkeshan Day in the city of Tulsa and proclaimed that Zark is ``Tulsa's Hope.'' I couldn't agree more. Zark embodies everything that makes Oklahoma great. prgtoken , I ask unanimous consent that proclamation be printed in the Record at the conclusion of my remarks. prgtoken Zark wanted to give back to his community, and he delivered. October 15 will hold a special
HONORING COMMANDER THOMAS KOEPPE
Mike Thompson (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2020-10-27

. Madam , I rise today to recognize Commander Thomas Koeppe for his exemplary dedication to his community, and to mark his retirement from the Hercules Police Department after more than 27 years of committed service. prgtoken Originally from El Cerrito, California, Commander Koeppe began his service as a police officer for the city of Hercules in 1993. Since joining the force, Commander Koeppe has risen through the ranks of the Hercules Police Department, serving as a Training Officer, Special Response Officer, and Police Sergeant before becoming a Police Commander in 2012. In 2018, he also briefly served as Acting Police Chief, leading the department during a time of transition. prgtoken Commander Koeppe has consistently earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues and the public, and has been recognized countless times for his service to his community. In 1995, he was awarded the Medal of Valor for arresting a dangerous individual after a long and dangerous car chase. He also led his department in driving under the influence (DUI) arrests and was honored by both the department and Mothers Against Drunk Driving for his efforts to curtail the dangers of drunk driving. His dedication to the city is non-stop, as evident by the fact that he has received the Iron 96 award, given to those who do not use any sick leave, for 20 consecutive years. prgtoken Commander Koeppe is not only an esteemed member of the police department, but he also plays an active role in his community. prgtoken On top of his professional role, he is a member of Rotary Club International, the City Liaison for Special Olympics Northern California, and co-founder of the Hercules Swim Club. Commander Koeppe is a prime example of a community-focused officer who is committed to building vital ties with the community members whom he is protecting. prgtoken Madam , Commander Thomas Koeppe is an outstanding law enforcement officer and model citizen who has served with honor throughout his nearly three decades of duty. It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor him today.
INTRODUCTION OF THE RESOLUTION EXPRESSING SUPPORT FOR THE DESIGNATION OF THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER 2020 AS ``PANCREATIC CANCER AWARENESS MONTH''
André Carson (Democrat, IN) \u2014 2020-10-27

. Madam , I am pleased to introduce a resolution today with my colleague from California and Chairwoman of the Health Subcommittee of the Energy and Commerce Committee, Congresswoman Anna Eshoo. Our resolution raises awareness about pancreatic cancer and the importance of increased Congressional funding for research by expressing support for the designation of the month of November 2020 as Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month. I am also pleased that our colleague in the Senate, Senator Sheldon Whitehouse of Rhode Island, has introduced a Senate companion to this resolution. I am grateful for Congresswoman Eshoo and Senator Whitehouse's leadership in helping to combat pancreatic cancer. prgtoken This year alone, pancreatic cancer has killed two American icons: our colleague Congressman John Lewis and Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Pancreatic cancer recently killed baseball legend Bob Gibson, and it continues to sicken thousands of Americans fighting every day to survive this disease. This includes our colleague, Congressman Alcee Hastings, who is currently fighting a courageous battle against this horrible cancer. Accurately described as a silent killer, this disease does not have an early detection test, so unfortunately, by year's end, pancreatic cancer will have killed an estimated 47,050 Americans and is the third largest cause of cancer-related death in our county. As COVID-19 continues to rob us of more than 222,000 of our fellow Americans, pancreatic cancer continues to devastate thousands of American families and communities. In my home state of Indiana, nearly 1,000 Hoosiers will be killed by pancreatic cancer by year's end, and almost 2,000 Hoosiers will be newly diagnosed with this terrible disease. Nationwide, an additional 57,600 Americans will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer this year. prgtoken These horrific statistics highlight how few tools exist to detect this disease and, as a result, the immense pain and suffering it causes. Alarmingly, pancreatic cancer still has no early detection test to quickly and accurately determine the presence of this cancer. As a result, it is very difficult to detect this cancer before it has advanced to later--and more deadly--stages. Tragically, sixty-six percent of pancreatic cancer patients live less than one year following their diagnosis, This was the case for our colleague Congressman John Lewis, who was killed by pancreatic cancer less than a year following his diagnosis. prgtoken The COVID-19 pandemic has also highlighted how longstanding health disparities and lack of access to care results in dispropottionate numbers of infections and deaths from this virus in communities of color. Sadly, the same is true with pancreatic cancer. The incidence rate for pancreatic cancer among Black Americans is twenty percent higher than that of any other racial demographic and the death rate is seventeen percent higher for Black men than for white men.
ANGELS IN ADOPTION: MARGARITA AND EUGENE DAWSON III
Dan Newhouse (Republican, WA) \u2014 2020-10-27

. Today, I rise to celebrate and honor the exceptional contributions of Margarita ``Maggie'' and Eugene Dawson III. This year, I was honored to nominate Maggie and Eugene for the 2020 Angels in Adoption award, which recognizes the efforts of Americans who advocate for children in need of a family. prgtoken Maggie and Eugene experienced an unimaginable family tragedy. They welcomed their eight nieces and nephews to live in their home just two days after the children's mother lost her life at the hands of their father. The couple knew their nieces and nephews would need a home surrounded by family to heal from this trauma. prgtoken Together with their two biological children, Maggie and Eugene have created a safe place and secure family unit, ensuring the children have a chance to grow up with their siblings and cousins. In 2017, Maggie and Eugene were given permanent custody of the seven minors. prgtoken Now, as a family of 12, the Dawsons serve as an inspirational example of how families can thrive, even in the darkest of times. They represent the very best of Central Washington. I am proud to represent them in Congress, and I encourage all Americans to look to the Dawsons as an example of what makes our community strong.
CELEBRATING THE CENTENNIAL OF THE ROTARY CLUB OF BRYAN, TEXAS
Bill Flores (Republican, TX) \u2014 2020-10-27

. Madam , I rise today to recognize the 100 year anniversary of The Rotary Club of Bryan, Texas. prgtoken Originally chartered in 1921, with only twenty-five founders; today, the club has grown to include a membership of approximately 150 people from all areas of Brazos County. The Bryan Rotary Club is passionately dedicated to its mission to ``provide service to others; promote integrity; and advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through our fellowship of business, professional, and community leaders.'' prgtoken From the beginning, the Bryan Rotary Club has had a broad membership from the twin cities of Bryan and College Station, bringing together a service-oriented mix of business and local professionals, as well as faculty and administrators from Texas A&M University. prgtoken Some notable events hosted by the club include its annual golf tournament, an annual beans and rice dinner, and the annual Newman 10 awards, which recognize the significant community contributions of Brazos Valley businesses. prgtoken In addition to celebrating local businesses, the Club is committed to supporting cultural activities, such as the Opera and Performing Arts Society Series, funding of the Bryan Heritage Society and Stage Center, as well as the club's very own ``Singing Club.'' prgtoken Madam , the Rotary Club of Bryan has had a significant and positive impact on the Brazos Valley during its 100-year history. Throughout this time, the club has grown considerably, and it has never forgotten its strong commitment to community service. prgtoken I have requested the United States flag be flown over our Nation's Capitol to recognize this significant milestone and their contributions to our community. prgtoken As I close today, I urge all Americans to continue praying for our country, for our veterans, for our military men and women who protect our security and liberties, and for our first responders who keep us safe at home.