mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
TRIBUTE TO DAVID W. CARLE
Peter Welch (Democrat, VT) \u2014 2023-2-2

the January 26, 2023, issue of ``Roll Call'' included an interview with David Carle, who is retiring from the Senate after 45 years as a congressional press secretary, the last 26 years as Senator Leahy's communications director. I want to pay tribute to David, who long remained out of the limelight but who played an indispensable role, day in and day out, translating the often arcane business of the Congress into concise, coherent prose for Vermonters and countless others in this country and around the world. prgtoken As the interview notes, David arrived at Senator Leahy's office after serving for 12 years in a similar capacity for Senator Paul Simon of Illinois, whom David admired greatly. In fact, when Senator Leahy retired on January 3, David was the longest serving press secretary in U.S. Senate history. That is an extraordinary accomplishment and a testament to his devotion to his work, to the Congress, and to the country. prgtoken An outstanding writer and editor, David was always attuned to the interests of Vermonters and the political sensitivities of controversial issues and votes. He not only brought an inherent talent for communicating in plain-spoken and compelling language, but underlying everything he wrote was a deep commitment to defending the principles this country stands for, particularly the First Amendment. prgtoken David was also a mentor to aspiring communications staff, who under his tutelage learned the nuts and bolts of interfacing with traditional and social media outlets. Several of them have gone on to become communications directors for other Members of Congress. prgtoken The people of Vermont owe David their thanks, as do all of us in the Congress who have benefited from his unflinching example of professionalism, dedication, and integrity. prgtoken I ask unanimous consent that the Roll Call interview with David Carle be printed in the Record.
Introductory Statement on S. 242
Richard J. Durbin (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2023-2-2

today I am reintroducing the Caring for All Families Act. It will expand protections of the Family and Medical Leave Act and ensure that a broader range of caregiving relationships are covered. prgtoken In 2020, the Department of Labor found that one in six people taking leave to act as caregiver was not protected by the Family and Medical Leave Act's definition of ``family.'' It really begs the question: How many of these people decided to drop out of the workforce altogether? How many of them were fired because they missed a shift because their child woke up with a fever or because an elderly relative was rushed to the ER? No one should ever have to choose between caring for a loved one or losing their job. prgtoken The Caring for All Families Act will help protect these workers by adding domestic partners, in-laws, grandparents, and other significant relationships to the FMLA's definition of ``family.'' prgtoken Importantly, this legislation will just be a starting point. While it would expand job protections to millions of workers, it would not resolve one crucial flaw in our safety net. America is the only industrialized Nation in the world that does not have guaranteed paid family leave. I am going to repeat that. America is the only industrialized Nation in the world that does not guarantee paid family leave. That is shameful. prgtoken For the millions of working Americans who have or will be caregivers at some point in their lives, what are they supposed to do? Take on debt? Work even more hours? No. We cannot settle prgtoken for a system that abandons working families when they need it the most. The American people deserve a safety net that prevents them from drowning, a safety net that provides the peace of mind they need to reenter the workforce, and offers them the assurance that their government has their back. prgtoken So let's start. Let's pass the Caring for All Families Act and then get to work to ensure access to paid leave for all American workers.
HONORING JOE QUINN
Seth Magaziner (Democrat, RI) \u2014 2023-2-2

I rise today to honor the life of a good , a great American, and an even better husband, father, and grandfather, Joe Quinn. After 89 years of life, Joseph Raymond Quinn sadly passed away on December 30, 2022. prgtoken As an elementary school teacher, Congressional aide, and political activist, Joe was an involved member of his community. After embarking upon a 33-year career as an educator, Joe served as a part-time staffer to 3 U.S. Representatives over the course of 5 decades. In this role, Joe helped to deliver constituent services to his neighbors, and he most enjoyed interviewing applicants for nominations to the United States military service academies, attending Eagle Scout ceremonies, and resolving constituent's concerns. prgtoken Joe was also strongly committed to community service, and his greatest passion was politics and government. Joe was a fixture in Town and County ic parties for more than 60 years, and he served as Chairperson of the Smithtown ic Party for more than 20 years, where he guided the campaigns of countless candidates. He also represented the party at several ic National Conventions as a New York State delegate. His dedication to the Town and County continued beyond his tenure as Chairperson, and he only recently stepped back from active politics, after his reduced mobility prevented him from ``pounding the pavement'' in support of candidates. prgtoken Joe never passed up an opportunity to enjoy music, friendship, travel, or sporting events. He was a proud alumnus of Iona College and an avid supporter of their college basketball program. In 2006, he was recognized by Iona College as Alumnus of the Year. Joe was also a 5- time marathon runner, an avid reader, and a lover of nature and camping. prgtoken Joe will be remembered by his beloved and devoted wife, Anne M. Quinn and their 10 children and their spouses: Kathleen Siebert and husband Mark, Terence Quinn, Brendan Quinn and wife Nancy, Marybeth McGann, Patrick Quinn and wife Elizabeth, Neil Quinn and wife Penny, Timothy Quinn and wife Lori, Regina Ruoff and husband Mike, Laurence Quinn and wife Jeanmarie, and Julianne Kelly and husband James, along with their grandchildren and great grandchildren.
GOVERNOR DeSANTIS' WAR ON EDUCATION
Maxwell Frost (Democrat, FL) \u2014 2023-2-2

I rise today because while we wasted our time on ridiculous resolutions, there are real and present attacks on freedom and democracy happening in my home State of Florida at the hands of our Governor, Ron DeSantis. prgtoken This week, our Governor launched a full-scale, fascist attack on a small and very important institution of higher learning, the New College of Florida. prgtoken In his quest to stoke culture war after culture war, Governor DeSantis stacked the board of trustees with ultraconservative lapdogs, who immediately fired the New College president and are now vowing a hostile takeover that will cause harm to the thousands of young, queer, and people of color who formerly considered New College a safe haven. prgtoken I know this school, and I love this school. prgtoken Governor DeSantis is waging a war on education. prgtoken We have to be clear: This isn't freedom. The people of Florida and the students of Florida will not let this happen without a fight.
RECOGNIZING NATIONAL GUN VIOLENCE SURVIVORS AWARENESS WEEK
Bradley Scott Schneider (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2023-2-2

this week is National Gun Violence Survivors Awareness Week. prgtoken A decade ago, in this spot, I gave my first speech in the House about the epidemic of gun violence in our Nation. I could not then have imagined two things: First, that Congress would fail to take significant action to address gun violence in our Nation; and second, that mass shootings would continue to grow as an epidemic. Last year alone, there were 647 mass shootings in our country, including in my community of Highland Park. prgtoken For all the hundreds of communities that are affected and part of this tragic union from the devastation of gun violence, the effects are permanent. prgtoken Seven months ago, in my community, at 10:14 a.m. on July 4 at the Independence Day parade in Highland Park, a monster with an assault rifle climbed a ladder and fired 83 bullets in less than a minute into the festive crowd below. He murdered seven wonderful people, wounded dozens more, and traumatized an entire community. prgtoken The devastation and damage to a human body from these weapons are inconceivable. We have to address gun violence. We have to pass an assault weapons ban that was introduced this week. I call on our communities to act.
DENOUNCING THE HORRORS OF SOCIALISM
Maxine Waters (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-2-2

such time as I may consume. prgtoken , the last gentleman mentioned China, and I just remind everyone of a quote by their President , ``And I like President Xi a lot,'' he said. ``I consider him a friend, and--but I like him a lot. I've gotten to know him very well. He's a strong gentleman, right? . . . he's a strong guy, tough guy.'' prgtoken When are you going to denounce ? prgtoken , I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. Wasserman Schultz).
DENOUNCING THE HORRORS OF SOCIALISM
Betty McCollum (Democrat, MN) \u2014 2023-2-2

I rise in opposition to H. Con. Res. 9, Denouncing the horrors of socialism. prgtoken , let's be clear about what this resolution is. A complete waste of time. This resolution is not about Stalin. It is not about Mao. It is not about Castro. It is not even about condemning the human rights abuses that many communist dictators throughout history have committed. Instead, the majority has thrown together a poorly written, ill-conceived resolution so sloppy that it condemns socialism in all its forms. That includes important allies and friends of the United States that have mainstream socialist political parties like Albania, Australia, Denmark, Finland, France, Iceland, Luxembourg, Montenegro, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Spain, and Sweden. With this resolution, House s are sending a message to these nations that we condemn the domestic political process within their nations. That is outrageous. prgtoken At a time of crisis for the world when Vladimir Putin is waging the largest war in Europe prgtoken in over seventy years, Congress should be working to strengthen the relationships with our fellow democracies, not passing poorly written messaging bills that will alienate our friends and allies. As Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, I know just how crucial it is to maintain relationships with our NATO allies. This weekend I will join the Minnesota National Guard in celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Norwegian Reciprocal Troop Exchange--the longest-running military partnership between 2 nations. Make no mistake, this resolution is not just an insult to the Norwegian government, but an insult to the Norwegian Home Guard and Norwegian Armed Forces who sacrifice to defend their nation from the Russian threat. prgtoken The majority was even offered the opportunity to soften this resolution before bringing it to the floor. House offered amendments in the Rules Committee that would clarify the resolution's intent, including language stating that nothing in the resolution should be seen to condemn long-time Federal programs like Medicare, Social Security or VA Healthcare that impact all our constituencies. Another amendment included language condemning fascism and the mass murder of 6 million Jewish people by the Nazi regime. Unfortunately, all these amendments were rejected by s. prgtoken , it is telling that a month into the 118th Congress, House s have nothing to offer the American public but to waste their time with political stunts like this.
KARSYN FETZER
Yadira Caraveo (Democrat, CO) \u2014 2023-2-2

I rise today to congratulate all who were involved in this tremendous year for the National Western Stock Show. Not only was it a successful year for the world-class Stock Show, held right here in our backyard, but it was a special year for our community in the 8th Congressional District. prgtoken I would like to recognize 2 young Weld County residents who made a big impression this year. prgtoken Eighteen-year-old Justin Pfannebecker from LaSalle was the first teen from Colorado to win the title of the Grand Champion steer in more than a quarter-century. He auctioned his grand champion steer, Stan the Man, for a record $200,000. prgtoken Sixteen-year-old Karsyn Fetzer from Kersey also excelled in the show ring and auctioned her Reserve Grand Champion Hog, Lil G for a record $75,000. prgtoken These accomplishments speak to the hard work and perseverance these young Coloradans embody. They are tremendous representatives of our community, and I have no doubt this year's success is a harbinger for what is to come for these exemplary young people. prgtoken In large part because of these accolades, the National Western Stock Show raised a record $585,000 that will go to scholarships for agriculture studies, rural medicine, and students' agricultural endeavors across Colorado. prgtoken I'm proud of the immense amount of time, work, and talent that ensures the success of this event every year--and the important economic impact it has on the Denver Metro Area. prgtoken Thanks to all who contribute to the success of the Stock Show. I look forward to more sweet victories for CO-08 residents in the years to come.
DEBT CEILING
Charles E. Schumer (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2023-2-2

in America, when it is time to pay the bills, we do so without fail and without delay. That is what families must do, and that is what our government must do. It is one of the bedrock principles of this country--one that holds true no matter who is in the White House and which party holds majorities in Congress. Not even during the administration was this solemn duty neglected even if many MAGA s may feel differently today. prgtoken When I was minority leader here in the Senate, I sat down with President to find a path to raise the debt ceiling multiple times. We didn't engage in hostage-taking. We didn't resort to blackmail or brinksmanship. By no means was it easy, and many on the other side didn't want to go along, but worked constructively with the administration to get it done, and it happened three times. The same thing must happen again this year--no brinksmanship, no hostage-taking, no default on the national debt. Congress must raise the debt ceiling on a bipartisan basis without the hostage-taking, without the brinksmanship. prgtoken So I was very glad to hear President reaffirm this truth after his meeting with McCarthy. He reiterated we ought to pass a clean debt ceiling extension. President is correct--the American people expect us to do the right thing in the coming months because if we default on the debt, every single American is going to pay the price. prgtoken Later this morning, I will join with some of my ic colleagues to put a spotlight on the consequences of default because they are not remotely theoretical or abstract. The debt ceiling is not just an abstract exercise somewhere up there in the clouds. If we fail to renew it, it is going to affect every American family's pocketbook or wallet, with many, many dollars taken away. prgtoken A default on debt would create a crisis unlike any we have ever seen in our country. Mortgages, car loans, and credit card rates all will go shooting up. American families with adjustable rate mortgages or who are seeking to buy a house will pay thousands of dollars more each year--what a terrible nightmare at a time when costs are already too high in housing and everywhere else. prgtoken But just as terrible as that sounds, this is only the tip of the iceberg. If the U.S. defaults, retirement savings--the prgtoken money that people have scrapped away, put away, so they might live in dignity toward the end of their lives--will be utterly devastated. By one measure, the typical retirement account could lose $20,000 in value--$20,000. We are talking about people's livelihoods, money that people have set aside little by little every month so they can reach retirement with some degree of dignity. prgtoken A default would rob Americans of that, and the devastation would go on and on and on. Social Security would suffer. Medicare would suffer. Over 18 million veterans could lose their hard
ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS
Richard Blumenthal (Democrat, CT) \u2014 2023-2-2

I rise today with a heavy heart to pay tribute to Quentin ``Q'' Williams, a dedicated public servant, advocate, and friend to many. Tragically, State Representative Williams passed away on January 5, 2023, at the age of 39. He will be remembered for his commitment to Connecticut and passion for helping others. prgtoken A lifelong resident of Middletown, CT, Q was killed in an automobile accident just one day after being sworn in for a third term as State representative, a beautiful life cut tragically short, a bright light extinguished. prgtoken Raised by a single mother in Middletown, Q accomplished so much in his short career. After graduating from Middletown Public Schools, he earned a bachelor's degree in business administration from Bryant University, and a master of public administration from Villanova University--excellent preparation for a professional career dedicated to serving others. prgtoken Q began his career in community banking in Hartford before pursuing nonprofit management. In 2012, he was named executive director of the Middletown Downtown Business District and launched the community's first ``Middletown Restaurant Week,'' enhancing the community and economic vitality of the city's Main Street. Q served as director of advocacy and policy for Excellence Community Schools, a charter school network, and cofounded EquityCT, an education nonprofit. He was also active in many charitable and service organizations with a generous spirit that served him well in public service. prgtoken In 2019, Q was elected as the first Black State legislator from Middletown. As State representative, Q took great pride in championing social and racial equality, human rights, and accessible housing. He supported youth programs to help the next generation prepare for successful futures. There is no telling where Q's energy and passion could have taken him and how much good he would have continued to do for his community and the state of Connecticut. prgtoken At two recent church ceremonies, in Middletown and Bloomfield, friends and colleagues of Q's spoke of his love and loyalty, his jovial spirit, and deeply genuine generosity. At the time of his death, Representative Williams was looking forward to serving as the new house chair of the labor and public employees committee. Over the last several weeks, at ceremonies honoring him, I have spoken to his wonderful family. I have been among scores of people paying their respects to Q--a stirring testament to his positive impact. prgtoken My wife Cynthia and I extend our deepest sympathies to Q's family during this difficult time, particularly to his wife Carrissa and mother Queen. I hope my colleagues will join me in honoring Q's life and legacy, both large and lasting.
Congratulating the South Dakota State University Jackrabbits (Executive Session)
John Thune (Republican, SD) \u2014 2023-2-2

yesterday the Senate unanimously approved my resolution with Senator Rounds formally congratulating the South Dakota State University football team on their championship season. And what a great season it was for the Jackrabbits. They ended the season 14 and 1 and never lost a game in their conference. They earned the No. 1 seed in the Football Championship Subdivision playoffs. And they brought home the FCS National Championship for the first time in program history with a 45-to-21 win against the North Dakota State Bison last month in Frisco, TX. prgtoken I happened to be on hand for that game. It was an extraordinary game and capped off an extraordinary season. I happened to be there for the semifinal game against Montana State, which the Jackrabbits won decisively. In each of those games, and their games throughout the season, they demonstrated on the field not only great skill but just an incredible determination, resilience, and a willingness to play together as a team, which, really, I think, is what distinguished and differentiated their team from many others around the country this year. It really was an extraordinary team to watch on both sides of the ball. And as someone who has been a fan of sports for a long time, it was really exciting to see the success that they had not only throughout the course of the season but ultimately capping it off with the national championship. prgtoken That championship win was a fitting capstone to coach John Stiegelmeirer's 26-season career leading the Jacks. Coach Stig, as he is affectionately known, is the heart and soul of Jackrabbit football. prgtoken Like many South Dakotans, he learned his values from his dad. He worked on a family farm in Selby, SD. His dad told him: If you work hard and be a good person, you will have success. Work hard, be a good person, and you will have success. prgtoken I would say Coach Stig has done all three. His determination transformed SDSU's football team into what it is today. SDSU became a Division 1 program under his leadership, and former Jacks players have gone on to careers in the NFL. His calm, patience, and caring set the standard for the players and made the team a family. prgtoken He leaves as the winningest coach in SDSU history, the 2022 FCS Coach of the Year, and, of course, with a national title for the team that he has dedicated his career to making great. prgtoken Huge congratulations to the Jackrabbits on their season and to Coach Stig, and we wish you all the best in your retirement. You have earned it.