mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
LEGISLATIVE SESSION
James M. Inhofe (Republican, OK) \u2014 2020-7-23

I ask unanimous consent that the following amendments be called up en bloc and the Senate vote on adoption of the amendments en bloc with no intervening action or debate. prgtoken Before I read the names, which I will do, I make that request: I ask unanimous consent for the following amendments to be called up en bloc and the Senate vote on adoption of the amendments en bloc with no intervening action. I am going to list all of the amendments so there is no misunderstanding. prgtoken The reason we are going to do this--we talked about this last night. These have been hotlined. There are a total of about 28 amendments. I will be naming in the Record those that I am asking the consent for: Sullivan, No. 2127; Toomey, No. 2180; Rubio, No. 2305; Cruz, No. 2308, as modified; Grassley, No. 2399; Fischer, No. 2431; Perdue, No. 2449; Perdue, No. 2459; Tillis, No. 2484, refile of No. 2421; Portman, No. 2486, which is a refile of No. 2330; Peters, No. 1752; Cardin, No. 1876; Heinrich, No. 2221; Klobuchar, No. 2295; Udall, No. 2407; Schumer, No. 2410; Booker, No. 2412; Duckworth, No. 2432; King, No. 2438; King, No. 2439; Grassley, No. 2436; Moran, No. 2446, as modified; Cassidy, No. 2453; Crapo, No. 2430; Reed, No. 2461, as modified; Klobuchar, No. 2437; Warner, No. 2471; and Bennet, No. 2429.
ISSUES OF THE DAY
John Shimkus (Republican, IL) \u2014 2020-7-24

. Madam , for yielding. prgtoken I also recognize Al Green, who was going to do the same thing. Al Green is a . Those stories don't get reported very much when you go to a colleague, a friend, a , and say, ``Hey, I really want a few minutes so I can talk about my parents,'' and he was happy to do that, but he just ran out of time and had to run to the plane. So, my thanks to him. prgtoken It was about this time 5 years ago that I came to the floor to honor my mom and dad, Gene and Kathleen Shimkus, as they were celebrating their 65th wedding anniversary. It was my hope that I would do so again this week, honoring their 70th wedding anniversary, but that was not to be. My mom passed away on April 6 of this year. prgtoken Now, as I have done this week a couple of times, it is time to thank my parents for their incredible support throughout my life and particularly these last 24 years. prgtoken My mom and dad were both local Collinsville kids. Dad was raised on South Clinton by his grandparents, and my mom was raised on Fairway Boulevard in State Park. So from Collinsville High School, Holy Cross Lutheran Church, and raising seven children, they knew a lot of people. prgtoken Mom kept the local yard sign book. It was difficult for anyone to tell my mom no. She was loved. My dad would put up the yard signs and take them down. Mom also was involved in many early envelope stuffing parties for political mailings. prgtoken Mom and dad covered the parades in Madison County, those that I attended and those that I could not. Dad drove and mom organized the walkers, signs, and candy. She helped fill the ranks with grandchildren, especially Adam, Gene, Elizabeth, Niki, Tim, Terry, and Dusty. And when out-of-state grandchildren were in town, they, too, were drafted to fill the ranks. Among these were Matthew, Maria, and Emily, along with Jennifer and Katy. Of course, I already spoke about my sons, about David's, Joshua's, and Daniel's participation in these parades. prgtoken Mom and dad could be counted on to watch our kids at a moment's notice. Dad picked me up from the airport when rides failed. It would be dad who would respond quickly when we locked ourselves out of the car or locked ourselves out of the house. And who can forget the Minnie Winnie that they purchased to make it easier for my family to get around during the 1996 campaign. prgtoken Mom was elected to my open township seat. She served for 20 years. She loved being a trustee and supporting the local senior center run by the township. prgtoken She continued to be friends to all, even those who identified as political opponents. In a story covering her retirement, she called herself the independent grandma. She referred to herself as the momma bear protecting her cubs. She sure defended me. She went on the attack against those who she thought were inappropriately attacking her son. prgtoken Collinsville has historically been a bl
IN HONOR OF THE GROUNDBREAKING OF EXPANSION AT THE KALAMAZOO GOSPEL MINISTRIES
Fred Upton (Republican, MI) \u2014 2020-7-24

. Madam , I rise before you today to recognize a celebration as the Kalamazoo Gospel Ministries breaks ground on an expansion to their ministry. prgtoken I want to recognize the extraordinary accomplishment of Pastor Brown and all the staff and volunteers at the Kalamazoo Gospel Ministries. I am incredibly proud of the work they are doing and send my sincere congratulations today as they break ground on the new women's and children's center. prgtoken For over 80 years, and in these uncertain times, the Kalamazoo Gospel Ministries has been a place of hope and healing in the Kalamazoo community. This new expansion, ``A Shelter From Their Storm,'' will no doubt be filled with the same heart and care that they have shown for decades. prgtoken Madam , I am honored to recognize the Kalamazoo Gospel Ministries and their team and thank them for their continued service to the Kalamazoo community.
CONGRATULATING CHARLES AND SHERRY DOBIS ON THEIR 50TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY
Kenny Marchant (Republican, TX) \u2014 2020-7-24

. Madam , I rise today to congratulate Charles and Sherry Dobis on their 50th wedding anniversary. July 25th marks five decades of devoted matrimony for these two esteemed citizens of Irving, Texas. prgtoken Originally from Gary, Indiana, ``Chuck'' and Sherry married in their hometown, and have since accompanied each other on a journey of personal and professional accomplishments. prgtoken In 1971, Chuck graduated from the School of Pharmacy at Purdue University where he was a member of Pi Kappa Psi. For the past 49 years, he has been licensed to practice pharmacy in Indiana, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas. Throughout his distinguished career, he has assumed a variety of leadership prgtoken roles which include President of the St. Joseph County Pharmacist Association; Chairman and President of the Indiana Pharmacist Association (IPA); founding Chairman of the IPA PAC; and Chairman and Treasurer of the American Pharmaceutical Association (AphA) PAC. prgtoken In 1979, Sherry also graduated from Purdue University with a Bachelor of Science degree, and continued to enhance her qualifications through a program at the South Bend Medical Foundation. Seeking to further her studies, she obtained her Masters in Public Administration (MPA, '90) from Indiana University where she was involved in the Pi Alpha Alpha honor society. Sherry's professional roles have been extensive. Over the span of her fruitful career, she has served as a Medical Tech. at Mishiana Community Hospital, Lab Director at LaPorte Hospital, Lab Administrator at Parkview Hospital in Vicksburg, MS, Senior Director for Laboratory, Respiratory and Business services at VHA in Dallas, and Vice President for Business Development at Health Network Laboratories in Allentown, PA. prgtoken Chuck and Sherry are now semi-retired, but they remain actively involved in the Catholic community and enjoy travelling, reading, gardening, crafting, orchestra and fly tying/fishing. They are also the proud parents of Diane Dobis and loving grandparents of Anthony, Christina, and Vivian Dobis, all of whom reside in Irving, Texas. As Chuck and Sherry's journey continues to unfold, may their commitment to one another continue to serve as an example of how love and dedication can enrich our lives. prgtoken Madam , I ask all my distinguished colleagues to join me in recognizing this noteworthy milestone, the 50-year wedding anniversary of Chuck and Sherry Dobis.
HONORING SERGEANT JUSTIN DAVIS
John Joyce (Republican, PA) \u2014 2020-7-24

. Madam , I rise today to honor Sergeant Justin Davis of the Martinsburg Police Department as he receives the Law Enforcement Medal of Valor in recognition of his distinguished service to the citizens of Blair County. Awarded by the Blair County District Attorney, the Law Enforcement Medal of Valor is presented for extraordinary acts of valor and heroism. prgtoken On the evening of February 26, 2020, Sergeant Davis stopped a vehicle in Martinsburg Borough. The suspects began high-speed chase, which took place for 1.4 miles reaching speeds of nearly 100 mph. Though the suspects attempted to flee, Sergeant Davis skillfully apprehended both of them. As a result of the arrest, the police found suspected heroin and a loaded .380 pistol in the defendants' possession. A search warrant of the vehic1e yielded plastic bags, two scales, and approximately 15 grams of raw heroin. prgtoken Today, we commend Sergeant Davis for his unflinching courage, commitment to duty, outstanding tactical expertise, and communication in this dangerous situation. His actions have made Martinsburg Borough and Blair County a safer community. prgtoken For his valiant actions in the highest traditions of Law Enforcement and the Martinsburg Police Department, the Medal of Valor is bestowed upon Sergeant Justin Davis. prgtoken It is my sincere pleasure and privilege to honor Sergeant Davis as he receives this highest award. On behalf of the 13th District of Pennsylvania, I thank Sergeant Davis for his commitment to our community and congratulate him on his many achievements.
RECOGNIZING E. SHAVER
Earl L. "Buddy" Carter (Republican, GA) \u2014 2020-7-24

I rise today to recognize Savannah's E. Shaver, Bookseller, which was voted the South's Best Bookstore 2020 by the readers of Southern Living magazine. prgtoken This cherished bookstore is Savannah's oldest independent bookstore, and it makes its home in a building erected in the 1840s by Eliza Jewett, one of the few female builders in the city at the time. prgtoken Ed and Esther Shaver turned this space into a bookstore in 1975, after selling antiques for a short time, and it has been thriving for over 40 years. prgtoken In 2015, Jessica Osborne took the helm in leading this special bookstore to make it the success that it is today. prgtoken This bookstore is more than just a store. It is an important part of downtown Savannah's character and charm. prgtoken I am thankful for Mrs. Osborne's commitment to keeping reading alive and well and for putting a smile on all faces that enter. prgtoken During difficult times like these, it is imperative we support small businesses like E. Shaver now more than ever.
ISSUES OF THE DAY
Jim Banks (Republican, IN) \u2014 2020-7-24

. Madam , I thank my friend for yielding. prgtoken Like my great colleague from the great State of Texas, I love America, but I want to know: Why does it seem like some want America to fail this test? We should all be rooting for America's success in its fight against COVID-19. prgtoken President has overseen the unprecedented Operation Warp Speed, an effort to develop and disseminate a vaccine in record-breaking time. prgtoken We learned this week that one vaccine in particular shows great promise. Thanks to President , the U.S. will have access to the vaccine immediately if it proves effective. prgtoken Nothing like this has ever been done before, and if successful, this President's achievement will be a defining moment in American history. prgtoken We have already developed lifesaving antiviral treatments that have caused America's fatality rate to plummet. prgtoken Together, we can defeat this virus. We must fight it with science and facts and leave fear behind. prgtoken Madam , I believe in America, and I ask all of my colleagues to stand up and support our President during this present crisis.
NATIONAL HIRE A VETERAN DAY
Glenn Thompson (Republican, PA) \u2014 2020-7-24

I rise today to acknowledge tomorrow, July 25, as National Hire a Veteran Day. prgtoken Veterans are an important part of our community. They sacrifice a great deal to ensure that we live in a Nation that is free and safe. Sadly, when returning to civilian life, many of our Nation's veterans find themselves unemployed or underemployed. prgtoken I am an Army dad. My son was wounded in combat during a tour in Iraq, and so this issue is personal. My daughter-in-law is also a veteran. prgtoken Our veterans are highly trained and highly skilled. They deserve our support while deployed and when they return home. One of the best ways to do this is to prepare them for the workforce outside of the military. That is one of the reasons I was proud to cosponsor the Veterans in Effective Apprenticeships Act last year with Congresswoman Katherine Clark. prgtoken The bill instructs apprenticeship programs to account for a participant's competencies and prior experiences, including those gained during military service, among other things. prgtoken , the best way to thank a veteran is to hire a veteran. The skills obtained in service are invaluable.
SOUND MONEY CAUCUS IS FORMED
Warren Davidson (Republican, OH) \u2014 2020-7-24

I am pleased to announce the formation of the Sound Money Caucus. Together, we will study and highlight the impact of monetary and fiscal policy on the United States dollar as a store of value and a means of exchange. prgtoken As you can see, the supply of dollars has gone up dramatically, really since the gold standard ended in 1971. It is a gradual slope. But if you see since the recession, it has been aggressive. And then, obviously, here, this year, it has been nearly vertical. prgtoken The value of the dollar is critical. That is the store of value for all Americans. prgtoken I am pleased to be joined by Co-Chairman Andy Barr, and Members like Brady, Budd, and Zeldin. We look forward to working with everyone to highlight the importance of sound money.
DEPARTMENT OF STATE, FOREIGN OPERATIONS, AND RELATED PROGRAMS APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2021
Kay Granger (Republican, TX) \u2014 2020-7-24

such time as I may consume. prgtoken , I offer this motion today to restore funding levels for a bipartisan priority to counter China. prgtoken The amendment adds $102 million to restore funding for the Countering Chinese Influence Fund to the current fiscal year level of $300 million. prgtoken We can all agree that the Chinese Communist Party is actively working against U.S. interests all over the globe--from space technology to deceptive trading practices, to their outsized influence in pharmaceuticals and medical equipment. prgtoken The threat from China is real and immediate, and now is not the time to retreat in our efforts to stop their destructive actions. prgtoken The Countering Chinese Influence Fund was established last year to address the growing reality that Beijing has a foothold in areas of critical importance, including in our own backyard. prgtoken China is now the largest investor in Latin America, practicing the same type of corrupt and predatory financing it uses elsewhere around the world. prgtoken The commander of the U.S. Southern Command testified this year that some of China's investments in the region could enable the Chinese military to threaten sea lanes vital to global commerce and the movement of U.S. Forces. He also expressed concern about Chinese telecommunications investments and how they could be detrimental to our security. prgtoken We must directly address Chinese actions in order to protect our national security and maintain U.S. leadership throughout the world. This fund is one way to do that. prgtoken I hope Members on both sides of the aisle will agree that it is more productive to fund programs with bipartisan support than to fund partisan efforts that have no chance of becoming law. prgtoken , I urge a ``yes'' vote on this motion, and .
RECOGNIZING THE RETIREMENT OF HUMMELSTOWN CHIEF OF POLICE WILLIAM RYAN
Scott Perry (Republican, PA) \u2014 2020-7-24

. Madam , I'm truly honored to congratulate Chief William Ryan upon his retirement on July 31, 2020, from a distinguished career in law enforcement. Chief Ryan has dedicated nearly 35 years to Southeast PA and the Hummelstown Borough Police Department (HBPD), and I'm proud to recognize his exceptional career here today. prgtoken Bill Ryan became a Hummelstown Police Officer in 1992, after five years with the George Mason University Police Department. Early in his career, he developed the ``Witch Watch'' program that organized high school volunteers to patrol for safety issues during Halloween, and keep trick-or-treaters safe. In 1994, he formed the Hummelstown Neighborhood Crime Watch Group, encouraging community volunteers to patrol the Borough on weekends. By 1995, he was promoted to Corporal, and approached the then-chief with the idea of teaching DARE in the Lower Dauphin School District. He continued to organize events, like the National Night Out for Hummelstown, and the infamous ``Turkey Bowl''--first a football game, and later a bowling tournament between law enforcement and local schoolteachers to support the local food bank. prgtoken In 1996, Bill was promoted to Sergeant, and subsequently Detective, serving as the HBPD criminal investigator. Just a year later, he began teaching DARE at the Lower Dauphin Middle School, which continued for 17 years, forming lasting connections with students and teachers alike--many of whom still refer to him as ``Sergeant Ryan'' and hold dear their memories of him from those classes. prgtoken In 1997, Bill joined the Capital Region Forensic Unit, responsible for the collection of evidence in serious, high profile crimes. That same year, he completed the PA Commission on Crime and Delinquency Crime Prevention Course, and joined the County child abuse multidisciplinary team. In 1998, he appeared in a DUI training/public service announcement, which was shown Nationwide. prgtoken In 1999, Bill was named PA Police Officer of the Year by the American Legion, and was named Officer of the Year for the Northeast Region--and the National runner-up, He also began teaching at the burg Area Community College Police Academy, and in 2001, joined the Dauphin County Child Abduction Response Team. prgtoken By 2008, Bill was honored with a Career Service Award from the Dauphin County Chiefs of Police Association. He continued to teach the DARE program, and taught his final class in 2013. In 2014, he was awarded the PA VFW John Radko Gold Medal. Finally, in 2016, he earned his highest rank, and was named Acting Chief of Hummelstown Police Department. prgtoken Bill was known for ending his e-mails with, ``Be safe, stay sharp, and make good decisions,'' and every phone call with, ``Peace''-- something we pray for everyday for those who stand on the Thin Blue Line. prgtoken Madam , Chief William Ryan has served with distinction the Borough of prgtoken Hummelstown, the HBPD, and our surr
RECOGNIZING BRET BAIER COMMITMENT TO SERVICE IN JOURNALISM
Michael Waltz (Republican, FL) \u2014 2020-7-24

. Madam , I rise today to recognize the service and career of news anchor Bret Baier as he celebrates his 50th birthday. Mr. Baier has dedicated many years to hard-hitting journalism and pursuit of conveying hard truths to the American people, often putting his own life on the line in warzones to do so. His informative journalism and steadfast moral compass embody the principles of a true servant leader. prgtoken Bret Baier earned his bachelor's degree in Political Science and English from DePauw University in 1992. He made his way into the television scene by working for several news stations from Raleigh, North Carolina, to Rockford, Illinois and Beaufort, South Carolina before sending his audition tape to Fox News in 1998 and serving as the Atlanta bureau's first reporter. prgtoken When our nation was attacked on September 11, 2001, Bret didn't shy away from danger. He drove all the way to Arlington, Virginia to cover the attack on the Pentagon. The reporting he did during this time landed him a job as the Pentagon correspondent, covering key national security, intelligence, military, and foreign policy issues. In 5 years time, he covered some of the nation's most impactful national security events, including the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. He again did not shy away from danger, reporting from Iraq 12 times and Afghanistan 13 times. Baier has interviewed President , Vice President , former President , former President and former Vice President , traveling with these administrations and top military officials to report in 74 countries. prgtoken In 2006, he served as the chief White House correspondent, covering the second term of the administration. He has since covered the political cycles of the 2012 and 2016 elections, moderating five primary debates in 2012 and anchoring three GOP debates for Fox News in the 2016 cycle. Bret currently is Fox News Channel's Chief Political Anchor and the anchor of his own show, ``Special Report with Bret Baier.'' It is worth noting that Special Report is the top-rated cable news program in its timeslot and consistently one of the top five shows in cable news. prgtoken In a world defined by political division, Baier is known and respected as a straight shooter. His accolades include the 2016 Kenneth Y. Tomlinson Award for Outstanding Journalism by the Robert Novak Journalism Fellowship Program, the 2017 Sol Taishoff Award for Excellence in Broadcast Journalism by the National Press Foundation, and the 2018 Urbino Press Award by the Municipality of Urbino. He is a New York Times bestselling author, a loving father to his two sons Daniel and Paul, and a devoted husband to his wife Amy. prgtoken Madam , I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the career and lifelong servant leadership of Bret Baier. It is with great pride that we thank him for his service and wish him continued health and h