mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
THE NDAA: REBUILD AND REFORM
Joe Wilson (Republican, SC) \u2014 2018-5-23

the National Defense Authorization Act passed the House Armed Services Committee with an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote of 60 yes to 1 no. I am grateful for the leadership of Chairman Mac Thornberry, with Paul Ryan, promoted by Defense Secretary James Mattis. prgtoken The NDAA being considered today provides a critical increase in topline funding to support troops and readiness prgtoken recovery, consistent with President 's commitment to rebuild the military as he keeps his promises. prgtoken This legislation makes major reforms to the Pentagon bureaucracy, while adding more military personnel to all services. The NDAA also includes the largest pay increase for the military in 9 years. prgtoken As chairman of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness, I am grateful that this legislation promotes rebuilding the military and supports readiness recovery by rehabilitating and replacing worn-out equipment, overcoming the crisis in military aviation, restoring America's strength at sea, and rebuilding crumbling military buildings and other infrastructure. prgtoken I urge my colleagues to support this bipartisan bill that supports the men and women in uniform, along with military families, to promote peace through strength. prgtoken In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.
VA MISSION BILL (Executive Session)
Roy Blunt (Republican, MO) \u2014 2018-5-23

I join my colleague from Georgia. I also join Senator Hoeven in mentioning the incredible leadership that Senator Isakson has shown for veterans and the way we deal with veterans' concerns. We honor their service. prgtoken The Senator from North Dakota just mentioned that Monday, of course, is Memorial Day. On Memorial Day in 1983, President Reagan said: I don't have to tell you how fragile this precious gift of freedom is. Every time we hear, watch, or read the news, we are reminded that liberty is a rare commodity in this world. prgtoken President Reagan's words from 35 years ago are every bit as significant today as they were then. The willingness to pay the price for freedom has been paid by every soldier, sailor, airman, and marine, and every person in the Coast Guard, the National Guard, and the Reserves. So on Memorial Day, we honor their willingness to do that. prgtoken This is a good time also for us to discuss the things Congress has been doing to try to honor that service as we continue to look at the challenges that veterans face. I have spoken before about the HIRE Vets Act, which was signed into law last year. The bill established the HIRE Vets Program within the Department of Labor to provide tiered recognition of what employers do based on their contributions for veteran employment. Some of the criteria were things like these: What percentage of the new hires are veterans or what percentage of the overall workforce is veterans? What types of training and leadership development opportunities are made available that veterans have unique opportunities to take advantage of? What recognition is given to skills that veterans learn while serving? What other benefits and resources are offered to veterans--things like tuition assistance? prgtoken Creating a national standard will help vets narrow down their employment options and focus on their job search efforts. prgtoken The HIRE Vets Program is up and running. This year, over 300 employers have signed up to participate in the pilot program, and we will see how that pilot works. I hope it works as well as those of us who sponsored and voted for the legislation thought it would--as a way to begin to give the recognition to employers that they deserve when they go beyond saying: Of course, we like to hire vets. HIRE Vets shows just exactly how much you like to hire vets and what difference it makes when you hire those vets. prgtoken The second program that is getting started this year is the Military Family Stability Act. It was signed into law last November. We have the most powerful military in the world, the most well-trained military in the world, and a military that we have invested money, training, and energy in like none other. But the real strength of the military, according to military leader after military leader, is military families. prgtoken In the Military Family Stability Act, we have created a new opportun
America's Water Infrastructure Act (Executive Session)
John Barrasso (Republican, WY) \u2014 2018-5-23

over the past 50 years, our country has gone from being a construction society to a consumption society. As a result, our bridges, our roads, our dams, and our waterways have suffered. President has said that rebuilding America's infrastructure is a priority for his administration. He said that we will build ``with American heart, American hands, and American grit.'' That is what President said in the State of the Union this year. prgtoken Yesterday the Committee on Environment and Public Works took a big step toward meeting that goal. We voted to approve the America's Water Infrastructure Act. prgtoken There are a lot of people in Wyoming and around the Rocky Mountain West, as well, who say that--well, it was originally attributed to Mark Twain, and it goes like this: ``Whiskey is for drinking; water is for fighting over.'' prgtoken Surprisingly, in this case, we actually didn't fight over the water of the United States. This legislation was written by s and , and it passed with unanimous, bipartisan support of 21 to 0. Both parties prgtoken agreed that there is a lot we can do to improve America's water infrastructure. prgtoken Basically, the bill comes down to three big things. It grows the economy and creates jobs, it cuts redtape by getting more control out of Washington, and it keeps communities safe. prgtoken The first way this legislation supports America's economy is by increasing water storage. That is a big concern in my home State of Wyoming and across the West. We have had a serious problem over the years where sediment builds up behind dams in the lakes where water is stored. That sediment limits the amount of water the lakes can hold. We are telling the Army Corps of Engineers and other agencies to develop plans to deal with this sediment at Federal reservoirs. That is a simple thing that Washington can do, and now it is going to get done. prgtoken We are also expanding water storage capacity by making it easier to get permits for additional reservoirs. We have a facility in Lincoln County, WY, that is called the Fontenelle Reservoir. We have been trying to expand the water storage at that reservoir for years. This legislation makes sure the expansion will finally occur. prgtoken Farmers, ranchers, and communities nearby will get a new, reliable supply of the water they need. Of course, the water doesn't do much good if people can't get it where they need it. So we fix the failing irrigation systems that are so important in rural areas. prgtoken We are also improving America's inland waterways, which people rely on to move products to market. On the coasts, we deepen some of the most vital ports, and we can ship goods from there around the world. prgtoken The pro-growth policies, like the tax cuts we passed last year, have helped America's economy take off. Now we need to make sure that we have the water infrastructure in place to keep it growing, to keep
Tribute to Major General Joseph Martin (Executive Session)
Jerry Moran (Republican, KS) \u2014 2018-5-23

I want to take a moment to recognize MG Joseph M. Martin and his outstanding military career, which is made evident by a significant milestone promotion to lieutenant general. Major General Martin is the commanding general of the 1st Infantry Division at Fort Riley, KS, and assumed this command in October of 2016 when he took command of the Big Red One--the Army's longest serving, permanent division since 1917. prgtoken Within days of assuming command of the Big Red One in 2016, he deployed with his division headquarters, 500 of his soldiers, to Iraq. He assumed leadership of the Combined Joint Forces Land Component Command-Iraq in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. prgtoken Major General Martin's combat leadership was remarkable in Iraq. During the 9-month deployment, he led the fight, alongside the Government of Iraq, against the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria in Mosul. His efforts, and the efforts of the brave soldiers in the U.S. Army and all of our troops, led to the defeat of ISIS in Mosul and the destruction of their territorial hold. ISIS had been in control of Mosul since 2014 but were beaten back by Major General Martin and his forces. They liberated 1.8 million Iraqis, and it was a remarkable victory. prgtoken In the manner of a true combat leader, Major General Martin was one of the last soldiers to return from the mission in July of 2017. When General Martin returned stateside, he quickly demonstrated his leadership back on base at Fort Riley, and he led the 100th anniversary of the division. prgtoken He has been an outstanding partner to me and fellow Kansans on a number of initiatives to support the Big Red One. He has been involved in the communities of Manhattan and Junction City and those other communities that surround Fort Riley. It is no surprise to me that he has been selected for promotion to lieutenant general. He is a proven leader, capable of completing the most complex challenges under the most stressful situations. The Army has made the right move with his promotion and, furthermore, by placing him in a position of greater responsibility. prgtoken I am confident Kansans will join me in congratulating soon-to-be- confirmed Lieutenant General Martin on his promotion. We honor and thank him for his service. prgtoken We recognize the sacrifices he and his family have made over the last 32 years. I recognize his wife Leann and their children, Kylie and Joey, for their service over the years. Strong Army families make strong Army soldiers. prgtoken I have no doubt--none--that Major General Martin will continue to be one of the Army's best leaders, and I look forward to seeing what lies ahead for him in his career. prgtoken Congratulations, General Martin. prgtoken .
RECOGNIZING PENNSYLVANIA SCHOOLS THAT RANK IN THE TOP 100 IN THE STATE
Brian K. Fitzpatrick (Republican, PA) \u2014 2018-5-23

we recently concluded Teacher Appreciation Week, and I am proud to stand with the teachers throughout our community in Bucks and Montgomery Counties. It is of utmost importance that we recognize their service and sacrifice for all of our young people. prgtoken Recently, this has culminated in our district having several schools that ranked in the top 100 in the State of Pennsylvania for both standardized test scores and graduation rates. prgtoken , I would like to recognize the following schools now on the floor of the House: The New Hope-Solebury High School, Council Rock High School North, Central Bucks High School East, Abington Senior High School, Council Rock High School South, Central Bucks High School South, and the Quakertown Community High School. prgtoken I am proud to represent a community that produces such high-achieving young adults, and I would like to thank our educators for the work they do in molding our future generation. Recognizing Military Appreciation Month
ONLINE PLATFORMS THREATEN FREE SPEECH
Lamar Smith (Republican, TX) \u2014 2018-5-23

one of the greatest threats to free speech is the ongoing politicization of online platforms. prgtoken Some, which have millions of users, have allowed liberal interest groups to determine what content is available to the public. A recent example is the Southern Poverty Law Center being allowed to censor content that they deem hate speech. prgtoken The SPLC has a ``hate map'' that lists over 900 organizations. These include pro-life, religious freedom, and border security groups, all popular with the American people and all unfairly targeted by the SPLC. prgtoken Why do online platforms empower the SPLC to suppress conservative views? There is only one answer: They want to promote their liberal agenda even if it means stifling free speech. prgtoken This is a clear and present danger to democracy, and it represents another effort to control what the American people hear and see.
ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS
John Thune (Republican, SD) \u2014 2018-5-23

today I recognize Grenville, SD. The town of Grenville will be celebrating its centennial on June 8 through June 10, 2018. Grenville will host centennial events which include a parade, street dances, a softball tournament, raffles, a pig roast, children events, and much more. prgtoken Grenville, located in Day County, was given the christened name of Zielona Gora, meaning ``green hills,'' which is an accurate description of the area's beautiful sloping hills and majestic landscape. Since its founding 100 years ago, the community of Grenville remains resilient in upholding South Dakota values. Today the robust traditions passed down by determined settlers continue to endure throughout the Grenville community. prgtoken I offer my congratulations to the citizens of Grenville on their centennial celebration and wish them continued prosperity in the years to come.
JOYCE CLINE, PENN BRAD OIL MUSEUM YELLOW DOG WINNER
Glenn Thompson (Republican, PA) \u2014 2018-5-23

I rise today to honor this year's Penn Brad Oil Museum's annual Yellow Dog Winner, Joyce Cline. prgtoken Joyce has provided exceptional service to the cause of preserving the oil and gas heritage of the Bradford, Pennsylvania, region. She has been a dedicated member of the community who has given her time and leadership to many organizations. prgtoken Joyce graduated from Lawrence Park High School in 1959 and was a teacher with the Bradford Area School District for 19 years. prgtoken In 1974, she married Bill Cline. He owned a small oil-producing company, and Joyce began her journey in the oil industry. In 1982, she joined the Derrick Club of Bradford, where she served in various roles, including president in 1983 and 1984. prgtoken Joyce and Bill became members of the Pennsylvania Independent Petroleum Producers Association in 1986, 1 year after the organization was formed. This turned into a lifelong commitment for the Clines. In 2012, Joyce and Bill were honored with the Gary Hovis Memorial Award for their service. prgtoken , throughout her life, Joyce has shown her dedication to the industry. I wholeheartedly congratulate her on this outstanding achievement.
PROVIDING FOR CONSIDERATION OF H.R. 5515, NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2019, AND PROVIDING FOR PROCEEDINGS DURING THE PERIOD FROM MAY 25, 2018, THROUGH JUNE 4, 2018
Bradley Byrne (Republican, AL) \u2014 2018-5-23

the balance of my time. prgtoken , I know that some of our ic colleagues--not all of them--would like for us today to be talking about a Federal takeover of local education. Some of my ic colleagues--not all of them-- would like to talk about doing away with the Second Amendment. But that is not what we are about today. We are talking about the defense of the United States of America. prgtoken Remember where we were 2 years ago, at the end of the administration. ISIS still controlled vast swaths of western Iraq and eastern Syria. Iran had just gotten its hands on tens of billions of dollars that had been frozen--money that they were able to get because of the deal that President cut with them. We now know that they have taken that money and increased defense spending, military spending, in Iran by 40 percent. prgtoken Two years ago, we had cut troop levels down to levels we haven't seen in decades. In fact, we cut the Air Force to the point it had never been since the founding of the Air Force. Our fleet had been cut down to less than 280 ships after it had been to at least 400 under the Clinton administration. Fifty percent of the Navy's jets couldn't fly. Our adversaries didn't fear us and our friends and allies didn't know if they could count on us. prgtoken We have begun to turn that around. ISIS is largely gone from Iraq. It is largely gone from Syria. It is obliterated as a conventional force after becoming a conventional terrorist army that controlled a big chunk of the Middle East. Gone. Slipped over into North Africa. We understand that. So we have to continue what we are doing to fight against them in those places. And, yes, we need an AUMF to do that. prgtoken We have also done something that is very important in rebuilding our military. We have told our men and women that we value them by giving them pay increases. This bill calls for another pay increase on top of the one we gave them last year. They have gone too long without real pay increases. prgtoken We are beginning to give them the equipment they need to do the missions that we have them to do. More ships, more jets, more ammunition, more missiles, more missile defense. We are going to make sure that our jets can fly. prgtoken Most importantly, we want to make sure that our men and women in uniform have the training, preparation, prgtoken and support they need so we don't have another year that goes by where we have more of our men and women in uniform who lose their lives in training exercises than they do in combat. prgtoken We are turning that around. We are leaving the sorry legacy of the administration so that we can put in place a defense strategy for this country that will defend our country and, at the same time, protect the safety of our men and women in uniform. So that is what we are here today to talk about. prgtoken I believe that we will vote on this bill, the underlying bill, i
NOMINATIONS OF BRIAN MONTGOMERY AND JELENA McWILLIAMS
Mitch McConnell (Republican, KY) \u2014 2018-5-23

on another matter, later today we will vote on two more qualified nominees for important positions in the administration. prgtoken First comes Brian Montgomery, the President's nominee to serve as Assistant Secretary of Housing and Urban Development and head of the Federal Housing Administration. His formidable background includes previous service as Federal Housing Commissioner from 2005 to 2009 and as the Acting Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. It is no wonder that our colleagues on the Banking Committee reported his nomination favorably with a bipartisan voice vote. I am glad we can vote to confirm him today without any further delay. prgtoken After Mr. Montgomery, we will vote to advance the nomination of Jelena McWilliams, whom the President has chosen to chair the FDIC Board of Directors. Ms. McWilliams' resume spans the government and the private sector. As a lawyer, policy expert, and executive, she has studied financial regulations from all angles. She understands the FDIC's role in safeguarding Americans' holdings, overseeing the banking sector, and reforming inefficient policies that create obstacles for families and job creators. prgtoken Ms. McWilliams is especially attentive to the difficulties facing smaller community banks. In her testimony before the Banking Committee, she explained how government regulations inflict outsized compliance costs that can be too much for Main Street lenders to bear. prgtoken She was also examined by our colleagues on the Banking Committee and was also reported out by a bipartisan voice vote. I encourage all my colleagues to join me in voting to advance her nomination later today.
VA MISSION BILL (Executive Session)
John Boozman (Republican, AR) \u2014 2018-5-23

from Missouri very much. prgtoken Our Nation's veterans were promised access to healthcare for their service and their sacrifice. This week we continue our work to uphold that pledge. prgtoken The bill before us, the VA MISSION Act, aims to transform the Department of Veterans Affairs delivery of community healthcare. That is a welcome job. prgtoken Specifically, the VA MISSION Act consolidates and improves VA community care programs so veterans have access to healthcare and services in their own communities. This is important because veterans should have access to the best healthcare and services in a timely manner, regardless of where they live. prgtoken Under this legislation, a veteran and his or her doctor will decide where that veteran will receive care, taking into consideration the veteran's healthcare needs and the availability and the quality of both VA and community care. prgtoken For largely rural States, like Arkansas, this makes all the sense in the world. We have two VA medical centers in the Natural State, in Little Rock and in Fayetteville, as well as facilities in neighboring States that often serve Arkansas veterans. The healthcare providers and staff at those facilities that are community-based outpatient clinics in Arkansas truly do an excellent job in caring for our veterans. prgtoken But the VA medical centers are in populated areas, which, in cases where veterans need more advanced care than the CBOC can provide, it means a full-day trip for many veterans. It is unnecessary when a veteran could receive similar quality care outside the VA system in their communities. The service options provided in this bill will give veterans who live far from the VA facility and need frequent followup care easier access to local providers and walk-in clinics. prgtoken As noted in a letter signed by over 30 VSOs supporting the VA MISSION Act, the legislation is an effort to ``supplement, not supplant, VA healthcare.'' That is very important to note. Much like the Choice Program that preceded it, the new system that will be established by the VA MISSION Act is not meant to replace VA healthcare. Rather, it builds on the foundation laid out by the Choice Program, which addressed many shortcomings within the VA system that led to the wait- time process. prgtoken Last year, I launched a listening tour to hear from Arkansas veterans about their experiences within the Choice Program, so we can better meet their needs. I heard from Arkansas veterans who have been able to get quality care from private providers in their own community when the VA system could not meet their needs. That is a good thing, but as the veterans with whom I met noted, the Choice Program had its share of problems, its share of troubles. I heard repeated stories of difficulties navigating the complex and confusing bureaucratic process. This legislation aims to alleviate those problems. While VA implements
America's Water Infrastructure Act (Executive Session)
Rob Portman (Republican, OH) \u2014 2018-5-23

I wish to start by congratulating my colleague from Wyoming on reporting out this legislation on water infrastructure and, particularly, for the help he has given us with regard to the Great Lakes. What the Senator has done to help us to maintain and to protect the Great Lakes is very much appreciated. It is the No. 1 tourist destination in Ohio, and there is a $6 billion fishing industry in the Great Lakes, with Lake Erie being the No. 1 lake for fishing. prgtoken The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative the Senator supported is incredibly important, as well as keeping the dredge material out of the lake and helping us with the Army Corps. We thank the Senator. We also hope to keep invasive species out of the lake, including bighead carp, which would ruin that $6 billion fishing industry. We thank the Senator for his support. We look forward to getting that bill to the floor soon for a vote.