mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
The Debt (Executive Session)
David Perdue (Republican, GA) \u2014 2017-6-15

I rise today to speak about a train wreck that is coming to our country right before our very eyes. prgtoken Yesterday, the Federal Reserve, for the fourth time in the last year and a half, increased the Federal discount rate by one-quarter point-- one-quarter point. That is a rounding error in most people's imaginations; yet, I think it is a very impactful number. That is the fourth increase in the last year and a half that amounts to 100 basis points or a 1 full percentage point increase in the discount rate. With a $20 trillion debt, that equates to about $200 billion of new interest that we will be required to pay out of the revenue we get off the backs of working men and women in America. prgtoken I have frequently come to this floor to speak about the $20 trillion debt, but, as we see what is happening now, we see the reality of what has been predicted over the last few years; that is, as we start talking about growth in the economy, we see a demand for capital and interest rates rising. We also see the Federal Reserve talking about adjusting their balance sheet--some $4.5 trillion on their balance sheet, the largest balance sheet they have had in history--they are now talking about unwinding that. prgtoken So these are dramatic impacts on what we are talking about right now; that is, how we fund what we are going to be doing not only in healthcare but also our military, as well as the domestic programs we are here to talk about. prgtoken What is even more disturbing about the debt we are talking about and the increases in interest is the structure of that debt. Over the last 8 years, the prior administration decided strategically to keep our bond portfolio that supports this debt, the bonds we issue that pay for this debt--the average duration, the length of those bonds, is under 3 years. Some 60 percent, almost, of all the government debt we have in the United States today matures in 3 years or less. That means these increases we are talking about are going to roll on us and the backs of the American taxpayer almost immediately. This is not something that is going to happen in 10 or 15 years; it is right here on us. prgtoken Let me put that in perspective. Most every other country in the world that has significant debt--and there are a lot of them; not to the percentage that we do--have already dealt with this duration problem. The UK, for example, over the last 8 years, instead of going short when interest rates were virtually zero, they went long. Forty-eight percent of the United Kingdom's debt is 20 years or longer in maturity. Again, 60 percent of our debt, because of the last administration's strategic decision to stay short--borrow short and spend long--that is a prescription for failure, in business and in government. prgtoken Sixty percent of our debt matures in less than 3 years. That is a formula for absolute disaster, and that is what I am talking about. prgtoken But even more i
VETERANS EQUAL TREATMENT ENSURES RELIEF AND ACCESS NOW ACT
Kenny Marchant (Republican, TX) \u2014 2017-6-15

again, I would like to express my gratitude to Ranking Member Neal and his hard work on the Ways and Means Committee and his keeping the issue before us. prgtoken But the AHCA makes no changes to veterans' healthcare. Under this bill, unless vets decide to enroll in VA coverage, they are eligible for financial support. Veterans should have the opportunity to choose the best healthcare option to meet their needs. It is only right that our veterans are given the same opportunities as the citizens that they defended. prgtoken , I urge my colleagues to support the VETERAN Act. I ask for its passage, and .
TRIBUTE TO SUSAN ALVERIO
David Young (Republican, IA) \u2014 2017-6-15

I rise today to recognize and congratulate Susan Alverio of Norwalk, Iowa, for earning the Congressional Award Gold Medal. prgtoken Established in 1979 by the United States Congress, the Congressional Award was created to recognize outstanding achievements made by young people who dedicate themselves to public service, physical fitness and personal development. Overall, there are two levels of achievement that must be earned before obtaining the Gold Congressional Award Medal. Before achieving the third and final level, participants must contribute 400 hours to voluntary public service, 200 hours of personal development and physical fitness, and a four consecutive night expedition or exploration. prgtoken Susan has had great success in all areas of achievement on her journey towards ultimately earning the Congressional Award Gold Medal. She volunteered at the Blank Park Zoo, learned how to read music as well as play the piano and the guitar, and dedicated herself to physical fitness through long-distance running. Overall, Susan said, ``I grew as a person while working towards the Gold Congressional Award.'' prgtoken , I applaud and congratulate Susan for earning this outstanding award. I ask that my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives join me in congratulating her on this momentous occasion and in wishing her nothing but continued success in all of her endeavors.
STAFFORD TEACHER RETIRES
Pete Olson (Republican, TX) \u2014 2017-6-15

I rise today to thank Norma Menchaca of Stafford, TX, for her outstanding contributions as a teacher the past 38 years. prgtoken Norma began her teaching career with the Stafford Municipal School District as a kindergarten teacher in 1983. After graduating from the University of Texas-Pan American, she worked for the Brownsville Independent School District, but moved to Houston after her husband became a Houston Firefighter. Norma loves the small town atmosphere of the school district and looks forward to high school graduation ceremonies so she can see her former students graduate. Today she's the longest serving teacher in the school district and said her retirement will be bittersweet. She will be missed. prgtoken On behalf of the Twenty-Second Congressional District of Texas, I thank Norma again for her time teaching our children. She has been an important and influential member of our community shaping the minds of generations of students. We wish her a happy retirement.
PROTECT OUR CHILDREN ACT OF 2017
John Cornyn (Republican, TX) \u2014 2017-6-15

I am glad to see my friend from Connecticut, Senator Blumenthal, on the floor because last week the Senate Judiciary Committee reported the PROTECT Our Children Act, which helps protect children across the country from exploitation over the internet. prgtoken This is a bipartisan bill, not surprisingly so because last time this legislation passed, originally back in 2008, it prgtoken had 60 cosponsors, including 41 and 18 s. But I have introduced this reauthorization with Senator Heller from Nevada and Senator Blumenthal from Connecticut. It is something we call the National Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program. It reauthorizes those. prgtoken I have had the sad experience of seeing how dangerous the internet can be for our vulnerable children. When I was attorney general of Texas, I launched something we quaintly called at the time the Texas Internet Bureau. That was a long time ago, about 2000. Today, they call it the cyber crime unit, and they do a lot of even more sophisticated things. But the idea back then and the idea still today is to fight internet crimes and to work with law enforcement agencies around the State, including a Dallas-based task force. prgtoken Now, 17 years later, these task forces are a national network of 61 coordinated units dedicated to protecting children from internet predators and investigating perpetrators who engage in these horrific crimes. These task forces are on the frontline every day, protecting our children online and rescuing victims of exploitation and abuse. They also work with local agencies to create victim support programs and encourage proactive community education; for example, educating parents and adults of the sorts of things their children might be exposed to online that they might not know about. So we need to educate families and children about the risks the internet can hold, together with the wonderful opportunities it also presents. This is really the dark underbelly of the internet. prgtoken It requires a depth of resources to fight child predators online. My experience as attorney general was that local law enforcement agencies didn't have the tax base. They didn't have the expertise. They didn't have the computers and the other sophistication they needed in order to combat this in their local communities. prgtoken Over the past few years we have been able to save many lives from crime online, and it would be a mistake now to change course. We cannot lose this critical tool. prgtoken Just for the information of colleagues, we put this on the hotline which, for those who don't work in the Senate, means we asked all Members of the Senate to comment on this and to let us know if they had any objection to its passage. prgtoken Hearing none, , as in legislative session, I now ask unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to the immediate consideration of Calendar No. 122, S. 782.
TRIBUTE TO JENNIFER SANTOS
Thad Cochran (Republican, MS) \u2014 2017-6-15

I wish to commend Jennifer Santos for her service on the Senate Committee on Appropriations. prgtoken She has served for 5 years as a very capable budget analyst for the Subcommittee on Defense. Her accomplishments have been very impressive and a credit to the Senate. prgtoken After graduating from Wheeling Jesuit University with a degree in mathematics, Jennifer joined a defense contractor in support of the Air Force's F-22 program. She played an important role in that program and can be proud of her contribution to fielding the most capable fighter aircraft ever developed. prgtoken Her talent was soon recognized by the Air Force where she served in a series of important positions, including those involving special programs that are key to protecting our national security. Jennifer established a reputation for competence in working with leaders from Department of Defense, Congress, and other agencies to ensure the responsible allocation of taxpayer dollars. prgtoken Jennifer's detailed knowledge of military budgeting and acquisition systems allowed her to make insightful recommendations to the subcommittee, which have resulted in the better investment of tens of billions of taxpayer dollars over her Senate tenure. In particular, her efforts have supported increased Army helicopter procurement, important research and development projects funding, and legislation to improve the management of the Department of Defense. prgtoken Jennifer Santos has upheld the highest standards of a budget analyst, congressional staffer, and defense professional. Although she is soon leaving the committee, I wish her all the best on her next steps in her distinguished career and thank her for her work in the U.S. Senate.
BRING MORE CIVILITY INTO OUR POLITICAL DISCOURSE
Gus M. Bilirakis (Republican, FL) \u2014 2017-6-15

. Madam , I join my colleagues on both sides of the aisle in Congress to express my deep sorrow after yesterday's shooting. prgtoken At the end of the day, we are not s or ; we are Americans. We may disagree with one another, but we cannot allow those disagreements to change how we treat each other as fellow human beings. prgtoken I believe we need to change our tone and bring more civility to our political discourse. Young people across the country look to us to set an example, and we all must rise to the occasion. prgtoken This horrible violence will not divide us and it will not stop us from getting back to business on behalf of the American people. prgtoken Let us come together as Americans above all else, and, of course, keep our good friend, Steve Scalise, and all of those affected by the shootings in our prayers.
Countering Iran's Destabilizing Activities Bill (Executive Session)
Jerry Moran (Republican, KS) \u2014 2017-6-15

I joined our colleagues today at lunch, and one of the conversations I had with one of my ic colleagues was how surprising, perhaps, but certainly how pleasing it was that today the Senate, in a bipartisan fashion, addressed some contentious issues related to sanctions in regard to Iran; issues related to sanctions in regard to Russia. Both of those issues, because of the political climate and because of past history, could be fraught with great opportunity for partisanship to be exhibited in full force. The conversation I had with my colleague was how surprising and, more importantly, how pleasing it was that didn't happen. prgtoken I commend the Senate and its leadership for working together to resolve their potential differences and creating this opportunity for us to have a debate, a discussion, both on public policy--that I think is important to the security of the world--and the safety of Americans here in the United States. prgtoken I am here, in part, to express my support for the Countering Iran's Destabilizing Activities Act, the legislation we addressed today. It permits our government to target those individuals and institutions responsible for a foreign policy that puts American lives at risk and undermines the security, particularly in the Middle East, but really of the globe. prgtoken The theocratic, autocratic regime's survival in Iran depends currently on the human rights abuses and political oppression. Eight years after the Green Movement's protests, the group's leaders remain under house arrest. Members of that movement were tortured. Still, today, Iranian Americans are unreasonably detained without hope for release in Iran. The Iranian regime's survival depends further on its control of its economy. When it was brokered, proponents of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action argued it would provide economic benefit to the Iranian people. prgtoken So when President negotiated--and this Congress, this Senate, failed to reject the JCPOA--one of the arguments about its benefits is that everyday Iranians would enjoy greater economic opportunity. Instead, a recent Reuters study shows businesses directly tied to the Supreme Leader and the IRGC are the main beneficiaries of those changes in our relationship with Iran. Despite renewed economic growth, Iran's unemployment rate is estimated to be as high as 12 percent, and that figure could be as high as almost 30 percent among Iranian youth. prgtoken Survival of Khamenei's regime depends on stoking hatred of America as a way to whip up support. Iran uses small boats to swarm American Navy ships protecting the free navigation of the Strait of Hormuz in the Persian Gulf. This is disturbing for a number of reasons, but the importance of that Strait's role in global economy certainly is one of them. In addition, it is linked to scouting soft American targets for terrorism. prgtoken So we continue to see bad behavior, threat
COMMENDING CAPITOL POLICE FOR OUTSTANDING BRAVERY AND COURAGE
John H. Rutherford (Republican, FL) \u2014 2017-6-15

``As a law enforcement officer, my fundamental duty is to serve mankind; to safeguard lives and property; to protect the innocent against deception, the weak against oppression or intimidation, and the peaceful against violence or disorder. . . .'' prgtoken , that is the first paragraph of the Law Enforcement Code of Ethics that every law enforcement officer across this country swears to upon their becoming a law enforcement officer and accepting that badge. prgtoken I can tell you, yesterday, during the horrible event that took place, Officers Bailey and Griner with the Capitol Hill Police performed their duties above and beyond the expected. prgtoken , I just want to take this opportunity on behalf of law enforcement officers across America to thank them for doing their job with such outstanding bravery and courage. prgtoken I also want to let the Scalise family and the Mika family know that they are in our prayers. We pray for their speedy recovery. prgtoken God bless.
SPEAK TRUTH TO THE POWERFUL LIBERAL MEDIA
Lamar Smith (Republican, TX) \u2014 2017-6-15

we must speak truth to the powerful liberal media. The invective, spite, and venom they hurl daily at the President contributes to an environment of hatred and violence. The media's constant barrage of personal attacks can incite someone to take irrational actions. prgtoken The shooter at the Virginia ballpark yesterday wounded five people. His Facebook page once read: ``It is time to destroy and company.'' That is not much different from the tone of many media articles. prgtoken A study last month found that the President had received a higher percentage of negative coverage than any prgtoken recent President, and a public opinion poll showed the media's credibility at a record low. prgtoken The American people deserve better than a biased media. For the sake of our country, let's hope they will drop their abusive language.
250TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE TOWN OF LEBANON, MAINE
Susan M. Collins (Republican, ME) \u2014 2017-6-15

today I wish to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the town of Lebanon, ME. Lebanon was built with a spirit of determination and resiliency that still guides the community today, and this is a time to celebrate the generations of hard-working and caring people who have made it such a wonderful place to live, work, and raise families. prgtoken The year of Lebanon's incorporation, 1767, was but one milestone in a long journey of progress. For thousands of years, the land of fields, streams, and forests of what is now southwestern Maine was the home of the Abenaki, who called the area ``Towwoh,'' meaning ``a place to grind corn.'' The many archeological treasures unearthed in the region include a large ancient stone mortar used by the Abenaki for that very purpose. prgtoken In 1733, the Massachusetts General Court granted Towwoh Plantation to 60 colonists, and European settlement began. When the town was incorporated on June 11, 1767, the name Lebanon was chosen in reference to the Biblical land of fertile soil and towering trees. prgtoken With the Salmon Falls River and Little River providing power, Lebanon soon was home to many lumber, grain, and textile mills. The wealth produced by the land and by hard work and determination was invested in schools and churches to create a true community. prgtoken Among the many prominent residents of the town over the years was the Reverend Oren Burbank , who established the Lebanon Academy in 1849. His courage and vision as an outspoken opponent of slavery and advocate for full rights for women and Native Americans so impressed Boston industrialist Benjamin Bates that, when Bates College was established in Lewiston in 1864, the Reverend was named as the first president of the esteemed school. prgtoken The coming of the railroads in the late 1800s helped to make Lebanon a tourism destination, with fine hotels, inns, and restaurants. An early visitor was the famed Norwegian violinist, Ole Bornemann Bull, who performed a concert at one of the town's remarkable attractions, the enormous cavern entrance known as Gully Oven, in 1871. The virtuoso was so impressed by the acoustics of the natural amphitheater that he bought a home in Lebanon, becoming one of the town's first summer residents. prgtoken Today visitors and residents alike enjoy Lebanon's quiet parks, beautiful historic buildings, and exciting outdoor recreation opportunities. The energy and planning that are going into Lebanon's 250th anniversary celebration this July demonstrate the pride townspeople have in their town. prgtoken The celebration of Lebanon's 250th anniversary is not merely about the passing of time; it is about human accomplishment. We celebrate the people who, for longer than America has been a nation, have pulled together, cared for one another, and built a great community. Thanks to those who came before, Lebanon, ME, has a wonderful history. Thanks to those there toda
HONORING SERVICE ACADEMY STUDENTS
Bruce Westerman (Republican, AR) \u2014 2017-6-15

I would like to extend heartfelt congratulations to Karrington Evans, John Paul Post of Altus, Randall Parker Ross of Hot Springs, Katie Welch of Pearcy, Briston Yarbrough of Danville. These star students from the Fourth District of Arkansas will have the honor of attending the service academies this Fall. prgtoken Briston will attend the Air Force Academy; Parker will attend West Point; John Paul and Katie will attend the Naval Academy; and Karrington will attend the Naval Academy Preparatory School. prgtoken Arkansas has a history of academy alumni. These include General Douglas MacArthur--Supreme Allied Commander in the Pacific during World War II, and Brigadier General William O. Darby, leader of what would later become the Army Rangers. Their example is one of courage and excellence under any circumstances. With this rich tradition before them and through their own accomplishments, there's no doubt these students will do their very best--bringing honor to themselves, their families, and their state. prgtoken I wish them well in their service careers and success in whatever they pursue.
U.S.S. ``HOBSON''
Ted Poe (Republican, TX) \u2014 2017-6-15

it's been over 66 years since the sinking of the USS Hobson. However, for those involved, that fateful day feels like it was just yesterday. The Hobson was a Destroyer as well as a minesweeping ship that survived multiple battles during World War II, including the invasion of Normandy and the assault on Okinawa. Yet, it was not an enemy ship or plane that took the Hobson down, but a U.S. aircraft carrier. prgtoken Late in the night of April 26, 1952, the Hobson was participating in a naval exercise with the carriers Wasp and Rodman. The USS Wasp, in preparation for airplanes to land on its deck, turned into the wind. In order to avoid the Wasp's new position, the Hobson needed to maneuver out of its path. Instead of slowing down and passing behind the Wasp, the Hobson cut across the Wasp's bow. This proved to be a fatal mistake. prgtoken The Wasp struck the Hobson in its middle. The impact caused the Hobson to split in two. Within four minutes, the ship had sunk to the bottom of the ocean, taking 176 crew members with it. Most of the crew was asleep at the time of the accident, thus having no chance at surviving the crash. Fortunately, sixty-one crew members were able to be rescued from the sea by the Wasp and the Rodman. prgtoken The sinking of the USS Hobson and its crew members was a terrible tragedy for our country. The crew members who lost their lives that night will forever be remembered for their bravery and dedication. We must do our best to keep our heroes safe, both in and out of war. prgtoken And that's just the way it is.
COUNTERING IRAN'S DESTABILIZING ACTIVITIES ACT OF 2017
Bob Corker (Republican, TN) \u2014 2017-6-15

I am not involving myself in this debate. prgtoken I just want to say to Senator McCain: You demonstrated yesterday the best of the U.S. Senate when an issue like this arose, and instead of blocking a vote, you said you were glad to have a vote. You are obviously in strong disagreement with the substance of this amendment. prgtoken I just want to tell you how much I personally appreciate your allowing a vote on this, the role you played in all things Russia and Iran, your forceful nature on these issues, your great leadership, and the role you have played in getting us today to a vote that isn't requiring cloture, where you have allowed this amendment to take place. I prgtoken cannot tell you how much I appreciate that and appreciate the role you play in this body.