mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
BANKRUPTCY JUDGESHIP ACT OF 2017
Mitch McConnell (Republican, KY) \u2014 2017-10-23

last week, the Senate took an important step for the fiscal and economic future of our country with passage of the budget for fiscal year 2018. prgtoken The comprehensive, responsible budget we passed marks out a clear vision for the future. It will put the Federal Government on a path to balance, and it sets out a new course after the long years of the economy, when paychecks stagnated, steady work became harder to find, and retirement for many slipped further away. The budget we passed isn't just about getting our fiscal house in order--though it is certainly about that--it is also about getting our economy going again and growing again. prgtoken Perhaps the most important way it does so is by authorizing legislative tools to advance tax reform, and passing tax reform is the most important thing we can do today to get our economy reaching for its true potential. prgtoken Tax reform is all about helping the middle class succeed. It is about making it easier to create jobs in America and keep them right here. To summarize the effort in one phrase, it is this: Tax reform is about taking more money out of Washington's pocket and putting more in yours--more for workers, more for small businesses, and more for the middle class. After all, as the President wrote over the weekend, ``we are not talking about the government's money--we are talking about your money, your hard work.'' prgtoken If you look back a few months, many doubted our ability to get a budget done or to advance tax reform. They didn't see the path forward. Those skeptics underestimated our resolve. The Senate has delivered on the budget, and we will soon have the tools to deliver on tax reform. prgtoken We now look forward to our House colleagues' continued consideration and passage of the budget. Once they do so, we can move forward with tax reform for American families. prgtoken For Americans who have suffered through years of uncertainty-- everything from a recession to outsourcing to unemployment--we are ready to deliver for you. For those who watched opportunity recede while the personal wealth of coastal elites grew beyond comprehension, help is on the way. We want to put more money in your pocket, we want to make retirement a reality for you, we want to get this economy moving the way it should, and tax reform is the key to helping us get there. prgtoken I would like once again to thank Chairman Enzi and the members of the Budget Committee for their important work to get this budget resolution passed. prgtoken I also would like to thank the cloakroom staff, the Parliamentarians, the clerks, the pages, and the officers of the U.S. Capitol Police who worked into the evening to make sure, as they always do, that the Senate runs smoothly. prgtoken Thanks also to Chairman Hatch and the members of the Finance Committee. We now look forward to their continued good work on development of the kind of tax relief that will get our ec
REMEMBERING BISHOP LEWIS NATHANIEL TAYLOR
Tim Scott (Republican, SC) \u2014 2017-10-23

today I would like to take a moment to recognize and honor the life of Bishop Lewis Nathaniel Taylor, a great South Carolinian, who departed this life on October 2, 2017. Bishop Lewis Taylor deeply loved his family, church, and community. He pastored in San Diego, California, Washington, DC, and New York. He eventually returned to his native Walterboro, SC, where he continued the legacy of his father and became pastor of Greater Saint James Church. He encouraged, inspired, and mentored many people in the community and abroad. Bishop Taylor served not only as a pastor, but as a carpenter and general contractor as well. In short, Bishop Taylor was a builder-visionary who helped design and construct churches across South Carolina. In 2008 and 2017, the mayor of Walterboro presented Bishop Taylor with the Key to the City. He was known to many as ``the little man, with a big vision'' and served his community tirelessly and earned the respect and admiration of all people he came in contact with. He will be greatly missed by the Walterboro community and the people of South Carolina.
RECOGNITION OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF ELLY McNELIS AND BOBBY HEENAN
Brian K. Fitzpatrick (Republican, PA) \u2014 2017-10-23

nearly 70 percent of individuals who abuse prescription pain medication get them from their friends or family. prgtoken As our community continues to grapple with the devastating effects of the opioid epidemic, it is crucial we take every step possible to stop prescription medications from falling into the wrong hands, including the collecting and safely disposing of unused or expired prescription drugs. prgtoken My community in Bucks County has collected over 40 tons of unused medications, the most in Pennsylvania, as part of our successful Prescription Drug Take Back program. This collaborative effort between local government, law enforcement, and community leaders is crucial in the battle against this crisis. prgtoken I commend those involved and urge all residents to participate in our next Take Back Day and to utilize the permanent drop boxes that are located throughout our region.
RECOGNIZING MARGE MEDELLIN IN CELEBRATION OF HER 80TH BIRTHDAY
Jim Costa (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2017-10-23

I rise today in honor of Ms. Marge Medellin's 80th birthday celebration. Marge is the former mayor of Madera, California and a dear friend of mine. She has been an inspiration to many and trailblazer throughout her career in public service. It is both fitting and appropriate that we honor Marge as she celebrates this special milestone. prgtoken Margaret Medellin was born on October 8, 1937 to Mary and James Martinez. She is a lifelong resident of Madera. Marge overcame adversity at a young age and went on to have a successful career at the Madera County Office of Education. She worked there from July 1956 to December 2002. prgtoken Marge was married in 1957. She was blessed with four children, eight grandchildren and four great grandchildren. prgtoken A call to service and the desire to help the community led Marge to run for the Madera City Council. She was first elected in March 1978, serving two terms from March 1978 to December 1986 and another term from December 1988 to December 1992. Marge served the city of Madera as mayor, beginning in 1982, for two consecutive terms and an additional four-year term. She was recognized by the state as California's first Latina Mayor. prgtoken Aside from her career in office, Marge has served on countless boards and commissions throughout the years. She is a founding member of the Pan American Club which provides college scholarships for young Hispanic students. She is also a founding member of Latinas Unidas, an organization that empowers young Hispanic women. prgtoken One of her proudest moments came in December 2016, when Marge swore in her son Andy Medellin as the mayor of Madera. Marge and Andy are believed to be the first mother and son elected mayor to the same city in California. prgtoken Marge is a true pioneer. She is known as an advocate for equal rights and always leads by example. Marge has served as a mentor and inspiration to many. She has made an indelible mark on Madera and our Valley. prgtoken , it is with great pleasure that I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing Marge Medellin as she celebrates her 80th birthday. I ask that you join me in wishing her and her family continued health and happiness.
IN RECOGNITION OF ROBERT NEWLEN
Jackie Speier (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2017-10-23

I rise to honor Robert Newlen, for his decades of service to the Library of Congress. Beginning his career in 1975 at the Congressional Research Service and working his way up to Deputy Librarian of Congress, Mr. Newlen is truly an inspiration. prgtoken During his time at the Library of Congress, he has served in various capacities, including assistant director and then director of the Knowledge Services Group in CRS, law librarian for collections, outreach and services in the Law Library, the Library of Congress' Chief of Staff, and as of last year the Deputy Librarian of Congress. Mr. Newlen's personal commitment and devotion to the institution is unparalleled. He has committed his entire professional career, 43 years to be exact, to making the Library of Congress a vital part of the deliberations of the legislative branch. prgtoken Mr. Newlen's behind-the-scenes efforts in the Law Library were critical in bringing the Magna Carta, one of history's most celebrated documents and a major influence on our Founding Fathers, to the Library of Congress for exhibit in 2014. prgtoken Mr. Newlen is known as a quiet leader and a mentor among his colleagues and friends at the Library, who has inspired many and has forever left his mark on this great institution. I have had the good fortune of interacting with Mr. Newlen many times. As many say, he is a gentleman and a scholar. prgtoken After leaving the Library of Congress, Mr. Newlen will be moving to my home state of California to work as the head of the Dwight D. Opperman Foundation Robert Newlen has been an extraordinary public servant, and I know the House of Representatives joins me in wishing him well in the future
IN RECOGNITION OF ALFRED WILLIAM De SANTIS, SR.
Frank Pallone, Jr. (Democrat, NJ) \u2014 2017-10-23

I rise today to honor Alfred William De Santis, Sr. for his 55 years of service to the Port-Au-Peck Chemical Hose Company No. 1 in Oceanport, New Jersey. Mr. De Santis' outstanding record will be celebrated at the company's 40th annual ``Old Timer's Night,'' which Mr. De Santis himself originated. prgtoken Mr. De Santis' leadership and commitment to the department is evident. A Life Member and Ex-Chief, Mr. De Santis began his service with the company in March of 1962. In addition to his election as Chief of the Oceanport Fire Department in 1971, Mr. De Santis also served as Captain, Secretary and Treasurer of the company. He was elected Company President for six terms. He remains an active member of the company and is dedicated to his fellow fire fighters, organizing the annual ``Old Timer's Night'' celebrating and honoring members for the past 40 years. prgtoken In addition to his service with the Oceanport Fire Department, Mr. De Santis was a member of the Fire Police Division for 30 years and served as Secretary of the Oceanport Relief Association and Secretary of the Exempt Association of Oceanport for 35 years. He also held leadership positions with the Ex Chief's Association of Eatontown, Oceanport and West Long Branch. prgtoken , once again, I join with the Port-Au-Peck Chemical Hose Company No. 1 in honoring Alfred William De Santis, Sr. on his outstanding record of accomplishment. Mr. De Santis has dutifully served Oceanport for 55 years and his selfless commitment is truly deserving of this body's recognition.
CIVIL RIGHTS
Marc A. Veasey (Democrat, TX) \u2014 2017-10-23

I thank the gentleman from South Carolina (Mr. Clyburn) very much for his timely and very serious comments. I hope that all of the Members who are here on both sides of the aisle realize the seriousness of the comments. There is nothing humorous about them all, nothing to be smiling or laughing about. It is very timely in light of the unfortunate incident that happened with our colleague. I thank the gentleman very much for bringing that to light. prgtoken , I now yield to my fellow Texan from the 18th Congressional District in Houston. I thank very much prgtoken Representative Sheila Jackson Lee for joining us this evening. We look forward to the gentlewoman's words.
CIVIL RIGHTS
James E. Clyburn (Democrat, SC) \u2014 2017-10-23

I thank my friend for yielding to me. prgtoken I also thank him and our colleague, Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, for joining me at the Center for African American Studies at the University of Texas at Arlington last Thursday evening. It was a wonderful experience for me. President Vistasp Karbhari, Dr. Jason Skelton, and my longtime friend, Dr. Marvin Delaney, were perfect hosts. prgtoken , earlier this month, Sergeant La David T. Johnson died a hero's death in a distant land on a mission few Americans know about or understand. This weekend, his grieving family, including his pregnant wife, took him to his final resting place in Florida. Sergeant Johnson's tragic death leaves this young family fatherless. prgtoken , in his second inaugural address, President Abraham Lincoln called on our Nation to endeavor to care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and his orphan. prgtoken Unfortunately, rather than comfort Sergeant Johnson's grieving family, the current occupant of the White House has chosen to use them as his latest prop in his constant effort to sow discord and division in this country. prgtoken The President and White House Chief of Staff John Kelly, who happens to be a four-star general, have insulted and smeared an honorable public servant who happens to be a five-star Congresswoman, and, in effect, called her and her grieving widow constituent liars. prgtoken Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson has been a champion for the people of south Florida for decades. It is no mystery--and it was not political--that she was accompanying Mrs. Johnson and her family to receive her husband's remains. She had mentored Sergeant Johnson throughout his childhood. prgtoken I have participated in several of Congresswoman Wilson's 500 Role Models events and have spoken for one of their graduations. I also wear this red tie to this floor helping her highlight their efforts. Her passionate work on behalf of those kidnapped girls of Boko Haram is unmatched. prgtoken As the husband of a five-star African-American woman for more than 56 years and the father of three African-American daughters who are working hard to earn their stars every day, I feel compelled to respond to General Kelly and completely disregard his concocted misrepresentations. prgtoken , we can have political differences here in Washington. That comes with the territory. But people need to have the common decency and basic humanity to refrain from exacerbating the pain of those already suffering so much. I was taught from childhood that silence gives consent. I want the White House to know this: I and the members of the Congressional Black Caucus will not be silent, and we will not be silenced.
BANKRUPTCY JUDGESHIP ACT OF 2017--Continued
Bill Nelson (Democrat, FL) \u2014 2017-10-23

to accommodate the majority leader, I ask unanimous consent--I understand that he will object, and I will explain it afterward, but it involves what you see here in the aftermath of the hurricane, all of this citrus fruit on the ground-- prgtoken that it be in order to call up my amendment No. 1575--approximately $3 billion for all of the agriculture for Florida and Texas, which Senator Cornyn, Senator Rubio, and I have all been working on--to the motion to concur with an amendment to the House message on H.R. 2266 and that the amendment be agreed to with no intervening action or debate. prgtoken In order to accommodate the majority leader, I will explain it after he has returned to his meeting.
BANKRUPTCY JUDGESHIP ACT OF 2017
Charles E. Schumer (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2017-10-23

. Thank you, . Healthcare prgtoken , first, on the issue of healthcare, since I last addressed this Chamber, the bipartisan agreement reached by Senators Alexander and Murray has amassed enough cosponsors to guarantee its passage. It now has 12 cosponsors and 12 ic cosponsors. That is as bipartisan as it gets. I believe all 48 Members of my caucus will support the agreement, which means it has the necessary 60 votes. Even Leader McConnell has made it clear that he will put the Alexander-Murray bill on the floor as soon as President supports it. prgtoken Let me make a direct appeal to the President. prgtoken , come out and support the Alexander-Murray bill. You called it ``a very good solution'' already. Announce that you will support it, and it will pass through the Senate soon after. prgtoken The President's only stated concern was that the Alexander-Murray bill ``bails out insurance companies.'' I can assure the President that Senators Alexander and Murray took great pains to make sure the insurance companies would not get one extra penny from this deal. I have read the language. I have worked with them. It is good. It is strong. They have included provisions in the bill to prevent insurance companies from double dipping on the cost-sharing program and ensure that the money goes precisely where it is intended: to keep premiums and other out-of-pocket costs down for low-income Americans. prgtoken If the President wants even greater assurances, we can work to move back the start of enrollment 1 month. He may be able to do that administratively, but if not, that is something both Senator Alexander and Senator Murray wanted to do, which would ensure that there would be new applications, and the rates would be looked at as if cost sharing were happening, but the White House blocked it. If the White House and the President want to make it even stronger--I think it is strong enough already--then we can do that. From what I understand, the President might be able to do that administratively. prgtoken This idea that the President isn't supporting this because he doesn't want the insurance companies to make money on this--well, it is wrong. There is some other reason he doesn't want it done. Maybe he doesn't want a bipartisan bill. Maybe it is because he wasn't involved. Maybe it is because on issue after issue the hard-right Freedom Caucus people say don't do it, and he is afraid, because he is not showing much leadership when they stand up to him. prgtoken The only reason the President shouldn't support this bill is that he wants to continue intentionally hurting Americans. He has talked about that. He almost seems gleeful: Care will fail--even though he is trying to make it fail. prgtoken The President should know that premiums have shot up 30 percent in Pennsylvania because of the President's decision to end cost sha
CIVIL RIGHTS
Sheila Jackson Lee (Democrat, TX) \u2014 2017-10-23

. It says: ``We mentioned that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr was one of the targets of the very surveillance that eventually led to the formation of the first Church Committee. This Black History Month, we should remember the many African-American activists who were targeted by intelligence agencies. Their stories serve as cautionary tales for the expanding surveillance state.'' prgtoken Where are the conservatives to stand up against this document? We can be safe, we can have the First Amendment, and we speak our different issues, but now we are going to entrap African Americans--young men who are kneeling because of their concern for police reform and violence that has taken the lives of African-American young men. prgtoken There are so many law enforcement officers who agree with me on the idea of police reform to help all of us work together. We are not divided, but we will stay divided with a document that is going to label us. prgtoken Where is the document for the alt-right, the religious right, the White supremacists? Where is that? prgtoken When are we going to understand that the calling of names--in our community, we call it calling me out of my name--by the majority community is a carryover from slavery and Jim Crow. prgtoken I am saddened by the last couple of days of steering away from the mourning of those wonderful heroes who reflected the greatness of America. They reflected what young men and women do who are willing to sacrifice their lives. They go without a recognition of what color their fellow soldier is. We honor them with no distinction. prgtoken That is what the last couple of days should have been about, as well as the loving care of that widow and the families of the other young men. Yet, in the prgtoken spirit of the FBI COINTEL program, that may be the downfall, again, of those of us trying to heal and not reflecting on how the best way to deal with those who would do us harm violently, of which I stand against, we are now in the midst of name-calling. prgtoken I go to my seat mourning. When is America going to change? prgtoken On August 3, 2017, the FBI released their new ``Intelligence Assessment'' report entitled: Black Identity Extremists (BIE) Likely Motivated to Target Law Enforcement Officers''. prgtoken The FBI defines BIE as individuals who seek, through unlawful acts of force or violence, a response to ``perceived'' racism and injustice in American society. prgtoken The FBI also indicates, there is a desire for black physical or psychological separation based on religious or political beliefs grounded in racial superiority or supremacy. prgtoken Blacks fought for America long before it was a country, prerevolutionary period, where during the first 100 years of conflict we stepped up; and will continue, for equality and justice. prgtoken Blacks led civil rights movement winning double victories in both World War II and the Jim Crow era, forcing our then President Truman, to announced t
CONGRATULATING FORT LEE ON 100 YEARS OF SERVICE
A. Donald McEachin (Democrat, VA) \u2014 2017-10-23

today I rise in honor of the 100th anniversary of the United States Army's Fort Lee in Prince George County, Virginia. prgtoken The fort that we know today began as Camp Lee in 1917. Camp Lee served as a training base for hundreds of thousands of our country's bravest as they prepared for service in World Wars I and II, a tradition that has continued ever since, often in pathbreaking ways. prgtoken In the late 1940s, Camp Lee became the home of the Women's Army Corp Training Center, which established a high-quality training facility for women who wished to serve their country. prgtoken , Fort Lee continues to prepare men and women for their service as the home to the Combined Arms Support Command, the U.S. Army Ordnance School, the U.S. Army Quartermaster School, the U.S. Army Transportation School, and roughly 20 other organizations and units. prgtoken Today and every day, we are grateful to all who have served at Fort Lee for a combined 100 years of dedication and honorable service.
CONTINUE PROVIDING AID TO PUERTO RICO
Marcy Kaptur (Democrat, OH) \u2014 2017-10-23

Friday marked 1 month since Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico. prgtoken According to my constituents, current conditions are as follows: more than 1 million Americans there lack access to clean water; mothers cannot make infant formula; people are getting sick from infected water; and nearly 80 percent of the island still lacks electricity. prgtoken Struggles are everywhere: where there is help trickling in, there are lines, always lines; supplies simply aren't enough; medical facilities are running on hope; there is no reliable means of communication, so people cannot even register for aid; entire communities are cut off from modern civilization; millions desperately need assistance. prgtoken President visited the island for as long as it takes to play a round a golf, and he went to the wealthiest part of the capital city. Last week, he granted himself a perfect score for his response to the devastation. But the administration continues to fail our fellow citizens in Puerto Rico. prgtoken , 3.4 million Americans live in Puerto Rico, and they deserve our full support. prgtoken , can't you at least air-drop fresh water packets, food provisions, and telephones? Our military can do this anywhere in the world, why not Puerto Rico?