mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
TRIBUTE TO JEANNE KOHL-WELLES
Patty Murray (Democrat, WA) \u2014 2023-4-25

I rise today to honor and congratulate Mrs. Jeanne Kohl-Welles on her retirement following 30 years of work in elected office. Jeanne retires from Washington's King County Council, where she has served as vice chair of the council and chair of the committee of the whole and been an extraordinary asset to our State and the greater Seattle-King County region for the last 30 years. prgtoken Under Jeanne's leadership, King County Council was able to address countless issues facing King County and its communities. From supporting our communities through the COVID pandemic by leveraging the 13 budgets she passed as budget chair, to leading the creation of the King County Regional Homeless Authority, Jeanne has been dauntless in facing down tough challenges, tackling complex problems head on to make meaningful progress for King County and its communities. prgtoken Jeanne's devotion to King County and the State of Washington as a whole started long before her tenure on the county council. Jeanne spent over two decades in the Washington State Legislature, first in the house and then in the senate. For many of her 20 years in the Washington State Senate, Jeanne chaired the senate higher education and labor and commerce committees and led legislative efforts to legalize medical marijuana and same-sex marriage, tackle income and gender inequality, and address human trafficking and child sexual abuse. Before that, she was an early advocate for addressing hate crimes and homelessness in Seattle. prgtoken A constant theme in Jeanne's work has been her tireless dedication to truly representing her constituents. Jeanne has organized many Women's History Month panels; expanded access to ballot drop boxes; implemented crucial investments in youth education; and worked with constituents countless times to introduce legislation that matters to them, like when she worked with middle-schoolers on legislation to regulate puppy- mills. Jeanne has shown a truly exceptional ability to champion what is important to those she represents. Whether it was pushing for the construction of the current stadium for our Seattle Seahawks, sponsoring legislation to make transit safe and available to all, or securing funding for the preservation of Washington State history--from Pike Place Market to the National Historic Landmark vessel S.S. Virginia--time and again, Jeanne has fought for the rights, needs, and histories of Washington State and King County communities. prgtoken Being a woman in politics isn't always easy; when I first got to the Senate, there wasn't even a women's bathroom off the Senate floor. Every day, we are having to fight for our most basic rights, even as we advocate for all of our constituents. But every day, women like Jeanne are setting an example for young girls that with hard work, they can follow their dreams and make a real difference. Jeanne's retirement won't be a quiet one; she has plans to not only
MUSLIM-AMERICAN HERITAGE APPRECIATION MONTH
Suzanne Bonamici (Democrat, OR) \u2014 2023-4-25

I rise to honor the celebration of Muslim- American Heritage Appreciation Month, which the City of Beaverton, Oregon and its communities and community partners across Oregon recognized in March of 2023. I honor the many contributions of the more than 20,000 Muslim Americans in Beaverton and throughout the State of Oregon who have made many valuable contributions to the city and community. The Muslim community in Oregon compromises different races and ethnicities and includes those both in the United States and those who immigrated from all over the world. Muslim-American Heritage Appreciation Month is an opportunity to spread awareness of the many facets of the Muslim Community and to condemn the islamophobia they have faced. prgtoken The month of March also includes the holy month of Ramadan on the Islamic lunar calendar, where observing Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset for 30 days starting March 22nd and concluding the evening of April 21st. At the end of this holy time, Muslims celebrate Eid Al- Fitr, one of the most significant holidays of the year. prgtoken I celebrate the many community events that were held throughout this month, including cultural night dinners, Ramadan food box distribution, toy drives for refugee foster youth, and Iftar community meals. I also recognize the many contributions of community organizations that have built this effort. Some include Cool Islam, which offers youth programming, toy drives, and assistance to help children learn about being Muslim; and The Islamic Society of Greater Portland, which works to develop continuing relationships in the greater community and confront the islamophobia that Muslim people living in the United States face too often. prgtoken I appreciate the dedication of these organizations and community partners and join with them in honoring the contributions of Muslim Americans in the Beaverton community as we recognize March 2023 as Muslim-American Heritage Month.
UNANIMOUS CONSENT AGREEMENT--S.J. Res. 11
Robert Menendez (Democrat, NJ) \u2014 2023-4-25

I ask unanimous consent that if cloture is invoked on the motion to proceed to S. 326, that notwithstanding rule XXII, the Committee on Environment and Public Works be discharged from further consideration of S.J. Res. 11 and that it be in order for Senator Fischer to make a motion to proceed to S.J. prgtoken Res. 11; further, that at 4 p.m the Senate vote on the motion to proceed; that if the motion to proceed is agreed to, the Senate immediately vote on passage of the joint resolution without any intervening action or debate; and that the time used related to the joint resolution count against the postcloture time on the motion to proceed to S. 326.
RECOGNIZING THE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE U.S. GREEN BUILDING COUNCIL
Peter Welch (Democrat, VT) \u2014 2023-4-25

I rise today to recognize the 30th anniversary of the U.S. Green Building Council--USGBC--founded in April 1993. This member-led, nonprofit organization has helped schools, businesses, cities, and even countries build and operate better buildings that transform lives. USGBC's LEED certification program, short for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, has grown to become the world's most acclaimed and prgtoken widely used green building system, with 105,000 projects in more than 185 countries. prgtoken In the United States, over 400,000 housing units and more nonresidential projects have applied this system to achieve LEED certification. In Vermont, we have achieved more than 120 certifications, and at least 91 professionals have LEED credentials. These sustainable projects include K-12 schools and higher education, offices, multifamily housing, retail, manufacturing, and additional building types. More than 5 million square feet of space have received LEED certification. prgtoken As Americans contend with rising prices and energy costs, more green buildings mean more dollars back in the pockets of small business and families. That is because research has repeatedly found that energy- efficient, lower-waste green buildings benefit the bottom line. LEED- certified buildings reduce day-to-day costs year-over-year while benefiting our climate. They help building owners lower vacancies. Plus, they improve staff well-being and productivity. prgtoken When USGBC started, there was no agreement in the marketplace on what constituted ``green building,'' let alone any kind of accepted, codified mechanism to certify it. Now, 30 years later, USGBC has primed the market to value better-performing buildings that lower costs and waste, mitigate climate impacts, and improve health. prgtoken Congratulations to this incredible, member-led organization. Here is to another impactful 30 years.
ISSUES OF THE DAY
Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (Democrat, FL) \u2014 2023-4-25

I rise today to voice my deep concern with McCarthy's reckless plan to address the debt ceiling, which will impose a hardship on working Americans. Instead of solving problems, House s are holding our Nation hostage and demanding that their ransom be met. prgtoken Let us not beat around the bush: Caps equal cuts, and McCarthy's brinkmanship is dangerous. If extreme s have their way, communities across the country will suffer. prgtoken The 320-page proposal from the other side of the aisle pushes forward drastic cuts to government programs, programs that families in my district desperately need. prgtoken The Party seems to be more focused on padding the pockets of large corporations and billionaires instead of lending a hand to working Americans. The GOP framework is nothing short of a catastrophe. prgtoken It includes sweeping cuts to SNAP and food assistance programs that low-income families depend on. It destroys President 's student loan debt agenda under the guise of fiscal responsibility. It imposes cruel Medicaid work requirements, ripping healthcare coverage directly from people's hands. It would rescind $80 billion allocated to the IRS through President 's historic Inflation Reduction Act. It would repeal clean energy tax credits, which have proven crucial in addressing the climate crisis. prgtoken What s are proposing is just not in the best interests of our working people. The American people need a government that works for them, not against them. There will certainly be an opportunity to debate the GOP's rightwing policy proposals down the road, but doing so at the expense of the American people through gamesmanship is reckless and irresponsible. prgtoken We need to all work together to make life easier, not harder. Members of Congress have a responsibility to serve the American people. I urge McCarthy and the s to stop playing political games with our economy and those we are elected to serve.
FEDERAL DEBT
Richard J. Durbin (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2023-4-25

if you thought the dangerous theatrics of the years were behind us, I have some bad news. This week, McCarthy plans to gamble with the paychecks of millions of families, as well as the stability of our Nation's economy. prgtoken Instead of accepting one of the most basic duties of government-- avoid default-- McCarthy is choosing high stakes risk. He is threatening to default on America's debt for the first time in history unless agree to slash funding for working families, veterans, law enforcement, and small businesses across the country. prgtoken Now it goes without saying: This proposal is going nowhere in the Senate. And Kevin McCarthy knows that. So the fact that he is still moving forward with it shows that he does not know the damage he could inflict on the American people. He is willing to hold our entire economy--and the fate of millions of Americans--hostage because, as long as he keeps the most radical fringes of his party happy, Kevin McCarthy has nothing to worry about. But for everyone else, a Federal debt default would be disastrous. prgtoken It would wipe out trillions of dollars in household savings; it would lead to millions of Americans losing their jobs and businesses grinding to a halt; and it would crater our economy, likely throwing us into a recession. prgtoken Now all this chaos and destruction could be avoided today, if we wanted. Congress could pass a clean bill to pay our debts on time and uphold the full faith and credit of the United States. But of course, with the MAGA majority in the House, it is never that simple. Instead of sitting down with lawmakers across the aisle to find a sensible path forward, McCarthy is manufacturing a crisis. And really, he is giving the American people two unacceptable options: Either suffer the consequences of a disastrous debt default, or face devastating cuts to the services and programs millions of people rely on every day. prgtoken Just look at the proposal House s will vote on this week. It is nothing more than a MAGA wish list that leaves every American behind, except the top 1 percent. To start, McCarthy's proposal would decimate funding for our Nation's veterans. It would cut hundreds of millions of dollars for expanding veteran's care, right after we just passed the PACT Act. And it would threaten housing and food security for our Nation's heroes. prgtoken And they are not alone because McCarthy's proposal would also gut funding for police officers and first responders. It would wipe out nearly 30,000 law enforcement jobs within the Justice Department alone. And it would require the government to furlough every single Border Patrol agent. prgtoken Can you imagine that? For years, s have been saying want to defund the police and open our borders. And yet, here they are, supporting a proposal to abandon law enforcement and weaken border security. prgtoken Additionally, McC
NATIONAL INFERTILITY AWARENESS WEEK
Margaret Wood Hassan (Democrat, NH) \u2014 2023-4-25

I rise today to commemorate National Infertility Awareness Week, which since 1989 has honored the people, doctors, researchers, and others for their work in destigmatizing infertility and raising awareness of the challenges many people face when trying to start a family. prgtoken Creating life and starting and nurturing a family are, of course, foundational experiences that bring challenges, rewards, and great joy. For millions of people, however, infertility is a barrier to having children, affecting approximately one in five Americans. Thanks to the extraordinary efforts of doctors, scientists, and researchers though, our country has made great strides in helping better understand infertility and provide treatments and support for people who are struggling to start a family. Tens of thousands of children were born last year alone thanks to IVF. And organizations like Resolve: The National Infertility Association have been instrumental in supporting people who struggle with infertility, as well as raising awareness about this critical issue. Unfortunately, many couples still face financial and other barriers to using this procedure, and I urge my colleagues to consider ways that we can make it easier and more affordable for people to start a family in this way. prgtoken If we believe that everyone in our country counts and should be free to reach their full potential, then we need to do more to ensure that more Americans are able and free to start a family, so they too can partake in one of life's most rewarding journeys.
HONORING THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND LEGACY OF MR. COMMAND SERGEANT MAJOR (RET) JAMES A. McNAIR
Patrick Ryan (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2023-4-25

I rise today to honor the memory of Mr. Command Sergeant Major (ret) James A. McNair, devoted husband to Esther G. McNair (deceased); beloved father, grandfather, and great grandfather; decorated veteran; cherished friend and admired mentor, passed away in El Paso, Texas, on March 31, 2023. prgtoken James McNair was born the 11th child of James and Mary Magee McNair on their 100 acre family farm in Mt. Olive, MS. He and his siblings would work on the farm before heading off to school each day. At Lincoln High School, he drove a school bus to help ensure other students got to and from school safely. He graduated from high school early and entered the United States Army. Soon after, while visiting his brother in Tuskegee, AL, James met his love, Esther Greene. They shared a passion for dancing, family, education, and service. They were soon married and journeyed through life together until her passing in 2005. prgtoken CSM McNair served in the U.S. Army for 30 years, including serving at Ft. Bliss, TX, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, Alaska, Europe, and Korea. He received many commendations, medals, and awards, including the Meritorious Service Medal and the Legion of Merit. He retired in 1985 and was recognized on the floor of the United States House of Representatives for his distinguished service, saying ``His outstanding service to his country will long be remembered by his fellow soldiers and greatly appreciated by his fellow Americans.'' prgtoken After retirement, he and his wife worked in Civil Service for the U.S. Army at Fort Bliss, TX until he retired again in 2004. He subsequently served the Texas Department of the American Legion in many roles, including Texas Department Commander and Trustee. He was an advocate for increased membership, soldier and veteran education, female service members, and veterans' rights. His motto was ``Results Count.'' In appreciation of his community service, the Mayor and City Council of El Paso proclaimed September 20, 2008 ``James McNair Day.'' prgtoken He was preceded in death by his wife of 46 years, Esther Greene, his son Tyrone Greene McNair, his parents, and his 10 siblings: Costee, Sr. (Johnnie Lee), Mertis C Johnnie Mae Barnes (Ervin, Sr.), Geneva Bacot, R.P. McNair (Elizabeth), Alfred Earl ``Terrell'', Sr. (Irma), Zella D. ``Dull'' Weathersby (Arties), Eugene ``Nick'' (Laura), Governor ``Bone'', and Willine Ward (Eugene ``Harry''). prgtoken He is survived by his children, Reverend Dr. Christopher McNair (Lisa), Minneapolis, MN, LTC (ret) James McNair (Corinne), Vilseck, Germany, Mr. Kerry McNair (Wendy) Atlanta, GA, Mrs. Valerie Hill (Edward), Pflugerville, TX, and Mrs. Janise McNair Dagins, Ph.D (Clarence), Gainesville, FL, two sisters-in-law: Irma McNair, Ocean Springs, MS, and Laura McNair, Collins, MS, his 15 grandchildren, 1 great grandchild, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. James A. McNair was a humble and selfless patriot. It is
ISSUES OF THE DAY
Jonathan L. Jackson (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2023-4-25

I rise today to pay tribute to a man whose life, legacy, and unwavering commitment to justice and equality has left an indelible mark on our Nation. prgtoken I speak of none other than the incomparable Mr. Harry Belafonte who passed away today at the age of 96. prgtoken At a time when segregation was still deeply entrenched and Black faces were scarce on screens, both large and small, Mr. Belafonte's historic rise to the pinnacle of show business broke barriers and paved the way for future generations. prgtoken Mr. Belafonte's exceptional music career earned him numerous accolades and awards. A three-time Grammy Award winner, including the prestigious Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, he was recognized for his enduring contributions to the world of music. prgtoken His exceptional talent transcended mediums, earning him an Emmy Award for his work on television and a Tony Award for his brilliance on stage. prgtoken In 1989, he received one of the highest honors bestowed upon artists in the United States: The Kennedy Center Honors. Our Nation continued to recognize his extraordinary contributions when, in 1994, he was awarded the National Medal of Arts for his significant impact on American culture. prgtoken In 2014, Mr. Belafonte received the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award at the Academy's Sixth Annual Governors Awards. In 2022, the world of music paid homage to his influence by inducting him into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in the early influence category. prgtoken As we celebrate Mr. Harry Belafonte's life and memory, let us also remember that he was much more than an extraordinary entertainer. I have had the privilege and honor of meeting and knowing Mr. Belafonte, and what attracted me to him the most is that he was a tireless advocate for civil rights, using his fame and fortune to further the cause of equality and uplift the lives of countless African Americans. He used his celebrity, his wealth, his power, and his influence to transcend the racial divisions of our day and time. prgtoken He contributed to Reverend Martin Luther King at the height of the civil rights challenges in America. That says something about where you stand in times of challenge. prgtoken Belafonte's close friendship and support of Reverend Martin Luther King exemplified the duality of his life's work. He stood beside Mrs. Coretta Scott King and Duke Ellington at the ``Salute to Montgomery'' in 1956, raising funds for the civil rights movement when it was not popular, but it was the right thing to do. prgtoken Part of the legacy he leaves behind is a call for our current generation to use their celebrity, their influence, and their access as they walk the corridors of power to give truth in high places. prgtoken During the tumultuous 1960s, Belafonte continued to provide much- needed financial assistance to the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, most notably during the Birmingham, Alabama, campaign. prgtoken He opened his hom
ENCOURAGING THE EXPANSION AND STRENGTHENING OF THE ABRAHAM ACCORDS TO URGE OTHER NATIONS TO NORMALIZE RELATIONS WITH ISRAEL AND ENSURE THAT EXISTING AGREEMENTS REAP TANGIBLE SECURITY AND ECONOMIC...
Zoe Lofgren (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-4-25

while I will vote in favor of this resolution and support the advancement of the Abraham Accords and normalization of relations with Israel, I am disappointed that the resolution does not mention the longstanding U.S. policy of supporting a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, as past U.S.- Israel relationship anniversary resolutions have. I continue to strongly support a sustainable two-state solution, with a democratic, Jewish state of Israel and a demilitarized, democratic Palestinian state living peacefully side-by-side. This resolution's omission of this policy is concerning given the current far-right Israeli governing coalition under Prime Minister Netanyahu, which has seriously undermined the prospects for a two-state solution. prgtoken Further, as hundreds of thousands of Israelis have been protesting in opposition of an anti-democratic judicial overhaul, it's important for U.S. policymakers to recognize that a negotiated two-state solution requires a robust democracy in Israel. America must insist that Israel not only remains committed to the two-state solution but committed to democracy in Israel.