mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
CELEBRATING HAWKEYE SUPERSTAR CAITLIN CLARK
Zachary Nunn (Republican, IA) \u2014 2024-3-8

. Madam , I rise today to celebrate Hawkeye superstar and West Des Moines native Caitlin Clark. prgtoken March is upon us, and the madness is real. prgtoken As we look forward to the Big Ten Women's Tournament already underway, we have a phenomenon coming from the heart of the heartland, Ms. Caitlin Clark. prgtoken After surpassing the all-time scoring record in women's basketball in February, Caitlin became the NCAA Division I all-time leading scorer for both men's and women's basketball. prgtoken In Iowa's win over Ohio State on Sunday, Caitlin reached an outstanding record of 3,685 career points, and she is just getting started. prgtoken Caitlin is a leader both on and off the court who serves as a role model for young women across our State and the country. prgtoken As a dad of five young daughters, our babysitter even helped make Caitlin Clark who she is by constantly getting dunked on by Caitlin Clark in high school. Ms. Liz Sutton, you, the coaches, the fans, the team, and the family are what make Caitlin Clark and Iowa so proud today. Thanks for all you are doing. prgtoken Most importantly, as Iowa sets its focus on the Big Ten Tournament in March, join me in congratulating Caitlin for what she has done and what she will continue to do.
CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY
Maxine Waters (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2024-3-8

I rise today, March 8, 2024, to celebrate International Women's Day. prgtoken Thirty years ago, in 1994, at the suggestion of my friend Beata Pozniak, who is with us here today, I introduced H.J. Res. 316 in the House of Representatives to have Congress designate March 8 as International Women's Day. prgtoken In this year 2024, International Women's Day has special importance. Today, as women's rights are under attack, we rededicate ourselves to fight for gender equality, reproductive rights, pay equity, maternal health, and preventing violence against women. prgtoken The United Nations has selected the theme ``Inspire Inclusion'' for International Women's Day in 2024. prgtoken Here in the House of Representatives, let us inspire women's inclusion and honor women in the United States and around the world.
EULOGY FOR TIMOTHY COBURN
John B. Larson (Democrat, CT) \u2014 2024-3-8

on Monday February 12, 2024 a great force for good was laid to rest. The outpouring of love, admiration, and respect for Timothy Coburn was a fitting remembrance for a man whose life was dedicated to doing for others. He is a legend in his hometown of East Hanford and Mayberry Village, the federal housing project we grew up in. I include in the Record a eulogy that only touches the surface of this veteran and great American who never forgot his beginnings. Thank you, Father Mark, on behalf of Susan, Gabrielle, Maryann & Katie. The outpouring of love, respect, and admiration for a man, who used all of his vast skills to take care of others, so many of whom are gathered in this room, who have been beneficiaries of his benevolence. Gabrielle and Susan, the obituary was excellent, from that handsome smiling Irish face to the content of thc obituary and the enduring message about helping others, with a simple yet poignant request: be kind to someone, even a stranger. It makes a difference. So many gathered here and beyond can attest to that. That was Tim Coburn! That was his request. Sister Christine-Marie and the Sisters of Notre-Dame are bursting with pride about the virtue of the man from Mayberry Village they taught. It all starts at home, and home will always be 76 Great Hill Road in Mayberry Village. Ruth and John's favorite son, Maryann & Katie's favorite brother, Susan's devoted love and husband, and Gabrelle's loving and caring father. Ruth and John deserve special acknowledgement. Mrs. Coburn carted us all around the town to sporting events and brought us treats when we were sleeping out in the backyard, as we scrambled to hide the Playboys we were reading. We mostly walked to Martin Park which was an upgrade from swimming at BAB and the Hock. Mr. Coburn, with his shirt off in the summer, looked like Tarzan, and he had that intimidating look. You knew that you don't mess with John Coburn. Athleticism was engrained in Tim, and his father always had Track and Field apparatus from the shotput, discus, hammer throw, and high jump bars. In fact, Frank Coburn, Tim's grandfather, was a star in his own right and a member of the New York Athletic Club, who nearly went to the Olympics, so being an athlete was in his genes. Talking with Carl Lepack, Gary and Jimmy Agnew, Kevin Brown, and Dave Ryan, they all acknowledged Tim was the most gifted athlete in our class. Lettering in football, basketball, and track and being the captain of the track team. He was also a great golfer, tennis player, and if we had a pool in 1967, he would be a champion swimmer as well. Above all, he was a competitor, he thrived on competition. We were 5th and 6th grade basketball champions at Mayberry school,
CONGRATULATING FARNSWORTH MIDDLE SCHOOL
Paul Tonko (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2024-3-8

. Madam , it is with great pride that I congratulate the remarkable team from Farnsworth Middle School in Guilderland, New York, in New York's 20th Congressional District, on its outstanding achievement in winning the grand prize at this year's national DiscoverE's Future City Competition. prgtoken These students, together with educator Kelly Werner and volunteer mentor prgtoken Jennifer Smith, showed extraordinary innovation, dedication, and skill in crafting their future city. Their vision and hard work exemplified the value of STEM education and showcased the limitless potential of our youth. prgtoken I congratulate the Dutchman Ducks team and everyone involved in this impressive accomplishment and thank them for representing our great capital region with excellence on this national stage. prgtoken I wish them all success in their future endeavors as they continue to electrify our world with ingenuity and passion. prgtoken Let's hear it for today's leaders amongst the young people in this country.
LEGISLATIVE SESSION
Richard J. Durbin (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2024-3-8

the Lee amendment has such good language that it is already in law. The Justice Manual already establishes a standard with virtually verbatim language as in the Lee amendment. prgtoken Furthermore, the Justice Manual reflects the express prohibitions against discrimination by law enforcement, enacted by Congress in the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 and in title VI of the Civil Rights Act. It also reflects consistent holdings by the Supreme Court on due process and equal protection. prgtoken The only time they believe this has been successfully implemented was during the administration, prgtoken when there was fear that they were going to weaponize the Department of Justice, and this standard, which is already in the law, at least discouraged many from participating in that exercise. prgtoken The good news is this language is redundant, and it is unnecessary. The bad news is, if we adopt it, we are going to stop the process of appropriating and avoiding closing the government this evening. I urge my colleagues to vote no on the Lee amendment.
LEGISLATIVE SESSION
Sheldon Whitehouse (Democrat, RI) \u2014 2024-3-8

as the Senate considers the minibus appropriations bill setting funding levels for fiscal year 2024, as Budget chairman, I want the record to reflect that I filed the requisite statements in the record adjusting the appropriations topline, known as the 302(a)s, to allow this bill to proceed. It complies with the spending agreement reached in January between the Senate majority leader and the of the House. prgtoken This bill has major wins for workers, families, and for our climate safety. prgtoken First, it resisted House s' attempts to include harmful anti-environmental riders. These toxic anti-environment poison pills have no place in any bipartisan spending deal. They have nothing to do with Federal spending; they are backdoor attempts to jam through unpopular legislation that would never withstand the scrutiny of regular order. prgtoken Second, this bill continues funding our clean energy future. It includes nearly $1.7 billion to continue nuclear energy research and development, including funds for microreactors and accident-tolerant fuels; $60 million for DOE's new Grid Deployment Office to aid in the development of much needed interregional electric transmission; more than $950 million for industrial decarbonization to make American companies more competitive in the global marketplace and address major sources of greenhouse gas emissions; and $137 million for Department of Energy's Wind Energy Technologies Office to accelerate the deployment of wind energy. These are meaningful clean energy provisions that will help pave the way to a sustainable future for our children and grandchildren, while providing green jobs now. prgtoken Third, this bill provides a combined $480 million for carbon management technologies to assist industries in removing carbon dioxide from industrial facilities, powerplants, and even directly from the air. These technologies will reduce the harmful effects of fossil fuel emissions and decarbonize the industrial sector, while spurring American innovation and increasing economic opportunities across our entire country. prgtoken While this bill includes important climate wins, it also includes many other policy wins that will promote a stronger, safer, and more prosperous American future. prgtoken We all benefit from passing these bipartisan spending bills and avoiding a harmful government shutdown, and I am glad to be able to make the necessary budget adjustments. prgtoken .
HONORING 9-YEAR-OLD BETHANY MOULTRY FOR HER DEDICATION TO COMMUNITY
Patrick Ryan (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2024-3-8

I rise to honor 9-year-old Bethany Moultry, a constituent in my district, for her amazing work in providing care packages for the homeless across the Hudson Valley. prgtoken Through her nonprofit organization, Bethany's Happy Bags for the Homeless, Bethany and her mother have delivered food, first aid kits, toiletries, and smiles to people in need across our community. prgtoken Along with her mother, Colleen Moultry, Bethany began Bethany's Happy Bags for the Homeless in December 2020 when it was her birthday wish to help people in need in her community. prgtoken As word began to spread over Facebook, the Moultrys began proactively receiving supplies and funding from all across our community and over time from all across our country. It has now developed into a movement across our Nation inspiring other young people to do the same. prgtoken This project has formed into a much larger act of service, and community members have joined together to donate to the Moultrys' cause. prgtoken These efforts have led to over 5,000 Happy Bags distributed to the people who need them the most in our community. prgtoken Just a few months ago, I had the privilege to meet Bethany and her family, to recognize her, to commend her, and also to thank her for her help making Valentine's Day special for the veterans in our community. She does a lot across our community. prgtoken , I want every single person across the country to recognize Bethany and know that our whole community shares that pride in her.
LEGISLATIVE SESSION
Patty Murray (Democrat, WA) \u2014 2024-3-8

I ask that the Senator modify his request so prgtoken that the cloture motion with respect to the House message be withdrawn and the only motions and amendments in order to the House message to accompany H.R. 4366 be the following: Lee amendment No. 1623, Schmitt amendment No. 1626, Scott of Florida amendment No. 1645, and Scott of Florida motion to refer; further, that the Senate vote on the above motion and amendments in the order listed, with 60 affirmative votes required for adoption; that upon disposition of the Scott motion to refer, the pending amendments and motion be withdrawn and the Senate vote on the motion to concur in the House amendment to the Senate amendment to H.R. 4366, as amended, if amended, with 60 affirmative votes required for adoption of the motion to concur, without further intervening action or debate, and with 2 minutes for debate equally divided prior to each vote.
EXPANDING ACCESS TO CAPITAL ACT OF 2023
Chrissy Houlahan (Democrat, PA) \u2014 2024-3-8

. Madam Chair, I rise today to urge my colleagues to support my very straightforward amendment to protect small businesses and community banks in the wake of financial crisis, and I thank Ranking Member Waters for the opportunity to lead on this issue. prgtoken I want to take this Chamber back 1 year ago to the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank that sent our financial system into disarray. In 48 hours' time, one of the largest U.S. banks failed, impacting customers, investors, businesses, and stockholders across our Nation. prgtoken Silicon Valley Bank's failure subsequently led to the collapse of Signature and Silvergate Banks in rapid succession as well, making this crisis one of the most significant banking failures in United States history. prgtoken After moments like these, it is important that Congress and key agencies like the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission fully understand the scope and impacts to our economy. Transparency and accountability are essential to instill confidence in our capital markets and to prevent another crisis from tanking our economy in the same way. prgtoken In conducting the analysis, we must not only examine and understand the impact of the broader macroeconomy, but we must also make a concerted effort to understand the effects on small businesses and community banks that drive our Main Streets. prgtoken According to Federal Reserve data, deposits at smaller community banks dropped by $120 billion in the week following the collapse. This is especially troubling when we consider that smaller banks hold approximately 36 percent of our business loans, according to the FDIC. prgtoken In other words, community banks took a hit in the immediate aftermath of the failure, which is especially concerning considering the high number of Main Street businessowners that utilize them. prgtoken Our Federal Government has a responsibility to gather data on exactly how this crisis impacted our mom-and-pop shops and the community banks that they depend on for crucial lines of capital. We must ensure that we learn from and take action to prevent the missteps and events of the past as well. prgtoken That is why I am offering this very straightforward and very commonsense amendment to ensure that the SEC's Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation study the effects of the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank on community banks and small business lending alike. prgtoken The Advocate, whose job it is to advance the interests of small businesses and their investors, would then be required, under this amendment, to provide Congress and the SEC with a report of its findings and recommendations. prgtoken One month after the Silicon Valley Bank's collapse, I had a chance to meet with a group of local Pennsylvania bank leaders, including Customers Bank, Presence Bank, and First Resource Bank, located in my district. Each one of these banks was deeply concerned about their ability to serve the small businesses t
AMENDMENT NO. 1623
Jon Ossoff (Democrat, GA) \u2014 2024-3-8

I fully support the provisions of the Department of Justice prosecutorial rules that forbid discriminatory or political considerations in prosecutions. prgtoken Though I would want Senator Lee's proposal subjected to vigorous debate, I see no compelling reason why these principles could not be codified in Federal statute. Senator Lee's proposal has merit. prgtoken However, adoption of Senator Lee's amendment would necessitate that the Senate, having passed the budget measure, send it back to the House for reconsideration and further votes, with mere hours until a partial government shutdown that would have a devastating impact on our economy. prgtoken Therefore, at this time, I cannot support Senator Lee's amendment, as its adoption would ensure a partial shutdown of the Federal Government.
COMMENDING THE AFRICAN AMERICAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OF CENTRAL FLORIDA
Maxwell Frost (Democrat, FL) \u2014 2024-3-8

I rise today to commend the African American Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida for their unwavering commitment to uplifting and celebrating the contributions of Black-owned businesses in the central Florida community for over 75 years. prgtoken This weekend, the chamber will host its 20th annual Eagle Awards, a culmination of two decades of the chamber's efforts to spotlight central Florida's most dynamic businesses and entrepreneurs. prgtoken This award ceremony is a celebration of resilience, innovation, and community building, reflecting on the impact these businesses have on driving the growth and development of our diverse business landscape. prgtoken Over the last decade, Black-owned businesses have grown exponentially in central Florida, yet access to capital remains a limiting factor to the success. prgtoken I encourage my colleagues to join me in supporting our local chambers of commerce that champion minority-owned businesses and bring forth legislation to address the specific challenges faced by Black- and minority-owned entrepreneurs to create a future where every entrepreneur has the opportunity to thrive.
UNANIMOUS CONSENT AGREEMENT--EXECUTIVE CALENDAR
Charles E. Schumer (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2024-3-8

I ask unanimous consent that at a time to be determined by the majority leader, in consultation with the leader, the Senate proceed to executive session to consider the following nomination: Calendar No. 481; that there be 2 minutes of debate equally divided in the usual form on the nomination; that upon the use or yielding back of time, the Senate proceed to vote without intervening action or debate on the nomination; that, if confirmed, the motion to reconsider be considered made and laid upon the table with no intervening action or debate; that no further motions be in order; and that the President be immediately notified of the Senate's action and the Senate then resume legislative session.
RECOGNIZING DEMETRIUS WEST, INTERNATIONAL GOSPEL MUSIC ARTIST AND COMMUNITY LEADER, AND THE JESUS PROMOTERS GOSPEL CHOIR
André Carson (Democrat, IN) \u2014 2024-3-8

today I rise in honor of Demetrius West and The Jesus Promoters Gospel Choir on their 20th anniversary. prgtoken Demetrius was influenced by his great-grandmother and discovered his passion for gospel music at an early age. As an internationally- renowned recording artist, he has shared the stage with notable Gospel and Christian artists such as Marvin Sapp, Byron Cage, Kirk Franklin, and Chris Tomlin. His work made the Billboard Music Charts several times and has held several No. 1 hits on Gospel airplay radio charts. In 2015, Demetrius released the album ``Jesus Promoter'' in 2015 featuring award-winning Earnest Pugh and 40-voice choir, The Jesus Promoters. prgtoken An Indianapolis native, Demetrius has a deep-rooted sense of community, exemplified by his support to the Resource Hub Foundation, Westside Baptist Church, and other local organizations aiding families in need. He is additionally involved in local politics and elections, and as Minister of Music and Arts for the Westside Missionary Baptist Church with Pastor Michael O. Bryant. He has assisted many choirs, groups, soloists, and musicians with his knowledge and love of music by conducting workshops and seminars nationwide to help other ministries perfect their talents. prgtoken Music helps us translate joy, sorrow, and faith. Demetrius West and The Jesus Promoters is a voice that resonates across generations and will continue to play a role in the cultural fabric of our community. prgtoken Demetrius is married to the lovely Shalette West, and they have one beautiful daughter, Zanobia Denise. prgtoken I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Demetrius West and The Jesus Promoters Gospel Choir on their 20-year celebration.
RESTORING CIVILITY AND DECENCY
Wiley Nickel (Democrat, NC) \u2014 2024-3-8

when you get elected to Congress, you have a choice to make. You can work hard on legislation, you can work hard to build relationships across the aisle and get things done, or you can go join the circus. prgtoken Too many of my colleagues choose the latter, to join the circus, to engage in performative politics last night the clown show was on full display by the House Conference, continually interrupting, disrupting the President. prgtoken , in my time here, I have voted for 19 times. I have voted for four continuing resolutions. I see a House Conference totally incapable of governing and totally incapable of keeping the clowns in check. prgtoken The yelling and screaming at the President was shameful. It was a disgrace. In 2009, Joe Wilson yelled at President and said: ``You lie,'' and the cat came out of the bag. What happened last night was absolutely unacceptable. prgtoken We need to do so much better. We deserve so much better for the United States of America. We need to restore civility, decency, and respect to the United States Congress.
AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY'S DISCOVERY SHOP
Marcy Kaptur (Democrat, OH) \u2014 2024-3-8

. Madam , in the Ninth District of Ohio, the American Cancer Society Discovery Shop in Sylvania, Ohio, in Lucas County, won the Denise Noel Award for bringing in the most sales out of any location in our entire country. prgtoken The award is presented by the American Cancer Society to a person or group that has made significant contributions to the Discovery program. The Discovery Shop, which is a volunteer-run thrift store, sells donated clothes, household goods, antiques, collectibles, jewelry, artwork, and small furniture. prgtoken Purchases at these fine establishments help the American Cancer Society fund advocacy research and patient support programs to improve the lives of cancer patients and their families. prgtoken Anita Schuller, the manager of the Sylvania location, attributes the store's success to the involvement of the community and the dedication of its volunteers. Volunteers at the store credit Ms. Schuller's leadership and her ability to create and maintain a positive atmosphere for the award. prgtoken In this home away from home for many, there is not one person that does not go above and beyond for their Sylvania and our broader community. prgtoken Madam , congratulations to Ms. Schuller and the entire team.
HONORING HYDEIA BROADBENT
Steven Horsford (Democrat, NV) \u2014 2024-3-8

I rise today to honor Hydeia Broadbent, a Las Vegas native who turned her life's biggest challenge into a powerful message of hope. prgtoken Born with HIV, Hydeia wasn't expected to live past her early childhood, but she defied those odds, living until 39 before passing away last week. prgtoken She dedicated her life to educating others about HIV/AIDS. She appeared on national platforms, telling everyone that life with HIV is still a life full of potential. prgtoken At age 12, she said: ``I am the future, and I have AIDS. I can do anything I put my mind to.'' She did, making every day count and inspiring us all to do the same. prgtoken Hydeia's legacy is a testament to the power of resilience, hope, and the impact one person can have. As we remember her today, let's carry her message of positivity and determination forward. May God bless Hydeia Broadbent.