mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
MILITARY CONSTRUCTION, VETERANS AFFAIRS, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2025
David Schweikert (Republican, AZ) \u2014 2024-6-5

. You have a much higher degree of expertise. Both of you do in regard to VA issues. I do taxes and Medicare financing. prgtoken One of the reasons we were hopeful about this is because it is sort of a closed ecosystem. It gives us the chance, as we have learned with a number of pilot programs, to use this because we know the rules here, and we are saying: Here is a chance to do a test, a pilot program, and if it works with the VA, then, hopefully, our future is being able to move it into other parts of the government. prgtoken Am I being unrealistic?
HONORING THE LIFE OF SHELTON LAWRENCE "CRICKET" MOBLEY
Earl L. "Buddy" Carter (Republican, GA) \u2014 2024-6-5

I rise today to honor and remember the life of Shelton Lawrence ``Cricket'' Mobley, who passed away on May 30 at the age 65. prgtoken Born and raised in Waycross, Georgia, Cricket Mobley distinguished himself as a four-sport letterman at Ware County High School, where he graduated from in 1977. prgtoken Cricket devoted a majority of his time to activities such as shrimping, fishing, hunting, and showcasing his passion for the outdoors. In addition to being an avid outdoorsman, he was a successful businessman, founding his own company twice and serving as a business proprietor for nearly 40 years. prgtoken He had a passion for sports, especially baseball, which he stayed involved in until his passing. prgtoken Cricket coached baseball to many young men, many of whom went on to play in college and professionally. Cricket was eventually inducted into the Ware County Sports Hall of Fame in 2022. prgtoken Cricket will be missed, but his positive impact on those he coached will be felt for generations to come.
LATEST BOONDOGGLE IN FOREIGN POLICY
Matt Gaetz (Republican, FL) \u2014 2024-6-5

I rise to alert the House and the country to the latest boondoggle in foreign policy executed by President , and this time it is the decision we have made to become the port authority of Gaza. prgtoken This pier has been a debacle, at a cost of $320 million. In 2 weeks, we have not even distributed 1,000 metric tons of food aid. Also, in 3 months, the entire pier has to be dismantled because of rising seas and impermissible weather conditions. At most, we are going to be able to deliver about 7,000 metric tons of food at a cost of $320 million. prgtoken Now, I don't know much about what a metric ton is, but I know what the price per pound is. This is $20,730 per pound for food. If my colleagues are in preparations for their summer barbecue and Members think your grocery bills are too high, know that the American taxpayers are incurring debt to send food to Gaza at a cost of $20,730 per pound.
RIGHT TO CONTRACEPTION ACT--MOTION TO PROCEED
Bill Cassidy (Republican, LA) \u2014 2024-6-5

I ask unanimous consent to ask that baby to come back into the spectators' Gallery. That was the sweetest noise we have heard here for quite some time. Right to Contraception Act prgtoken , Senate are using their power in the majority to push an alarmist and false narrative that there is a problem accessing contraception. They proposed a bill which is more about a solution to find a problem. Today's vote is nothing more than scaring and misleading, misleading, misleading the American people. prgtoken Here are the facts. Let me show this graph. prgtoken There is no State or territory that bans access to birth control pills. We made this graph. Here you see all the States that ban birth control are in orange, and all of the States that allow it are in green. As you notice, every State is green. This is not an issue. Unless--unless--your candidate for President is running behind in the polls, and there is a need to make people frightened; to turn out on a false issue; to, hopefully, improve poll numbers. But misleading and scaring voters seem to be, in their mind, the only way they can get that extra support. prgtoken But don't be mistaken, the bill goes way beyond protecting access to the routine use of birth control pills or other contraceptives. There are plenty of reasons why s oppose this legislation. Here is what the bill actually does: It defines contraception so broadly that it likely also includes a right to a chemical abortion pill. It eviscerates conscience protections for healthcare providers, overriding the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, or RFRA. In fact, if enacted, this would be a first time a law explicitly waived RFRA. prgtoken Now, by the way, we are a pluralistic society. Some people are pro- life; some people are pro-choice. But we have tried to find peace on this issue. You don't find peace by eviscerating people's rights to follow their conscience, knowing that there is a provider down the street that could give the service that would be required under this law. prgtoken And, finally, the bill prioritizes abortion provider Planned Parenthood, preventing States or the Federal Government from prioritizing funding for life-affirming organizations. prgtoken This is not serious legislation. It bypassed the HELP Committee. Just kind of taken out, brought straight to the floor. Again, not seriously considered, rather a vehicle for political grandstanding. It is not a serious process but, rather, a political stunt designed to fearmonger and mislead the public in an attempt to sway voters in an election year. prgtoken s should not play along. I oppose this legislation and urge my colleagues to do the same. prgtoken I also want to highlight my amendment to this flawed bill. While the bill is beyond improvement in current form, my amendment proposes to shed much needed light on another issue that has been pulled into
HONORING THE LANSING WOMAN'S CLUB
Elissa Slotkin (Democrat, MI) \u2014 2024-6-7

today I celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Lansing Woman's Club, an organization of incredible women dedicated to personal growth, knowledge, and the betterment of their community. Founded in 1874, the Club has played an instrumental role in promoting lifelong learning and cultural enrichment, thus lifting the skylines of its members, the city of Lansing, and beyond. prgtoken The Lansing Woman's Club began with 25 pioneering women who shared a deep commitment to intellectual improvement. Their dedication is encapsulated in the Club's founding purpose: the study and improvement of its members in literature, science, and the fine arts. More than a century later, the Club proudly carries on its mission as members meet each week to learn from one another through the sharing of individually written research papers. prgtoken Throughout its history, the Club has been a beacon of progress and inclusivity, committed to welcoming open-minded and determined women to mirror the diverse community it serves. Members have come from various walks of life and professional backgrounds, including doctors, academics, civil servants, and members of the clergy, and have established and supported cultural organizations, hospitals, and educational institutions. To this day, members not only contribute their time and volunteer efforts, but also foster community engagement, provide aid to refugees and supply food and clothing to those in need. prgtoken Over the years, the Lansing Woman's Club has hosted many distinguished guests to share their passion and expertise with members, including Frank Lloyd Wright Creativity Award-winning architect Alden B. Bow, three-time Pulitzer Prize winner Carl Sandburg, and acclaimed author Madeleine L'Engle. prgtoken Even in the face of adversity, including a devastating fire in 1996 that severely damaged the group's clubhouse, the resilience of its members has ensured the Club's enduring presence. Inspired by one of the Club's earliest members, Irma T. Jones, these women continue to demonstrate that our futures are limited only by the boundaries we set for ourselves. prgtoken As we commemorate this significant milestone, let us recognize the Lansing Woman's Club for its unwavering commitment to education, culture, and service to the community. It is with profound respect and gratitude that I honor the Club's 150th anniversary and recognize its members' contributions. May the Lansing Woman's Club continue to inspire and lead for many more generations to come.
HONORING DANA CAMPBELL SAYLOR
Greg Stanton (Democrat, AZ) \u2014 2024-6-7

today I rise to honor the life and legacy of Dana Campbell Saylor, a dedicated Phoenix community advocate and personal friend. prgtoken From her early years as a student at Arizona State University, Dana knew she wanted to dedicate her life to fighting for social justice-- especially on issues related to women's equality. She quickly established herself in the greater Phoenix area as a fierce advocate for the vulnerable and underserved, sitting on countless boards, councils, and commissions to channel her passion for public service. prgtoken Throughout the years, Dana served four Arizona Governors, two Phoenix Mayors, and several ASU administrators in varying capacities to help address community issues. She used her advisory positions to propose, pass, and implement legislation to enhance the lives of women, children, and veterans. prgtoken Many in the Phoenix community know Dana best for her role as CEO of the Maricopa County YWCA. She was a firm believer and role model of their mission to empower women, stand against racism, and promote peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. As CEO, she focused her efforts on transforming the organization into the impactful entity it is today. She established the YWCA as a 501c4 for advocacy, created the YWCA Metropolitan Women's Forum, and acted as YWCA Board Chair for the Pacific Region for several years. prgtoken Throughout her lifetime, Dana was recognized with several highly esteemed honors and awards such as the NAWBO Visionary Award, the West Valley Mover and Shaker award, the YWCA Dorthy Willey Award, and an induction into the Phoenix Union Alumni Hall of Fame. prgtoken Dana continued to serve others until her passing on May 13, 2024. She will be dearly missed, but her legacy in Phoenix will endure through the countless lives she touched. Godspeed.
PERSONAL EXPLANATION
Zoe Lofgren (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2024-6-7

I missed votes on June 3, 4, and 5, 2024, due to illness. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on prgtoken Roll Call No. 233; YEA on Roll Call No. 234; NAY on Roll Call No. 235; NAY on Roll Call No. 236; NAY on Roll Call No. 237; NAY on Roll Call No. 238; NAY on Roll Call No. 239; YEA on Roll Call No. 240; NAY on Roll Call No. 241; NAY on Roll Call No. 242; YEA on Roll Call No. 243; YEA on Roll Call No. 244; NAY on Roll Call No. 245; YEA on Roll Call No. 246; and NAY on Roll Call No. 247.
PERSONAL EXPLANATION
Gabe Amo (Democrat, RI) \u2014 2024-6-7

on June 4, 2024, I intended to vote YES on Roll Call No. 240, Agreeing to the Amendment Number 28 by Congressman Brian Mast of Florida that ``ensures veterans can participate in state- approved medical marijuana programs. Removes the current directive that prevents VA Medical Facility staff from recommending, making referrals, or completing forms and registering Veterans for participation in state-approved marijuana programs.''
HONORING THE EXTRAORDINARY LIFE AND LEGACY OF MRS. MYRNA JACKSON
Terri A. Sewell (Democrat, AL) \u2014 2024-6-7

I rise to honor the extraordinary life and legacy of Mrs. Myrna Carter Jackson, a civil rights activist and community leader in Birmingham, Alabama, who passed away on May 31, 2024, at the age of 82. prgtoken Mrs. Jackson was born on July 9, 1941, in Birmingham, Alabama as one of eight children to the late Willie George Carter and Willie Lee Ledger. After graduating from A.H. Parker High School at the age of sixteen, she attended Barbara Durr Beauty College in 1965 and obtained a license in cosmetology. Later in life, she continued her educational journey at Lawson State Community College and Miles College, graduating with a bachelor's degree in social work in 2000. prgtoken Mrs. Jackson became involved in the Civil Rights Movement at an early age, serving as the First Vice President of the Metro Birmingham Branch of NAACP. After the 1963 bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church, she participated in the Children's March and Monday Masses, organized by the Alabama Christian Movement for Human Rights and Reverend Fred Shuttlesworth. In response to her peaceful demonstration, Mrs. Jackson was jailed twice and spent more than three weeks in the Birmingham Jail. She experienced violence and troubling conditions during her incarceration but drew strength from the support and comradery that she received from other members of the Movement. prgtoken A dedicated community leader, Mrs. Jackson's commitment to service was the throughline of her career. She served as a certified substitute teacher for several Birmingham schools, provided social services and workforce development to survivors of Hurricane Katrina, facilitated job training for students through the Birmingham Works for Youth, and served as Commissioner of the Housing Authority of the Birmingham District. As a member of the Top Ladies of Distinction, she worked with Top Teens of America to provide scholarships and funding for students. prgtoken Even later in life, Mrs. Jackson's commitment to the ideals of the Civil Rights Movement never wavered. In 2009, she organized a conference with the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and the FBI to promote healthy dialogue between youth and law enforcement. In 2017, she helped commemorate the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument and went on to serve as the Interim President for the Metro Birmingham Branch of the NAACP. prgtoken Mrs. Jackson received much recognition for her remarkable leadership and contributions to the Civil Rights Movement. She was honored by the Metro Birmingham Branch of the NAACP in 2013 for the 50th anniversary of the Civil Rights Movement. In 2017, she was selected by The HistoryMakers for an oral history interview of her incredible life story. prgtoken Mrs. Jackson is preceded in death by her husband, Issic Jackson; parents Willie George Carter and Willie Lee Ledger; and three brothers, Gilbert Carter, Alfred Lee Carter, and John Carter. She is survived by two sons Jeffery Jackson and
HONORING THE MEMORY OF MR. JOHN BREWER
Derek Kilmer (Democrat, WA) \u2014 2024-6-7

I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Mr. John Brewer. A passionate journalist and dedicated community leader, John passed away in mid-April. prgtoken I got to know John when I first ran for Congress back in 2012. From the first moments I spent with him, I learned just how deeply he cared about his community, and his passion for local journalism. prgtoken John was the consummate newsman and dedicated his professional career to the field of journalism. His first job was with the weekly Upland News in his hometown of Upland, California in 1965. From there, he went on to work with The Associated Press for 19 years as a reporter, editor, bureau chief, and executive in Seattle, Los Angeles, and New York. prgtoken As the Seattle bureau chief, he oversaw the coverage of the devastating 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens. In Los Angeles, he oversaw the coverage of the 1984 Summer Olympics. During his 10 years as president, CEO, and editor-in-chief of The New York Times Syndication Sales Corp he enlisted high-profile columnists, including Mikhail Gorbachev, Martha Stewart, and former President Jimmy Carter. prgtoken After a prolific career around the country, John joined the Peninsula Daily News in 1998, where he championed local journalism until his retirement in 2015. prgtoken John was heavily involved in his community in the North Olympic Peninsula, supporting over 25 nonprofits and other organizations, including the Port Angeles Downtown Association, Community Multicultural Alliance, and Peninsula Home Fund. He served on several prgtoken community boards and was a past president of Allied Daily Newspapers of Washington, a statewide press association. prgtoken , I join our communities of Clallam and Jefferson counties in grieving the loss of a pillar of the community, passionate and dedicated journalist, and compassionate father, brother, husband, and friend. I join John's wife, Barbara, his two sons, and the rest of his family in grieving this sudden and tragic loss. prgtoken , I recognize that journalism, not just at the local level, but across the country, is better because of the dedicated work and passion of Mr. John Brewer. His impact and legacy will be felt in Port Angeles and the broader Washington State community for many, many years to come.
PERSONAL EXPLANATION
Bill Pascrell, Jr. (Democrat, NJ) \u2014 2024-6-7

on June 5, 2024, I missed 5 Roll Call votes. Had I been present, I would have voted as follows: Roll Call No. 243, Schweikert of Arizona Part B Amendment No. 43--YES; Roll Call No. 244, Schweikert of Arizona Part B Amendment No. 44--YES; Roll Call No. 245, Steube of Florida Part B Amendment No. 45--NO; Roll Call No. 246, Motion to Recommit to Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025--YES; and Roll Call No. 247, Final Passage of Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2025--NO.
HONORING THE CAREER OF DR. CLARK GODSHALL
Claudia Tenney (Republican, NY) \u2014 2024-6-7

I rise today to recognize the career of the outstanding Senior New York State BOCES District Superintendent and Chief Executive Officer of the Orleans/Niagara BOCES, Dr. Clark Godshall. prgtoken Dr. Godshall has spent the last 52 years as a New York State educator, 43 of which were spent as a school administrator. He has spent the past 24 years responsible for the educational services for over 30,000 students at the Orleans/Niagara BOCES, which is the 13th largest BOCES out of the 37 that exist in New York State. prgtoken Dr. Godshall has demonstrated a great commitment to the success of students across New York State and has been recognized for doing so. He is the six-time recipient of American School and University Management Effectiveness Awards, as well as being named the 2014 New York State School Superintendent of the Year. Dr. Godshall is also the only administrator to serve as the President of the New York State Council of School Superintendents (NYSCOSS), the New York State Association of School Business Officials (NYASBO), and the International Association of School Business Officials (IASBO). prgtoken In addition to his unwavering dedication to the students of New York State, Dr. Godshall also has been a County Chairman for the American Red Cross in Niagara County. During his free time, Dr. Godshall serves his country as an officer (Commodore) with the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary and the United States Power Squadron. prgtoken Dr. Godshall has dedicated his life to the academic advancement of the students in New York State and the 24th Congressional District of New York extends its heartfelt appreciation for Dr. Godshall's role in enhancing the educational experience and contributing to the overall prosperity of the region. prgtoken I am pleased to extend my best wishes to Dr. Clark Godshall for a fulfilling and well-deserved retirement, filled with joy, accomplishments, and continued success in all his future endeavors.
RECOGNIZING MONSIGNOR MICHAEL PICARD'S RETIREMENT
Brian K. Fitzpatrick (Republican, PA) \u2014 2024-6-7

I rise today to honor a remarkable individual from my district, Monsignor Michael Picard, who has touched and bettered countless lives in our community through his unwavering faith and commitment to his vocation as a Pastor. prgtoken Born May 30, 1938, Michael Picard entered St. Charles Borromeo Seminary in Philadelphia in 1956 at just 18 years old. After nearly a decade of rigorous theological training, he was ordained on May 21, 1966, and embarked on an illustrious 58-year career dedicated to serving the Lord and guiding the spiritual lives of countless individuals and community members. prgtoken Affectionately known as Father Mike, he embarked on his pastoral journey as an Associate Pastor at Corpus Christi Church. Then, in 1967, he was assigned to Cardinal O'Hara High School, where he wore many hats: Teacher, Guidance Counselor, Counselor, Basketball Moderator, and Vice Principal for two years. Throughout his tenure there, Father Mike profoundly impacted students and colleagues alike. He mentored countless young men and women, guiding them toward successful futures and emphasizing the importance of character, integrity, and unwavering faith. prgtoken Father Mike embarked on a new mission in 1981, taking on the role of Principal at Lansdale Catholic High School. Here, he continued to be a beacon of inspiration and guidance for his students and community, exemplifying unwavering dedication and faith. His remarkable talents and unparalleled leadership qualities caught the eye of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, leading to his recruitment as the Director of the Cardinal's Commission and Office for Human Relations. prgtoken In 1989, Father Mike answered the call to serve once more and took on a new role at Saint Andrews Catholic Church in Newtown, Pennsylvania. It has been here at Saint Andrew's that Father Mike has served as Pastor, mentor, and friend to over 20,000 parishioners for the past 35 years. While his list of accomplishments is undoubtedly impressive, the quiet, personal moments are what define his profound impact. With every baptism, confirmation, First Communion, Matrimony, and anointing of the sick, Father Mike has been a steadfast presence for so many in life's most significant moments. His unwavering support and genuine kindness have intricately woven together the fabric of the church community, forming a beautiful tapestry of love and faith. In moments of joy and sorrow, he has stood as a steady pillar of comfort, offering solace and hope to all in need. His influence has grown to extend far beyond the physical walls of Saint Andrews, touching the hearts and minds of everyone fortunate enough to encounter him. prgtoken For Father Mike, being a Pastor is not merely a job but a lifelong vocation. His tireless efforts in shepherding the largest Catholic church in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and fostering a warm, welcoming environment have transformed Saint Andrews into a beacon of hope,
RECOGNIZING JUNE 9TH AS BATTEN DISEASE AWARENESS DAY
Aaron Bean (Republican, FL) \u2014 2024-6-7

I rise today in honor of Batten Disease Awareness Day. Batten Disease is a fatal rare disease of the nervous system that usually begins in childhood. In the U.S an estimated two to four children out of every 100,000 will get the disease, and unfortunately, there is no cure. prgtoken On June 9th Batten Disease advocates around the world will celebrate International Batten Disease Awareness Day. Families and caregivers impacted by this disease are often fighting a silent battle due to a lack of public awareness. Increasing awareness helps honor their fight and strengthen the development of innovative treatment options and research for a cure. That's why last year I was proud to introduce a resolution in support of Batten Disease Awareness Day. prgtoken I urge my colleagues to join me on June 9th in honoring the families and caregivers, and most importantly, the children who have been impacted by this terrible disease.