mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
Semiconductors (Executive Session)
John Cornyn (Republican, TX) \u2014 2023-3-16

over the past few decades, the United States has experienced a steady drop in domestic semiconductor manufacturing. Now, I guess we all might be forgiven for not being experts in what advanced microcircuits are all about, but the truth is these microcircuits, or semiconductors, are part of our everyday lives in ways that perhaps we don't fully appreciate. Everything from your smartphone to the most advanced weapons that we are providing to Ukraine to defeat Russian aggression, to the Joint Strike Fighter, the F-35--all of these require a large number of these mini-circuit processors, or semiconductors. prgtoken Well, over these last few decades, we have gone from producing 37 percent of the world's chips in 1990 to just 12 percent today. In other words, we are more dependent than ever on supply chains of semiconductors in order to keep our economy going and to defend ourselves from a national security perspective. prgtoken This, obviously, is a concerning trend, and one of the things we have learned about during COVID is this idea of globalization, that just because somebody can make something cheaper--in China, let's say--than in the United States, that that answered all the questions, that that checked all the boxes. prgtoken Well, you might say the same thing about Europe's dependency on Russian oil and gas when, once Mr. Putin decided to invade Ukraine, they realized they were the captive of the Russian Federation when it came to their basic energy needs. Well, the same thing is happening in other places, including semiconductors. prgtoken Thirty years ago, China manufactured none of the world's chips, but today it commands nearly a quarter of the global market. And just off the prgtoken coast of mainland China, you will find a global powerhouse when it comes to chip making: Taiwan. Taiwan manufactures 92 percent of the most advanced semiconductors in the world, and given China's aggressive threats against Taiwan, that is a blinking red light. prgtoken But just like the Europeans found that it is going to take a while for them to diversify their energy sources from Russia, it is going to take a while for us to get diversity in sources so that we don't only rely on imported chips from the Far East. For a long time, this has been recognized as a problem and, of course, people said: Well, something needs to be done. But that ``something'' wasn't at the top of everyone's priority list. prgtoken But then, of course, the pandemic hit, as I said, and we found ourselves dependent on everything from masks, or personal protective equipment, which was all made in China, and we couldn't get it when we needed it when the pandemic hit. And now we have become more aware of our vulnerabilities when it comes to these supply chains. prgtoken My constituents in Texas and, I am sure, those in Michigan and New Jersey and elsewhere were shocked to see empty car lots, for example, because of backorders of semiconduc
HONORING JOLENE MOLITORIS
Marcy Kaptur (Democrat, OH) \u2014 2023-3-17

today, I am honoring and celebrating Jolene Molitoris for all her years of dedicated service to improving rail service and safety in Ohio, and across our country, and around the globe. It is important for me to honor Jolene, who I have known for well over 30 years, dating back to her days with the Ohio Rail Transportation Authority. prgtoken As a city planner, I know the importance of transportation and mobility for my constituents prgtoken and all Ohioans. The importance of passenger rail and freight rail cannot be overstated, and I was always happy to work with Jolene on projects that helped Toledo and all of northern Ohio. We bonded over our passion for our shared Polish-American heritage, our commitment to working families, and our deep desire to get projects accomplished that made a difference in the lives of Ohioans. prgtoken One fond memory of Jolene comes to mind, in particular. It was cold and we were working to renovate Toledo's Amtrak station, and to do so required we had to take down a mammoth old dairy building. It was huge. So I called Jolene and I asked her if she'd ever taken down a building? And of course, her answer was no. prgtoken Well, Jolene came to Toledo, rolled up her sleeves, and helped to demolish that building with a giant crane and wrecking ball so we could get the job done. It was an unforgettable experience and something I remember, to this day. If you want someone in your corner to help roll up their sleeves and get the job done, Jolene Molitoris is the woman to call. prgtoken Jolene also went on to shatter many glass ceilings over her storied career. In 1993, President Clinton nominated her to serve as Federal Railroad Administrator, and she became the first woman ever to head that agency. Jolene went on to become the longest serving FRA Administrator in our Nation's history. In 1995, Jolene was recognized by WTS as Woman of the Year, one of many honors and awards bestowed upon her. In 2009, Governor Ted Strickland appointed her as the first woman to lead the Ohio Department of Transportation, and she went on to chair the Ohio Rail Development Commission. prgtoken While rail in Ohio is top of mind for so many in our region and across the nation, after derailments in recent months, it is important to know that there are great minds like Jolene that have long been committed to improving rail safety for America's communities. I want to congratulate Jolene on this special recognition, and I'm honored to be able to share my memories with Jolene during this International Women's History Month of our time working together to move America forward. prgtoken Warmest congratulations to Jolene. Job well done.
TRIBUTE TO FOOTHILL COLLEGE
Anna G. Eshoo (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-3-17

I rise today to honor Foothill College on being named the Best Community College in America by Niche and Stacker. Foothill is located in Los Altos Hills, California, and has been a pioneer in higher education since its founding in 1957. Foothill College democratizes higher education by offering 191 degrees and certificates to students of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. More than 13,000 students are enrolled each quarter across the institution's learning settings, which include online classes, field sites, and its beautiful campus. More than 60 percent of students are minorities, 45 percent of enrollees are 25 years or older, and women represent more than half of those enrolled. prgtoken The values of the College underpin everything it does: honesty, integrity, trust, openness, transparency, forgiveness, sustainability, and excellence. Trust and openness are evident in the sterling review one Junior wrote about Foothill: ``The professors show that they care for their students by being flexible to meet with students one-on-one and they are very big on advocating for diversity within their classrooms [. . .] Most importantly, the professors provide students with the information of almost every resource that is available to us such as tutoring, mental health services, and financial aid resources.'' (Niche) prgtoken Foothill College maintains its excellence by continuously measuring its accessibility, student success, pedagogy, and learning climate. The Financial Aid Office delivers on its mission to make a college education attainable for every student through the Foothill College Promise, two years of free tuition for first-time, full-time students. Student Services creates an inclusive learning community by working with professors to provide personal translation services in 12 languages, including American Sign Language. A survey of recent graduates shows that 85 percent of students who studied Careers in Technical Education got a job in a field similar to their academic focus, and 57 percent of students who entered the work force after community college secured a living wage. Foothill is pushing the boundaries of community college education by offering a bachelor's degree in Dental Hygiene, and a new bachelor's degree in Respiratory Therapy starting in 2024. prgtoken Our Nation's Veterans have made Foothill College their home. Working hand-in-hand with the Veterans Resource Center, servicemembers explore careers and become part of the local community. Many transfer to a 4- year college or begin working, empowered by the tools Foothill College has given them. prgtoken For all these reasons and more, Foothill College has earned the distinction of `The Best Community College in America'. As a graduate of a community college myself, I know how valuable a community college education is. How proud I am that the home of Foothill College is California's 16th Congressional District where it is a jewel in t
TRIBUTE TO THE 2022 ELLIS ISLAND MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENTS
Darin LaHood (Republican, IL) \u2014 2023-3-17

I rise today to congratulate the 2022 recipients of the prestigious Ellis Island Medal of Honor. Presented annually, the Ellis Island Medals of Honor pay tribute to our Nation's immigrant heritage, as well as individual achievement. The Medals are awarded to U.S. citizens from diverse ethnic backgrounds who exemplify outstanding qualities in both their personal and professional lives, while continuing to preserve the richness of their particular heritage and culture. prgtoken Since the Medals' founding, more than 2,500 American citizens have received the Ellis Island Medal of Honor, including seven American Presidents, numerous United States Senators and Congressmen, two Nobel Laureates, and many athletes, artists, clergy, and military leaders. This Medal is not about material success, nor is it about the politics of immigration; it is about the people who have committed themselves to this Nation, embraced the opportunities America offers, and most importantly, who have used those opportunities to not only better their own lives but make a difference in our country and in the lives of its people. prgtoken Citizens of the United States hail from every nation known to man. The iconic metaphor of this Nation as a veritable melting pot of cultures continues to ring true, and it is this diversity that adds to the unique richness of American life. The Ellis Island Medals of Honor not only celebrate select individuals but also the pluralism and democracy that enabled our forbearers to celebrate their cultural identities while still embracing the American way of life. This award serves to remind us all that with hard work and perseverance anyone can still achieve the American dream. In addition, by honoring these remarkable Americans, we honor all who share their origins and we acknowledge the contributions they have made to America. I commend Ellis Island Honors Society and its Board of Directors headed by Chairman Nasser J. Kazeminy, for honoring these truly outstanding individuals for their efforts to promote a sense of common purpose in our nation. prgtoken I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the good works of the Ellis Island Honors Society and in congratulating all of the 2022 recipients of the Ellis Island Medal of Honor. I include in the Record the names of this year's recipients. 2022 Ellis Island Medal of Honor Recipients Pouria Abbassi, Cyrus Ansary, Esq Dr. Brahim Ardolic, Maestro Igor Babailov, Hon. RAA, MFA, KStA, D.Littl, Dr. Robert Bard, Dean John Belcher, Nazanin Boniadi, Honorable Denis Boyle, Ambassador Nancy Brinker, Sarah Beth Brown, Kathy Buckley, Honorable Salud Carbajal, Martino Cartier, Dr. Tom Catena, Lieutenant General Brian Cavanaugh, Rear Admiral Shoshana Chatfield, Bonnie Comley, Chief Robert Contee, Wendy Bingham Cox, Howard Cox, Administrator Deanne Criswell, Eduardo Del Riego, Shahla Ettefagh, J
RECOGNIZING THE LANCASTER HIGH SCHOOL VARSITY BOYS BASKETBALL TEAM'S STATE CHAMPIONSHIP
Robert J. Wittman (Republican, VA) \u2014 2023-3-17

I rise today in recognition of the Lancaster High School varsity boys basketball team's Class 1 State Championship. prgtoken On Friday, March 10, the Red Devil varsity boys basketball team ended their season with a perfect record of 29-0, defeating George Wythe High School 62-40 in a hard-fought championship game. The Red Devils were not only perfect but dominant throughout the entire season, winning every game by double-digits. This championship is the crowning achievement to an incredible season and calls for celebration. prgtoken I would like to recognize Head Coach Dwayne Pinn, who developed the team's winning culture over many years, having coached many of the young men since they were in fourth grade. Next, I would like to recognize the student-athletes: Terrill Diggs, Antavion Thomas, Gerrion Owens, Branndonn Wade, Lamar Mattocks, Tyson Henderson, Darius Smith, Daveon Smith, Kelvin Davis, Sean Thomas, Jeremy Smith, Troy Henderson, Jaquarrias Morris, Tylil Walters, and X'Zaveion Owens. prgtoken And finally, I would like to recognize the assistant coaches: Derrick Henderson, Troy Henderson, Eddie Hall, Jovante Smith, Mark Saunders; the athletic director, Dave Zeiler; the cheerleading advisor, Nikki Kelley; the principal, Mary Catherine Jones; and the superintendent, Jessica Davis. prgtoken , I ask you to join me in recognizing the accomplishments and hard work of the student-athletes, coaches, and volunteers of Lancaster High School's varsity boys basketball program. I look forward to seeing their continued excellence on the court.
HONORING AIYANNA ZAKIA SANDERS--A CELEBRATED SCHOLAR
Sydney Kamlager-Dove (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-3-21

I rise during Women's History Month to celebrate an incredible woman from California's 37th Congressional District, Aiyanna Zakia Sanders. Aiyanna was born in Los Angeles, California, in 1997. In just 25 years she has made incredible strides. In 2015, Aiyanna was an honored graduate from the Los Angeles Center for Enriched Studies High School; In 2019, she graduated from Emory University with a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science and African American Studies. Recently, in 2022, she and her family celebrated her graduation from the prestigious Harvard Law School. prgtoken While pursuing her rigorous education, Aiyanna went the extra mile to serve her community. While at Emory University, she was a member of the local NAACP chapter, the Head Step-Mistress of Ngambika, Co-founder and President of the Black Pre-Law Society, and a member of Black Mental Health Ambassadors. Proudly, Aiyanna also became a member of the illustrious Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. while at Emory. While studying law at Harvard University, Aiyanna was the Secretary of the Black Law Student's Association and an editor of the Black Letter Law Journal. Her many extracurricular activities and roles demonstrate her immense talent and leadership capabilities. prgtoken In addition to her extensive leadership, Aiyanna has earned numerous awards for her commitment to public service. She was awarded the Dr. Herman L. Reese Community Service Award, the Delta Research and Educational Foundation Golden Anniversary Award, and the 2018 NAACP Peoples Award. In 2019 she was honored as a California Change Lawyers Scholar and received the Graduating Woman of Excellence Award. Mr I am honored to recognize the achievements and dedication of this incredible woman. prgtoken Beyond her academics, Aiyanna is a cherished daughter, granddaughter, and friend. Her parents, Mr. Aaron L. and Mrs. Chawn B. Sanders, her grandparents, Mr. Clifton Byron Ray, III and Mrs. Willa Ray, and countless friends and sisters have rooted for her along the way. I stand here today, proud. When we talk about representation, this is what we mean. Aiyanna is a trailblazer, an inspiration, and a role model for many. I thank her for all she has done and look forward to what she will accomplish.
AFFORDABLE CARE ACT
Cory A. Booker (Democrat, NJ) \u2014 2023-3-21

I am grateful to the Presiding Officer for recognizing me. prgtoken I want to say I am excited to be standing up tonight and talking, along with Senator Wyden, Senator Hassan, and we just heard from Senator Casey who is marking this 13th anniversary celebration with extraordinary determination not to see these great programs cut. prgtoken I was not in Congress when the ACA was passed into law. But in an affirmation of that old adage about politics being local, I saw in my local community of Newark, NJ, the powerful difference that the ACA made, the difference that health reform had on my community. prgtoken Folks would come up to me immediately in the months and years afterwards and talk about how they were finally able to get the healthcare that they needed, not only for themselves, but for their loved ones--how they moved from anxiety and fear to security and strength. prgtoken You had folks with preexisting conditions who were discriminated against in the United States of America before the law's passage, but now they had a pathway for quality, affordable healthcare. prgtoken Folks had to choose often between putting food on the table, paying rent, or just visiting a doctor; a choice between buying school supplies and getting their prescription drugs. Choices that, in this Nation--the richest Nation on the planet Earth--are outrageous, unacceptable, and fiscally irresponsible. What I saw as Newark's mayor is that, often, people would let their healthcare needs go until they ended up in the emergency room, which was a cost then borne by them and their family for unnecessary illness, but also to all of us. This should not be the Nation we live in, and we are celebrating the fact that 13 years ago this body made a difference. prgtoken I have seen this passion for the Affordable Care Act echoed in my 9 years as a U.S. Senator. One of my constituents told me, as a registered nurse from New Jersey, she spent her entire professional life caring for patients. Before the ACA, she witnessed those in need delay or simply refuse healthcare until it was too late. Soon, though, she almost became one of those patients herself after she retired and confronted her own health challenges and their accompanying costs. It was only thanks to the Affordable Care Act that she didn't have to resort to emptying her retirement accounts in order to afford the healthcare. She said it best herself: The Affordable Care Act saved my life. prgtoken Another constituent of mine, a recent widow, wrote to me a few years ago. After losing her husband, she relied on the marketplace to get insurance--the Affordable Care Act marketplace. She was diabetic, had preexisting conditions, and told me: I'm afraid of having no coverage. I could lose my home and everything I have saved during my 35-year marriage. prgtoken Now, despite the partisan attacks that you hear against the Affordable Care Act, despite the challeng
ARMS SALES NOTIFICATION
Robert Menendez (Democrat, NJ) \u2014 2023-3-21

section 36(b) of the Arms Export Control Act requires that Congress receive prior notification of certain proposed arms sales as defined by that statute. Upon such notification, the Congress has 30 calendar days during which the sale may be reviewed. The provision stipulates that, in the Senate, the notification of proposed sales shall be sent to the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. prgtoken In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications which have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.
RECOGNIZING THE LATE JAMES ``KUCH'' KUCHWARA FOR HIS SERVICE TO HIS COMMUNITY AND COUNTRY
Matt Cartwright (Democrat, PA) \u2014 2023-3-21

Today I honor the late James ``Kuch'' Kuchwara for his military service and his lifelong service to his fellow veterans as commander of VFW Post 25. Kuch passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, March 4, 2023. prgtoken Kuch, the son of the late John and Rose Kelly Kuchwara, was born and raised in Scranton, Pennsylvania. He graduated from Scranton Technical High School with the Class of 1968. Answering the call of duty to serve his country, Kuch enlisted in the United States Army, serving during the Vietnam War. Following his honorable discharge from the Army, he worked in the construction and contracting industry. For more than 30 years, he was employed as a crew leader for the Pennsylvania American Gas and Water Company. prgtoken He was a proud member and president of the local IBEW Union for UGI and a member of the masonry union. prgtoken Kuch is best known around Scranton as the commander of the General Theodore J. Wint VFW Post 25, one of the oldest VFWs in the country. He led this very active VFW post of more than 500 members in both social, ceremonial and community service endeavors. He has been at the helm of many of the post's initiatives, like hanging hometown heroes banners along streets in North Scranton, recruiting younger veterans to join his post and getting a bridge named for General Wint, a brigadier general and the post's namesake. Kuch and VFW Post 25 have championed one of the City of Scranton's most ambitious veterans' recognition projects, a 7-feet-tall and 33-feet-long granite monument with the names of nearly 1000 Scrantonians who died in battle. prgtoken Kuch has been a long-time dedicated supporter of veterans' issues from all angles. Just last year, he stood by me as I announced the Camp Lejeune Justice Act. Men like Kuch have taught me a great deal about what it means to be an American and a public servant. prgtoken I am humbled to join with Kuch's family and friends, VFW Post 25 and the entire community in honoring the life and service of this American patriot. He leaves behind an indelible legacy and his honor, integrity and steadfast leadership won't soon be forgotten.
INTRODUCTION OF THE SARAH DEBBINK LANGENKAMP ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION SAFETY ACT
Earl Blumenauer (Democrat, OR) \u2014 2023-3-21

more than 40,000 people were killed last year on America's roads. This tragic toll is unacceptable, even more so because every single one of these deaths is preventable. prgtoken Today, I am introducing legislation named for Sarah Debbink Langenkamp, who was killed while bicycling here in the Nation's capital. prgtoken Sarah was a U.S. diplomat whose family had just been evacuated from Kyiv. She was bicycling home from her children's new school in Bethesda on August 25, 2022, when she was struck and crushed by a flatbed truck. prgtoken She was riding in an unprotected bike lane on the shoulder of a five- lane urban highway, a route she was forced to take because it was the only connection between the low-traffic neighborhood street of the elementary school and the multi-use path to her home. While drivers are responsible for operating safely around cyclists and pedestrians, fixing gaps in infrastructure presents opportunities to build safe systems that could have protected Sarah. prgtoken Disconnected and incomplete networks are unfortunately common features of bicyclist and pedestrian infrastructure in the United States. prgtoken These gaps in infrastructure present serious dangers. Deaths and injuries of pedestrians and bicyclists have grown dramatically in recent years, rising to the highest levels in decades, and now make up 20 percent of traffic deaths. This legislation encourages the construction of complete active transportation networks, separated from vehicle roadways, which will contribute to safer trips and fewer deaths on our roads. prgtoken I look forward to working my colleagues in the House and Senate to pass this legislation in memory of Sarah and every other person killed on our Nation's roads.