mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE ACTING CHAIR
Warren Davidson (Republican, OH) \u2014 2023-7-13

. Mr. Chair, I must say that I consider the opposition to this amendment, which no one raised an objection to the actual amendment that I am offering, dilatory. I think it could be objected to by the Chair and gaveled down, and we could just call the question, unless they are actually opposed to the amendment. prgtoken They are debating something that my amendment doesn't do. It simply requires a study on the results of COVID-19. It doesn't say what the outcome has to be. It just says to study it, to come back to us and tell us: How did it turn out for the people who got vaccinated? Do they have any other health problems? Do they have better health? What is the outcome as a result of these folks being vaccinated? prgtoken I just want a study of the vaccinated population. It is a very simple amendment. We are considering hundreds of amendments, so if the other side is simply looking for a way to filibuster and delay, I would appreciate them not doing it on this amendment and staying to the rules of the House. If they have an objection, then state it, but they object to something else and are using the time inappropriately in my consideration. prgtoken I ask for the consideration of the Chair. prgtoken Mr. Chair, .
OVERSIGHT OF HUNTER BIDEN
John W. Rose (Republican, TN) \u2014 2023-7-13

``What did the President know and when did he know it?'' prgtoken That famous question was from former Tennessee Senator Howard Baker, and it is as important today as it was during the Watergate investigation. This time, the question is: What did the former Vice President and now-President know and when did he know it? prgtoken As House s continue to dig into Hunter 's foreign business dealings, it is becoming more apparent that President not only likely knew about these corrupt exchanges but he may have even been in the room for some of them. prgtoken s have proven tens of millions of dollars were funneled to the family from foreign nationals. s have also uncovered an effort by his administration to cover up Hunter 's Federal crimes and his father's involvement while they continued targeting his top political opponent. prgtoken The American people deserve answers, and we are committed to finding them.
ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS
John Boozman (Republican, AR) \u2014 2023-7-13

I rise today to honor Shannon Newton on 20 years of dedicated service to the Arkansas Trucking Association. Shannon began her career with ATA working with the organization's self-insurers' fund after starting in the trucking industry at Maverick Transportation in North Little Rock. She quickly advanced within ATA after demonstrating her talents and skills to support and enhance the trucking industry. Since 2014, Shannon has served as president of ATA. Under her leadership, the organization has been tremendously strengthened and serves as a professional, organized, and effective advocate for Natural State truckers. prgtoken The work Shannon has done on behalf of Arkansas trucking is remarkable. Her leadership in such a critical industry has received national recognition. Shannon was awarded the Mike Russel Trucking Image Award from the American Trucking Association in 2017 and received the American Trucking Associations' President's Trucking Association Executives Council Leadership Award in 2018. The trucking industry in Arkansas has benefited from Shannon's guidance and steady hand. She has worked tirelessly to build coalitions, create relationships and ensure pro-safety, pro-trucking policies are enacted at the State and national levels. prgtoken I have worked closely with Shannon during her tenure at ATA and have always been impressed by her passion and dedication in service to the men, women, and industry suppliers who help keep our country moving. I look forward to many more years of partnering to champion policies and reforms that will improve the trucking industry in Arkansas and across our country.
Criminal Justice System (Executive Session)
Mitch McConnell (Republican, KY) \u2014 2023-7-13

across the country, surges in violent crime and deadly drugs have forced businesses to board up and working Americans to think twice about the cities where they have chosen to raise their families. prgtoken While repeat offenders are increasingly turned loose to run up longer rap sheets, victims of senseless violence are usually guilty of nothing more than being in the wrong place at the wrong time. For example, just days ago, I was reminded of this when a 6-year-old girl in my hometown of Louisville was shot by a group of motorcycle thugs while riding in the back seat of her car. While she remains in critical but stable condition, I join the entire Louisville community in wishing her a full recovery. prgtoken Tragedies like this are unfortunately not unique to Kentucky. In our Nation's Capital, crime has surged to startling levels. Compared to last year, car thefts have shot up 117 percent, robberies are up 53 percent, and homicides are up 17 percent. prgtoken Just last week, a social studies teacher from Kentucky who was visiting Washington for a conference was fatally shot on a university campus. The assailant had a previous firearm charge and repeatedly violated the terms of his release. This young man from my home State was one of 10 people who were shot and killed in Washington during the first 5 days of this month, including a college student and an Afghan immigrant who had risked his life as an interpreter for the U.S. military. prgtoken Too many Americans are mourning loved ones, and in cities across their country, when they look for answers to this senseless violence, they find radical prosecutors refusing to do their jobs. Liberal district attorneys are watering down criminal codes and outright refusing to prosecute repeat offenders who ought to be behind bars. prgtoken Earlier this year, the liberal DC Council tried to pass a new criminal code that would make it easier for repeat offenders to get back on the street. Thankfully, s used prgtoken Congress's jurisdiction over our Nation's Capital and blocked this nonsense. But at every level of government, continue to turn a blind eye. prgtoken Keeping our communities safe is a fundamental governing responsibility. The American people deserve to feel safe in their own streets.
ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE ACTING CHAIR
Elijah Crane (Republican, AZ) \u2014 2023-7-13

today, I rise before you with a critical amendment that remedies the harm imposed by political and military leaders who emphasize social justice, progressive dogma, and climate issues against the dedicated men and women of our Armed Forces, who joined to defend our country. prgtoken My amendment specifically prohibits DOD from considering race, gender, religion, or political affiliations, or any other ideological concepts as the sole basis for recruitment, training, education, promotion, or retention decisions. prgtoken Mr. Chair, .
TRIBUTE TO MITCH AND LILLY ZIMMERMAN
John Barrasso (Republican, WY) \u2014 2023-7-13

I rise today in celebration of Mitch and Lilly Zimmerman, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming's 2023 honorees. prgtoken The Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming began in 1969 as an organization to promote character development in young boys. Today, both boys and girls participate in the clubs to develop leadership skills and athletic abilities. They learn about a healthy lifestyle while focusing on character development and personal growth. prgtoken The mission of the club is to ``enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.'' The hundreds of adult mentors and volunteers who dedicate their time and passion make the success of this organization possible. Each year, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming honors one or more individuals for their nonstop support and guidance of Wyoming's youth. prgtoken On the morning of September 13, 2023, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming will host their 25th annual awards and recognition breakfast in Casper. They will honor Mitch and Lilly Zimmerman for their resolute dedication to Casper's youth. The Zimmermans' reputable character and commitment to Wyoming's youth is commendable. With this award, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming affirms their appreciation for these community leaders. prgtoken Raised in Wyoming, Mitch and Lilly graduated from Natrona County High School. They married shortly after Mitch's graduation from college. Their Wyoming roots continued to grow. They both started their own businesses in Casper and engaged in charitable outreach. Mitch's entrepreneurial journey began in 1996 when he opened Computer Associates, a system network integration and software design company that still operates in Casper today. His devotion to bettering the community does not stop there. Mitch has served on the board of directors, including president, for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming for 20 years. In addition, he has coached youth swimming and soccer for over 20 years. Lilly serves as the director of advancement at the True Care Women's Resource Center. She coordinates fundraisers and oversees the organization's volunteers. Prior to serving at True Care, Lilly owned a children's clothing store. Along with serving the women of the community, Lilly dedicates her time helping youth. She served on the board of directors, including president, for the Youth for Christ Organization for over 10 years. She has gone on several international mission trips. The Zimmermans raised two sons in Casper, Collin and Austin. Collin, married to Taryn, has two children, Beau and Emory. prgtoken Mitch and Lilly's community service and business ventures are guided by one important question they ask themselves every day, ``How can I be a servant and a role model today?'' It is with that commitment that they have touched the lives of so many childr
VOTE EXPLANATION
Josh Hawley (Republican, MO) \u2014 2023-7-13

had I been there for the recorded vote, I would have voted no on the confirmation of Executive Calendar No. 114, Kalpana Kotagal, of Ohio, to be a Member of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission for a term expiring July 1, 2027; the motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar No. 141, David M. Uhlmann, of Michigan, to be an Assistant Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency; and the motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar No. 21, Rachel Bloomekatz, of Ohio, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Sixth Circuit.
CONGRATULATING BRYAN HEALTH
Mike Flood (Republican, NE) \u2014 2023-7-13

I rise today to congratulate Bryan Health on being named one of America's most trustworthy companies by Newsweek. prgtoken Bryan Health is a pillar of Nebraska healthcare, notably serving Lincoln and many communities around the State with locations in 45 of our State's 93 counties. Bryan cares for over 2,100 trauma patients a year. prgtoken Their work is helping grow Nebraska by ushering in the next generation. The Bryan Family Birthplace delivered more than 3,000 babies in 2022, including 58 sets of twins and three sets of triplets. prgtoken Now they are plowing new territory in behavioral healthcare. They report they are the first medical center in the Nation to have a designated behavioral health emergency department. prgtoken Bryan Health isn't just a business. They are a key community stakeholder, giving back more than $200 million of charity care last year. prgtoken On behalf of the people of Nebraska's First Congressional District, I extend our sincere congratulations to the team at Bryan Health. I thank them, and they should keep up the great work. Columbus Community Building
Southern Border (Executive Calendar)
John Cornyn (Republican, TX) \u2014 2023-7-13

under President 's leadership, the United States has shattered virtually every record in the book when it comes to uncontrolled illegal migration flows across the border. We have seen new records in border crossings in a single month, a single year, and in a single day, all on President 's watch. prgtoken The busiest day on record came 2 months ago, just before title 42, the public health title that was imposed as a result of the pandemic-- the busiest day came just 2 months ago, just before that title was lifted or expired, when Border Patrol apprehended 10,300 migrants a day. prgtoken The pace of migration exceeded anything we have ever experienced under previous Presidents, and of course law enforcement, not knowing exactly what would happen once title 42 expired, braced for the worst. prgtoken Federal officials and immigration experts predicted an increase in border crossings when it was lifted. At one point, even the President's Department of Homeland Security said we could expect up to 18,000 migrants a day. Just to remind you, at its height, it was 10,300, but even President 's Department of Homeland Security said that could go to 18,000 now that title 42 went away. prgtoken It is not as if the President and Homeland Security don't have the tools necessary to control illegal immigration, but they simply lack the will to do so. prgtoken Fortunately, that surge that could have happened didn't happen, and we are left with a lot of opinions and guesses as to why that is true. One possibility is the drop could be seasonal. It is really hot in Texas and along that border triple-digit numbers and traveling across the open range of South Texas can be downright dangerous. If you have gone to the border crossing or Border Patrol in Falfurrias in Brooks County, which is just about 70 miles from the border, where the coyotes--the smugglers--will tell the migrants to get out of the vehicle, give them a jug of water and maybe a PowerBar, and they will say: You can walk around the border checkpoint, and we will catch you on the north side. prgtoken Unfortunately, as the cemetery in Brooks County will attest, many of those migrants don't make it because they simply die from exposure to the elements, particularly after experiencing a long trek from their homes. prgtoken So we don't know, due to the hot weather, whether in the fall and in the spring these numbers will jack back up again. So the lull could be temporary. Migrants may be waiting to see how some of the cases are handled under President 's new border policies now that title 42 is gone. prgtoken Plus, we have to recall that we are dealing with very shrewd and smart operators in the criminal cartels. They understand that a massive flood of migrants may well finally trigger some reaction from the administration and authorities, and they may be just metering the flow of migrants across the border so as to not attract undue attentio
ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE ACTING CHAIR
Michael Waltz (Republican, FL) \u2014 2023-7-13

I rise today in support of my amendment to allow the Department of Defense excess property 1033 program to be administered as intended by Congress to assist State and local law enforcement agencies. prgtoken For more than 25 years, this program has often allowed cash-strapped local law enforcement jurisdictions to get the equipment they need to help our communities stay safe at a low cost. I am proud this amendment is supported by the National Association of Police Organizations, the National Sheriffs' Association, and the Florida Police Benevolent Association. prgtoken Through the 1033 program, the Defense Logistics Agency transfers unneeded excess military property to State, local, and Tribal law enforcement agencies. This property ranges from helicopters and vehicles to computers and medical supplies. This program has been crucial in allowing State and local law enforcement to acquire items needed for search and rescue operations, disaster response, active- shooter situations, and other situations with equipment they otherwise could not afford. prgtoken The 1033 program is not militarization of the police but an important tool in protecting our communities. prgtoken Last May, President issued an executive order titled: ``Advancing Effective, Accountable Policing and Criminal Justice Practices to Enhance Public Trust and Public Safety.'' prgtoken Despite what its title indicates, this executive order actually jeopardizes our public safety by effectively eliminating law enforcement's access to this vital surplus equipment. The EO institutes onerous reporting requirements and gives President 's politicized Department of Justice veto power over lawful transfers of equipment. prgtoken This effort is a continuation of the administration's policies that discount the critical needs of police officers in the interests of political optics, often for the far left's defund the police movement. prgtoken This amendment is simple. It rolls back this misguided EO. It requires the Secretary of Defense to make all excess equipment meeting the definition of controlled property available for transfer through the 1033 program. prgtoken This is important. Congress has prohibited the transfer of bayonets, grenades, weaponized tracked combat vehicles, and weaponized drones under the program. President , however, overruled congressional intent by implementing this executive order unilaterally barring additional items from the 1033 program. prgtoken The program was authorized by Congress to keep our communities safe from violent criminals and help local law enforcement respond to natural disasters. Contrary to the narrative on the other side of the aisle, access to this equipment is vital to these law enforcement agencies' ability to protect our communities. There are countless examples in which this now-prohibited equipment proved vital for law enforcement. prgtoken Our State and local law enforcement
SPOTLIGHTING LIEUTENANT COLONEL JAMES BOND
Donald G. Davis (Democrat, NC) \u2014 2023-7-14

I rise to spotlight James Bond, a native of Halifax County and the first African American from the North Carolina Army National Guard Aviation Branch to become a lieutenant colonel. prgtoken Lieutenant Colonel Bond has held many assignments in aviation, including two company commands, and was selected as the battalion commander of the 130th Attack Battalion. prgtoken Lieutenant Colonel Bond is a graduate of Halifax County Community College and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he was commissioned through the Reserves Officers Training Corps and Branched Aviation. prgtoken He understands the next generation of eastern North Carolinians must get involved to achieve the American Dream, particularly through public service. prgtoken , Lieutenant Colonel Bond's service to our country and dedication to the next generation does not go unnoticed. We salute him for his continued loyalty and commitment to the American people.
CELEBRATING FRANCISCO SANDOVAL
J. Luis Correa (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-7-14

today I rise to celebrate the service of Francisco Sandoval, a Fullerton educator honored as one of Orange County's Teachers of the Year. prgtoken Francisco began teaching at the Orangethorpe Elementary School over 10 years ago, where his students have ranged from kindergarten through sixth grade. He teaches with the belief that each and every student has their own set of strengths and the ability to succeed. prgtoken For Francisco, he is both an educator and caregiver for each and every one of his students. He begins every day by checking with his students on a one-to-one basis to ensure that they are doing well both in school and at home. prgtoken , I thank Francisco for the job he's done for each and every one of our students and for our community as a whole. We congratulate Francisco on being named as one of Orange County's Teachers of the Year.
NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024
Marilyn Strickland (Democrat, WA) \u2014 2023-7-14

. Mr. Chair, the balance of my time. prgtoken Mr. Chair, today's military leaders are unequivocal in their support of diversity and leadership. Joint Chiefs Chairman Milley considers it fundamental. Army Chief McConville calls it a crucial competitive advantage. Then-Air Force Chief CQ Brown called diversity an imperative. Marine Corps Commandant Berger said the core of America's strength lies in its diversity. prgtoken The very government assembled here today, in its amicus brief to the Supreme Court, characterized a diverse pool of academy graduates as a vital interest on which the Nation's future depends. prgtoken The American people expect and demand that our academies are given every tool and advantage to train leaders capable of fighting and winning our Nation's wars. Make no mistake, diversity is not synonymous with less qualified. We want the best. We want the brightest. We need the most diverse. prgtoken This amendment attempts to weaken a concept foundational to our current and future military supremacy, that diversity translates into capability and lethality. prgtoken Mr. Chair, .
CONGRATULATING DANCE CITY
Ilhan Omar (Democrat, MN) \u2014 2023-7-14

I rise today to celebrate the exceptional achievement of Dance City, a local dance team based in north Minneapolis, for their remarkable victory at Starpower National Talent Competition. prgtoken The dedication, talent, and hard work demonstrated by the members of Dance City have propelled them to extraordinary success on the national stage, winning them first place in hip-hop, and first overall. prgtoken Faced with competition from over 100 teams around the country, the Dance City girls rallied to the challenge and emerged with their well- deserved victory. prgtoken The director and coach of Dance City, Cierra Burnaugh, created her studio to serve young Black girls in the Minneapolis community. May their success continue to illuminate the path for future generations of dancers. I could not be happier to have Minneapolis represented by these bright young women.
NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2024
John Garamendi (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-7-14

. Mr. Chair, I am actually quite amazed that we are allowing a political ideology to get in the way of reality and facts. prgtoken The fact of the matter is that the U.S. military, more than a decade ago, noticed that the climate was changing and they needed to address it. Also, the fact is that the largest solar and wind energy systems in the Nation are in Texas, and Texas is dependent upon those for their power when a heat wave arrives. prgtoken Let's be smart here. Let's not let ideology and the fact that we want to get into a fight over climate change get in the way of good public policy. It is absolutely essential that the military build for the future, that they build for resiliency.
PREVENTATIVE CANCER SCREENINGS SAVE LIVES
Donald M. Payne, Jr. (Democrat, NJ) \u2014 2023-7-14

I rise today to discuss the importance of preventive cancer care, especially colorectal cancer. prgtoken Colorectal cancer is one of the deadliest cancers, but it has one of the highest survival rates if detected and treated early. Too many Americans put off routine screenings and colonoscopies because they worry about coverage. prgtoken Now, UnitedHealthcare has made the disastrous decision to require patients to get prior authorization before they get colonoscopies. Their new policy comes at a time when colorectal cancer rates are rising nationwide, particularly in young Americans. prgtoken This policy encourages more Americans not to get screenings and colonoscopies, and it will cause curable cancer issues to become life- threatening ones. prgtoken I lost my father, Congressman Donald Payne, Sr to colorectal cancer in 2012. I do not want other families to lose their fathers and loved ones from a lack of preventive cancer care.