mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
LEGISLATIVE SESSION
Chuck Grassley (Republican, IA) \u2014 2021-5-18

on May 7, we learned of a cyber attack on the Colonial Pipeline. This resulted in gas shortages and lines across the east coast. You see it on television every day. prgtoken During a news conference, Energy Secretary Granholm said: ``Pipelines are the best way to transport fuel.'' This is certainly a fact. Pipelines are much safer than transporting oil by rail or truck. Iowa has over 40,000 miles of pipeline which go largely unnoticed but play a large role in providing our Nation's transportation fuel. prgtoken It is not lost on millions of Americans that this statement from the Energy Secretary comes from the same administration that, on day one, January 20, shut down the Keystone Pipeline. On day one, January 20, this administration cut 10,000 jobs. Remember, they ran on a platform of creating jobs. This has already resulted in rising gas prices like we are seeing across the country. In fact, gas prices will soon be more expensive than at any time since the administration. prgtoken This cyber attack on Colonial showed America just how critical pipeline infrastructure is for transportation and how that affects national security. For an administration that is stressing infrastructure, maybe they should take a second look at the decision on January 20 to shut down the Keystone XL Pipeline. I shudder to think that if the Colonial Pipeline were attempting to get a permit today, this administration might not even allow the construction. prgtoken The United States should be encouraging private infrastructure investment, not getting in the way of progress that investment would bring. As long as our country is still relying on oil to fill our gas tanks, we need to have the infrastructure and security in place so that what happened last week never happens again. prgtoken When there is a shortage of oil, then biofuels can be an easy substitute that can be subbed in, but again, government redtape is getting in the way. The Environmental Protection Agency should quickly finalize a rule to broaden the availability of existing infrastructure for use with E15 ethanol and related labeling requirements. This would allow more gas stations to use their current tanks for E15. prgtoken We need a balanced approach, and biofuels such as ethanol and biodiesel can help achieve greenhouse gas reductions and strengthen our national security, keeping gas prices in check and helping agriculture of America at the same time. Presidential Power prgtoken , on another matter, I have heard from a large number of Iowans convinced that our Republic is effectively lost with the election of President . This seems to be like the Flight 93 election theory in the 2016 election, where some conservatives felt that, if Clinton won, the country would prgtoken be lost for good. So, like the Flight 93 passengers who rushed the cockpit in a last-ditch attempt to avert a catastrophic outcome th
ENDLESS FRONTIER ACT--MOTION TO PROCEED--Continued
Mike Lee (Republican, UT) \u2014 2021-5-18

I rise today to oppose the nomination of Kristen Clarke to be the Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division. prgtoken As I have said multiple times, I am not here to call into question Ms. Clarke's motives, nor am I here to call into question whether she is a good person. In fact, I am willing to assume and even concede, for purposes of our conversation today, that she is a good person and that her motives are good. It is not my job as a Member of the Senate to go beyond that, but I do have some very serious concerns reflected in prgtoken Ms. Clark's record, concerns that, regrettably, she has failed to rebut. prgtoken First, given the importance of the Civil Rights Division to the enforcement of our Nation's anti-discrimination laws, I am concerned about past instances in which she has publicly pushed the Department of Justice to not pursue egregious instances of voter intimidation. prgtoken Ms. Clarke criticized the Department of Justice's decision to prosecute Ike Brown for voter intimidation and suppression. As a reminder, in that case, the case involving Ike Brown, a Mississippi ic official engaged in rampant vote manipulation and absentee ballot fraud. prgtoken Rather than praising the Justice Department's successful prosecution of the case, she criticized the decision, stating that some of the claims were ``weak.'' When asked point-blank whether she agreed with DOJ's decision to prosecute two members of the New Black Panther Party who, by the way, showed up to a polling place wielding a billy club, she demurred, saying: I believe the leadership of the Justice Department had the prerogative to bring the cases that it deemed appropriate to bring. prgtoken Well, that is a completely nonresponsive answer. It is a little like saying Congress has the prerogative to pass the legislation that it deems appropriate to pass. prgtoken In short, Ms. Clarke was unwilling to decry outrageous voter suppression and intimidation when were implicated. She showed no corresponding hesitancy in challenging commonsense election security laws, like voter identification requirements, passed by State legislatures. prgtoken Indeed, she has frequently challenged State election laws attempting to paint ballot security measures as categorically racially discriminatory, which raises the question: Does Ms. Clarke, in fact, oppose all voter intimidation or just voter intimidation against certain groups? When the position the nominee is applying for involves being the head of the Civil Rights Division at the U.S. Department of Justice--the very division that is responsible for overseeing voter rights laws--that is not a question that you want to have to ask. prgtoken Second, Ms. Clarke has shown a troubling disregard toward certain constitutional rights. A few years ago, she decried the administration's creation of a Religious Liberty Task Force, saying t
COVID-19 EMERGENCY MEDICAL SUPPLIES ENHANCEMENT ACT OF 2021
J. French Hill (Republican, AR) \u2014 2021-5-18

such time as I may consume. prgtoken , I rise in support of H.R. 3125, sponsored by my friend from California (Mr. Vargas). prgtoken His legislation would help strengthen the oversight over this issue that we are discussing today of using the Defense Production Act's authorities during this COVID-19 pandemic. It also would help streamline the use of those authorities so that we ensure that the Federal Government's response is coordinated effectively with State-led efforts. prgtoken I was proud to cosponsor this bill with my friend from California. I think every Member of this House recognized that coordination challenge during the emergency, and it was challenging in some of our States to see surplus of supply in some States and not in others. prgtoken So Mr. Vargas has attempted to focus in during the pandemic on enhancing that coordination when we are prgtoken using the DPA. That coordination effort would work with private suppliers of medical items for more efficient and essential consideration when the U.S. is facing this kind of a public health emergency. prgtoken Although the U.S. appears to be exiting the pandemic now, DPA authorities are still in use to address our critical medical needs. We must be especially vigilant as the coronavirus continues to wreak havoc abroad, giving rise to potential new variants that the medical community will have to monitor closely. prgtoken Of course, we are all now far more sensitized to the pandemic risks that may arise with little notice in the future. Mr. Vargas' legislation provides a blueprint for deploying the DPA more rapidly should we face a public health emergency in the years ahead, all while allowing for appropriate, active congressional oversight. prgtoken I am happy to cosponsor my friend's legislation. I appreciate the bipartisan work that we have shared undertaking this item in the House Financial Services Committee. prgtoken , .
TRIBUTE TO LIEUTENANT COLONEL ANTHONY V. SANTINO
Joni Ernst (Republican, IA) \u2014 2021-5-18

I rise today to honor a great American and an exceptional member of the United States Air Force. On this occasion, I believe it is fitting to recognize Lt. Col. Anthony ``Tony'' Santino's distinguished service and dedication to fostering the relationship between the U.S. Air Force and this Chamber. prgtoken Lieutenant Colonel Santino has distinguished himself through his professional character and leadership by serving this Nation in uniform. A leader and expert communicator, he has provided exemplary service to our country while assigned to the Air Force Senate Liaison Office. Tony is a senior missileer, operating at the highest levels of America's nuclear enterprise, ensuring the United States and its allies are strategically prepared to defend this great nation from external threats. prgtoken Prior to his current assignment, Tony had the privilege of being an Air Force fellow for Representative Liz . In addition to his numerous and impressive professional accomplishments, it is worth noting he flawlessly balanced his duties, evidenced by his ability to allocate personal time to selflessly volunteer as local neighborhood math tutor, where Tony's enthusiastic service empowered DC youth and inspired community partnership. His passion for not only the organization he works for but also the community in which he resides is unrivaled. prgtoken As a legislative liaison in the Air Force Senate Liaison Office from November 2019 to May 2021, Lieutenant Colonel Santino expertly performed his duties without reservation. His strategic thinking and strategic foresight helped to strengthen and improve our national security. Tony accomplished this by utilizing his in depth Air Force knowledge with numerous engagements between Congress and the Department of the Air Force. During this assignment, Tony conducted congressional engagements to provide Members of Congress and staff insights into the Air Force we need and Air Force required to support the national defense strategy. Tony transformed congressional engagement norms amidst coronavirus limitations, leading more than 40 remote and virtual engagements between Air Force senior leaders and U.S. Senators, exponentially increasing trust and mutual understanding. prgtoken Tony's innovative efforts and trusted credibility on Capitol Hill enabled the passage of foundational legislation in support of Air Force priorities, securing more than $170 billion in annual requirements and directly contributing to the stand-up of the United States Space Force. All of these conversations and engagements helped stakeholders understand the defense equities and impact on national security. Tony remained engaged with Members of Congress to ensure all were informed, advised, and educated on initiatives important to the Air Force and the citizens of this great country. Due to his direct involvement and stewardship, Members of Congress were able to make informed decisio
HONORING MARY ALICE WORKMAN
Rodney Davis (Republican, IL) \u2014 2021-5-18

I rise today to honor my wife's grandmother, Mary Alice Workman, who, sadly, passed away in late January at the age of 98. prgtoken Mary Alice was born in Decatur. She married her husband, Richard, in 1941. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Assumption, Illinois. prgtoken Mary Alice will be remembered for her kindheartedness, for the love of her large family, and for living life to the fullest. prgtoken Mary Alice is now resting peacefully with her husband, Richard; and her favorite dog, Leo. prgtoken It is a sad loss for our family and everyone who had the pleasure of getting to know her. It is always difficult saying good-bye to someone we love and appreciate, especially when you couldn't see them in person before they passed. prgtoken Shannon, Toryn, Griffin, Clark, and I send our thoughts and prayers to her children, Kenneth, Kathleen, and Nancy; and their families; and her other grandchildren, Randy, Kelly, Curt, Ric; and the rest of her great-grandchildren, Trenee, Ryan, Ross, Connor, Sydney, Grace, and Payton. prgtoken Mary Alice, may you rest in peace. Honoring Trevor Herderhorst
HONORING FIREFIGHTER JEFF KALP
John Joyce (Republican, PA) \u2014 2021-5-18

. Madam , I rise today to recognize Firefighter Jeff Kalp for his 16 years of service with the Meyersdale Volunteer Fire Department in Somerset County, Pennsylvania. prgtoken Firefighters' commitment and service to our community are invaluable. Volunteer firefighters often are called on to respond to emergencies of all types. From battling structure fires to conducting search and rescue operations, volunteer firefighters respond immediately whenever disaster strikes. These heroes often go above and beyond--they teach first aid, educate students about fire and other dangerous hazards, and even install car safety seats for children. Through their diverse and often-difficult work, volunteer firefighters provide lifesaving services and are a staple of our local community. prgtoken Firefighter Kalp has worked throughout his career to serve the people of Somerset County. On behalf of Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District, I thank him for his work to protect life and property in our community and wish him continued health, safety, and success.
ENDLESS FRONTIER ACT--MOTION TO PROCEED--Continued
Rob Portman (Republican, OH) \u2014 2021-5-18

I am here on the floor this afternoon to talk about the economy, how to get it on the right track and particularly how to deal with the jobs crisis we face right now. It is a different kind of crisis than we normally talk about. There are a lot of jobs open, and the workers who are needed are not coming forward. Washington needs to change direction to get the economy on the right track. prgtoken Current law provides that at least until Labor Day--that is in September of this year--there will be a Federal supplemental payment of $300 per week added to the State unemployment benefit. So if somebody is on unemployment insurance, they will get their normal State benefit, which in Ohio is about half of whatever your income was, but on top of that, now there is a $300 Federal supplement. It was put in place during COVID-19, but it continues until at least September. prgtoken By doing so, adding that $300, it nearly doubles the unemployment insurance benefit, on average. It also results in about 42 percent of those people who are on unemployment insurance making more on UI than they were making at work. It has the effect of, in most States, more than doubling the amount of unemployment insurance, and it also doubles the minimum wage. So you can imagine why this is a disincentive for some people to go back to work, if they can make more not working. prgtoken On top of that, here in Congress, during the COVID legislation, added another benefit to people on unemployment insurance compared to people who are working, and that is to say that your first $10,000 of unemployment insurance is tax-free. So if you are a truckdriver making 35,000, 40,000 bucks a year, you don't get that tax benefit, but if you are on unemployment insurance, you do get that benefit--again, another disincentive to go back to work. prgtoken People are logical. If the government is going to pay you more not to work than to work, it creates a problem. And you can see that problem. We have a record number of job openings right now; 8.1 million jobs are open in America today. prgtoken The economic recovery we all are looking forward to is being hampered by what? A lack of workers. If you go down your Main Street wherever you live, you will see the ``help wanted'' signs up. If you go by your restaurants, you will see, instead of the marquees saying ``Come and check out our great apple pie or our hamburgers,'' they say ``We are paying signing bonuses''--$500, $250. I went by a Frisch's Big Boy on the way to the airport on Monday, and that is what I saw--McDonald's offering a $500 bonus. prgtoken There are manufacturers I know in the State of Ohio I represent offering much more in terms of signing bonuses. I talked to a woman last week, who is a friend of mine, who runs a manufacturing company, a great little company, which has about 200, 250 employees. She is looking for 60 people right now. She is offering a $1,000 signing bonus
IDAHO GOLD STAR FAMILIES MEMORIAL MONUMENT
Mike Crapo (Republican, ID) \u2014 2021-5-18

along with my colleagues Senator Jim Risch and Representative Mike Simpson, I congratulate all those who worked on the completion of the Idaho Gold Star Memorial Monument to honor Idaho's fallen servicemembers and commemorate the enormous cost of our freedoms shouldered by their families. prgtoken We commend the members of the Idaho Gold Star Families Memorial Monument Committee on their work to see this project through to completion. Bringing together the partners, volunteers, and many supporters to make the monument happen was no small undertaking. We extend a special thank you to the committee's chairperson, Gold Star mother Rebecca Webb, for leading the establishment of the memorial. You have turned your profound sorrow for the loss of your son, MSG Christopher Webb, and the grief of all Gold Star Families, into a profound tribute to the great strength and devotion of our Nation's servicemembers and their families.
TRIBUTE TO MAJOR AIMEE A. MACK
James M. Inhofe (Republican, OK) \u2014 2021-5-18

I am pleased to recognize MAJ Aimee A. Mack, U.S. Army, on the conclusion of her current assignment. Since May 2020, Major Mack has served with great distinction as the legislative liaison for the Countermeasures Acceleration Group, which was previously known as Operation Warp Speed. Throughout the development, production, and distribution of the various coronavirus vaccines, Major Mack has been an outstanding source of information for my staff and me, helping us understand a fast-moving and game-changing program that is saving millions of American lives. prgtoken I think we all need to pause and marvel at the miracle that Operation Warp Speed fostered. Today, based on the successful foundational work of Operation Warp Speed, it is extremely easy for any eligible American to receive a coronavirus vaccine. So it might be hard to remember just how far-fetched that objective seemed when Operation Warp Speed was launched during the height of the pandemic, approximately 1 year ago. At the time, many in the mainstream media doubted that a coronavirus vaccine could be produced so quickly. President 's plan to make a coronavirus vaccine available by the end of 2020 was repeatedly ``fact checked,'' and leading political and medical figures viewed the program as either a low-odds gamble or a political stunt. prgtoken This was the very difficult information environment that Major Mack confronted when she was appointed as Operation Warp Speed's legislative liaison in May 2020, but she was uniquely suited for the assignment. Like all of the best legislative liaisons, Major Mack had the confidence of her commanding officer, GEN Gustave A. Perna, and was meticulous in her provision of precise, detailed information to Congress. She is also a Nurse Corps officer, and her medical knowledge made her an exceptional asset to Members of Congress and their staffs, particularly when it came to explaining the program's revolutionary scientific and medical testing decisions, which were vital to finding, testing, and receiving emergency approval for three vaccines in record time. In this sense, Major Mack was not merely a source of information but of education. Thanks to her efforts, when the first coronavirus vaccines were administered in December 2020, there was broad, bipartisan congressional confidence in the vaccines' safety and efficacy because she taught our staffs and us what we needed to know. prgtoken In the months that followed, as attention shifted from the development of the vaccines to their production and delivery, Major Mack continued to provide regular and detailed updates for Members and staff. Again, I think we need to admire Operation Warp Speed's achievement here: For the first time in history, vaccines are effectively going from conveyor belts to arms within days. Major Mack's deep knowledge of the process and her outstanding work in sharing it with us bolstered congressional confidence in
LEGISLATIVE SESSION
John Thune (Republican, SD) \u2014 2021-5-18

Ronald Reagan once said that the nine most terrifying words in the English language are ``I'm from the government, and I'm here to help.'' prgtoken He was partially joking, of course, but what he was getting at is that government is not always the solution, and the government can sometimes do more harm than good, and we are definitely seeing some evidence of that right now. prgtoken On May 7, the Bureau of Labor Statistics released the April jobs report. With businesses desperate to hire and vaccinations increasing daily, the report was expected to be big, with a good chance that a million or more workers would be hired. prgtoken But that is not what happened. Just 266,000 workers were hired, despite the fact that there were 8.1 million job openings as of the end of March, and the unemployment rate ticked up. prgtoken That is right. Despite the fact that businesses are desperate to hire workers, the unemployment rate actually increased, and it turns out that we don't have to look far for one of the reasons--' massive, partisan spending bill, which, among others things, extended the expanded unemployment benefits to September of this year, to the point where many workers are making more staying home than they would be going back to work. prgtoken Increasing unemployment benefits was the right thing to do early in the pandemic. Businesses were closed, workers were being forced to say home, and the landscape was bleak. But even last year it became clear that our economy was starting to rebound. prgtoken That didn't mean it was time to eliminate all government help, but it did mean that we needed to calibrate the help to actual need. prgtoken But consistently rejected that line of thinking, and despite the fact that we had passed our fifth bipartisan COVID relief bill in December--bringing the total amount of COVID funding the Federal Government had provided to $4 trillion--weeks later, announced that we needed another massive COVID relief bill. prgtoken s tried to suggest that maybe we should keep it carefully targeted to meet remaining needs without wasting taxpayer dollars or running the risk of overstimulating the economy and driving up inflation, but were having none of that. This was urgently needed funding, we were told. America needed a massive rescue plan to save us from the virus, and were going to make it happen. prgtoken Well, as it turns out, that massive rescue package was too massive. insisted on extending increased unemployment benefits to September of this year, and now we are seeing the result. prgtoken Reports suggest that many people are declining to return to work because they can make more money staying home and drawing unemployment benefits. That is right. Jobs are available--the number of job openings is very high--but thanks to ' long-term extension of increased unemployment benefits, some workers are s