mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
TRIBUTE TO JIMMY STRINGER
Cindy Hyde-Smith (Republican, MS) \u2014 2023-4-20

I am pleased to commend Jimmy Stringer, a dedicated member of my personal staff who left my office recently to return to my home State of Mississippi. Jimmy merits commendation for his contributions and dedicated service throughout his role in public service, as well as a member of my personal office staff. prgtoken A native of Madison, MS, Jimmy earned his bachelor's degree from Mississippi State University. Jimmy's prgtoken humble beginnings in the U.S. Government started as an intern for the late Senator Cochran, my predecessor. prgtoken Following that, Jimmy's career turned to the Pentagon, where he supported the Air Force in its day-to-day operations. His outstanding service there earned him the Secretary of the Air Force Technical and Analytical Support Top Performer Award. prgtoken After 2 years at the Pentagon, Jimmy decided to focus his service closer to home, accepting an opportunity to serve as military legislative assistant in the office of Congressman Gregg Harper of Mississippi. prgtoken Jimmy's service in the House of Representatives led him to the U.S. Senate, where he became the military legislative assistant for my office, where he excelled and eventually earned the additional title and responsibilities of deputy legislative director. prgtoken Jimmy's contributions throughout his tenure in public service have been truly invaluable to the legislative and administrative functions of my office, and his insightful input will be missed. prgtoken I, along with the rest of my office, have benefited from Jimmy's knowledge, experience, and leadership. prgtoken Anyone who has had the opportunity to meet and visit with Jimmy would agree he is a hard-working, courteous, and intelligent young man. prgtoken Jimmy's strong sense of responsibility, good judgment, and a pleasant demeanor set him apart as a leader in our office and proved time and time again to be an asset for the people of Mississippi. prgtoken In fact, Jimmy has always put Mississippi first. No matter the situation or how high the stakes, the needs of the State came first. While many have been caught up in the demands of Washington, DC, politics, Jimmy's focus has always remained hundreds of miles south of the beltway. Mississippians knew if they had a problem, Jimmy Stringer would help them find a solution. prgtoken Mississippi and our Nation have been well-served by the diligence, dedication, and commitment to excellence Jimmy Stringer provided on a daily basis. He has put forth his best efforts to reflect credit on our military, the House of Representatives, my State, and the U.S. Senate. prgtoken I will miss Jimmy's astute counsel. He has my appreciation and gratitude for the notable job he has done throughout his time here in Washington, especially within my office. prgtoken I wish Jimmy, his wonderful wife Frances, and beautiful daughter Price God's continued blessings and all the best in their future endeavors.
CONGRATULATING KAREN OPOKU-APPOH ON WINNING THE 2023 ARIZONA SPELLING BEE
Juan Ciscomani (Republican, AZ) \u2014 2023-4-20

I rise to give a big congrats to a very impressive individual from Arizona's Sixth Congressional District. prgtoken Last month, Karen Opoku-Appoh, an 8th grader from Marana Middle School, won the 2023 Arizona Spelling Bee. prgtoken Karen correctly spelled the word ``passage'' to beat out 26 fellow competitors and become Arizona's spelling bee champion. Now she has the honor of representing her school, our district, and our entire State at the Scripps National Spelling Bee. prgtoken Arizona is proud to have one of the highest spelling bee participation rates in the country, with over 480,000 students competing in private, public, and homeschool classrooms. prgtoken For decades, the Arizona Spelling Bee has motivated high-achieving students from across the State to get excited about spelling. prgtoken , I speak for our community in congratulating Karen on this remarkable achievement. Her hard work and drive have yielded an accomplishment that makes our entire State proud. Karen has been a shining example of the power of dreaming big. prgtoken , we will be rooting for Karen at nationals.
TIKTOK'S ACCESS TO THE WHITE HOUSE
Mark Alford (Republican, MO) \u2014 2023-4-20

I rise today to stand against the push for TikTok to infiltrate our White House. My colleagues and I have sent a letter expressing our deep concern that the President is considering inviting TikTok influencers into the White House to promote his agenda and give them their own briefing room. prgtoken This action poses a serious national security threat. It is tantamount to the rooster inviting the fox into the henhouse. prgtoken CCP is spying on millions of American citizens. By allowing these influencers access to the White House, we could be facilitating espionage efforts. prgtoken TikTok has access to your pictures, your text messages, your keystrokes, your microphone, your camera, your search history, and so much more. prgtoken , I am sad to say it has come to this, but we are literally begging the President of the United States not to use a spy tool developed and created by the CCP. prgtoken This administration owes the American people a response to our letter.
ECONOMICS IN AMERICA
David Schweikert (Republican, AZ) \u2014 2023-4-20

. If the Lord has mercy on us, I won't use all of that time. prgtoken Federal spending, this is one I have never used on the floor. It has been several years ago that I remember reading--I think it might have been in The Economist magazine. It was talking about, in the 1970s, for every dollar spent on seniors, we spent $5 on young people, and that, today, for every $5 we spend on seniors, we only spend $1 on young people. It is completely reversed. prgtoken This is basically what we are trying to say: Today, for folks 65 and older--and this is a 2015 number because it is the newest number I could find in the literature--we will spend $35,000 a year on seniors and $5,000 on young people. Just understand that is what happens when your demographic curve changes. prgtoken We have updated this, and we have vetted it. This is conservative. We were careful on this number. In 1960, we had 5.1 workers for every 1 person on Social Security. In 2035, where we are heading, we believe the math to be 2.3, and that number is assuming a stabilization of labor force participation. prgtoken We have some other articles that say this falls down to only 2 people, so you and your partner or you and your spouse will have 1 person in retirement. However, we are going to use 2.3, but understand those differentials. Social Security is a pay-as-you-go system. prgtoken When you get the folks who say ``the lockbox,'' for years, we had more workers than retirees consuming, and the trust fund built up. No one stole your money. The cash came in, and they would loan it to Treasury. Treasury would give them special Treasury bills, just like you might take your own retirement account and say, ``I have some cash. I am going to buy a Treasury bond.'' That is functionally what Social Security did. prgtoken For the last couple of years, they have been cashing in those Treasury bonds. That cashing goes faster and faster as the baby boomers are moving in. That is what gets used up--now, what is it?--in about 8, 9 years. prgtoken At that moment, Social Security lives on its cash flow, so it will be the cash flow from these workers. Whatever FICA taxes they pay in, that is what will go out the door. prgtoken That is why, right now, the best math is we expect a 23 percent cut in that first year that the Social Security trust fund is expired. Then, the next year gets bigger and the next year it gets bigger. prgtoken It breaks my heart because I think this is a moral obligation to fix this, except, once again, the left is going to use it as a political item for an election instead of a moral item of we are all going to come together to fix it. prgtoken I was surprised by the numbers on this board. I have used it for years now. For anyone who says, ``Just give me the money I put in,'' the United States Government should grab that and run. However, once again, it is not Social Security. prgtoken With Social Security, you get back every dime you put in, plus a littl
LEGISLATIVE SESSION
Deb Fischer (Republican, NE) \u2014 2023-4-20

this Presidential administration has consistently been marked by egregious overreach. Over the past few months, we have seen them trying to regulate everything from our State water to our personal retirement funds. Now the administration wants to control which cars Americans are able to drive. prgtoken Last week, the Environmental Protection Agency issued new regulations cracking down on vehicle emissions. These new standards make it harder for people to drive gas-powered cars in an attempt to coerce Americans into purchasing new electric vehicles, or EVs--vehicles that cost about as much as the average family makes in a year. prgtoken These regulations are part of a so-called emissions plan, but there is nothing realistic about what the administration is trying to do. The administration says it wants 67 percent of the cars in this country to be electric by 2032--just 9 years from now. Last year, EVs only accounted for 6 percent of new car sales. And the International Energy Agency predicts that, by 2030, EVs will only make up 15 percent of the vehicles in our country. prgtoken We need to tell it like it is. The White House's plan is based on the speculative wish that EVs will make an inconceivable jump from a tiny fraction of our vehicles to the majority of them in less than a decade. The so-called plan is really a pipe dream, and the facts show that the EPA's goals are highly unlikely, if not impossible. The administration is using its imagination to try and create a world that real Americans don't even want, and, in the process, it is ignoring the many complexities at play when it comes to electric vehicles. prgtoken Let's talk about some of those complexities. prgtoken Electric vehicles rely on the electric power grid, and a massive increase in EV use, like the administration wants, could cause serious issues with the grid. During a heat wave last September, power authorities in California had to ask residents to avoid charging their electric cars in the evenings for fear that the power grid would malfunction from being overwhelmed. prgtoken Imagine what would happen if EV use increased exponentially like the administration wants. If EV use is going to increase, it should be a natural growth driven by consumers rather than an artificial spike manufactured by the government. That way, power producers and electrical grids would have time to grow and adapt to new spikes in electricity demand. prgtoken The EV mandate also overlooks some serious public safety concerns. Electric vehicles can weigh up to three times as much as gas-powered cars because of their heavy batteries. The force of an EV hurtling toward another car in a crash is intensified by all that weight. A heavy EV accidentally crashing into a lighter, older car is a recipe for severe injury or death--the heavier the car, the higher the risk of fatality in a crash. prgtoken The administration itself admit
HONORING THE LIFE AND CAREER OF JENNIFER WICKRE
Garret Graves (Republican, LA) \u2014 2023-4-20

from congressional intern with Congressman Jerry Lewis, to senior staff member with Congressman Lamar Smith on the Science, Space, and Technology Committee, and now Deputy Staff Director of the Science Committee, Ms. Jennifer Wickre has led an impressive career on Capitol Hill. Even though she mistakenly tried to sneak away to the private sector for a brief lapse in judgement, Jennifer quickly realized that nothing could be as fulfilling as working at the United States Capitol. This career choice to come back to the Hill is a clear indication of the superior nature of her character: she is a true public servant who leads with a servant's heart. prgtoken The Capitol Hill community was shocked to learn of Jennifer's cancer diagnosis. When we speak of the staffers who have metaphorically ``given their life to the job,'' it becomes a sobering moment to witness a woman who has quite literally laid down her life in the service of others. She has been an inspiration to our staff, a dear friend and mentor to Ms. Sarah Jorgenson, and a shining example of what it means to give of oneself. Let us all pray for a much-deserved miracle so that Ms. Jennifer Wickre's time here can last a bit longer. If a miracle is not in the works, let us all admire the miracle that has already occurred: Congress was honored by Ms. Jennifer Wickre's presence in the first place.
PROTECTION OF WOMEN AND GIRLS IN SPORTS ACT OF 2023
Nancy Mace (Republican, SC) \u2014 2023-4-20

when we use the term ``biological men,'' we are actually following the science because for years the left has said follow the science. When you are born a biological male, you are born with physical advantages over women. prgtoken We do want to study the psychological effect on women in sports, in their locker rooms. We want to study what is going on and how it negatively impacts women. prgtoken Women should not be ignored in this situation, whether they are in the classroom, or on a sports team, or in the private sector. prgtoken As I mentioned before, I know and have met with plenty of transgender individuals. This is not against the LGBTQ community. We are pro-women today, and that is what this amendment is about, protecting women and girls against biological men who want to compete against them. prgtoken I don't think any of us have any discontent if transgender girls wanted to have their own sports teams and compete at that level because the physical differences between biological men and biological women are very different. We want to make sure that we are going to protect them, and that we don't have any other women going through what Riley Gaines went through. It was wrong then; it is wrong now. prgtoken I am proud of this amendment and the work that we are doing to protect women and girls. As I said before, I have broken many glass ceilings, and I don't want to see those achievements taken away from biological women who have worked so hard to get to where they are today. prgtoken We want to set a good example that they can achieve anything they want in America, anything they want in the United States of America. If they have goals, they work hard to achieve them. They can do anything they want, and no man will get in their way. prgtoken Mr. Chair, .
CONGRATULATING PENN STATE WRESTLING, 2023 NATIONAL CHAMPIONS
Glenn Thompson (Republican, PA) \u2014 2023-4-20

I rise today to congratulate Penn State Wrestling, the 2023 NCAA Division I National Champions and recognize their two individual champions, Carter Starocci and Aaron Brooks. prgtoken Continuing their dominance of NCAA wrestling, the Nittany Lions brought their 11th national title to Happy Valley and concluded their seventh perfect dual meet season. prgtoken Led by Coach Cael Sanderson, Penn State Wrestling reflects a culture of excellence in their athletic preparation and competition. prgtoken Penn State's two individual champions are a testament to not only the strength of their program, but to their personal strength, talent, and determination. prgtoken Aaron Brooks took on the number one wrestler from northern Iowa to secure his third straight national title at 184 pounds, while Carter Starocci defended his number one ranking to win his third national title at 174 pounds. Their teammates, Roman Bravo-Young, Levi Haines, and Greg Kerkvliet joined them in the competition at the finals. prgtoken As a graduate of Penn State, I am proud to congratulate Penn State Wrestling on winning the 2023 National Championship and their continued success.
PERSONAL EXPLANATION
Danny K. Davis (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2023-4-24

I was unable to cast votes on February 27, February 28, and March 1. Had I been present for the following roll call votes, I would have voter Aye for the following votes: prgtoken Roll Call No. 120, February 27, 2023: On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Agree, H. Res. 132--Responding to the earthquakes in Turkiye and Syria on February 6, 2023. prgtoken Roll Call No. 121, February 27, 2023: On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. 538--Informing Consumers about Smart Devices Act. prgtoken Roll Call No. 125, March 1, 2023: On Agreeing to the Amendment of H.R. 347--Bost of Illinois Amendment No. 1. prgtoken Roll Call No. 126, March 1, 2023: On Agreeing to the Amendment of H.R. 347--Boebert of Colorado Amendment No. 3. prgtoken Roll Call No. 127, March 1, 2023: On Agreeing to the Amendment of H.R. 347--Jackson Lee of Texas Amendment No. 6. prgtoken Roll Call No. 128, March 1, 2023: On Agreeing to the Amendment of H.R. 347--Jackson Lee of Texas Amendment No. 7; and prgtoken Roll Call No. 129, March 1, 2023: On Agreeing to the Amendment of H.R. 347--Lee of Nevada Amendment No. 9. I would have voted Nay for the following votes: prgtoken Roll Call No. 122, February 28, 2023: On Ordering the Previous Question H. Res. 166--Providing for consideration of (H.R. 347) Reduce Exacerbated Inflation Negatively Impacting the Nation Act; (H.J. Res. 30) congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, U.S.C of the rule submitted by the Dept. of Labor relating to Prudence & Loyalty in Selecting Plan Investments & Exercising Shareholder Rights; prgtoken Roll Call No. 123, February 28, 2023: On Agreeing to the Resolution H. Res. l66--Providing for consideration of (H.R. 347) Reduce prgtoken Exacerbated Inflation Negatively Impacting the Nation Act; (H.J. Res. 30) congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, U.S.C of the rule submitted by the Dept. of Labor relating to Prudence & Loyalty in Selecting Plan Investments & Exercising Shareholder Rights; prgtoken Roll Call No. 124, February 28, 2023: On Passage H.J. Res. 30-- Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Department of Labor relating to ``Prudence and Loyalty in Selecting Plan Investments and Exercising; prgtoken Roll Call No. 130, March 1, 2023: On Agreeing to the Amendment of H.R. 347--Roy of Texas Amendment No. 14; and prgtoken Roll Call No. 131, March 1, 2023: On Passage H.R. 347--Reduce Exacerbated Inflation Negatively Impacting the Nation Act.
RECOGNIZING KELLY SCHULZ FOR ONE AND A HALF YEARS OF OUTSTANDING SERVICE
Suzan K. DelBene (Democrat, WA) \u2014 2023-4-24

I rise today to thank Kelly Schulz for her one and a half years of invaluable service to my office and my constituents in Washington's 1st Congressional District. Kelly joined my office as my D.C. Scheduler in November 2021 and has worked tirelessly to ensure my schedule runs smoothly and I am able to make it to all of my commitments on time. She has also done a wonderful job of carrying out one of the most fundamental responsibilities of a congressional office--ensuring that as many constituents as possible are able to meet with their member of Congress to share their thoughts. Kelly has brought a wonderful Washingtonian spirit and hard work ethic to this critical position. Over her tenure, she played an instrumental role in overseeing the smooth ramp up of in-person constituent meetings as we transitioned back to being in the office--all while building lasting relationships with my team and those who had the pleasure of getting to know her. Kelly has been an incredible staffer and a wonderful friend to all in the office, and we will all sorely miss her and her infectious laughter. prgtoken , I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Kelly Schulz and wishing her the best in all of her future endeavors.
RECOGNIZING THE PASSING OF WALTER WILLARD COLE, SR.
Earl Blumenauer (Democrat, OR) \u2014 2023-4-24

I rise today to remember the passing of a true Portland icon. A beloved member of the LGBTQ+ community, a pioneer for equality, and a dazzling performer, Walter Willard Cole Sr. embodied the spirit of Portland. Walter passed away on March 23rd in Portland, Oregon after a long and accomplished life. I am honored to have known Walter and deeply admire his many contributions to our city, both as a civic leader, small business owner, activist, philanthropist--and yes--as the drag performer Darcelle. prgtoken For decades, Darcelle was a fixture in Portland's live entertainment scene, captivating audiences as the world's oldest working drag queen. For over 50 years Darcelle entertained patrons acting as master of ceremonies to a cadre of drag performers and dancers, all the while bantering with audience members and performing memorable routines in extravagant, hand-made gowns. prgtoken In 1967, Walter purchased a bar in Portland's Old Town neighborhood, then skid row, that would later be known as the Darcelle XV Showplace. Well before the gay rights movement took hold, Darcelle XV experienced its share of protests, threats, and hardships. Yet Walter persisted, creating a welcoming and inclusive space for audiences to relax, laugh, and enjoy a show. prgtoken As LGBTQ+ acceptance grew throughout Portland and the country, the nightclub's impact cannot be understated. Darcelle had a way of putting people at ease and created an environment where patrons, both gay and straight, felt comfortable and welcomed. At Darcelle XV, drag queens had a stage to perfect their act before taking their performance on the road, showcasing their talents for the broader public. The nightclub and Walter's stewardship were influential in advancing mainstream acceptance of drag performance and contributed significantly to the broader societal acceptance of gay rights. Today, Darcelle XV is considered a Portland institution and a pioneering establishment in the fight for LGBTQ+ equality. prgtoken Outside the club, Walter was a fierce advocate for Portland's LGBTQ+ community. He understood and embraced his position as a community leader who worked to create positive and lasting change. Walter used his performances to raise awareness and funds for the causes he cared deeply about. During the AIDS crisis of the 1980s and 90s, Walter stood up for his community. He helped raise money for medical research, people living with AIDS, and their families. prgtoken In 2020, I was honored to support the effort to preserve Walter's legacy by including Darcelle XV in the National Register of Historic Places. This was the first institution recognized in Oregon that honored our LGBTQ+ community and its history. I'm glad we were able to honor Walter's work in this way and protect his legacy for generations to come. prgtoken Walter will be dearly missed by his friends and family, the LGBTQ+ community, and all of Portland.