mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
HONORING THE CONTINUED SERVICE OF COMMANDER CHRISTIAN WOODSIDE
Joe Courtney (Democrat, CT) \u2014 2023-12-1

I rise today to recognize the contributions of Commander Christian Woodside, United States Navy, during his service as a legislative fellow in my Washington, D.C. office this year. Throughout 2023, Christian has played a critical role in supporting my work on the House Armed Services Committee and representing the proud Navy community in eastern Connecticut. prgtoken As Ranking Member of the House Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee, which has the solemn, critical duty of overseeing much of our nation's Navy, Marine Corps, and various Air Force programs and policies, his perspective was essential to me and my office. Year in, and year out, the Department of Defense's legislative fellowship program brings highly talented officers to Capitol Hill who provide invaluable benefits to Members of the House and Senate and the defense committees. Officers, like Christian, bring real-world experience from their time in the classroom at the various academies and experiences from their time serving on active duty. This year, as our subcommittee actively worked to shape our nation's critical shipbuilding programs, shipbuilding industrial base development, and Navy and Marine Corps readiness through the Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act, Christian provided exquisite judgement in navigating the landscape of crafting such a large and critical piece of legislation. prgtoken Christian has also seized initiative in a variety of areas beyond naval affairs that benefit eastern Connecticut. He worked tirelessly to provide insight into our Navy's planned shipbuilding programs, visited with leadership at Naval Submarine New London to discuss ongoing installation operations, and focused on submarine industrial base issues crucial to sustaining the Navy's fleet. He also used his recent shore assignment as a resource sponsor at the Surface Directorates as the SSDS and Enterprise Test and Evaluation Officer for N96 to provide invaluable insight on the Navy's budget process throughout this calendar year. Lastly, he engaged in persistent communication with the embassies of Australia and the United Kingdom to facilitate various engagements in my office and around Capitol Hill and, most importantly, leveraged those relationships as the Congress considered legislative proposals to execute the trilateral AUKUS security agreement. prgtoken Christian's work ethic, diligence, intelligence, and first-hand experience as a Surface Warfare Officer made an immediate benefit and memorable impact on my office and subcommittee staff. He was also an energetic, affable colleague to my entire congressional staff, willing to help in small ways and big ways to serve the constituents of Connecticut's 2nd Congressional District. His sense of humor and thoughtful comments on issues outside of his Navy portfolio were much appreciated by the whole team, and they will be friends for life. prgtoken After traveling across the world wit
CONGRATULATING LOS ALAMOS PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Teresa Leger Fernandez (Democrat, NM) \u2014 2023-12-1

I rise to congratulate Los Alamos Public Schools in New Mexico, which is the 2023 College Board Advanced Placement Small District of the Year. prgtoken Every year, the College Board honors three districts with an Advanced Placement District of the Year award. Each represents a small, medium, or large district and has achieved the most significant increases in AP Exam scores. They have also expanded access to Advanced Placement courses for a greater diversity of students. The College Board awarded Los Alamos Public Schools this distinction from over 12,000 school districts across the U.S. and Canada as the national leader among small-sized school districts. prgtoken Advanced Placement courses provide avenues to higher education opportunities and unlock many doors for students. Los Alamos Public Schools had 40 percent or more of its graduating cohort take at least one Advanced Placement exam. Their scores demonstrate high-level achievement. This proves that our students have the potential to excel when offered challenging educational opportunities. The award is a great testament to the hard work and commitment of the administrators, educators, families, and students of Los Alamos. prgtoken Los Alamos Public Schools is a wonderful example of the excellence and achievement that exemplify the great state of New Mexico. I commend the educational community whose dedication and work ethic paved the way for this well-deserved award.
RECOGNIZING TOM LAMBERT
Lizzie Fletcher (Democrat, TX) \u2014 2023-12-1

I rise to honor the lifetime of service and the exceptional work of Metropolitan Transit Authority of County CEO Tom Lambert. prgtoken Tom is a true public servant who has made a difference for all of us in Houston. For more than four decades, Tom has worked at METRO. prgtoken Focusing these four decades on the safety of METRO riders, his improvements to the system will benefit them for years to come. prgtoken His ability to listen to riders led to streamlined services with improved schedules. His leadership led to the completion of an additional 15 miles of light rail in 2015, and his commitment to moving Houstonians in new ways helped pave the way, literally and figuratively, for bus rapid transit. prgtoken Tom has demonstrated his dedication to keeping our community informed, engaged, and moving forward. Tom exemplifies the very best of Houston: innovation, collaboration, vision, and leadership. prgtoken I send sincere thanks to Tom for his work and for his commitment to our community and congratulate him on his retirement.
PROVIDING FOR CONGRESSIONAL DISAPPROVAL OF THE RULE SUBMITTED BY THE BUREAU OF CONSUMER FINANCIAL PROTECTION RELATING TO "SMALL BUSINESS LENDING UNDER THE EQUAL CREDIT OPPORTUNITY ACT (REGULATION...
Joyce Beatty (Democrat, OH) \u2014 2023-12-1

. Madam , I think it is very important. I can't imagine any one of us applying for a loan and getting it denied that would not call that lender and say, tell me why my loan was denied. That is a part of this, Madam . prgtoken Lastly, this transparency will not only benefit small businesses but also family farms, financial institutions, and the economy overall. I strongly recommend that we support this and go back and re-read the language.
RECOGNIZING OUR BRAVE SERVICEMEMBERS AND THEIR FAMILIES
Andrea Salinas (Democrat, OR) \u2014 2023-12-1

I rise today to recognize our brave servicemembers and their families. prgtoken America's veterans have sacrificed so much for our freedom, and for that, I am deeply grateful, but words alone are not enough. prgtoken As Members of Congress, it is our job to honor the pledge we made to military families and ensure that they get the benefits that they deserve. prgtoken When my constituent, Shirley Thomas, suddenly stopped receiving her VA benefits, she reached out to my office for help. In just 3 short weeks, my team was able to restart Shirley's benefits and secure back payments for the months that she missed. prgtoken I recently visited Shirley and reiterated my commitment to helping military families like hers, because supporting our servicemembers means supporting them long after they come home. It means providing them with safe, affordable housing; expanding educational opportunities to help veterans pursue their career goals; improving home care services for elderly veterans; and so much more. prgtoken Today, and always, I will keep fighting to do just that.
A RISE IN ANTI-SEMITISM
John Garamendi (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-12-1

today I rise in support of Senator Schumer's address on anti-Semitism in the Senate. prgtoken I echo Senator Schumer's concerns. Anti-Semitism is on the rise in our country, and it is simply unacceptable. prgtoken As Americans, we have the responsibility to condemn bigotry and hate in all of its forms, including anti-Semitism. prgtoken To quote my friend and colleague in the Senate, ``We are stewards of the flames of liberty, tolerance, and equality that warm our American melting pot, and make it possible for Jewish Americans to prosper alongside Palestinian Americans, and every other immigrant group from all over the world.'' prgtoken I thank Senator Schumer for his powerful words. As we watch the events abroad and here at home unfold, I urge Americans to remember that our shared humanity, commitment to equality, and tolerance are our greatest strengths. prgtoken , I include in the Record Senator Schumer's remarks. Https://www.democrats.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/majority- leader-schumer-delivers-major-address-on-antisemitism-on-the-senate- floor ____________________
CELEBRATING THE 300TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH OF SHREWSBURY, MASSACHUSETTS
James P. McGovern (Democrat, MA) \u2014 2023-12-1

I rise today in advance of the 300th Anniversary of the First Congregational Church and Meeting House in Shrewsbury. The Congregation will celebrate this tremendous milestone on Monday, December 4. prgtoken , the history of the Church spans almost as far back as the town itself. In October 1717, the General Court of Massachusetts permitted Shrewsbury as a township, as long as 40 families would settle there, build a meeting house, and settle an ordained minister within three years. With little delay, Reverend Job Cushing was ordained, and the original church covenant was adopted on December 4, 1723. prgtoken For 109 years, the meeting house was the site for both church and town affairs, until the two separated in 1832. Since its inception, the Church has undergone moves, repairs, remodels, and expansions. Nevertheless, the Church remained a steadfast community center. prgtoken During its long history, the Church has remained a site of social responsibility. The Church championed a Vigilance Committee to support the Underground Railroad. Its ministries outreach to those in need. And today, the Church is an open and affirming Congregation. prgtoken In 1961, the First Congregational Church of Shrewsbury became part of the United Church of Christ. Since then, the Church has opened its doors to all, supporting the diverse needs of the Shrewsbury community. prgtoken , the First Congregational Church of Shrewsbury strives to keep adapting to be in service to all people. I look forward to celebrating this crucial community organization on their 300th Anniversary. Please join me in paying honor and tribute to the First Congregational Church of Shrewsbury.
PROVIDING FOR CONGRESSIONAL DISAPPROVAL OF THE RULE SUBMITTED BY THE BUREAU OF CONSUMER FINANCIAL PROTECTION RELATING TO "SMALL BUSINESS LENDING UNDER THE EQUAL CREDIT OPPORTUNITY ACT (REGULATION...
Nydia M. Velázquez (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2023-12-1

. Madam , I thank Ranking Member Waters for yielding. prgtoken I rise today in strong opposition to this resolution. As one of the central architects of section 1071, I understand better than most what this provision does and doesn't do. prgtoken During my time as ranking member of the Small Business Committee and as a senior member of the Financial Services Committee, I have seen women- and minority-owned small businesses struggle to access capital due to the lack of data and transparency related to small business lending. prgtoken The scant data that does exist continues to show these businesses lack the same access to financing compared to White-owned firms. prgtoken Section 1071 attempts to remedy this by requiring financial institutions to collect and report on the demographics of small business owners applying for financing. prgtoken Doing so facilitates the enforcement of fair lending laws and identifies businesses and community development needs. prgtoken Supporters of this resolution claim it will excessively burden smaller institutions. However, CFPB Director Chopra recently testified that approximately 2,000 banks will be exempted from the rule's reporting requirements. prgtoken Others claim the rule is too intrusive. Yet, safeguards like voluntary reporting--and you are going to hear time and again that this is a mandate even when I took the text in the manual and read it to the Members. It is voluntary. It is not a mandate. Unique identifiers are included in the rule. Without this information, discriminatory lending will continue. prgtoken When crafting this rule, the CFPB conducted considerable outreach to small firms and considered thousands of public comments from entrepreneurs. prgtoken During a recent Small Business Committee hearing, we received testimony that this rule will help the market better address both the lack of access to affordable capital and the rise of irresponsible lending.
RECOGNIZING OFFICER JEFFREY PEIRCE
Chris Pappas (Democrat, NH) \u2014 2023-12-1

I rise today in recognition of Officer Jeffrey Peirce of the Newfields Police Department for his recent act of bravery that earned him the Department's Life Saving Award. When an armed man experiencing a mental health crisis needed assistance, Officer Peirce relied on his training, experience, and sense of duty to effectively de-escalate the situation and help the individual access proper care. I commend Officer Peirce on his courage during a difficult situation and thank him for his decades of service to the Newfields and Rye Police Departments. prgtoken In response to calls about a distressed individual in the police department's parking lot, Officer Peirce arrived on the scene ready to assist in the de-escalation of a mental health crisis. Without any backup Peirce engaged with the man, asking him questions and listening to his concerns, empowered by his years of de-escalation training and mental health classes. After removing a gun from the individual's car, Officer Peirce encouraged the man to travel with him to Portsmouth Hospital in order to receive treatment and speak with the staff at the Behavioral Health Unit. prgtoken Officer Peirce's ability to de-escalate the situation is a result of his quick thinking and courage, as well as the professional training in mental health affairs he received as a member of the force. By listening to the concerns of the individual, acting quickly to withdraw and empty his gun, and helping him access the care he needed, Officer Peirce demonstrated bravery and empathy, making him truly deserving of the Life Saving Award. prgtoken On behalf of my constituents in New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I thank Officer Peirce for his bravery and recognize him for his service to the people of New Hampshire. His heroism and sense of duty will serve as a shining example for all Granite State public safety professionals. I wish Officer Peirce all the best in his future endeavors.
HONORING MAJOR DAVID CHARLES HOFFMAN
Abigail Davis Spanberger (Democrat, VA) \u2014 2023-12-1

I rise to congratulate Major David Charles Hoffman for 39 years of dedicated service to our country. prgtoken Major Hoffman started his career with the U.S. Army after graduating from Cleveland Marshall College of Law in 1985, when he received his commission as a Judge Advocate in the U.S. Army. His Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and Army Achievement Medal are a testament to his exceptional achievements and the magnitude of his contributions through his service. prgtoken Major Hoffman's commitment to learning was instrumental in his success. In 1988, he graduated from the U.S. Army's Command and General Staff College. That same year, he graduated from the Army Logistics Management College, where he was named as a distinguished graduate of the Management of Defense Acquisitions Course. prgtoken On October 2, 1998, Major Hoffman joined the U.S. Army Reserves, and on that same date, he joined the U.S. Department of Justice as an attorney with the Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch. While there, he continued to serve the people of Virginia. Since 2005, he has served as the Deputy General Counsel for Audit Policy and Contract Litigation in the Office of General Counsel for the Defense Contract Audit Agency at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. In recognition of his esteemed service on behalf of the American people, the Defense Contract Audit Agency bestowed Major Hoffman with the Civilian Meritorious Service Award. prgtoken , I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating and thanking Major David Charles Hoffman for 39 years of service to our country and in wishing him the best as he retires to spend time with his wife of 43 years, Cheryl, and their two children, Kristin and Jonathan.
PROTECTING OUR COMMUNITIES FROM FAILURE TO SECURE THE BORDER ACT OF 2023
Betty McCollum (Democrat, MN) \u2014 2023-12-1

. Mr. Chair, I rise in opposition to H.R. 5283, the Protecting our Communities from Failure to Secure the Border Act of 2023. prgtoken In bringing H.R. 5283 to the House floor, s again demonstrate they are more interested in political grandstanding and punishing asylum seekers than advancing any serious policy on immigration. Under the guise of protecting our public lands and national parks, H.R. 5283 would prohibit any temporary or permanent housing for asylum seekers on land controlled by National Park Service (NPS), the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), or the Forest Service (USFS). If s truly cared about our public lands, they would not have passed an Interior Appropriations bill that dramatically cuts funding for our federal land management agencies, including $450 million from the National Park prgtoken Service and $312 million from the U.S. Forest Service. prgtoken Mr. Chair, this is another messaging bill from House s that will never become law. It is time we focus on finding real solutions to the issues our constituents are facing.
HONORING LARRY D. SMITH
Ami Bera (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-12-1

I rise today to express my deepest gratitude and admiration for the exemplary service and dedication of Mr. Larry D. Smith. It is with great honor that we acknowledge his remarkable contributions and years of service to our country and our Military Academies. I thank him for his invaluable partnership over the past decade as this weekend marks his last round of academy nomination interviews that he will conduct in support of my office. prgtoken Born in Los Angeles in 1940, Mr. Smith's journey is one marked by commitment and achievement. A graduate of Manual Arts High School in 1958, he furthered his education at the United States Military Academy, earning a BS in General Engineering in 1962. Commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the US Army, Armor Branch, Mr. Smith's military service took him to Germany, the United States, and Vietnam, where he served with distinction in the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment. prgtoken Transitioning to civilian life in 1970, Mr. Smith embarked on a successful career in Commercial Real Estate, notably with Grubb & Ellis Company, where he served on the Board of Directors and managed offices in the Los Angeles area. His relocation from Southern California to Sacramento in 1979 marked the beginning of a new chapter as a Commercial Real Estate Developer, leaving an indelible mark by constructing the IRS office facility in Sacramento and managing others in Nevada, Arizona, and New Mexico. His foray into residential home building in 1990 saw the creation and sale of hundreds of homes in the Sacramento area, a testament to his enduring entrepreneurial spirit. prgtoken Beyond his professional accomplishments, Mr. Smith has been an active and engaged member of the West Point community. Currently serving as the President of the West Point Alumni in Northern California, he also holds the position of National Trustee for the Association of Graduates. His involvement in the West Point Admissions Department and his role as the e-mail network moderator for the West Point Parents Net (wpp-net) showcase his commitment to the development and support of future generations. Mr. Smith's family life is equally commendable, having been married to his wife, Maren, for 35 years. His sons, Tom and Mark, have followed in his footsteps, with Tom serving as an officer in the Army and Mark as a legislative aide to a California State Senator. prgtoken I ask that my colleagues join me in thanking Mr. Larry D. Smith in recognition of his outstanding achievements and unwavering dedication to public service. His legacy serves as prgtoken an inspiration to us all, and we are grateful for his continued contributions to the betterment of our community and Nation.
CELEBRATING THE LEGACY OF ROSA PARKS
Terri A. Sewell (Democrat, AL) \u2014 2023-12-1

. Madam , I rise today to call on all of my colleagues to cosponsor H.R. 308, the Rosa Parks Day Act. prgtoken Today, December 1, Americans across the Nation are celebrating the legacy of Rosa Parks. It was on December 1, 1955, when Rosa Parks was arrested in Montgomery, Alabama, for refusing to give up her seat on a city bus. This simple but bold act of resistance to Jim Crow segregation laws inspired the historic Montgomery bus boycott. prgtoken For 481 days, spurred by Rosa Parks' courage, thousands of African Americans peacefully protested the Montgomery City Bus System until the United States court ruled in Browder v. Gayle that the segregation ordinances were unconstitutional. prgtoken Rosa Parks was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1966, the Congressional Gold Medal in 1999, and was the first woman to ever lie in state at the U.S. Capitol rotunda. prgtoken In addition, many States, including Ohio, California, Missouri, and Oregon already observe Rosa Parks Day at the State level. Her legacy continues to inspire new generations of Americans to advance justice and equality. prgtoken Madam , now is the time to pass this legislation and to declare December 1 as a Federal holiday, as Rosa Parks Day.
WORLD AIDS DAY
Nancy Pelosi (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-12-1

I rise today on World AIDS Day, as we remember tens of millions of beautiful souls we have lost around the world to HIV and AIDS and pray for their families. prgtoken Over the last two decades, our fight against HIV/AIDS in the world has been transformed by PEPFAR, made possible by the leadership of President and bipartisan support in Congress. prgtoken It was my privilege to be a leader in this fight on the Foreign Operations Subcommittee where we secured more than $100 billion for PEPFAR to support its life-giving work. prgtoken I salute President and Mrs. for their ongoing attention and commitment to this issue. I have traveled to visit the clinics in Africa and have been told by people there that PEPFAR gave them hope. They would never have been tested if they didn't think there was an opportunity for something to improve their lives. They lost the stigma of being tested positively by having hope given to them. prgtoken I thank President and Mrs. for helping address the issue with their Pink Ribbon Campaign. prgtoken As we go forward, let us hope that this body will soon reauthorize PEPFAR for what it means. prgtoken During the COVID crisis, I spoke to the head of the World Health Organization and asked him if PEPFAR helped. He said, yes, the science, the distribution of drugs, the network that was created was all very helpful to us in the fight against COVID, especially in Africa. prgtoken Again, thanks to President for his leadership at the time. I told him at that time that I am with you as long as it is big. He made it big, and he has made it constant; and we salute him and are grateful to him for that. prgtoken This year's World AIDS Day is fraught with meaning because our nation faces the imperative of reauthorizing PEPFAR HIV is very resourceful: it keeps adapting to survive, and so must we. I join so many of my colleagues and voices across the world in calling on Congressional leaders to make reauthorizing PEPFAR a top priority as we negotiate government funding legislation. Today, and every day, America must demonstrate to the world that we remain fully committed to building an AIDS-free generation, with health equity and justice for all.