mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
HONORING THE TERRELL COUNTY NAACP
Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (Democrat, GA) \u2014 2022-7-15

. Madam , I rise today to honor the Terrell County NAACP under the leadership of its President, The Reverend Ezekiel Holley as it prepares to celebrate its 27th Annual Freedom Fund Banquet on Saturday, July 16, 2022, at 5:00 pm at Terrell County High School in Dawson, Georgia. prgtoken The theme for the National NAACP Organization for this year is ``This is Power.'' For many years, the Terrell County Branch of the NAACP has asserted its power on behalf of freedom and justice in Southwest Georgia. This power has been asserted through voter registration, advocacy on behalf of minority groups and supporting young people as they have gone on to pursue their educational dreams at various colleges and universities across our Nation. prgtoken The Terrell County NAACP has long been at the forefront of voter education and mobilization. They truly understand that a ``voteless people is a hopeless people.'' Their voter efforts have helped to register thousands of voters in the Terrell County area who have exercised their power through the ballot. prgtoken The Terrell County Branch has also been a leader and an advocate on behalf of those who have been discriminated against by various entities in the surrounding communities. The Branch has held marches and demonstrations on behalf of the voiceless in their fight for justice and equality. Moreover, the organization has not been afraid to take on any entity that they believe has not been fair in its dealings with individuals or groups. The organization has exemplified the words articulated by Dr. King when he said that ``The time is always right to do what is right.'' prgtoken Education has been at the forefront of the mission of this branch as well. The Branch is keenly aware that ``Education is the passport to the future; it belongs to those who prepare for it today.'' This organization knows that our young people are our future doctors, lawyers, scientists, engineers, mayors, governors, congress people and civil rights activists. The Branch understands that we must invest in our future. And that is why over the years, they have given out thousands of scholarships to deserving young people to pursue their dreams of improving the quality of life for themselves, their families, and our communities. prgtoken The Terrell County NAACP has served as a leader in the community and across the state in fighting for justice and equality. For decades it has been under the fearless and stellar leadership of Reverend Ezekiel Holley. Madam , I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join my wife, Vivian, and me, along with the more than 730,000 people of the Second Congressional District in honoring and commending the Terrell County NAACP and its tireless president, Reverend Ezekiel Holley, on the occasion of their 27th Freedom Fund Banquet and for their achievements, service, and public distinction.
WOMEN'S HEALTH PROTECTION ACT OF 2022
Veronica Escobar (Democrat, TX) \u2014 2022-7-15

. Madam , it has been 22 days since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, taking away women's ability to make choices about their own future, setting us back nearly 50 years. But even that is not enough for s. prgtoken In the last 24 hours alone, we have gotten a glimpse into the dark future s have in store for women, doctors, and vulnerable children: prgtoken The Indiana attorney general says he is investigating the doctor who treated a 10-year-old rape victim. prgtoken Texas sues the administration for requiring abortions in medical emergencies so that women's lives could be saved. prgtoken And the National Right to Life official who said the 10-year-old should have had her baby. prgtoken Yes, according to s, even a little girl impregnated by a brutal rape should be denied an abortion and have to endure a government-mandated birth. prgtoken Remember, this is the same party that has voted against: prgtoken Paid family and medical leave for parents of that baby. prgtoken Childcare for babies. prgtoken Universal pre-K for babies. prgtoken The Child Tax Credit, which helps babies. prgtoken School lunch programs that help babies. prgtoken Commonsense gun violence prevention measures that keep those babies safe in school, and much more. prgtoken The s' war on women has never been more dangerous. Today, we will vote on the Women's Health Protection Act to ensure that women across this country have access to abortion and the freedom to make their own decisions about their bodies and their futures. prgtoken America, have your back.
WOMEN'S HEALTH PROTECTION ACT OF 2022
Hakeem S. Jeffries (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2022-7-15

. Madam , I thank the distinguished chairman, Chairman Pallone, for his leadership in this critically important area, as well as Representative Fletcher for leading the charge in an area that is significantly important and consistent with the values of this great country; a country that embraces life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, land of the free, and home of the brave, liberty and justice for all. prgtoken But liberty, justice, and freedom are under assault right now because of a radical, rightwing, illegitimate Supreme Court majority and their extreme co-conspirators here in the House of Representatives attacking freedom. prgtoken But this legislation and House are going to do everything in our power to defend a woman's freedom to make her own reproductive healthcare decisions, a woman's freedom to make a deeply personal decision that should be between a woman and her doctor, not extremists trying to intervene, and her freedom to make the decision to travel to seek abortion care whenever and wherever is necessary. prgtoken Those are the stakes. That is why this legislation is so important, and we will always defend these freedoms.
LEGISLATIVE PROGRAM
James E. Clyburn (Democrat, SC) \u2014 2022-7-15

. I thank the gentleman for yielding. I assure you that we will get to discuss and debate and hopefully pass all of these bills at the appropriate time. prgtoken However, I am sure the gentleman is aware that Russia's war against Ukraine is driving up prices all over the world--Putin's price hike. prgtoken Three weeks ago, the price of crude oil was trading at $115.25 per barrel. It closed yesterday at $96.47 a barrel, a decrease of $18.78 per barrel, or a decrease of 16 percent in almost a month. prgtoken The average price for gasoline, a gallon of gas, last month was $5.01. It is now $4.57. It decreased 44 cents, or a decrease of 8 percent, in a month. Funny how that works. prgtoken Cuts at the pump are half that of the price of crude, and we are shocked to know that major oil companies are raking in record profits. prgtoken The House passed the Lower Food and Fuel Costs Act, which will help ease inflation, which the gentleman voted against and quipped against. This bill helps Americans save money at the gas pump by promoting local, renewable energy production, and it also expands access to E15. prgtoken The House also passed the Consumer Fuel Price Gouging Prevention Act to prevent all corporations from prioritizing profits instead of increasing supply. It empowers the FTC to crack down on oil companies that excessively overcharge their consumers for gas just to boost their bottom line. prgtoken The President has released historic amounts from our Strategic Petroleum Reserve, a million gallons a day, and expanded access to cheaper E15 gas across the Midwest, among other steps to bring down energy prices. prgtoken The administration has approved more drilling permits on public lands in 2021 than the previous administration did each year during the first 3 years in office, 2017, 2018, and 2019. prgtoken The administration is also working with our allies and partners around the world to implement a price cap on Russian oil so that we can continue to inflict pain on Putin while minimizing the pain at the pump.
HONORING THE LATE NELSON L. GROVATT, JR.
Andy Kim (Democrat, NJ) \u2014 2022-7-15

. Madam , I rise today to honor the late Nelson L. Grovatt Jr a beloved member of our community who passed away on May 24, 2022 at the age of 93. Husband to the late Thelma and the father of the late Alan, Nelson is survived by his brother Clarence, his sons, Larry and Wayne, and his grandchildren, Travis, Kaitlin, Tyler, and Trever. prgtoken A true gentleman farmer, anyone who knew Nelson could speak to his heart and passion both for farming and giving back to his community. A lifelong resident of Rancocas in Westampton Township, and part of the third generation to farm on his family's land, he worked hard until he was 82, and was particularly known for his soybeans. Nelson always made time for people no matter how long the workday kept him out. He would often share his knowledge of farming with anyone eager to learn about the tractors, farming equipment, and what it takes to be successful. He loved his work and even after stepping out of the tractor for the last time, kept a small garden growing fruits and vegetables. prgtoken Nelson was also devoted to public service and was recognized as a Founding Father of Westampton Township. Extremely active in both is community and church, Nelson was dedicated to the growth of his hometown. A man of unwavering faith, Nelson served as a Deacon at various local churches while also taking on numerous roles within the community. From the beginnings of Westampton Township, he was a leader of the committee to develop its first police force and eventually served as the town's first Police Commissioner. He went on to serve on the Township Committee for 11 years and was elected Mayor for two years. prgtoken Outside his work, Nelson proudly worked to preserve the history of the township as it grew, often sharing his collection of Native American artifacts from the Ancocas Natives that had settled near the Rancocas Creek. He also loved recalling and sharing family stories alongside the robust history and knowledge of the Rancocas community. prgtoken Nelson was a kind soul that lived out his faith in all he did and never sought praise. We were lucky to live with Nelson as part of our community. My heart goes out to Nelson's entire family and for those that knew him, even for the most fleeting moments; he will be missed.
SUPPORTING A WOMAN'S RIGHT TO CHOOSE
Brenda L. Lawrence (Democrat, MI) \u2014 2022-7-15

. Madam , I rise in unwavering support of legislation that protects a woman's right to make her own decisions regarding her own body. This includes H.R. 8296, the Women's Health Protection Act of 2022, and H.R. 8297, the Ensuring Access to Abortion Act of 2022. Women should have the right to make their own health care decisions; a right that was stripped away with the Supreme Court's decision to ignore almost fifty years of precedent and overturn Roe v. Wade. prgtoken In my home state of Michigan, a draconian 1931 abortion ban--with no exceptions for rape or incest--is only held back by a preliminary injunction. If the ninety-one-year-old law goes into effect, millions of Michiganders will lose their reproductive freedom. I've said it once before, and I will say it again, abortion bans don't ban abortions, they ban safe abortions. prgtoken The right to bodily autonomy, privacy, and even travel is at stake. Passing these two pieces of legislation is a critical step toward protecting the constitutional rights of millions of Americans. Now more than ever, the Senate needs to pass both bills so that women can make the best healthcare decisions for themselves and their families.
WOMEN'S HEALTH PROTECTION ACT OF 2022
Frank Pallone, Jr. (Democrat, NJ) \u2014 2022-7-15

. Madam , such time as I may consume. prgtoken Madam , I rise today in strong support of H.R. 8296, the Women's Health Protection Act. prgtoken This bill is necessary now more than ever following the - controlled Supreme Court's extreme decision ripping away a woman's right to abortion. The Court's ideological decision ignored nearly 50 years of precedent and is the culmination of decades of unrelenting efforts by politicians to control women and their bodies. prgtoken The consequences of last month's decision have been swift and severe. Already, abortion bans are in effect in nine States, and more than a dozen more are expected to either ban or severely limit abortion soon. prgtoken As a result, women are being forced to travel long distances to States where abortion remains lawful or, for those who lack logistical or financial support to travel, continue pregnancies against their wishes. There have been devastating stories of patients being denied care and doctors hesitating to provide lifesaving healthcare services out of fear of criminalization. prgtoken States have enacted dangerous laws banning abortion without any exceptions, inciting citizens to track and report women in need of an abortion and criminalizing providers or those assisting someone in obtaining care. prgtoken These laws turn back the clock on the health, well-being, and equality of women across the Nation. s have made it clear: This is just the beginning. Congressional s are prgtoken already pushing a nationwide abortion ban that would criminalize abortion in all 50 States. prgtoken That is why this House is acting today on the Women's Health Protection Act to restore the right to abortion nationwide. This legislation ensures that no matter where you live, you have a right to comprehensive healthcare that is free from unnecessary restrictions that are intended only to impede access. prgtoken Madam , I urge my colleagues to support this legislation to protect the right to abortion and ensure that all Americans are entitled to make their own healthcare decisions. prgtoken Madam , .
FORMULA ACT
Earl Blumenauer (Democrat, OR) \u2014 2022-7-15

. Madam , such time as I may consume. prgtoken The news about supply chain disruptions have filled the news, but none is more compelling and urgent for communities across America than facing challenges due to the infant formula shortage. This is an urgent issue for our families. prgtoken Between supply chain issues due to the pandemic and the closure of a Michigan infant formula plant, out-of-stock rates have reached perilous levels. The out-of-stock rate was 31 percent in mid-April and rose to 90 percent in 10 States by the end of May. In my State, Oregon, we faced an out-of-stock rate higher than 85 percent. prgtoken While these numbers alone tell a horrific story, there is no number that can capture the fear and frustration felt by families who are searching for formula to serve their babies. As a parent and grandparent, I can assure you that there is nothing as anxiety- and anger- prgtoken inducing as not being able to properly care for your child. prgtoken I have heard stories of families going store to store or posting on social media asking for help as they try to find the formula their family needs. Families have enough to worry about without worrying about how to feed their baby. prgtoken The Federal Government must provide the support needed to help these children and families and explore every possible option. This administration and Congress has made significant progress by invoking the Defense Production Act, increasing flexibility for the WIC program, and easing restrictions on imports to fill supply chain shortages. prgtoken While the FDA has exercised enforcement discretion to increase imports, imported infant formula remains subject to high tariffs. These tariffs, which increase the cost of the formula imports by an estimated 27 percent, only exaggerate the suffering families face at this time. prgtoken It is unacceptable that families would be taxed on a product that they need and have no other way of getting in the midst of this crisis. Our Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee is committed to leveraging our jurisdiction to reduce these costs. prgtoken I especially appreciate my colleague Suzan DelBene for her partnership and leadership on this legislation. She was integral to this effort, and we wouldn't be here today without her. prgtoken The Formula Act reaffirms Congress' constitutional authority to regulate commerce from foreign nations by temporarily suspending tariffs on imported infant formula through the end of this year. This change should help make formula more affordable and accessible to families in every State. prgtoken I am grateful for the support of Chairman Neal; Ranking Member Brady; Ranking Member Smith, who is managing the bill for the s; and the Ways and Means Committee in bringing this bipartisan legislation to the floor today. prgtoken Madam , I urge my colleagues to support the legislation, and .
ENSURING ACCESS TO ABORTION ACT OF 2022
Frederica S. Wilson (Democrat, FL) \u2014 2022-7-15

. Madam , I thank the gentlewoman for yielding. This is just annoying to me that everyone on the side is so concerned about the children before they are born, and once they are born, they want nothing to do with them. prgtoken So these children land in the hands of grandmama who is trying to raise them alone. The only time I see them is when they are on the floor fussing about grandmama's Social Security and her Medicare, trying to take away her food stamps while she is trying to take care of Nina's children, Jose's children, and all of these children. Shame on you. You have never carried a baby for 9 months. Shame, shame, shame.
HONORING ROBERT T. DOYLE
Jared Huffman (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2022-7-15

. Madam , I rise today to recognize the significant career and accomplishments of Robert T. Doyle on the occasion of his retirement as Marin County Sheriff following nearly 53 years of exemplary service at the Sheriff's Office. prgtoken A Bay Area native and Marin County resident for five decades, Sheriff Doyle has dedicated his life and career to the public good. In 1966, he enlisted in the United States Army, serving stateside in California and Oklahoma, and overseas in Germany and Vietnam. Three years later, he left the Army to settle in Marin, joining the Sheriff's Office in November 1969. prgtoken Since 1969, Sheriff Doyle has excelled in a variety of roles across the Patrol, Custody, and Court Divisions, rising from the rank of Deputy Sheriff to Captain. He commanded both the Southern Marin Patrol Station and the Marin County Jail before being appointed Undersheriff in December 1988. In March 1996, he was then appointed to be Sheriff of Marin County. He went on to win reelection to the role six successive times. Throughout his tenure, he has stood out as a true leader in the community, always focusing on doing what was best for Marin County and its residents. prgtoken Sheriff Doyle's stewardship of the law enforcement profession extended outside of his official role in government. He served as President of the California State Sheriffs' Association, two-term President of the Marin County Police Chiefs' Association, and Chair of the California State Sheriffs' Legislative Committee. He was appointed by Governor Schwarzenegger to serve as a member of the Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training, and by Governor Wilson to represent the State Sheriffs on the State Task Force on Court Facilities. He has diligently supported other community causes, serving as the Novato Youth Soccer Association Treasurer and as a member of the Fight Crime: Invest in Kids California Executive Committee. prgtoken Madam , Sheriff Robert T. Doyle's career is a sterling example of public service and dedication to the law and community. Please join me in honoring Sheriff Doyle on his retirement, and in wishing him the best of luck in future endeavors.
HIGHLAND PARK VICTIMS AND HEROES
Bradley Scott Schneider (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2022-7-15

. Madam , I rise today to honor the brave men and women of Highland Park. prgtoken Independence Day in Highland Park, as it is in so many other places around our country, is a special day. Today families gather--whether it be at a barbecue or a park or wherever it might be--and they celebrate the birth of our country and the ideals of who we are as a nation and all that we aspire to be. prgtoken The Highland Park parade is a very, very important centerpiece of our community. Prior to COVID, families would gather, putting their chairs out sometimes the day of or even 2 days before planning exactly where they would sit to have the best view knowing that their kids or maybe grandkids, their classmates, and members of their church or synagogue or their service organization would be marching in the parade, and they would want to be able to look, wave, and say hello. prgtoken This year was different though. This year was the first parade since 2019 because in 2020 and 2021 the parade was canceled due to COVID. prgtoken There was a special excitement, and there was a special feeling in anticipation of the parade this year. Finally, we were back together as a community. prgtoken Highland Park is a special community. It is a city of roughly 30,000 people but with a small-town feel. Neighbors look after each other. People know each other. The restaurants in the community are frequented by the locals. Everyone has their favorite, and you are seeing old friends every time you go in. prgtoken This year the parade was going to be special. At 10 o'clock, the time the parade starts every year, the excitement swells. Groups start walking along the path up St. Johns Avenue and up the hill to Central where everyone takes a left turn. They walk across the train tracks, proceed past 1st Street, then 2nd, all the way through the downtown to Green Bay, and then down the hill toward the Post Office reaching Sunset, and turning into Sunset Park at the end of the parade. prgtoken The parade started on time at 10 o'clock. The first groups walked up the hill and made that left turn. People were cheering, celebrating, and smiling. The first groups made the left turn, crossed 1st, crossed 2nd. The second group passed, the third, and the fourth. prgtoken At 10:14 everything changed. What initially sounded like firecrackers--and sure, why not? it is the Fourth of July--people quickly realized it was a different sound altogether. Those who were right there at the corner of 2nd and Central looked and saw that people were falling and people were bleeding. prgtoken At 10:14 a.m. on July 4th, 2022, the Independence Day parade was shattered when a monster with a high-powered military-style assault weapon, having climbed a roof dressed as a woman to hide himself as he would leave, leaned over the edge and fired 83 shots in 1 minute. Eighty-three shots struck the parade goers below killing seven, wounding dozens, and changing a community forever. prgtoken