mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
Unanimous Consent Request--H.R. 4364 (Executive Session)
Mike Lee (Republican, UT) \u2014 2024-3-21

. I will sit down in a moment to let my friend and colleague Joe Manchin speak. prgtoken I want to point out for a moment a couple of things. My friend and colleague from the State of Washington is objecting to this measure that would allow all Members adequate time to review the bill and to vet it with constituents and debate it and discuss it and amend it on the floor. She said that we have to get a move on; the government has been on autopilot, meaning under a continuing resolution for too long. True. Absolutely true. prgtoken But I find it stunning the suggestion that she is saying now that time is of the essence. Now, we didn't have the bill yesterday or the day before or the day before or the day before that when we were promised the bill. We didn't have it. We have it now. prgtoken She identified the precise moment in history--the precise moment in 2024--when we can no longer move forward for another day. We have to get a move on right, right now. They are the only ones who know this. prgtoken She also says it is bipartisan, bicameral; that it is a carefully negotiated agreement. That is great. That small handful of people who actually saw this bill and were involved in its final formulation, I am sure, will find that very comforting. For the rest of us who didn't see it until 2:30 a.m. this morning and the 330 million Americans out there who will have to pay for this stuff, that is not adequate notice. That is not a carefully negotiated agreement. That is collusion among the few affecting the many adversely. prgtoken I find this very, very disturbing that we couldn't get the American people and their elected representatives a few more days so that they can understand what is in there. It begs the question, What are they hiding?
SWAMP BUS PART 2: MORE ILLEGALS, LESS FREEDOM
Chip Roy (Republican, TX) \u2014 2024-3-21

I come here to the floor recognizing the state of affairs that we find ourselves in, given the extent to which the President of the United States and his radical progressive allies on the other side of the aisle here and in the Senate, are continuing an assault on the well-being of the American people with open borders, with inflationary spending, with radical environmental agenda policies that are regulating the economy to death, driving up the cost of goods sold, and overall diminishing America and the world. There is no other way to view it than intentional. prgtoken That kind of an assault on the well-being of the American people ought to be and deserves to be met with the kind of resistance that the American people who sent us here to represent them expect. prgtoken The American people, who sent at least s here to be in the majority to stand athwart the radical policies of the administration, supported by our radical progressive here in this House and in the Senate, they sent us here to stand athwart those policies. Therefore, it is our duty, it is incumbent upon us to actually do so. prgtoken Last year, when given the majority, a number of us set out to change the way the House of Representatives works, or should I say, was not working. prgtoken We set out to make sure that bills could be read, that you have 72 hours to review a bill. prgtoken We set out to ensure that you would have adequate and varied representation on the various committees. prgtoken We set out to ensure that there would be a process by which we could move appropriations bills out of committee on to the floor, from the floor to the Senate, so that we could pass individual bills, try to restore what we might call regular order. prgtoken We set out to do that last year. We passed seven appropriations bills out of the House, three more from the committees down to the floor, two others were ready to go. We passed H.R. 2, the strongest border security bill that has ever been moved off of the House floor. We passed the Limit, Save, Grow Act, which would elevate the debt responsibly while making policy changes to try to drive down the amount of debt that we are racking up on a daily and weekly basis. prgtoken Those are the things we are able to accomplish as s when we were honoring the commitments that we made to our constituents, and we were not hiding. prgtoken Unfortunately, today, s are hiding. They are hiding behind the fear of a so-called shutdown and hiding behind the so-called razor thin majority to pass a massive omnibus spending bill--the second part of a two-part omnibus spending bill that blows past the spending caps passed on a bipartisan basis, increases the spending over the very levels perpetuated by Nancy Pelosi that virtually every in this Chamber opposed not 15 months ago. prgtoken They are about to pass legislation that will blow past those caps and spend mor
HONORING THE LIFE OF THE HONORABLE VIRGIL MARCUS JONES, SR.
Earl L. "Buddy" Carter (Republican, GA) \u2014 2024-3-21

. Madam , I rise today to recognize Fred Harpole for his hard work and leadership as he retires from his position as assistant director for FLECT Core Training Operations Directorate. prgtoken In his position, Harpole is responsible for providing oversight of the firearms division, driver and marine division, enforcement operations division, and physical techniques division. Additionally, he manages oversight of the FLETC Artesia, New Mexico, training delivery point. prgtoken Harpole became a member of the FLETC team in March of 2020 as the deputy assistant director for CTO. Shortly after, Harpole was promoted to the position of assistant director. prgtoken Prior to his service at the FLETC, Harpole served in multiple operations and training positions for both TSA and the Federal Air Marshal Service. His background, skills, and firsthand insight have made him a valuable source of information for public officials. prgtoken Mr. Harpole, who began his law enforcement career in 1987 with the Milwaukee Police Department, will be revered into the future for his dedication to public service and the protection of the American people. Remembering Bob Coble
Recognizing The Indians of Milan High 1954 Basketball Championship (Executive Session)
Todd Young (Republican, IN) \u2014 2024-3-21

you might be surprised by the guest book of a museum in a small town in Indiana. Inside it are names of visitors from all 50 States and from much farther away--other countries, other continents, places like Italy, France, Japan, and New Zealand. prgtoken They have made their way to Milan--Milan, IN. And they have done so because here is where the heart of Hoosier Hysteria lives. It is the greatest basketball story ever that has taken place. It happened there 70 years ago this week, March 20, 1954, at the Fieldhouse on the campus of Butler University in Indianapolis: the finals of the prgtoken Indiana High School Basketball Tournament, the Indians of Milan High, enrollment 161, versus the Bearcats of Muncie Central, enrollment 1,660. Fifteen thousand fans are in the bleachers, with thousands more Hoosiers listening over the radio. It is the fourth quarter. The game is tied at 30; 18 seconds on the clock. Milan inbounds. Senior Bobby Plump gets the ball. He fakes left, dribbles right, pulls up, knocks down a 14-foot jump shot just as the clock expires. The nets come down. The celebration starts. prgtoken The next morning, the new State companions headed home. They are in a fleet of Cadillacs along Indiana's county roads. There was no interstate or highway connecting Indianapolis to Cincinnati, the closest city to Milan. prgtoken Hoosiers were awaiting along the way in Greensburg, in Shelbyville. They were holding signs. They were waving. State Road 101, which led back home, was lined with cars and cheering fans for 13 miles. And 40,000 people were waiting in little Milan, IN, even though at the time, the town had only 1,100 residents. This is Hoosier Hysteria. This is what the people of Indiana are so excited about every March. prgtoken That year, in 1954, as the players from Milan rolled into town, two members of the team, Ray Craft and Kenny Wendelman, hopped on the roof of their Cadillac with the championship trophy between them. The procession ended near Milan High. That is where that trophy remains today. prgtoken The next morning, the crowd was gone. The small town, its quiet had gradually returned. In the days that followed, members of the team graduated. They went off to college, pursued careers. They drifted apart. Coach Marvin Wood took a job up in New Castle. prgtoken The passage of time brought other changes--not all of them welcome, of course. Little Milan, like so many towns across the country--it is facing challenges. And the single class basketball tournament system that gave small town teams like Milan a shot at the title is no more. prgtoken Some of the schools that played in the 1954 tournament are gone. Milan, it hasn't won another championship. Though, it must be said they made it to the semi-State back in 1973. prgtoken Despite this--or possibly because of it--the Milan Miracle is as inspiring as ever. Yes, it is the tale of the little guy, the underdog, David versus Goliath, the
THANKING HUD SECRETARY MARCIA FUDGE FOR HER PUBLIC SERVICE
Michael R. Turner (Republican, OH) \u2014 2024-3-21

I want to extend my sincere and best wishes to U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary, Marcia Fudge, as she concludes her public service to our great Nation. prgtoken Before Secretary Fudge joined the Administration, we served together as part of the Ohio Congressional Delegation in the U.S. House of Representatives for twelve years. I was proud to work alongside her to meet our shared goals on a number of issues, including housing opportunities for low and moderate-income families, as well as combating the opioid epidemic in Ohio. prgtoken As Secretary, we continued our strong rejationship, and her leadership has benefitted HUD projects across the country, including in my district. prgtoken Secretary Fudge's steadfast career in public service, beginning as Mayor of Warrensville Heights, Ohio, is an example for all of us who work to serve our communities and our Nation. prgtoken I thank Marcia for her friendship and her long and distinguished public service to the people of Ohio, and the United States of America. I wish her a happy, healthy, and productive retirement.
HONORING THE LIFE OF MR. JAMES FLURRY
Doug LaMalfa (Republican, CA) \u2014 2024-3-21

I rise today to recognize the life and career of James Clyde Flurry of Marysville who recently passed away peacefully at the age of 79 years old. prgtoken James was an exceptional member of our community, where he spent more than 40 years working for the Marysville Joint Unified School District serving in many different capacities. prgtoken James started his career at the young age of 18, where he drove his peers to school, parked the bus, and joined them in class. He always recounted his time as a bus driver very fondly. He went on to work as a teacher, vice principal, and later as a school board member. prgtoken James originally hailed from Ukiah, California, and moved to Marysville early in life where he attended Marysville High School and Chapman University. prgtoken In addition to working for the Marysville Joint Unified School District, James also spent more than three decades working summers as a field representative for Del Monte Foods. prgtoken James loved helping his students, especially those who had a rough home life and needed additional support. He greatly valued community service and was a member of the Crossroads Community Church for over 20 years. He was also an active member of the Linda Lyons Club and Marysville Exchange, where he enjoyed selflessly volunteering in the community. prgtoken James is survived by the mother of his children, Randi Flurry; his children, Jennifer and Greg; two stepsons, Jon and Scott: several grandchildren; and his many family members and friends. He will be greatly missed by our community. May he rest in peace.
RECOGNIZING MAJOR JARED L. PERRY
Virginia Foxx (Republican, NC) \u2014 2024-3-21

I rise to recognize Jared L. Perry, a major in the United States Marine Corps, an exemplary North Carolinian, and a proud native of Ashe County. prgtoken On April 5, Major Perry will officially retire after 16 years of service to our Nation, a record of service that is admirable and respected. prgtoken His service to our Nation has led him to travel to Central and South America on the USS Iwo Jima, to Afghanistan, where he served two combat tours, as well as to the Indo-Pacific. No matter where he has traveled to in service to our Nation, one thing has remained the same: his commitment to advancing and safeguarding the values and freedom that make America the greatest country in the world. prgtoken I congratulate Major Perry on his well-earned retirement. The entire Nation thanks him for his service and sacrifice, and we are forever grateful.
HONORING HENRY BELL OF EAST TEXAS
Nathaniel Moran (Republican, TX) \u2014 2024-3-21

I rise today to honor and congratulate my friend, Henry Bell, on 35 years of service to the Tyler Area Chamber of Commerce. This incredible milestone is a testament to his dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the economic growth of the east Texas community. prgtoken Throughout Henry's tenure, he has been a driving force behind the chamber of commerce's success. prgtoken Henry's deep knowledge of the resources, traditions, and history of east Texas, combined with his natural ability to build strong relationships, have helped attract new businesses and create countless jobs in east Texas. prgtoken Under his guidance, the Tyler Area Chamber of Commerce has become a beacon of economic development, serving as a valuable resource and support system for businesses large and small. prgtoken The Tyler Area Chamber is a regional top five chamber boasting more than 2,000 member businesses, organizations, and individuals. prgtoken Beyond his professional contributions, Henry has sought to serve the Tyler community by dedicating his time and talents outside of work and in keeping with the traditions of five generations of Bells who have served before him. prgtoken Once again, I congratulate Henry Bell on this remarkable milestone. The east Texas community is proud to have him, and we have been blessed because of him.
TRIBUTE TO MARY JANE COBB
Chuck Grassley (Republican, IA) \u2014 2024-3-21

I would like to congratulate Mary Jane Cobb for her career as executive director of the Iowa State Education Association. She began her distinguished career in education in 1994. After serving in a number of positions working with students across the country, Mary Jane came to Iowa in 2008. In her role with ISEA, she has worked with teachers and schools around the State on many issues affecting our students. Mary Jane had an impact on the education of hundreds of thousands of our students in Iowa. I congratulate her on her career and wish her a happy retirement.
Remembering Phil Howe (Executive Session)
Jerry Moran (Republican, KS) \u2014 2024-3-21

today, I rise to honor the life and mourn the loss, the passing, of a fellow Kansan, Phil Howe. prgtoken Mr. Howe lived most of his life in Manhattan, KS, and he loved his hometown. He was an active member of the community, a local businessowner, and a proud Kansas State University Wildcat. prgtoken The only place he may have loved more than Manhattan was his family's farm. During his younger years, Phil spent time at that farm. The farm was near Chapman and Solomon, where he enjoyed farming and fishing. prgtoken Phil attended Sacred Heart Academy and graduated in 1950. Afterward, he attended Kansas State University and completed a degree in business administration. Phil was also an active member of Beta Theta Pi Fraternity. prgtoken After graduating from Kansas State University, Phil married his wife, Margaret, and they were married for 57 years, until Margaret's passing 10 years ago. prgtoken Phil's career started at the Union National Bank, where he worked as a consumer loan officer. With years of banking experience, Phil decided to charter his own bank, to go out on his own, and, in 1969, the Kansas State Bank was opened. It was chartered and opened in a trailer home and now has grown to a nearly $1 billion enterprise. prgtoken His interests in business did not stop with banking. Phil was elected to serve as president of the Griffith Oil Company and founded both Master Medical Company and Baystone Financial Group. prgtoken Years later, Phil served on the board of St. Mary's Hospital. He was an active member of the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce and sat on the dean's business advisory council for Kansas State University. prgtoken Phil established foundations to help people across the Manhattan community and across our State of Kansas. Through the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation and the foundation's Youth Empowerment for Success Fund, he helped impact many, many lives, especially young people. prgtoken I would see Phil at Manhattan Rotary Club meetings. And I know I speak for many when I say Phil will be greatly and sadly missed. prgtoken Robba and I are praying for his family, his friends, and loved ones during this time. Robba attended the services this morning at Seven Dolors Catholic Church in Manhattan. prgtoken Mr. Howe was a respected businessman and community leader, the kind of person every community in Kansas wishes there were just more like him. More importantly, Phil was a kind and caring man of character and of faith--just what our State, our Nation, and world so desperately need today. prgtoken I offer these remarks with the greatest amount of respect and gratitude for a life well lived.
HONORING RAYFORD GUZARDO
Randy K. Weber, Sr. (Republican, TX) \u2014 2024-3-21

I rise today to recognize and celebrate a true American hero, World War II veteran, and former POW, Mr. Louis Rayford Guzardo, who will turn 100 on April 6. prgtoken Mr. Guzardo isn't just any ordinary Joe. He served as a B-24 gunner during World War II. His courage and dedication exemplified the finest tradition of our Armed Forces, inspiring us all to strive for excellence as well as selflessness. He is a part of the Greatest Generation. prgtoken Despite enduring the horrors of war and being held as a prisoner of war, Mr. Guzardo's spirit remained unbroken, fueled by his love of his country and his unwavering faith. prgtoken Mr. Guzardo, thank you for your service. Thank you for your sacrifice and unwavering dedication to your community in Nederland. Happy 100th birthday, and may your days be filled with joy and blessings. Know that your legacy will be in this Congressional Record for generations to come, and your love for the United States will always be remembered.
A TRIBUTE TO BEVERLY PINGERELLI
Debbie Lesko (Republican, AZ) \u2014 2024-3-21

. Madam , I rise today to recognize a woman who has led our State with strength and helped to create one of the most prosperous economies in Arizona history: Arizona Treasurer Kimberly Yee. prgtoken Kimberly Yee was born and raised in Arizona and was the first Chinese-American woman to be elected to a major statewide office in the history of the United States. She is the first Asian American elected to a statewide office in Arizona history. prgtoken Yee began her career in public service in 2010 when she was elected to the Arizona Legislature where she served for 8 years between the house and the senate. She was the second woman to serve as Senate majority leader since U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor served in Arizona in that same position. prgtoken During her time as treasurer of Arizona, the Permanent Land Endowment Trust Fund hit record highs. She also led the effort to pass a State law requiring financial education for high school students prior to graduation. prgtoken Treasurer Yee's service to Arizona has raised financial literacy rates, improved Arizona's economy, and helped show young women and girls across the State that anything is possible.
National Inland Waterways Workers Safety Awareness Day (Executive Session)
Shelley Moore Capito (Republican, WV) \u2014 2024-3-21

I would like to take a moment to recognize Gabe White. His family is here at the Capitol today. He is a West Virginian who tragically lost his life a year ago, I believe, this week. prgtoken Gabe is a native of Gilmer County. He was 20 years old when he passed away. It was as a result of a barge accident in Follansbee, WV. prgtoken At the request of his family, Senator Manchin and I have introduced a resolution to declare March 22--the date of Gabe's tragic passing--as National Inland Waterways Workers Safety Awareness Day. It is our hope to ensure that similar accidents such as this will never happen again. prgtoken The resolution is currently moving towards passage in the Senate, and I would encourage my colleagues to support this. prgtoken With that, .
DENOUNCING THE HARMFUL, ANTI-AMERICAN ENERGY POLICIES OF THE BIDEN ADMINISTRATION
Jeff Duncan (Republican, SC) \u2014 2024-3-21

such time as I may consume. prgtoken , I rise in support of H. Res. 987 to denounce the harmful anti-American energy policies of the administration, led by Congressional Western Caucus Chairman Dan Newhouse. prgtoken From day one, the administration has waged war on American energy. Their actions and policies have jeopardized our grid security, caused America to become more dependent on foreign adversaries like Iran, Russia, China, Venezuela, and others, and increased energy costs for everyday Americans. prgtoken Energy is foundational to everything in American life. American energy prgtoken powers our country, employs our workers, and drives our economy. prgtoken When the cost of energy goes up, so does everything else. Since President took office, the administration has taken over 170 regulatory actions to make it harder to produce and deliver American energy. prgtoken President and House are doing everything in their power to regulate American energy workers out of existence, and they don't care how it negatively impacts communities in South Carolina or any other State around the country. They are putting the needs of the radical climate lobby over hardworking Americans. prgtoken Americans know gas prices hit a 4-month high this week, with a national average of $3.46 a gallon. In May 2023, it was calculated that nearly 20 million households in the United States were behind on their utility bills. That means they couldn't pay them or were having trouble paying them. prgtoken In President 's first 26 months in office, energy prices increased roughly 27.2 percent, the largest increase of any of the past seven administrations. prgtoken President 's policies have directly contributed to these unaffordable energy bills. He started his first day in office by canceling the Keystone pipeline, eliminating the potential for 11,000 energy sector jobs. prgtoken He continues to block domestic mineral development while simultaneously forcing a rush to green agenda, which makes the United States reliant on foreign countries like China that use child labor, have inhumane working conditions, and do their mining in a very environmentally insensitive way. prgtoken To distract from high energy prices, President directed the largest drawdown of the Strategic Petroleum Reserve in the Nation's history. prgtoken Now, the SPR, the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, is there for national emergencies--in time of war, hurricane, and other natural disasters. He drew it down for political purposes. prgtoken Under ic control, the SPR has been drained to its lowest level since 1980 as an election year gimmick. It puts America at risk, though, not having that Strategic Petroleum Reserve available. prgtoken President 's anti-American energy policies know no end. They are taxing natural gas, blocking pipelines, banning LNG exports, which help American producers but also help o