mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
CONGRATULATING MEGAN MORONEY
Earl L. "Buddy" Carter (Republican, GA) \u2014 2024-2-29

I rise today to congratulate Savannah-born singer Megan Moroney for ranking among Rolling Stone's ``The 100 Best Albums of 2023'' list. prgtoken Born in Savannah, Georgia, Megan Moroney comes from a household steeped in musical talent and traditions influenced by iconic songwriters in classic country, southern rock, and Americana. prgtoken After completing high school, Moroney set off to receive a degree in accounting at the University of Georgia. Go Dawgs. prgtoken During her freshmen year at UGA, Megan was provided with the opportunity to open for a well-established country artist at the renowned Georgia Theatre. prgtoken This unexpected opportunity sparked Megan's interest in crafting her first original song. prgtoken Reflecting on her journey, she shared that she never thought she would be a singer professionally. prgtoken Moroney connects with her audience through her music by speaking her truth about the emotional experiences she has faced. prgtoken , I congratulate Megan. I look forward to seeing her continued success in the future. In Remembrance of Leanna Piver
EXTENSION OF CONTINUING APPROPRIATIONS AND OTHER MATTERS ACT, 2024
Chip Roy (Republican, TX) \u2014 2024-2-29

such time as I may consume. prgtoken , I note that the gentleman, for whom I have a great deal of respect, was just using a lot of the arguments that I have heard over and over again. It is something that we have come to understand in this town as what we call the glossary. prgtoken When you run out of the, sort of, what are we actually going to fight over substantively, we should bring out all the terms, right? We talk about, oh, we only have a slim majority. prgtoken Well, I will remind my colleagues on this side of the aisle that the had a slim majority when they jammed through numerous massive bills, whether it is Care, whether we are talking about the Inflation Reduction Act. Yet, here we sit, and we are walking away from the majority that we were given, to use that majority, to use the power of the purse to stop an executive branch that is out of control. prgtoken A continuing resolution will continue to fund 's war on our border, and it is not just . It is the radical progressive as a whole. It is a war on our well-being, a war on our security and safety. prgtoken That young lady who was killed in Georgia last week, that is happening over and over again in Texas: a young cheerleader was found in a bathtub, killed by somebody here illegally; a 2-year-old right here in Montgomery County, Maryland, outside of D.C was killed by someone here illegally and released; a young person was raped last week in Louisiana by somebody here illegally from Honduras and released. prgtoken When are we going to stop it? When is this side of the aisle going to use the prgtoken power of the purse to stop it? I can promise you the radical progressive want it. They want open borders. prgtoken We are continuing to fund a weaponized IRS, continuing to fund a weaponized Department of Justice, like the DOJ that went after Mark Houck, went after Scott Smith. We are funding an EV, electric vehicle, mandate. prgtoken I heard my colleague talk about energy and water. What are we going to do to preserve American energy while the American people suffer? Our colleagues on the other side of the aisle are pursuing unicorn energy policy--EPA rules killing coal and natural gas plants, the World Health Organization, the United Nations, UNRWA, the ATF that is banning pistol braces and our Second Amendment rights, the Department of Education student loan scam that the President of the United States went to the microphone and applauded, ignoring the United States Supreme Court. prgtoken What are we going to do? Fund it. We are going to keep funding it. prgtoken What about the NIH and the FDA and COVID tyranny? What about the Department of Veterans Affairs, the chief diversity officers, the abortion travel fund, taxpayer-funded sex changes, transgender surgeries? prgtoken Your tax dollars are funding all of that, and we are going to continue it with a continuing resolution. To do what? To buy
HONORING THE LIFE OF BOB BOOKER
Tim Burchett (Republican, TN) \u2014 2024-2-29

I rise to honor the life of my dear friend, Bob Booker, who passed away on February 22 at 88 years young. prgtoken He was a historian, a U.S. Army veteran, and a passionate civil rights leader who was not afraid to stand up for what he believed. State Representative Joe Armstrong and I named a bridge after him when we were both in the State legislature because of all of his hard work. He really cared about his community and making it a better place. prgtoken In 1966, Bob was also elected as Knoxville's first Black Tennessee State Representative. prgtoken Bob was a dear friend of mine, and I knew him for many years. He worked with my dad at UT, and he knew my mama because she taught at Knoxville College, a historically Black college. He continued to be a great friend to me and my family after they passed away. prgtoken I have one particularly fond memory of Bob. One night when Kelly, my wife, and I were at a noted honky-tonk in Knoxville, Bob was there, as well. Kelly and I had snuck in, and we were in the back row. He belted out a karaoke song and dedicated it to us. He knew his music and had an incredible record collection that I loved and admired whenever I went to his house. He was an excellent host and an excellent cook. prgtoken I give my condolences to Bob's brother, Percell, all of his friends at Marie's Old Town Tavern, and everyone who knew and loved him. Bob will be missed.
TRIBUTE TO CLINTON McKINNEY
James E. Risch (Republican, ID) \u2014 2024-2-29

I rise today to honor and recognize the remarkable life and extraordinary service of Staff Sergeant Clinton McKinney, a true hero and distinguished World War II veteran. SSG McKinney's unwavering courage, sacrifice, and dedication to our Nation embody the spirit of the greatest generation. prgtoken SSG McKinney celebrated his 100th birthday on January 21, 2024. The occasion was marked by heartfelt tributes from his family and the Idaho community. It is a testament to SSG McKinney's enduring legacy and his profound impact on all who have the privilege of knowing him. prgtoken SSG McKinney fearlessly began his service in March 1943. He served with Company M of the 103rd Infantry Division during the Battle of the Bulge, a historic battle and turning point for World War II in the winter of 1944. SSG McKinney and company faced extreme conditions of bitter cold and isolation but never failed to demonstrate steadfast resolve and resilience. Sadly, 39 of his fellow infantrymen were lost in the battle, and SSG McKinney was taken prisoner. SSG McKinney escaped not once, but twice, only to be recaptured each time. His sheer determination and resourcefulness led to a successful third attempt with two other soldiers. prgtoken For his exceptional bravery and selflessness, SSG McKinney was awarded the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, and multiple Purple Hearts, recognizing his immense contribution to the Allied cause and his dedication to duty. prgtoken Following the war, he returned home to his beloved wife Louise and devoted himself to public service by establishing a firefighting department in Washington State. His commitment to the safety and well- being of his fellow citizens extends far beyond his military service. prgtoken I am privileged to reflect on the extraordinary life of SSG McKinney, prgtoken honor his remarkable service, and learn from his example. SSG McKinney's courage and resilience serve as an inspiration, reminding us of the sacrifices made by the greatest generation and the debt of gratitude we owe them. SSG McKinney is a true American hero whose selfless actions and remarkable service have left an indelible mark on our Nation's history. May his legacy inspire future generations to serve with honor, courage, and unwavering commitment.
CONGRATULATING SUSAN SUBER, WINNER OF DISTRICT 1 YOUNG MARINE OF THE YEAR
Brian K. Fitzpatrick (Republican, PA) \u2014 2024-2-29

I rise today in recognition of an outstanding young woman from my district, Susan Suber, who was recently named the District 1 Young Marine of the Year for a second year in a row. Young Marines District 1 is a region that encompasses 9 Northeastern U.S. states. Susan is a member of the Spartan Young Marines located in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, is a resident of Pipersville, Pennsylvania, and is currently a junior at Central Bucks East High School. Suber will proudly represent Division 1 prgtoken in competition with five other division winners for the title of National Young Marine of the Year, the highest honor bestowed by the Young Marines organization nationally. prgtoken The Young Marines is a national non-profit youth education and service program for boys and girls, age eight through high school graduation. The Young Marines promotes the mental, moral, and physical development of its members. The program focuses on teaching the values of leadership, teamwork, and self-discipline, so its members can live and promote a healthy, drug-free lifestyle. prgtoken Suber joined the Young Marines at age nine and she currently holds the rank of Young Marine Sergeant Major. Over her eight years in the program, Suber has attended all three leadership schools available from Young Marines, and went on to teach leadership at some of these schools as an alumna. prgtoken Outside of Young Marines, Suber is busy with many hours spent as a Toys for Tots Mentor and Youth Ambassador. In this position she helped to inspire and teach fellow Youth Ambassador's not only about the program but how they can get more involved in the campaign and grow as leaders. This past year she was named one of the Youth Ambassador Mentors of the year on behalf of the Toys for Tots organization. In addition to her Toys for Tots national leadership, she is also a leader in her high school's vocational education program, assisting the school with teaching plans and curriculum development. prgtoken After high school, Suber plans to serve in the U.S. Marine Corps in the field of aviation. I wish her the best of luck in her endeavors, and I know that she will serve her community and country well.
AIRPORT AND AIRWAY EXTENSION ACT OF 2024
Bruce Westerman (Republican, AR) \u2014 2024-2-29

. Madam , I thank Chairman Graves for yielding and for his leadership on the FAA reauthorization bill and on the full committee. prgtoken This summer, under the leadership of Chairman Sam Graves, Ranking Member Larsen, Aviation Subcommittee Chairman Garret Graves, and Subcommittee Ranking Member Cohen, the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee did our job. We crafted a strong and bipartisan reauthorization of the Federal Aviation Administration. prgtoken It passed unanimously through committee and with overwhelming bipartisan support on this very floor. The Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act is a comprehensive, commonsense bill that Members of this Chamber can be proud of. The historic legislation ensures that we continue to improve safety, encourage innovation, and ensure that the United States remains the gold standard in aviation. prgtoken However, since its passage, as has been mentioned, 7 months ago, we have had to vote on two extensions for the FAA reauthorization, and now we are facing a vote on a third because of the Senate's inaction on this important legislation. prgtoken Aviation safety impacts every single American, and each day that goes by without Senate passage and the President's signature, the enactment of key safety measures and improved framework for innovation is delayed. prgtoken During the development of this bill, we all worked hard in good faith for good policy. I fought for safety provisions that will directly benefit the airports in my district in El Dorado, Hot Springs, Texarkana, and Mena, such as requiring that the FAA implement tower marking rules that protect the general aviation community, especially agricultural aircraft, and ensuring that planes going in and out of Mena Airport have stable radio communication. prgtoken These are nonpartisan, good issues, and they are just an example of things all across the country. prgtoken While it is unfortunate that we are faced with a third extension to provide ample time for this critical legislation to make it across the finish line, we must pass this additional extension. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to swiftly pass the FAA legislation and the President to sign it into law so the United States can continue its role as the global leader in aviation safety and innovation. prgtoken With all this being said about how we can't get things done in the House, we have got something done in the House, and we just need our Senate partners and the White House to come along.
LEGISLATIVE SESSION
Rand Paul (Republican, KY) \u2014 2024-2-29

. The difference between Russia and Turkiye is no one is offering to sell F-16s to Russia. I am not for selling F-16s to Russia; neither am I for selling F-16s to Turkiye. prgtoken This is a clear case of quid pro quo. All of the folks who are now for it were against it just months ago. The reason they have changed their opinion is they have been given something. Turkiye extorted us. Turkiye said: If you want Sweden to be in NATO, you have to give us these planes. prgtoken So they gave up Sweden in exchange for getting the planes. It doesn't change any of the facts. The facts are these: Them having F-16s and Russian S-400s allows them to steal some of our technology, to match the technology of our fighter jets against a Russian defense system and potentially give that to Russia. prgtoken This is a problem. It has been a problem. It hasn't changed. These are the same problems that opponents of this were mentioning over and over and over again. That is why for 2 years they have been opposed to this. They have flipped. They have sold their opposition to Turkiye for admission for Sweden. It is a quid pro quo. It is a trade. prgtoken They made a trade, but publicly they will have to acknowledge they made a trade and they think somehow it is more important to sell these planes to Turkiye than it is to protect the integrity of the technology of these planes against Russian military systems.
HONORING DANIEL AVEGALIO AS VETERAN OF THE MONTH
Mark Alford (Republican, MO) \u2014 2024-2-29

. Madam , today, I rise to honor our Veteran of the Month, Daniel Avegalio, a marine who served bravely in Operation Iraqi Freedom not once but three times. Daniel's dedication to our country is a testament to the spirit of American service. prgtoken From Pettis County, Daniel has not only served his country in uniform but continues to serve by guiding fellow veterans in their life after the military. His commitment shines through his work with the Sedalia Military Affairs Committee and his educational leadership as a Presidential Center Scholar. prgtoken Today, he furthers his impact with Western Governors University, helping military members transition to civilian life. prgtoken Daniel represents the best of us, the best of America. His sacrifice and ongoing commitment to his fellow servicemen and -women exemplify the enduring American values of loyalty, service, and community, for which I thank Daniel.
Bicentennial of Vermillion County, Indiana (Executive Session)
Todd Young (Republican, IN) \u2014 2024-2-29

I rise today to salute Vermillion County, IN, on the occasion of its bicentennial, which occurred earlier this month. prgtoken I begin this tribute thousands of miles and an ocean away from West Central Indiana, in Iejima, which is an island off the coast of Okinawa. There in Iejima, in a park by the side of a road, stands a small monument made of white stone. There is a bronze plaque that is placed near its base, and it reads: At this spot the 77th Infantry Division lost a buddy, Ernie Pyle, 18th April 1945. prgtoken They weren't the only ones who lost a friend that day. No other writer so vividly captured the experiences of the American soldier or better chronicled the war that they fought during World War II than Ernie Pyle. The warmth and directness of Ernie Pyle's columns channeled the voice of the GI and communicated it clearly to the countrymen back home. prgtoken Pyle was by so many accounts America's greatest war correspondent. He was a shy farm boy from the town of Dana in Vermillion County. In fact, the house he was born in is still there. His writing style reflected his upbringing in the warmth of smalltown America and Hoosier common sense. prgtoken That monument that I mentioned near the spot he died is just one of the incredible things that Vermillion County's people have accomplished and how the values instilled there made them possible. prgtoken Now, I will allow that not all Americans have heard of this part of Indiana. After all, it is a small spot on the map, bounded to the east by the Wabash River--7 miles wide, 37 miles long--home to less than 16,000 citizens, but as Ernie Pyle's life demonstrates, we are all, each and every one of us, better off because of the Hoosiers who have called Vermillion County home. prgtoken They have done great things, and they have done them quietly, in and far away from their own communities. In fact, when our Union was in peril, our freedoms threatened, Vermillion County's residents answered the call again and again and again. prgtoken They fought in the siege of Vicksburg, suffered in the misery of Andersonville. Their bodies rest far from Vermillion County's Hoosier soil. They are in American cemeteries abroad. Their names can be found on the tablets of the lost. Their families still hold the Purple Hearts and hang the Gold Star banners. prgtoken These Hoosiers have not only defended America, but with their industriousness and creativity, they have contributed to all of our walks of life. prgtoken The area's first settlers discovered the richness of Vermillion County soil. Two centuries later, their descendants still work the land. In fact, hundreds of farms--many of them family-owned--help drive the local economy and feed our Nation. prgtoken Vermillion County has provided much else, though: leaders--leaders who have risen to Indiana's highest offices; but not just leaders-- explorers, actors, athletes, engineers, and, of course, one
EXTENSION OF CONTINUING APPROPRIATIONS AND OTHER MATTERS ACT, 2024
John Thune (Republican, SD) \u2014 2024-2-29

. The following Senators are necessarily absent: the Senator from Wyoming (Mr. Barrasso), the Senator from Alabama (Mrs. Britt), the Senator from Louisiana (Mr. Cassidy), the Senator from Montana (Mr. Daines), the Senator from Kansas (Mr. Moran), the Senator from Kentucky (Mr. Paul), the Senator from Idaho (Mr. Risch), the Senator from Utah (Mr. Romney), and the Senator from South Carolina (Mr. Scott).
AIRPORT AND AIRWAY EXTENSION ACT OF 2024
Sam Graves (Republican, MO) \u2014 2024-2-29

. Madam , I urge, as well, all Members to support this bill. This is a must-pass bill so we can keep our aviation system operating safely. H.R. 7454 provides for a clean extension of FAA authorities. It does not include any policy riders. prgtoken Failure to extend the FAA's authorities is going to cost the Federal Government more than $50 million a day in lost revenues. prgtoken A lapse in authorities would also prohibit the FAA from making new obligations from the aviation trust fund to fund the FAA's important safety, operational, and research functions. Enacting a long-term and comprehensive FAA bill is the goal of both the House and the Senate. I remain committed to doing just that so Congress can deliver certainty to the aviation industry and the FAA. prgtoken Madam , I urge support for this bill, and .
ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS
Steve Daines (Republican, MT) \u2014 2024-2-29

today I have the distinct honor of recognizing Gerald ``Jerry'' W. Marks of Missoula County for his service to his community during his tenure as the county's longest serving employee. prgtoken Growing up on a farm near Townsend, MT, Jerry went on to lead an accomplished life from his time in the U.S. Army serving overseas in Vietnam, to receiving quality education based in agriculture and public service from Montana State University and the University of Montana. His studies served him well as he began his long career as Missoula County's Agriculture Extension Agent in 1969. To provide some context, Jerry has been serving his community longer than we have had a man on the moon. prgtoken Jerry built programs and partnerships centered around agriculture, horticulture, and community development. During his tenure, Jerry increased the enrollment and community participation in 4-H by 30 percent, helped establish the Extension Forestry Program in 1983, and developed the County Weed Control Program in 1985. Jerry's most recent project, which took decades to finish, was the completion of the Gerald W. Marks Exploration Center and Rocky Mountain Gardens located on the Missoula County Fairgrounds, which fittingly bears his name. prgtoken Jerry and his wife of 51 years, Sharon, have two children and four grandchildren. Hailing from South Dakota, Sharon also grew up on a farm and had a career as an extension agent. The Markses enjoy sewing arts, growing plants, creative cooking, and supporting Missoula's arts community. After 55 years of service to his community, Jerry is set to retire March 1, 2024, and I have no doubt he will keep busy with his many hobbies and friends throughout Missoula County. prgtoken It is my distinct honor to recognize Jerry Marks for his life of service to the Missoula community. His favorite quote epitomizes his life's work. ``Do not fear the head winds, for they will make your program stronger.'' Thanks for your tireless work, Jerry, you make Montana proud and are one of the reasons it remains The Last Best Place.
REMEMBERING LAKEN RILEY
Doug LaMalfa (Republican, CA) \u2014 2024-2-29

. Madam , what is it going to take to get people in this country on both sides of the aisle to understand that the border crisis is killing people? prgtoken Laken Riley was a 22-year-old nursing student whose life was taken by an illegal immigrant, not a migrant. I hear this word ``migrant'' used all the time. This is a misnomer, trying to brush it under the rug. These aren't migrants; there is an illegal immigrant invasion of this country. prgtoken Earlier this week, another 2-year-old boy in Maryland was murdered by an illegal immigrant, not a migrant. prgtoken President is down there in Texas pretending to do something about the border now in Brownsville. This is not a problem area like Eagle Pass, but a quieter area currently. prgtoken He is yelling at s and saying: Well, you are not doing anything about the border. Well, his first day in office, he reversed all of President 's policies that were helping keep the border in check. prgtoken All these eight items on this list he could do by executive order. He could sign with a pen and do a legal constitutional executive action immediately. prgtoken Instead, he wants to blame s or somebody else for the policies he invoked on day one that have put us where we are. prgtoken Instead, he wants to sue the State of Texas because they say their State is being invaded, and they have laws at the State level to stop invasions. He is suing them to get rid of their razor wire measures along the border. What a joke.