mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
HONORING VICE ADMIRAL SEAN BUCK
James R. Baird (Republican, IN) \u2014 2023-5-26

today I rise to honor the distinguished career of Vice Admiral Sean Buck and to congratulate him on a well- earned retirement. prgtoken For over 40 years, this Hoosier has served his country in the United States Navy, quickly earning a sterling reputation as he rose in the ranks. prgtoken As a flag officer, VADM Buck held a series of vital command and staff positions, each demonstrating his exceptional leadership skills and strategic acumen. As commander of the U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S. 4th Fleet, VADM Buck demonstrated his exceptional operational skills, and his steadfast commitment to mission success and the well-being of his fellow service members has left an indelible mark. prgtoken In the four years that VADM Buck has served as the 63rd Superintendent of the U.S. Naval Academy, he has played a vital role in shaping the minds of future leaders, fostering a spirit of excellence and sense of duty in the next generation of naval officers. prgtoken As VADM Buck begins this new chapter in his life, I'd like to congratulate him on an exemplary career and thank him for his invaluable contributions to the U.S. Navy and our national defense. Fair winds and following seas in all your endeavors, Vice Admiral.
RECOGNIZING THE EXCELLENCE OF THE MARCHING CENTURIONS
Mike Garcia (Republican, CA) \u2014 2023-5-26

I rise today to recognize and congratulate Saugus High School's 2022-2023 Marching Band for their selection to represent California's 27th Congressional District in the National Memorial Day Parade held in our Nation's capital. Their designation as a distinguished participant in this year's festivities is a testament to not only their musical excellence, but their resilience through several years of challenges from which they have emerged stronger than ever. prgtoken It is important to recognize that this distinction is one that very few marching bands across the United States have the privilege of touting, and it is certainly one that is earned rather than given. For years leading up to their participation in the National Memorial Day Parade, the Marching Centurions of Saugus High School have distinguished themselves as a benchmark of virtuosity and dedication to craft. Time and time again, students throughout the years have represented their fellow classmates with unmatched pride and skill and it is heartening to see this program be rewarded with such an honor. prgtoken I also want to pay special recognition to band members who are graduating with the Class of 2023. Since they began high school in 2019, their graduating class has faced a gauntlet of trials and tribulations that many of their contemporaries or even most adults have not. After the tragic shooting in November of 2019, they were immediately confronted with the COVID-19 pandemic, lockdowns, and virtual learning which forced them to press on with rehearsals over Zoom. These challenges were of course coupled with the typical obstacles a teenager faces when navigating high school: homework, crushes, college applications and anxiety about the future. As their representative in the halls of Congress, I could not be prouder of their resilience in the face of the impossible. and the manner in which they relied on each other to overcome the odds. prgtoken Once again, I want to extend my sincerest congratulations to the Marching Centurions for this great honor that they will have to commemorate our Nation's heroes who have been killed in the defense of freedom this weekend for Memorial Day. As a Saugus alumnus myself, my heart will swell with pride seeing these students clad in blue and silver marching along the streets of Washington to honor our great country.
RECOGNIZING THE 40TH ANNIVERSARY OF HEART, LOVE & SOUL
Brian Higgins (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2023-5-26

today I am honored to recognize the 40th Anniversary of an indispensable non-profit in our Niagara Falls community, Heart, Love & Soul. Since 1983, this organization has tended to those struggling with poverty in the north end of Niagara Falls. As a hunger-relief and social care agency, the dedicated members of this group give needed attention to every part of those who need it most. prgtoken At its most fundamental level, Heart, Love & Soul has provided the community with wide-reaching food assistance programs and human services at no cost. This includes meals, groceries, case management, showers, laundry facilities, and haircuts. It began on March 14, 1982 when members of a prayer group gathered at the former Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church on South Avenue. They discussed what they could do to help residents who were struggling with food insecurity. Led by a church parishioner, John Porecca, the members of this group decided to pursue an entire organization dedicated to serving those in need. After settling on a name and filing the papers to be incorporated, they began operations out of a former grocery store on Pierce Avenue. With financial help from Savino Nanula, they later purchased the building, which served as Heart, Love & Soul's first food pantry. prgtoken The key element to Heart, Love & Soul's achievements throughout the last four decades has been its consistency in finding conscientious and diligent staff and volunteers. The men and women who run this organization are not only adept at helping people in need, but also recognize the value in raising funds to ensure their longevity. With twenty staff members and many more volunteers, every day is a new day to help a neighbor. And for forty years, every day has been a resounding success. Heart, Love & Soul represents the very best of what dedicated citizens can do for their community, and I know all Western New Yorkers are looking forward to their continued prosperity.
50TH ANNIVERSARY OF MUJERES LATINAS EN ACCION
Mike Quigley (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2023-5-26

I rise today to celebrate the 50th anniversary of an important Chicago organization--Mujeres Latinas en Accion. prgtoken Mujeres Latinas en Accion was founded in 1973 by the late Maria Mangual for the purpose of providing shelter to young women fleeing violence in the Pilsen community. Since their founding, they have expanded to Brighton Park and North Riverside. prgtoken Back in 1982, they established the Healing and Prevention of Domestic Violence program, to provide services for survivors of domestic violence. prgtoken In 2002, they expanded their family support services in partnership with the Illinois Department of Family Support Services. With this, they created the only free Supervised Visitation and Safe Exchange program designed specifically for Spanish speaking low-income families. prgtoken Seven years later, they established the Community Engagement and Mobilization Program to bring the voice of Latina immigrants and survivors of trauma to the work of immigrant and women's coalitions. prgtoken These are just a few of the ways their organization has worked to uplift women in our community and connect them with critical resources. prgtoken I am honored to help Mujeres Latinas en Accion commemorate its 50th year of providing innovative and empowering services for Latinas.
SUPPORTING LAW ENFORCEMENT
Robert Menendez (Democrat, NJ) \u2014 2023-5-26

I rise today to express my support for the men and women in law enforcement who protect our communities in New Jersey's Eighth Congressional District and across the United States. As a Member of Congress, as a community member, and as a friend to our police officers, I recognize and appreciate their dedication, sacrifice, and commitment to keeping our families safe. I strongly believe that their bravery and selflessness deserves our utmost respect and gratitude. prgtoken This Congress, I cosponsored the Invest to Protect Act, which would provide funding for recruitment, retention, support, and training for small and mid-sized police departments. And I will continue to support legislation that equips law enforcement professionals with the tools they need to safely fulfill their responsibilities. prgtoken I stand firmly in support of our law enforcement professionals and express my gratitude for their invaluable service to our communities. Their dedication, courage, and professionalism are the bedrock of a safe and secure society. We must work together to foster an environment that upholds the rule of law, encourages constructive dialogue, and strengthens the partnership between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
CONDEMNING THE RISE OF ANTISEMITISM AND CALLING ON ELECTED OFFICIALS TO IDENTIFY AND EDUCATE OTHERS ON THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF THE JEWISH AMERICAN COMMUNITY
Kathy E. Manning (Democrat, NC) \u2014 2023-5-30

. This important plan recognizes that we all have a role in this fight. It highlights the importance of raising awareness and understanding of anti-Semitism. It requires education both inside and outside the classroom and the workplace. It calls on Members of Congress individually and in a bipartisan group to speak continually about the evils of anti-Semitism and to share this message with our constituents. prgtoken I am committed to working with my colleagues to further combat anti- Semitism and other forms of hate which threaten our values and the foundation of our democracy. prgtoken , I thank all of those who helped us be able to recognize Jewish American Heritage Month, and I urge my colleagues to join in supporting this important legislation.
HONORING SHREYA TOLANI
Frederica S. Wilson (Democrat, FL) \u2014 2023-5-30

I rise to honor the service and accomplishments of Shreya Tolani, my intern who has completed her Spring 2023 semester serving the people of Florida's 24th Congressional District. Shreya has proven to be a very articulate young woman and shows great promise for her future endeavors. Shreya has assisted my office in various areas, such as legislative research, constituent outreach, and writing. She had demonstrated an excellent drive and a continuous willingness to learn. prgtoken Shreya Tolani was born and raised in Vienna, Virginia. She is a current student at the Madeira School. At Madeira, Shreya plays three varsity sports: soccer, basketball, and tennis. She is currently a member of the South Asian Student Association at her school. During her sophomore year, Shreya volunteered as a 3rd grade assistant at Garfield Elementary School for five weeks. Her experiences have empowered her to advocate for women pay equality in sports, as well as education. prgtoken Upon transitioning from her internship, Shreya will complete her studies at the Madeira School. Upon graduation, she will attend the college of her choice and obtain a bachelor's degree in engineering. prgtoken On behalf of Florida's 24th Congressional District, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Shreya Tolani for her exemplary character, dedication to teamwork, and willingness to learn.
ARMS SALES NOTIFICATION
Robert Menendez (Democrat, NJ) \u2014 2023-5-30

section 36(b) of the Arms Export Control Act requires that Congress receive prior notification of certain proposed arms sales as defined by that statute. Upon such notification, the Congress has 30 calendar days during which the sale may be reviewed. The provision stipulates that, in the Senate, the notification of proposed sales shall be sent to the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. prgtoken In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications which have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.
RECOGNIZING THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE DEATH OF ARMY PFC DAVID EVANS, JR., WHO WAS KILLED IN ACTION PROTECTING OTHERS WHILE SERVING IN OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM
Brian Higgins (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2023-5-30

I rise today to honor the memory and accomplishments of David Evans, Jr on the 20th anniversary of his passing. He was an exemplary young man who lost his life serving our country. prgtoken David enlisted in the Army after graduating in 2002 from Kensington High School, in Buffalo, N.Y. His dream was to become a military police officer and FBI agent. He was killed in an explosion May 25, 2003 while on duty with the 977th Military Police Company, guarding a ammunitions site in Diwaniyah, Iraq. prgtoken His mother, Esther Macklin, stated that at first, she questioned his decision to join the military, but once he had his mind made up, there was no changing it. ``I had to let David go and become the man he wanted to become.'' She went on to state, ``I'm so very proud of him, even now, I've come to accept the loss. I have faith that God has my son now.'' prgtoken David had hoped that the military would lead him to a career in law enforcement. He had a calling to public service that led him to intern at Buffalo City Hall while still in high school. He also liked hip-hop music, basketball, football and cross country running. Most of all, when speaking of David, his friends, family, and teachers all brought up his smile. People talked about how infectious it was, and that when you looked at him, it made you want to smile too, and no matter what the circumstances were, he was happy and always wanted to look on the bright side of everything. prgtoken Today, I ask that you join me in remembering and honoring the life of PFC David Evans, Jr an exemplary young man who is remembered and missed by many.
ENHANCING MULTI-CLASS SHARE DISCLOSURES ACT
Gregory W. Meeks (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2023-5-30

. As I said, we have seen companies employ these structures to access the public markets and open their profits to everyday investors. That is what it is about, the everyday investors. Open those profits so that we can see what they are, while still retaining the vision and the direction of their founders so it doesn't stop it. It makes sure there is transparency and information. prgtoken Information is at the core of any well-working capital market system and more robust information is always best for investors. This bill will ensure that Main Street can make an informed decision as they look to invest in tomorrow's next successful business. prgtoken , I urge all of my colleagues to support this bill.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY FOR ALL INVESTORS ACT OF 2023
Maxine Waters (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2023-5-30

such time as I may consume. prgtoken , I rise in support of H.R. 2797, the Equal Opportunity for All Investors Act, sponsored by the gentleman from Nebraska. The accredited investor framework serves to protect the general public from investing in high-risk, illiquid, private securities because they lack the safeguards that are a feature of public securities. prgtoken Unlike our public capital markets, companies do not provide anywhere near the same financial and other disclosures to investors for private offerings. Private securities also do not offer the same legal protections for investors. prgtoken The SEC and State securities regulators do not have the same ability to police the private markets as they can the public markets. The general rationale behind the comparative lack of regulations governing private securities is that institutional investors like private equity funds, hedge funds, banks, and others can demand the disclosures from the company in exchange for their investment and have significant legal resources to hold the company accountable. prgtoken These Wall Street players and other big-money investors don't necessarily need the same level of protections when investing as compared to retail investors like working families do. The accredited investor definition ensures that those who are eligible to invest in private securities do, in fact, have the knowledge to know these heightened risks. prgtoken Initially, the SEC defined accredited investors to be those who possess an intimate understanding of the risk and had the knowledge base to decide whether to invest in these particular types of securities. prgtoken However, the companies needing to raise capital privately and the underwriters and intermediaries facilitating these capital-raising activities argued for a simpler approach, so the SEC adopted the current definition which is based on financial resources. prgtoken Today, an accredited investor must meet three criteria: They must have a net worth either individually or with a spouse exceeding $1 million, excluding the value of their home; make more than $200,000 a year or $300,000 with a spouse; or since 2020, hold certain professional certifications or designations, such as being an investment adviser or broker. prgtoken This bill being considered under suspension today aims to return to the original concept of accredited investor, which is that investors in these high-risk investment offerings should be fully aware and knowledgeable of the risks involved. prgtoken We all know that just because you have a million dollars, it doesn't mean that you understand the complexities of investing. This is why it is important for the SEC to also update the current thresholds so that Wall Street intermediaries are not able to sell unregulated securities to individuals who have become accredited solely based on prgtoken the inflated value of their retirement assets. prgtoken For example, un
CONDEMNING THE RISE OF ANTISEMITISM AND CALLING ON ELECTED OFFICIALS TO IDENTIFY AND EDUCATE OTHERS ON THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF THE JEWISH AMERICAN COMMUNITY
Sheila Jackson Lee (Democrat, TX) \u2014 2023-5-30

I rise in support of H. Res. 382 the Recognizing of the significance of Jewish American Heritage Month as a time to celebrate the contributions of Jewish Americans to the society and culture of the United States. prgtoken This resolution condemns the rise of antisemitism and calls on elected officials, faith leaders, and civil society leaders to condemn and combat antisemitism, and to identify and educate others on the contributions of the Jewish American community. prgtoken The passage of this legislation is essential for people in my home state of Texas and the constituents of the 18th Congressional District. prgtoken 2022 was one of the worst years to date when it comes to recorded incidents of hate toward the Jewish community. prgtoken There were around 3,700 reported incidents towards individuals. prgtoken 73 of those reports were in the southwest region and more than half of those reports were in Houston alone. prgtoken Earlier this year two neighborhoods in northeast County were littered with hundreds of racist and antisemitic flyers. prgtoken H. Res. 382 will help to spread awareness about the hateful acts of antisemitism and to spread recognition of the importance of Jewish American Heritage Month.
HONORING THE PUBLIC SERVICE OF ISAAC SEILER
Hillary J. Scholten (Democrat, MI) \u2014 2023-5-30

I rise today to honor the work of a very important member of my team, Mr. Isaac Seiler, who will be returning to complete his studies and ending his time as my Communications Director on June 1. We are so very grateful for his service to our office, to this Congress, to the community of West Michigan and to our country. prgtoken When the people of West Michigan chose me, the first woman in history to represent our part of the country in Congress, I knew I would need a smart and energetic person by my side helping me set up my new office-- someone who could match my drive and commitment to excellence, someone who cares just as deeply as I do about giving a voice in Congress to people who had never had theirs represented. I was so lucky to find that person in Isaac Seiler. From day one, Isaac showed up for our community in ways big and small. As the youngest Communications Director on the Hill, he quickly proved that no job was too big for him; but more importantly, in embodying the West Michigan ethos of servant leadership, he also showed that no job was too small. prgtoken In addition to helping establish our new office, Isaac leaned in enthusiastically and expertly to help me tell West Michigan about the great work we were doing in Congress. He worked tirelessly to get newsletters out to constituents, to secure local media appearances and answer tough questions to make our office accountable to the people we serve. Constituents consistently tell me--I've never felt more connected to my Representative and the work you're doing. That's what representation should be about. That's because of Isaac. prgtoken I've drawn great personal inspiration from Isaac as well, as he navigated deeply challenging circumstances of his own with courage and grace well beyond his years. Guided by a deep faith and abiding love, when Isaac faced profound adversity, he met it not as a roadblock, but a springboard to action--for personal growth and community transformation. A moment in his life that could have caused bitterness, but instead moved so many to expand their hearts, and open their minds. prgtoken Isaac brings joy to any space he inhabits not only with his infectious laughter, but his drive to do good that inspires others to want to do the same. He truly has the heart of a public servant and West Michigan is better because he chose to serve. On behalf of the people in Michigan's 3rd district and personally from me, I offer him our deepest gratitude. I thank Isaac.
Debt Ceiling (Executive Session)
Charles E. Schumer (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2023-5-30

. So, , 3 days ago, President and McCarthy announced a bipartisan budget agreement that will protect the U.S. economy while eliminating the threat of a catastrophic default. prgtoken I support the bipartisan agreement that President has produced with McCarthy. Avoiding default is an absolute imperative. The damage that default would inflict on our country, our economy, and our families would be enormous and take years from which to recover. prgtoken Of course, nobody is getting everything they want. There is give on both sides. But this agreement is the responsible, prudent, and very necessary way forward. prgtoken Today, the House of Representatives is beginning the process of moving that legislation through the Chamber. When this bill arrives in the Senate, it is my plan to bring it to the floor as quickly as possible for consideration. Senators must be prepared to act with urgency to send a final product to the President's desk before the June 5 deadline. prgtoken I commend President and his team for producing a sensible compromise under the most difficult of circumstances. prgtoken The bipartisan agreement accomplishes two major goals: First and foremost, it takes default off the table, sparing Americans from immense economic pain, and, second, it protects key investments that are essential for growing our economy, for fixing our infrastructure, and for making the United States more competitive on the world stage. prgtoken Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid will not be touched. Our veterans will be cared for. And, again, we are avoiding the single worst outcome possible--a default on the national debt. prgtoken From the start, I have said that the best way forward to avoiding default is bipartisan cooperation, and that is what this agreement represents. Again, nobody gets everything they wanted, but this bill is the responsible, prudent, and necessary way forward. prgtoken A default on the national debt would be one of the great disasters in our Nation's economic history. It would mean another painful recession. It would mean 8 million fewer jobs, and it would mean soaring costs on credit card payments, mortgages, small business loans, and diminished 401(k)s. There is no reason to subject the American people to the pain of default. prgtoken We still have more work to do in Congress, but I am optimistic that the path has now been paved and our objective is clear. We must pass this bipartisan agreement avoiding default as soon as we can. I hope the House moves quickly, and I will make sure the Senate moves quickly the moment this bipartisan bill is sent to us by the House.