mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2018
John McCain (Republican, AZ) \u2014 2017-9-13

I want to discuss the amendment, which has to do with the importance of the authorization for use of military force in the ongoing U.S. operations against violent extremist organizations. prgtoken First of all, it is important to acknowledge why our current fight against terrorism is necessary. Earlier this week, we commemorated the anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks, which took the lives of thousands of innocent Americans, shook our Nation to its core, and, importantly, brought us together in common resolve to make sure that kind of tragedy would never, ever happen again. prgtoken In pursuit of that noble goal, thousands of brave men and women in uniform are currently deployed in Afghanistan, Iraq, and many other places. No matter what else we do in this body and on this legislation, we must always ask ourselves if we are doing everything we can to support those servicemembers as they risk their lives to defend us. prgtoken At the same time, we must recognize the ways in which the current conflict is different from when Congress passed the first authorization for use of military force in 2001. The landscape of the global fight against terrorism has changed dramatically with the emergence of ISIS and the spread of the threat beyond Afghanistan and Iraq. That is why I and many others have long called for updating the AUMFs. prgtoken Yet the nature of the conflict remains the same: Terrorist organizations continue to warp the religion of Islam and promote a radical ideology to recruit new fighters and plot violent attacks as part of their jihad against the United States of America and all that we stand for. prgtoken As chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, I am open to a process that would develop a new AUMF specific to the current fight against ISIS and other terrorist organizations as identified by the administration. I would be very willing to work with my colleagues, including the chairman and ranking member of the Foreign Relations Committee, as well as the Senator from Kentucky, to ensure that the legislation proceeded under regular order and included hearings, a committee markup, and a floor amendment process that ensured that each Member of this body was able to have his or her voice heard. prgtoken Haven't we had enough of bringing things to the floor without hearings, without amendments, without debate? I am confident that an overwhelming bipartisan majority of my colleagues would agree to approve the use of military force against the vicious, brutal enemy that we face in ISIS and its associated forces. prgtoken The amendment before us now falls far, far short of that process. Repealing the 2001 and 2002 AUMFs without simultaneously passing a new authorization would be premature, it would be irresponsible, it would threaten U.S. national security, and it would inhibit our democracy- building efforts abroad. prgtoken As we speak, we have troops deployed overseas wh
HUMAN PERFORMANCE OPTIMIZATION
Thom Tillis (Republican, NC) \u2014 2017-9-13

I am honored to represent over half of all U.S. Special Forces. I would like to address the topic of working to close a growing gap in understanding, assessment, and prediction between traditional and nontraditional strategies for human performance optimization as it relates to our military servicemembers and overall readiness. prgtoken I support Department of Defense efforts designed to simultaneously improve the overall health and wellness of uniformed personnel and sustain the operational readiness levels of the respective military services. I am encouraged by efforts initiated at both Special Operations Command, SOCOM, and the respective SOCOM component commands and am requesting that these commands consider additional steps to incorporate new ideas for the troops. prgtoken I would like to see the Department of Defense examine the impact of recent trends in the health and performance industry to emphasize greater reliance on natural movement, full-range body motion, nontraditional gravity-aided suspension exercises, and nontraditional resistance training for optimizing an individual's state of fitness, long-term durability, resilience, and overall wellness. It is important to note that such approaches can produce significant and measurable improvements in muscular strength, endurance, motor control, and the maximum cognitive and workload performance of individual military operators. prgtoken The potential for an improvement in comprehensive readiness and lethality of Special Forces is significant. Efforts to improve muscular strength, endurance, and the workload performance for individuals under more natural and realistic training scenarios coupled with the establishment and documentation of optimum and minimum physical thresholds can improve overall unit readiness and sustainability among and throughout the ranks of special operations forces. prgtoken Therefore, I would encourage the Department of Defense, and especially Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command, MARSOC, to identify and describe common denominators with respect to key performance indicators, KPI, among MARSOC operators, develop algorithmic tools for predicting appropriate individual physical and cognitive loads, and examine the efficacy of potential intervention programs to minimize discriminatory KPI gaps among MARSOC personnel. Let's close the gap in understanding between traditional and emerging strategies for human performance optimization. I strongly believe it could have a positive impact on the readiness of our honorable men and women in uniform to win conflicts.
NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2018
Johnny Isakson (Republican, GA) \u2014 2017-9-13

I rise for two purposes--principally, to support this legislation and to thank Ranking Member Reed and Chairman McCain and the other Members of the Senate for the contributions they have made in the reauthorization of the National Defense Authorization Act. prgtoken In particular, I want to thank our men and women in uniform, our command and control, our military intelligence, our weather systems in the military, for the tremendous aid they have provided to us in Georgia, to the people of Florida, the people of Alabama, the people of Texas, the people of Louisiana, and the people of Mississippi during two tragic hurricanes that have taken place in the last weeks. We think of our men and women in uniform every day for what they have sacrificed for us to defend our country and to keep us safe, but sometimes we forget all of the things they do to help us when we have times of trouble. If there were ever times of trouble, Hurricane Harvey in Texas and what happened in Florida with Hurricane Irma are certainly that. Some of those assets are based in my State of Georgia, like the search and rescue mission that works out of Moody Air Force Base in South Georgia, which has been invaluable in rescue efforts in the State of Florida. prgtoken So as I come to support the NDAA reauthorization, I come also to pay tribute to our men and women in uniform for all they do for us in so many ways, not just to keep us safe but also in seeing to it that, in times of trouble, they are there for us. prgtoken I want to thank my Governor, Nathan Deal, for the advanced planning they did to lead up to the recovery from the hurricane. In Georgia we lost three lives, which is tragic. We are sorry for each one, and our hearts go out to those families. prgtoken Preparation by our leader, Nathan Deal, and others in the State saw to it that our reaction and our timeliness was excellent. I thank Governor Deal for doing that, as well as Georgia prgtoken Emergency Management, in coordination with FEMA. Everywhere in Georgia where we had danger, we also had response for our people and for our State. prgtoken I also want to talk for a second about something called JSTARS. JSTARS is an asset of our U.S. military and our intelligence agencies and a capability that is second to none in the world. JSTARS stands for Joint Surveillance and Target Attack Radar System, or JSTARS, and it is headquartered in Warner Robins, GA, at Robins Air Force Base. prgtoken In particular, since the Gulf war and everything that has happened in the Middle East and ensued since then, it has been invaluable in command and control capabilities on the ground. It is an intelligence system that is unmatched by any other military of our adversaries in the world. prgtoken We were informed a couple of years ago, when we started the effort to recapitalize the JSTARS, that there may be some movement to move away from JSTARS as a system to protect ourselves and have at ou
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2018
Evan H. Jenkins (Republican, WV) \u2014 2017-9-13

HIDTA, the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area, is a critically important program that brings together Federal, State, and local law enforcement, and it is making a difference in my home State and in many parts of the country. prgtoken HIDTA is a flexible program that has helped law enforcement afford critical overtime and equipment that they would struggle to afford. This program is tackling our most challenging public health and safety issue of our time: the drug opioid epidemic. prgtoken HIDTA is needed. The opioid epidemic is getting worse, and this is not a time to hold back on funding programs that work. prgtoken At Thomas Health System in South Charleston, West Virginia, the number of infants born exposed to opioids and other drugs increased from 95 babies in 2013 to 189 babies in 2016. That is an increase of 99 percent in just 4 years. prgtoken Overdose death rates continue to climb as well. In my home town in Huntington, overdoses in 2017 have already surpassed the number in 2016. In 2017, there have been 1,250 overdoses, an increase of--get this--450 percent since 2014, a 450 percent increase in 4 years. prgtoken Just last year, West Virginia added two new HIDTA counties and another county's application is pending review. prgtoken HIDTA works. It is evident, with counties across this country applying to become HIDTA counties, there is demand. We must increase funding for this critical program. prgtoken I urge adoption of this amendment. prgtoken Mr. Chair, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Kentucky (Mr. Barr).
HONORING LARRY POOLE, GILLSVILLE'S MAYOR
Doug Collins (Republican, GA) \u2014 2017-9-13

I rise today to recognize my northeast Georgia neighbor, Mr. Larry Poole. For 24 years, he served as the Mayor of Gillsville, giving both his time and effort to the place that he calls home. prgtoken When Larry first became mayor, his mission was to use his role to amplify the voices in his community. Throughout his tenure, Mayor Poole was able to help his friends and neighbors and improve their community through servant leadership. prgtoken As Mayor of Gillsville, Larry exemplified such leadership each day, even on the day that he resigned. By choosing to fill a vacant seat on the city council, he put the needs of his community first, giving up his title in order to allow a new leader to add to the vision of Gillsville. prgtoken , I thank Larry for his dedication to northeast Georgia, and want to wish him the best as he assumes his new role on the city council. Northeast Georgia will always find a friend and leader in Larry Poole.
TRIBUTE TO KIMBERLY BAETH AND GOLDEN OPENINGS, INC.
David Young (Republican, IA) \u2014 2017-9-13

I rise today to recognize and congratulate Kimberly prgtoken Baeth and her team at small business, Golden Openings, Inc.--located in Urbandale, Iowa, for receiving the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's 2017 Dream Big Small Business of the Year Award and the Community Excellence Award presented last evening here in Washington, D.C. prgtoken Golden Openings, Inc. provides area businesses with the tools necessary to make their grand openings memorable. From ribbon cutting to groundbreaking, they have over 20 years of experience that has helped them earn these prestigious honors. Their unique capabilities and products give new businesses a foundation upon which they can build a successful future. Winners of the Dream Big Small Business of the Year Award must display a commitment to innovation, entrepreneurship, and individual initiative. Golden Openings, Inc. is the epitome of these qualities as they focus on engaging their community, providing unparalleled customer service, and constantly finding new ways to grow their business. prgtoken It was quite the evening for Kimberly and her team as they were also awarded the Community Excellence Award. Recipients of this award must show leadership within their community and display a willingness and commitment to improving the quality of life for all of its residents. These qualities were on full display in 2016 after two police officers were tragically killed in the Des Moines metro area. Golden Openings, Inc. was able to bring together over 35,000 yards of blue ribbon that residents and businesses alike hung in memory of the two officers. As you drove through the metro area you could see how the entire community was embracing the friends and families of the two officers. It is because of businesses like Golden Openings, Inc. and community leaders like Kimberly that I'm proud to represent our great state. prgtoken , it is an honor to serve leaders like Kimberly and her entire team in the United States Congress, and it is with great pride that I recognize them all today for receiving these esteemed designations. I ask that my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives join me in congratulating them on receiving these awards, and in wishing them nothing but continued success.
HURRICANE IRMA
Joe Wilson (Republican, SC) \u2014 2017-9-13

I was grateful this weekend to visit and thank volunteers at local shelters in the Midlands of South Carolina for helping families displaced from their homes due to Hurricane Irma. prgtoken At the South Carolina Emergency Preparedness Center in Pine Ridge, Governor Henry McMaster ably received updates to make thoughtful decisions to protect citizens. Emergency Management Division Director Kim Stenson professionally hosted over a dozen State agencies with FEMA Coordinator Willie Nunn. Adjutant General Robert Livingston and the Army National Guard were vital in preparation efforts. prgtoken While visiting the Dent Middle School Red Cross shelter, we were welcomed by Principal Tamala Murrill Ashford, Red Cross Executive Director Rebecca Jordan, Beth Shwedo, and volunteers dedicated to service. prgtoken State officials and the South Carolina Army National Guard have been successful leaders for preparation. Attorney General Alan Wilson led efforts to reduce price gouging. I appreciate everyone for ensuring that citizens had the resources for safety. prgtoken In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. Our prayers for all those affected by Hurricanes Harvey and Irma.
ORDERS FOR THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2017
John Hoeven (Republican, ND) \u2014 2017-9-13

I ask unanimous consent that when the Senate completes its business today, it adjourn until 10 a.m. on Thursday, September 14; further, that following the prayer and pledge, the morning hour be deemed expired, the Journal of proceedings be approved to date, the time for the two leaders be reserved for their use later in the day, and morning business be closed; finally, that following leader remarks, the Senate resume consideration of H.R. 2810.
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR, ENVIRONMENT, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2018
Blaine Luetkemeyer (Republican, MO) \u2014 2017-9-13

it is interesting, some of the debate we are having here this afternoon. We are picking around on the edges of some things and don't really understand the unintended consequences of what we are trying to do here. prgtoken The amendment that is here, to try to change the definitions of what a mortgage originator and a high-cost mortgage to facilitate access to credit for purchasing manufactured homes, is going to do just the opposite of what the gentleman is trying to do. prgtoken Do you realize that the gentleman from New Mexico (Mr. Pearce), in his district, he has testified in our committee that over 50 percent of the people in his district live in manufactured homes. This is not a little bitty problem of half a dozen people living over on the side. This is a major source of housing for many people. prgtoken I can tell you, I have got a story right here from a banker in southeast Missouri who had an individual who has several disabilities, was a very honest man, wanted to come in and take care of a dental problem that he had, and his only collateral was a truck and his manufactured home. prgtoken He wanted to make the loan on the manufactured home because he could stretch out the payments and do it at a less interest rate, but he couldn't do that. Why? Because the way the law is prgtoken structured, he had to do it on his car loan, and, as a result, it really strained and put difficulties in the way of--put barriers in the way of this individual. So I certainly am opposed to the amendment.
CELEBRATING THE RETIREMENT OF DEBORAH HEARN SMITH AFTER 47 YEARS OF SERVICE TO THE GIRL SCOUTS OF CENTRAL INDIANA
Susan W. Brooks (Republican, IN) \u2014 2017-9-13

I rise today to honor Deborah Hearn Smith of the Girl Scouts of Central Indiana. For over four decades Smith facilitated the opportunity for our daughters in Central Indiana to become confident young leaders through engaging the world around them and building positive relationships with their peers and themselves. Smith's exemplary leadership and dedication to the Girl Scouts of Central Indiana has enriched the lives of over one million young women in our community, building generations of confident, courageous, and principled Hoosiers. The people of Indiana's Fifth Congressional District are forever grateful for Deborah Hearn Smith's commitment to making Central Indiana, a welcoming place of opportunity for our young women. prgtoken A life-long Hoosier from Indianapolis, Smith attended IPS 60, then went on to Shortridge High School. She graduated in the class of 1966. And she was later inducted into the IPS Alumni Hall of Fame in 2015 for her outstanding leadership. Following graduation from high school she attended Kentucky State University to study English, History, and Political Science. There she met her husband Ebenezer Smith. She went on to later earn her prgtoken MBA from Indiana Wesleyan University and a Nonprofit Management Certificate from Harvard University. She has been a part of Girl Scouts on a professional level since the early 1970's; but, became involved in Girl Scouts much earlier in life. She became a Brownie at age 5 and then a Girl Scout at age 7. As a young adult, she served as a day camp counselor and director. At 17, she earned the Curved Bar (now known as the Gold Award) which is the highest achievement a Girl Scout can earn. prgtoken Smith's professional career with the Girl Scouts began after graduation from Kentucky. Initially only intending to help out that summer for camping trips, the opportunity arose to be a permanent member of the organization as a field executive. She soon became the director of camping services after two short years later, a position she held until 1991. In 1991 she was promoted to Director of Facilities and Technology. Smith was named CEO of the Girl Scouts of Hoosier Capital Council in 2001 and became CEO of Girl Scouts of Central Indiana in 2007, the first African American in the Indianapolis region to be named to this position, after the reorganization and merger of five local Girl Scouts councils into one. The merger, overseen by Smith, saves over $1 million dollars annually in administrative costs and has made possible more program opportunities, greater community outreach, as well as maintaining the tools necessary for adult volunteers to ensure the girls continue to grow and develop within the Girl Scouts. She leads an organization that employs 200 permanent and seasonal staff and operates on a $10 million budget. In September of 2016, Smith moved the headquarters to a permanent home on the west side of Indianapolis. The 7-million-dollar Le
NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2018
Roy Blunt (Republican, MO) \u2014 2017-9-13

I join my colleague Senator Thune in talking about the Defense Authorization Act, which is the bill that is before the Senate right now. prgtoken The preamble to the Constitution says that one of the purposes of the founding of the government was to ``provide for the common defense.'' I believe that the No. 1 priority of the Federal Government is to do that job. There have been lots of arguments about what level of government can better do lots of other things, but I do not hear many arguments about what the job of defending the country is all about or who has to do that job. prgtoken When we send our troops into harm's way, it is our job to ensure that they have the tools they need and that they have the resources they need to carry out their missions. That is what Chairman McCain has done in this authorization bill that is before the Senate today. prgtoken Senate passage of this bill would mark the 56th year in a row that Congress has passed the National Defense Authorization Act. It should give one some indication of how serious that job is. There are very few things the Congress manages to do every year, but as for the authorization of how we do what we do, this authorization bill provides the authorities that the military needs for it to defend the Nation. prgtoken The world is a rapidly changing place. Our responsibility to defend freedom in that world and the freedom of Americans is something that, every year, needs to be carefully looked at and recalculated and recalibrated, which is what Chairman McCain and his committee have done with this bill. prgtoken I support the bill, and I want to talk about some of the key provisions in the bill. prgtoken First of all, Senator Thune just mentioned a pay raise of 2.1 percent for our troops. It is a pay raise they rightfully deserve. It is a pay raise because of the demands on the military today--the time spent and what we expect our military to do with fewer resources and fewer people. We expect them to do a bigger job, and I want to talk about that a little later. A 2.1-percent pay raise is a pay raise that is richly deserved by those who defend us. prgtoken The bill enhances the capability of our military to defeat ISIS, to defeat al-Qaida, and to defeat other enemies. Even though this is 16 years after 9/11, we still have a hard time fully understanding the emerging threat of these enemies--the nontraditional threat, the nontraditional combatant. These are things we need to continue to look at carefully, to adjust to, to understand their prowess on social media and other places and to understand what could happen there. prgtoken This bill focuses on terrorism, cyber warfare, and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery. prgtoken By the way, on cyber, the Missouri National Guard has one of the leading cyber defense units anywhere in the country. As I have said about this program before, this is a place at which t