mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
Child Tax Credit (Executive Calendar)
Sherrod Brown (Democrat, OH) \u2014 2021-7-30

with the Presiding Officer's help, and the help of 48 others--48 others in this body, we provided back in March an amendment; and then in final passage, we provided the biggest tax cut--the largest tax cut for working families ever. prgtoken It is called the Child Tax Credit. It has been several years in the making. We didn't make so much progress the last 4 years, but an election and a new President, coupled with a new U.S. Senate, has made all the difference in the world. prgtoken In my State, 2.4 million children are eligible. And 2.1 million of those--I will get to that in a moment; we haven't reached everybody yet. But 2.1 million saw last week in the mail--in their mailbox or direct deposits in their bank accounts--2.1 million children were the beneficiary of $250 or $300 last week. prgtoken So every month--July 15, coming up August 15, September 15, October 15, children from zero to 5, their parents will get $300 each of those months. If their children are 6 to 17, those families will get $250 per child. Almost every child--92 percent of children in Ohio, roughly the same; 9 out of 10 in the State of Wisconsin, the Presiding Officer's State, will be getting--their families will be getting checks in the mail--these checks in the mail. prgtoken In sort of a macro big way, we know this does a number of things. First of all, it drops the poverty rate among America's children by almost 50 percent. Imagine that. One bill we do drops the poverty rate among children in this country by 50 percent, something government has never been able to do. And because of this Child Tax Credit, the largest tax cut for working families in American history, it will make a huge difference. prgtoken In another macro sort of way, the people of Wisconsin and Ohio and other prgtoken States will benefit because we are injecting this kind of money. In Ohio last week, $550 million was sent to the State from the Federal Government to these children, to these families. And for most of these families--the wealthiest people don't get this--it is 90 percent; 9 out of 10 families do, but they have children. prgtoken This money goes directly into these communities. They are going to be spending this money at the local grocery store, the local hardware store, to fix their car so they don't miss work, and maybe take their kid once in a while to a restaurant. So the money is not going to be put in a Swiss bank account. It will be spent in local communities, making a difference. That is sort of the big picture. prgtoken The joy of working on this bill and starting--I started working on this in 2013, joined by Michael Bennet and Senator Booker, and then, since he came, Senator Warnock and Senator Baldwin and Senator Ossoff have been helpful and Senator Wyden, the chair of the Finance Committee. The joy of this is to see how this affects individual families' lives. prgtoken So a couple of weeks ago, before the checks were sent out, I
RECOGNIZING THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS' HOME LOAN PROGRAM
Mark Takano (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2021-7-30

. Madam , I rise today to recognize and celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the California Department of Veterans Affairs' Home Loan Program. For a century, this loan assistance program has helped veterans and their families realize the American dream of homeownership after returning from their service to our country. prgtoken The Farm and Home Loan Program was created on May 30, 1921, to thank California veterans for their service and sacrifice in World War I. This program identified homeownership as a foundational step towards transitioning to civilian life, establishing credit, and building a strong financial future for veterans and their families. Over the course of the last hundred years, the Home Loan Program has aided veterans throughout times of war and economic crisis, including the Great Depression, the Great Recession, and most recently, the COVID-19 pandemic. prgtoken During its existence, the program has distributed more than $8.5 billion in loans to over 425,000 veterans and expanded to serve a growing and diverse veteran population. Today, the Home Loan Program is renowned for some of the lowest foreclosure rates in the country, personalized service, and a comprehensive homeowners insurance plan; and continues to deliver exceptional customer service to veterans who would otherwise not qualify for a loan. prgtoken Madam , I am proud that my home state has been a pioneer in assisting veterans to secure housing and I congratulate the California Department of Veterans Affairs on their exceptional work throughout the decades. The Home Loan Program has been a lifeline to thousands of veterans over the past 100 years, and I know that it will continue to help veterans achieve homeownership for the next 100 to come.
Coronavirus (Executive Calendar)
Christopher Murphy (Democrat, CT) \u2014 2021-7-30

I rarely come to the floor to directly respond to speeches given by my colleagues. I normally like to use the Chamber to make my own arguments on their merits rather than to make arguments against specific colleagues. prgtoken But yesterday I listened to a speech by Senator Cruz of Texas, and it was one of the most dangerous speeches that I have ever heard given on the Senate floor, and it deserves a response. prgtoken Now, I understand that s don't want to talk about the economy. They don't want to talk about the fact that we have had more jobs added to the economy in the first 5 months of President 's term than any other first-term President. I know they don't want to talk about the rapid expansion of the economy that is happening. prgtoken I understand s don't want to talk about what we are debating on the Senate floor right now, which is the biggest bipartisan investment in infrastructure in the history of the country. prgtoken And I also understand that the Senator from Texas doesn't like the new guidance announced this week by the CDC. And he is not alone. From what I can tell, a lot of s here are upset, as are a lot of nonpolitical Americans. Nobody likes to wear a mask. Nobody likes that the new recommendation is that some Americans need to wear them. Again, I don't like wearing a mask. I hate it. My kids hate the masks more. prgtoken But here is what the CDC said. The CDC's scientists have been carefully following this dramatic increase in cases that we have seen all across the country as the Delta variant spreads, even through vaccinated people. First, we can't ignore this, the fact that there has been this huge increase in cases. The national 7-day average is triple what it was from a month ago. We are averaging 40,000 new cases a day. prgtoken This is a big problem, and it is overwhelming parts of our healthcare system. Now, I wish this weren't the case, but it requires us to think about adjusting policy. prgtoken Second, the CDC is looking at this new evidence that indicates that even fully vaccinated individuals who become infected with the Delta variant can carry the virus and transmit it to others, even if they don't get sick. Now, this latest development is important because it allows the Delta variant, the more contagious variant, to spread faster. Early information from the CDC shows that the Delta variant is as contagious as the chickenpox, more contagious than earlier strains of COVID. prgtoken And, remember, not every American today is vaccinated. For instance, my youngest son is 9 years old. He can't get vaccinated. If the evidence suggests that I can transmit the virus to him, even if my vaccine prevents me from getting really sick, then that matters. prgtoken Finally, with so many Americans still unvaccinated, the virus still has plenty of bodies in which to mutate. Right now, the good news is that we have got three authorized COVID-19 vaccin
Nomination of Ur Mendoza Jaddou (Executive Calendar)
Richard J. Durbin (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2021-7-30

for almost 20 years, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, known as USCIS, has been charged with defending America's status as the land of opportunity. The Agency has nearly 20,000 employees. They operate in 220 offices around the world, where they provide assistance to immigrants seeking a new life in America and help protect America from any foreign threats. prgtoken But after 4 years of neglect and mismanagement under the administration, USCIS is in dire need of leadership. Today, the Senate has an opportunity to provide that Agency with that leadership by confirming Ur Jaddou as USCIS Director. Ms. Jaddou may be the most qualified person ever to be nominated for this job. She has nearly 20 years of experience in immigration law, policy, and administration. She is the daughter of immigrants from Mexico and Iraq. She personally understands the importance of ensuring our Nation's immigration system is both accessible and safe. And if confirmed, Ms. Jaddou would make history as the very first woman to lead USCIS. prgtoken Let me tell you a little bit about her background. Ms. Jaddou began her career working on immigration policy and oversight for 9 years in the House of Representatives. She worked for my friend and former colleague Zoe Lofgren of California, who is the authoritative voice on immigration in the House of Representatives. prgtoken Following that role, Ms. Jaddou served as a senior official in the State Department and then as Chief Counsel at USCIS. As the Agency's highest ranking legal officer, Ms. Jaddou not only sharpened her mastery of immigration law, she also gained valuable experience navigating USCIS's administrative complexities and operations. As Chief Counsel at this Agency, she managed more than 220 attorneys who support the work of tens of thousands of USCIS employees who are located in offices around the world. prgtoken Ms. Jaddou's extensive background is exactly what we need at this moment. prgtoken As I mentioned, the administration led a deliberate effort to undermine this Agency's work. You remember--anything relating to immigration, the administration tried to create a problem. For instance, when the former President took office, USCIS had approximately $800 million in cash reserves. Not bad. Four years later, those cash reserves had been virtually depleted, putting thousands of Federal employees at the Agency at risk of being furloughed in the middle of a pandemic. prgtoken These Federal employees deserve leadership that advocates for their interests and supports their work. Ms. Jaddou is that person. In fact, the union that represents over 13,000 USCIS employees published a letter in support of her nomination, writing: ``Ms. Jaddou is well- acquainted with the significant financial and operational challenges facing the Agency.'' prgtoken The U.S. Chamber of Commerce sent a letter in support of her nomination as well. They wrote: ``Ms. Jadd
AFGHAN SPECIAL IMMIGRANT VISAS
Jeanne Shaheen (Democrat, NH) \u2014 2021-7-30

nearly 20 years ago, the United States invaded Afghanistan to prevent that country from being exploited as a platform for terrorism and extremism. In doing so, the U.S. worked side-by-side with international and Afghan forces to remove the Taliban from power, facilitate democratic elections, build democratic institutions, and promote human rights throughout Afghanistan. Because of these efforts and the commitment and dedication of the Afghan people, the Afghanistan of 2021 is far different than the Afghanistan of 2001. And now that Afghanistan has made this progress, we must work with our Afghan partners to do everything in our power to preserve these gains and leave a stable country behind us. It is both a moral obligation and a national security priority that we do so. prgtoken As U.S. troops withdraw from Afghanistan, the safety and security of our Afghan allies who put their lives on the line to help our servicemembers and diplomats must be a top priority. This is about fulfilling a sacred promise that we made to those who served the U.S.- led mission in Afghanistan. It is a service that many Afghans have already paid for with their lives. Like U.S. personnel, our Afghan partners prgtoken died on the battlefield alongside Americans. But unlike our own servicemembers, when the Afghans went home, they were not safe from danger. prgtoken Earlier this year, National Public Radio shared the story of ``Mohammad'' and his family. ``Mohammad'' is not his name, but a pseudonym used because of the threats made upon him and his family by the Taliban. Mohammad was an interpreter who served his country and the U.S.-led mission in Afghanistan. For this, the Taliban threatened him and his family. They labeled him a traitor and forced him to seek safety in the United States through the Afghan Special Immigrant Visa program. Mohammad was murdered by the Taliban in January, shortly after his visa to the U.S. was approved--10 years after he applied. Last month, his family finally arrived in the United States--to safety--but they did so without Mohammad. His wife and six children are here without their father, who gave his life in service to his country and the U.S. mission. prgtoken Unfortunately, Mohammad's story is not unique. The Taliban has made their intentions clear. They call in the dead of the night and leave notes affixed to houses: ``We know who you are and will kill you.'' prgtoken The Taliban's brutality against vulnerable populations like our Afghan allies has increased over the last several months, but as the U.S. withdrawal nears completion, conditions on the ground have become all the more dangerous. If the United States does not act quickly to uphold its promise to these Afghans, our opportunity to get our partners to safety will pass us by. U.S. action must start with bolstering the program that was supposed to protect Mohammad, the Afghan Special Immigrant Visa--SIV--program, and include
IN HONOR OF NATIONAL WHISTLEBLOWER APPRECIATION DAY
Eleanor Holmes Norton (Democrat, DC) \u2014 2021-7-30

. Madam , today, I rise to salute whistleblowers and to mark a day of appreciation for their critical contribution to American justice and to the safety and security of us all. Whistleblowers, among other things, keep companies that do business with the federal government honest and accountable. Working from confidential tips and insights provided by whistleblowers in qui tam cases, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) recovers billions of dollars annually under the False Claims Act. Over a recent four-year period, the government recovered $11.4 billion in fraud prosecutions and distributed more than $1.54 billion in whistleblower reward payments. prgtoken For example, last year, a major toxicology laboratory was required to pay the government $12 million in a False Claims Act qui tam case when it was found to have paid unlawful kickbacks to a marketer and health care provider in exchange for referrals for urine drug tests. The whistleblower-inspired investigation also led to a criminal indictment of individuals involved in the scheme and the establishment of a five- year Corporate Integrity Agreement with the Department of Health and Human Service's Office of Inspector General, which required the company to retain an Independent Review Organization to monitor its arrangements with individuals and other entities and to routinely report to the Office of Inspector General. prgtoken Those who blow the whistle on federal contractors are typically awarded 15 to 30 percent of the funds recovered by DOJ. One whistle blower collected $4 million in a False Claims Act qui ram case on behalf of the government against two contractors that knowingly failed to comply with federal and state prevailing wage laws. The contractors agreed to correct their compensation practices, and their employees were paid back wages. prgtoken In these cases, whistleblowers brought the fraud to light, companies were held accountable, taxpayer funds were recovered, future misconduct was averted, and workers were made whole. prgtoken I want to thank my constituent Renee Brooker, partner at Tycko & Zavareei LLP and former Civil Frauds Assistant Director at DOJ for sharing her expertise on whistleblower law with my office. prgtoken Today, on National Whistleblower Appreciation Day, I ask my colleagues to recognize whistleblowers and to encourage more individuals to become whistleblowers.
EXECUTIVE CALENDAR (Executive Session)
Charles E. Schumer (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2021-7-30

I ask unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to executive session to consider the following nominations en bloc: Calendar Nos. 160, 161, and 230; that the Senate vote on the nominations en bloc without intervening action or debate; that the motions to reconsider be considered made and laid upon the table with no intervening action or debate; that any statements related to the nominations be printed in the Record; and that the President be immediately notified of the Senate's action.
IN RECOGNITION OF JEWELL COLBERT'S RETIREMENT
Emanuel Cleaver (Democrat, MO) \u2014 2021-7-30

. Madam , it is my honor today to recognize the exceptional, lifelong public service career of Mr. Jewell Colbert. As an agent of the Social Security Administration, his service to our community, our country, and the federal government is invaluable. A dedicated public servant such as himself is more than deserving of praise. prgtoken Mr. Colbert began his career in 1986 with the Social Security Administration, working as a Claims Representative in St. Joseph, Missouri. He would then ascend the agency's ranks, becoming Operations Supervisor, District Manager, Project Manager, and most recently, Regional Communications Director. Mr. Colbert remained committed to educating and empowering the community around him through social security programs and undoubtedly impacted countless individuals. The last decade of his career as Regional Communications Director was especially significant. He continued his dedicated loyalty as a civil servant to the public and organization he served, demonstrating steadfast leadership throughout his senior positions. His devotion to people, public service, and inspiring leadership were hallmarks of his career. prgtoken During Mr. Colbert's time at the Social Security Administration, the agency played a significant role in improving the lives of thousands. In the 1990s, the SSA was established as an independent agency and immediately began working on behalf of the American people. During this time, the SSA defined itself by expanding Disability and Supplemental Security Income programs and aiding the public in personal financial planning. In the 2000s, the SSA created the ``Final Rule'' doctrine, which set a standard for quick determination of benefits for disabled individuals. It also established certain rights these individuals would have, such as a federal review of state ruling. These advances were incredibly beneficial, especially to those who could not work and rely on Social Security benefits to pay for necessities. The progress made by the Social Security Administration during Mr. Colbert's career had a lasting impact still in place today. prgtoken The selfless spirit of service displayed by Mr. Colbert throughout his career is a shining example of the lessons taught to us in scripture. Acts 20:35 reads, ``Remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, `It is more blessed to give than to receive.' '' Mr. Colbert exemplified this statement through his hard work and dedication to his community. His leadership and service provided aid to those who most needed it and was integral in making Social Security programs inclusive and accessible to the public. prgtoken Madam , please join me in honoring Jewell Colbert's lifetime of public service. His immense impact will continue through the multitude of lives he improved. On behalf of Missouri's Fifth District, I wish Mr. Colbert great joy and relaxation in retirement.
Tribute to Sunisa Lee (Executive Calendar)
Tina Smith (Democrat, MN) \u2014 2021-7-30

I am just delighted to be here today on the floor of the U.S. Senate with my colleague Senator Klobuchar to offer my heartfelt congratulations to Sunisa Lee of St. Paul, MN, who won Olympic Gold in the individual all-around event in women's gymnastics in Tokyo this week. prgtoken Suni gave a historic performance while under immense personal pressure and under the difficult circumstances that have defined the 2021 Olympic Games. But she stepped up, and she gave an astounding performance to bring home gold, continuing the American tradition of excellence in women's gymnastics. Her routine on the uneven bars, as Senator Klobuchar said, one of the most difficult ever attempted in women's gymnastics, was just stunning. prgtoken On her way to Olympic Gold, Suni faced really tremendous obstacles. After beginning her gymnastics training at age 6, Suni showed incredible dedication, focus, and drive to reach the elite levels of her sport despite injuries and personal challenges. prgtoken In 2019, her father was paralyzed in an accident but continued supporting his daughter's gymnastics career. And while continuing her training during the coronavirus pandemic, Suni suffered a broken foot, an Achilles tendon injury, and the tragic loss of her aunt and uncle to coronavirus. prgtoken While pandemic precautions meant there were no spectators to cheer her on in Tokyo, Suni's family, friends, community members, and gymnastics fans all over the country got together to cheer her on from afar with watch parties held in her honor. The videos of these gatherings show the incredible shared joy and pride in her incredible accomplishment, and I am sure that she could feel all that love and support as she competed in Tokyo. prgtoken Not only is Suni the youngest member of the U.S. women's Olympic gymnastics team, but she is also the first Hmong American on the U.S. Olympic team and now is the first Asian American to be the Olympic women's all-around champion. prgtoken Her leadership and sportsmanship are an inspiration, and Minnesota is so proud to call her one of our own. In fact, Minnesota's Governor, Tim Walz, and St. Paul's mayor, Melvin Carter, have announced that today, Friday, July 30, 2021, is ``Sunisa Lee Day.'' It is too bad that Ms. Klobuchar and I can't be there to help them celebrate in St. Paul. prgtoken I also wanted to take this opportunity to congratulate those who contributed to Suni's victory: her parents, John Lee and Yeev Thoj, and her coach, Jess Graba. After Suni won her gold, she reminded us all that no one achieves success alone as she said, ``This is my family's medal, my medal. My coach's medal.'' prgtoken , in this moment, I also would like to take an opportunity to acknowledge the awe-inspiring leadership of Simone Biles. Her choice to withdraw from the all-around event in order to protect her health and safety was courageous and is an important reminder that mental health is a