mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
Tribute to rozann Kimpton (Executive Calendar)
Dan Sullivan (Republican, AK) \u2014 2017-9-28

every week, I have been coming to the floor to talk about my State and what I think makes it the greatest State in the country and in the world. We like to celebrate and recognize somebody in Alaska who is making a difference for their community, for the State, and for the country, and we like to call these extraordinary Alaskan individuals our Alaskan of the Week. prgtoken Like many of us here in the Senate, I spent a lot of time recently in August traveling throughout my home State, and wherever I went, I met strong, generous, versatile Alaskans, many of whom survive in some of the harshest conditions on the planet but still have time for their communities and their families and their neighbors. But, like in many places around the country, I also saw the scourge of addiction that is tearing apart communities and tearing apart families. prgtoken We have all heard how addiction is often passed down through generations. There are many in Alaska and many throughout the country who are determined to break this intergenerational cycle of addiction and many who are succeeding. We don't always hear about them, but there are many. So this afternoon I wish to introduce my colleagues to 81- year-old Rozann Kimpton, our Alaskan of the Week, who is doing that and a lot more. prgtoken Rozann and her husband moved to Alaska from Washington State in 1958, and they immediately settled in. They ran businesses together, including a small retail store, and then they got into construction and contracting. They raised two children. They were a team. About 10 years ago, they moved to a large plot of land in Wasilla, AK--over 50 acres-- to spend time in retirement, and they made plans: gardening, traveling around the world. But it didn't take long for Rozann to recognize that something was wrong--very wrong--in her family, particularly with what was happening to two of her great-grandchildren, Luke and Amanda. They were living in a situation that was harmful to them and they needed help. prgtoken At this point, Rozann's husband was also suffering from his own illness--cancer--but the two of them took Luke and Amanda in and adopted them. ``It was the only way to make sure they were safe,'' Rozann said. ``And when a kid needs to be taken care of, and when a mommy and daddy can't, you do it,'' she said. ``I couldn't live with myself knowing that they were in danger and I did nothing.'' This is Rozann talking about her two great-grandkids. prgtoken That was 10 years ago. Rozann, now a widow, lives with Amanda and Luke on that big plot of land in Wasilla. Amanda is a senior in high school, and Luke is an eighth grader. They are great kids. As a matter of fact, I just had the opportunity to visit with them in my office yesterday. prgtoken Amanda loves geometry. She plays a violin with the Wasilla Youth Orchestra and drums and dances with the Intertribal Drum Group in Anchorage. Luke's big dream is to join the Navy, which I
HONOR FLIGHT OF OREGON
Greg Walden (Republican, OR) \u2014 2017-9-28

I rise to recognize the twenty World War II veterans and one Korean War veteran from Oregon who are visiting their memorial on the National Mall on Saturday, September 30th, 2017 through Honor Flight of Oregon. Every time I have the chance to meet one of these heroes from the ``Greatest Generation,'' I am reminded of the poignant words of General Dwight D. Eisenhower. In a message to Allied troops just before D-Day, he said, ``The eyes of the world are upon you. The hopes and prayers of liberty-loving people everywhere march with you.'' prgtoken He was right then, of course, . But over seventy years later, liberty-loving people everywhere continue to owe these heroes for their extraordinary service and their incredible stories of sacrifice and bravery on behalf of our country. That's why it is my privilege to enter their names into the Congressional Record today. prgtoken The veterans on this Honor Flight from Oregon are as follows: William Cochran, Army; Warren Davis, Army; Richard Fultineer, Army; William Johnson, Army; John Ritz, Army; Jack Downs, Army Air Force; Lawrence Willis, Army Air Force; Charles Kriegh, Marine Corps; Hiram Underwood, Marine Corps; Harry Howard Jr Merchant Marine; John Webber, Merchant Marine; Raymond Ayers, Navy; Ernest Gallo, Navy; Paul Gessford, Navy; Lawrence Horton, Navy; Stanley Luther, Navy; Lester Manosar, Navy; Harold Simpson Sr Navy; Orville Stoltz, Navy; Gerhard Tank, Navy; and Paul Vincent, Navy. prgtoken These twenty-one heroes join over 150,000 veterans who have been honored through the Honor Flight Network of volunteers nationwide since 2005. prgtoken I would also like to recognize the fourteen guardians traveling on this trip who have also served our country: Leon Clay Jr Air Force; Charles Wills, Air Force; Ronald Kohl, Army and Air Force; Lyle Gessford, Army; Steven Howard, Army; Terry Wynkoop, Army; Gordon Wood, Marine Corps; Laurie Dutton, Navy; Terry Haines, Navy; David Haines, Navy; Chester Johnson, Navy; Larry Kennedy, Navy; Richard Santillie, Navy; and Tanya Wilson, Navy. prgtoken I would also like to recognize Richard Wing Jr who served our Veterans for 36 years as an RN at the VA Hospital, in Palo Alto, California. prgtoken And, of course, none of this would be possible without Gail Yakopatz, the longtime President of Honor Flight of Oregon. Gail has assisted hundreds of veterans, has been a tireless advocate for Oregon's veterans and is someone I am proud to call my friend! prgtoken , at the height of the Civil War in 1863, President Abraham Lincoln wrote, ``Honor to the Soldier, and Sailor everywhere, who bravely bears his country's cause.'' Each of us in this Chamber and in this nation should be humbled by the courage of these brave veterans who put themselves in harm's way for our country and way of life. As a nation, we can never fully repay the debt of gratitude owed to them for their honor, commitment, and sacrifice in defense of the free
LEGISLATIVE PROGRAM
Kevin McCarthy (Republican, CA) \u2014 2017-9-28

I thank the gentleman for yielding. prgtoken , the only thing I want to say, and I know we have debated this many times--we can always put an endorsement somewhere and we can always go back and forth, but I will just tell you for my own district--I don't know why anybody would ever say they are making a decision based on something when our bill carries it out another 2 years even, so I don't believe that to be true. prgtoken But I know what is true. Currently, 30 percent of the people who are on the exchange in my district just had somebody pull out; and they had that health insurance, Anthem, so now they don't. They have to go find something else. They had doctors who they loved, and they were promised that they were going to be able to keep them. Well, they couldn't. prgtoken I just look at numbers; and I take , , I take whatever name is across from it. Almost twice as many people pay the penalty or take a waiver as actually make a payment for Care. prgtoken So, yes, this will continue not because you and I have a disagreement, but because people are hurting, premiums are going up, deductibles are going up, and people are losing their providers. And the providers are not leaving because it is staying the same way for another 2 years, they are leaving because it is staying there. prgtoken So, yes, I look forward to continuing this conversation because we cannot allow this harm to continue to go through this country.
Nomination of Ajit Pai (Executive Session)
Roger F. Wicker (Republican, MS) \u2014 2017-9-28

later on today, the Senate will move to a vote to advance the nomination of Ajit Pai to become Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission. I rise today in strong, enthusiastic support for confirming Chairman Pai as the permanent Chairman of the FCC. prgtoken In the 9 short months since chose Mr. Pai to serve as the FCC's Acting Chairman, he has restored confidence in the agency's ability to do its work on behalf of the American people and within the rule of law. prgtoken He is working to establish the light-touch regulatory framework that allowed the internet to become the marvel of the modern age, keeping it free and open for consumers, innovators, and providers. Internet technology will continue to thrive if we keep the heavy hand of government away from the controls. prgtoken Chairman Pai recognizes the need to close the digital divide between our Nation's rural and urban communities. I am working closely with him and with other members of the Commission to remove barriers to internet connectivity that exist in my home State of Mississippi and across the country. Without broadband access, these rural communities could lose out on critical jobs, economic development, and many other opportunities borne out of the thriving internet economy. prgtoken Mr. Pai has already proven he is capable of being an exemplary FCC Chairman who will fight for the unserved and underserved Americans. prgtoken As Acting Chairman, Mr. Pai has overseen the adoption of Mobility Fund Phase II rules supporting universal service. He has sought the advice of experts for the most effective broadband deployment, and he has encouraged the development of better networks, lower costs, and relief from regulatory burdens. prgtoken Americans are being well-served by a leader like Chairman Ajit Pai, who understands the strong connection between technology and innovation. Mr. Pai understands how high-speed internet can revolutionize small businesses and benefit local economies. He understands the importance of consumer protections and has already instituted proposals and rules that would benefit public safety. prgtoken I hope Mr. Pai will also continue to hold the FCC to the highest standards of transparency. His decision to make proposals and orders accessible to the public prior to the Commission's vote on them was a positive action. prgtoken The FCC will continue to be in good hands with Mr. Pai as Chairman and when the Senate votes later on today to move this nomination along. I urge my colleagues to vote yes and eventually to vote yes for his confirmation.
Cloture Motion (Executive Session)
Lamar Alexander (Republican, TN) \u2014 2017-9-28

I will conclude my remarks because I see the Senator from Mississippi is here. prgtoken Of course I will be glad to work with the Senator from Wisconsin. The fact is, 2 years ago we agreed to end the program. The graduate loans ended last year, and the undergraduate loans end this year. Everybody was told about it. prgtoken Every student who wants a loan can get a direct student loan from the government at a lower rate, with better repayment programs and better payment provisions than the Perkins loan. So no one is losing a loan, and everyone can get a better loan if they apply for a direct loan. prgtoken We do need a simpler program, and we need to simplify the application process for applying for the loans and grants and for paying them off. prgtoken I thank the Presiding Officer. prgtoken .
CONTROL UNLAWFUL FUGITIVE FELONS ACT OF 2017
Kristi L. Noem (Republican, SD) \u2014 2017-9-28

such time as I may consume. prgtoken , I want to clarify exactly what this legislation does. prgtoken This legislation will take SSI benefits from individuals and stop those payments to those who have felony arrest warrants or who have violated their probation and parole. prgtoken I want to go through the process so that everybody recognizes that there is plenty of time for individuals to go through the appeal process. Notice is given if there is a warrant that they need to get rectified with the jurisdiction that has authority. So let me step through this process. prgtoken Step one is through the Office of Inspector General. Law enforcement agencies give OIG information about individuals who have outstanding felony arrest warrants or who are violating conditions of probation or parole. prgtoken Then OIG compares this information to its computer files of individuals receiving these dollars or serving as representative payees. If there is a match, OIG verifies the identity of the individual, ensures that the warrants for the individual are still active, works with local law enforcement to attempt to locate the person, and then OIG refers the cases to SSA to begin the suspension process. prgtoken When this process gets to the Social Security Administration, SSA sends an advance notice to the individual. This notice proposes the suspension of benefit payments and informs the individual of their right to appeal the suspension decision, payment continuation, and the timeframe to take such actions after receiving the advance notice. prgtoken This notice includes why the SSA is suspending benefits and where, why, and when the warrant was issued. If SSA finds out, through a data match, 35 days is given for the individual to protest. If the individual protests, SSA will not suspend benefits until it figures out if the individual qualifies for a good cause exception. If the individual does not appeal his or her advance notice, then the SSA will suspend the benefits. prgtoken If the individual does appeal and gives his or her advance notice and provides evidence for the payment continuation, the SSA verifies the evidence and then continues the payments. prgtoken Other things that we should know about this legislation and what this includes is that warrants may only be resolved in the issuing jurisdiction. Grounds for dismissal of a warrant include identity theft, administrative error, and the individual's own move from the jurisdiction, especially if low income. prgtoken Warrants for misdemeanors remain warrants for misdemeanors and cannot become felonies. There is also latitude for the Commissioner to make decisions in special areas where there may be something to be considered, such as dementia or low-income abilities. prgtoken , this bill has been thoroughly vetted. We are making sure that the only people who are denied their SSI benefits are those who have felony warrants for their arrest or have viola
SUICIDE PREVENTION
J. French Hill (Republican, AR) \u2014 2017-9-28

I rise today during National Suicide Prevention Month to call attention to this tragedy that is so prevalent and important throughout our Nation. prgtoken Suicide is the tenth leading cause of death in the United States, and, on average, there are 121 suicides per day. Far too many Americans, about one in five, are suffering from some form of mental illness, a problem that has disrupted too many families, caused too much violence, pain, and cost too many lives. prgtoken In Congress, we are working together on a bipartisan basis to bring needed reform to our mental healthcare system through the passage of the 21st Century Cures Act and the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act. prgtoken The Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System, led by Dr. Margie Scott, is one of nine systems nationwide currently involved in the Clay Hunt pilot program. prgtoken This program gives our VA employees the necessary tools to reach out to high-risk veterans and offer guidance while providing essential suicide prevention services. Dr. Scott and Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System have made over 200 community connections throughout Arkansas to assist our veterans. prgtoken We all must work together and continue to move forward in addressing the issue of mental health and mental health access, and do what we can to save the lives of all American citizens and reverse this deadly trend of suicides.
RECOGNIZING MR. ROBERT NEWLEN
Mac Thornberry (Republican, TX) \u2014 2017-9-28

today I rise to recognize and thank Mr. Robert Newlen, Deputy Librarian of Congress, for more than 40 years of dedicated service to the Library of Congress. Prior to his current position, Mr. Newlen served in a wide variety of leadership roles within the Congressional Research Service and the Law Library, as well as Chief of Staff. prgtoken Throughout his distinguished career, Mr. Newlen received various awards and recognitions. I know, however, what he has valued the most is the opportunity to serve and to promote the value of knowledge with Members of Congress, staff, and countless others. prgtoken The Library of Congress is a great gift to this country and to all who benefit from this treasury of learning. Robert has devoted his career to building up this institution in every way possible. And, at a time when truth sometimes seems elusive, he and his colleagues strive to make accurate information the foundation of what we do. prgtoken Mr. Newlen will leave this week to pursue other opportunities, but I have no doubt that his spirit of service will go with him. On behalf of all of us who have benefitted directly or indirectly from his work, I offer my sincere gratitude.
RECOGNIZING PAWNEE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH'S 165TH ANNIVERSARY
Darin LaHood (Republican, IL) \u2014 2017-10-2

today, I would like to recognize Pawnee United Methodist Church as they celebrate their 165th anniversary serving Pawnee, Illinois through ministry and service. prgtoken In 1852, Pastor Rev. A. Bradshaw established the first Methodist class in Pawnee, IL, where they met in a home of a member of the congregation. Five years later, the first Methodist church was built in what is now the heart of downtown Pawnee. By 1966, an additional space was needed to accommodate the growing congregation, thus a new sanctuary was built. prgtoken Pawnee United Methodist Church continues to serve the area with God's enduring blessings and faithful watch. The congregation's commitment to faith, service, and community embodies the virtues of true servants of God. I extend my sincere congratulations and gratitude to Pawnee United Methodist Church for all they have done and continue to do. May they continue to make disciples of Jesus Christ in the world.
CONFIRMATION OF HEALTH TARBERT AND CFIUS REFORM
Dean Heller (Republican, NV) \u2014 2017-10-2

today I want to express my sincere condolences to the victims of the shooting in Las Vegas, NV. prgtoken As a lifelong Nevadan, I am overcome with sadness and grief by this senseless massacre, in which a gunman opened fire on more than 22,000 innocent concertgoers, killing more than 50 people and injuring more than 500 individuals. prgtoken Nevada's communities are all in mourning, and some of our loved ones and friends have been personally impacted by this carnage. prgtoken I stand beside Nevada as they reel from this heinous, wide-scale tragedy, working to ensure that my State has the resources it needs to recover from this senseless act of violence. For these reasons, I must be with the people of Nevada right now. prgtoken I have a commitment to serve my constituents and will continue to work tirelessly on the ground with the people of Las Vegas ensuring that they have resources to recover and rebuild as a community. prgtoken My sincerest gratitude goes out to our first responders, local medical staff, and police officers for their swift actions and efforts that without a doubt, saved numerous lives. I also would like to recognize the countless Nevadans at the show who aided strangers in need and the wounded, using tourniquets and carrying people to safety, as the shooting continued. prgtoken I have been in contact with the White House, Governor Sandoval, Mayor Carolyn Goodman, and Sheriff Joseph Lombardo and stand ready to assist Clark County Commission Chair Steve Sisolak and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. I will continue to monitor the situation as this horrific event unfolds. prgtoken Lynne and I are praying for all of the victims and their families who are experiencing immense pain and grave, shocking loss that cannot be measured. prgtoken Nevada is our home, and I know it will rise again from this perilous day. (At the request of Mr. Schumer, the following statement was ordered to be printed in the Record.)
PROTECTING THE UNBORN
Trent Franks (Republican, AZ) \u2014 2017-10-2

in closing, I simply say that sometimes I think we kind of get caught up in things and we grow used to something that otherwise would horrify us. prgtoken Before the sun set this evening, we saw 3,000 unborn little Americans die a tragic and lonely death. That is in the land of the free and the home of the brave. prgtoken , each time that took place, not only did a nameless little baby die a lonely and tragic death, but the mother was never the same again. All the gifts that that child might have brought to this world are now lost forever. prgtoken So, , I pray that somehow in this debate we would put aside which people are right and ask: What is the right thing for America? prgtoken The very creed of this country is the notion that all of us have the Imago Dei, or the image of God, stamped on our souls. If that is true, , then there is a far greater question here than we can ever imagine. prgtoken , I think if we ask ourselves the truest and deepest question, then perhaps we will begin to see the winds of change begin to blow in this country. That is very simply without all of the rationalization, without all of the gotchas and the what-ifs and the avoiding of the subject, and if we just ask ourselves one basic question: Does abortion kill a little baby? prgtoken If it does not, , then I sincerely am one that can get up out of this Chamber and never speak of it again. But if abortion really does kill a little human child, then those of us standing here in the seat of freedom, the greatest Nation in the history of the world, also stand here in the midst of the greatest human genocide in the history of the human family. prgtoken , that is not what we are called to do in this world, as the greatest Nation that ever had the chance to exist on this Earth. prgtoken , I hope that, as we debate the bill tomorrow, we can put aside anything but the truth and just examine in our own hearts who we really are. If we do that, I believe we will pass the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act on October 3, 2017. By the grace of God, it will go over to the Senate and they will find a way to bring this bill to the floor and send it to President , who I have every conviction will sign the bill, and for which I am very grateful. prgtoken , God bless America, and .