mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
Technology (Executive Session)
John Thune (Republican, SD) \u2014 2020-12-16

yesterday afternoon, the Commerce Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation, and the Internet held our final hearing of the 116th Congress. The title of yesterday's hearing was ``Betting on the Rest: Expanding American Entrepreneurship Outside Traditional Hubs,'' and it focused on examining where venture capital is being invested in this country and where it is not, with an eye to exploring ways to expand investment to other parts of the country. prgtoken Over the past 50 years, venture capital has come to play an essential role in advancing American entrepreneurism. Venture capitalists have provided key funding for startups that have gone on to become some of America's most profitable companies. Many of the technologies and services we rely on today would not be around if venture capitalists hadn't been willing to take a risk on innovation prgtoken However, venture capital investment in the United States has traditionally been highly concentrated in certain areas of the country. In 2019, California-based companies received 50 percent of all venture- backed investment in the United States. Just three States--California, New York, and Massachusetts--accounted for almost 75 percent of all venture-backed investment in the country. prgtoken There are a lot of valid reasons for this investment concentration. However, this geographic imbalance also means that a majority of regions within the United States are often shut out from the kind of investment that creates jobs, revitalizes communities, and enables the pursuit of the American dream. prgtoken Without greater access to capital in underserved regions, the flow of talent, wealth, and opportunity will continue to move to only a handful of coastal cities, and the full reach and diversity of American ingenuity will go unrealized. Fortunately, there are a lot of individuals in the private sector who are already working to address this issue and expand venture-backed investment to other areas of the United States, and we had the opportunity to hear from some of them yesterday. I was very grateful for their input. We were very pleased to have a South Dakota entrepreneur among our panelists. prgtoken I am committed to making sure that the Federal Government serves as a help, not a hindrance, to the expansion of venture capital investment. I took the reins of the Commerce Committee's Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation, and the Internet at the start of the 116th Congress, and I am very proud of the work we have done over the past 2 years. We have had a very active Congress, holding eight hearings in Washington, DC, as well as a hearing in my home State of South Dakota. These hearings have explored everything from broadband investment in rural America to the way the social media companies filter information on their platforms. prgtoken I have introduced several bills over the past 2 years that have been informed by our work
TRIBUTE TO RANDY BONNER
Ken Calvert (Republican, CA) \u2014 2020-12-16

. Madam , I rise today to honor and pay tribute to my friend Randy Bonner, who is stepping down this month from the Canyon Lake City Council. Randy is a community leader, a veteran, and a dedicated public servant whose many tireless efforts to better our region will be missed. prgtoken Randy settled into his lakeshore home in Canyon Lake more than two decades ago after retiring from his two professional careers, which included over 35 years in the computer/disk drive industry, and 28 years in the Marine Corps Reserves, from which he retired as a Colonel. His first foray into serving the small, gated city of Canyon Lake came in 2007 when Randy was elected to serve as the Canyon Lake POA Treasurer, then as the president in 2008. With his experience on the Canyon Lake POA, Randy felt prepared to serve on the City Council in 2010 and was elected by the voters to fill that role. After a brief hiatus off the council, Randy was elected again in 2016 to rejoin the council. He was selected by his city council colleagues to serve as the city's mayor in 2014 and 2017. prgtoken Throughout his time on the council, Randy has been a Board Member of the Western Riverside County Conservation Agency, the Western Riverside Council of Governments and the Riverside Transportation Agency. He has also served on the I-15 Through Temecula Valley Task Force and the Southwest Communities Financing Authorities Joint Powers Agreement (Animal Friends of the Valley). Randy is also an active member of the Canyon Lake Men's Golf Club, Over The Hill Group, After Lunch Bunch, Canyon Lake Travel Club, Canyon Lake Yacht Club, and was the Master of Ceremonies at the first Canyon Lake Veterans Day event and then again in 2010. prgtoken I want to personally acknowledge and thank Randy for serving on my Academy Nominations Selection Committee, and helping to determine which students from the 42nd Congressional District receive nominations to our military service academies. I know I speak on behalf of all residents in expressing my heartfelt thanks and praise for Randy's significant contributions to the city of Canyon Lake. I wish Randy, and his family, the very best in the years to come.
SCARLETT'S SUNSHINE ON SUDDEN UNEXPECTED DEATH ACT
Jerry Moran (Republican, KS) \u2014 2020-12-16

I ask that the Chair lay before the Senate the message to accompany S. 1130. prgtoken The Presiding Officer laid before the Senate the following message from the House of Representatives: Resolved, That the bill from the Senate (S. 1130) entitled ``An Act to amend the Public Health Service Act to improve the health of children and help better understand and enhance awareness about unexpected sudden death in early life.'', do pass with an amendment. Motion to Concur
TRIBUTE TO JAN BARAN
Mitch McConnell (Republican, KY) \u2014 2020-12-16

today I want to extend congratulations and best wishes to a friend, a skilled attorney in the areas of campaign finance and election law, and a devoted defender of the First Amendment. prgtoken After more than 35 years, Jan Witold Baran is retiring from the law firm Wiley Rein LLP at the end of the month. Throughout his distinguished career, Jan has successfully represented thousands of clients, including me. He has put his brilliance to work defending all Americans' rights to participate in our democracy and express themselves through voluntary contributions to the candidates of their choice, so that a few elite gatekeepers cannot control the public discourse in our country. prgtoken When you consider Jan's background, it is no surprise he is committed to preserving freedom. Jan was born in postwar Europe to a Flemish mother and Polish Catholic father. Before Jan was born, his father had survived 2\1/2\ years in concentration camps including Auschwitz, before he was liberated by American troops at Dachau. Jan's father was incarcerated because during his tenure as mayor of a small town in Poland, he refused to turn in his rifle to the Gestapo. Clearly a stubborn dedication to freedom under law is in Jan's bloodline. prgtoken Next year will mark the 70th anniversary of the Baran family's immigration to America. I am sure his parents would be extremely proud of what their son has accomplished. A decorated scholar from Vanderbilt Law School; general counsel for the National Congressional Committee; a trailblazing attorney at the FEC; general counsel to the 1988 campaign of President George H. W. ; counsel to the National Committee. President appointed him to the Commission on Federal Ethics Law Reform and as Ambassador and Chairman of the U.S. Delegation to the World Administrative Radio Conference. prgtoken Jan Baran has been an integral part of legal teams that have defended Americans' political speech rights before the U.S. Supreme Court. He was part of my team when I challenged the constitutionality of the campaign finance law known as McCain-Feingold. From McConnell v. FEC to Citizens United and beyond, Jan was in the middle of these important battles. Through these episodes and many more, I personally have witnessed and appreciated Jan's candor, sharp legal mind, and strategic thinking. prgtoken Washington can be a transient place, but Mr. Baran has stayed in the fray for more than 40 years and given his best every day to uphold free speech and defend the Republic. I am not sure if the people of that small town in Poland know that the son of their wartime mayor's son built such a distinguished career in just one generation. His talent, perseverance, and commitment to his country are a credit to where Jan came from and the life he has led along the way. I extend my warm wishes to him and his wife Kathryn, their four children, sons-in-law, and grandchildren.
BRIGHTER DAYS AHEAD
John Joyce (Republican, PA) \u2014 2020-12-16

. Madam , this week, Americans witnessed a remarkable achievement. Less than a year after the novel coronavirus reached the shores of America, the first doses of a safe and effective vaccine were administered to frontline healthcare workers in Pennsylvania and around the country. prgtoken This amazing accomplishment is not only a testament to America's unparalleled healthcare heroes, researchers and scientists, but it is also a testament to the promise of American innovation. prgtoken In just a matter of months, Operation Warp Speed has harnessed the full power of the Federal Government, the private sector, and the scientific community to deliver results for the American people, all in record time. prgtoken I am sincerely grateful to the leaders at the helm of this historic public/private partnership, including President and Secretary of Health and Human Services Alex Azar, who was born in my district, in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. Truly, all of those who have served in Operation Warp Speed have done an incredible job. prgtoken As our Nation continues to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, we recognize that a safe and effective vaccine is key to restoring our communities, rebuilding our economy and, ultimately, saving lives. While the first COVID-19 vaccine developed by Pfizer already has been granted emergency authorization from the FDA, we expect more to follow in the coming days and weeks. prgtoken Now, it is imperative for the American people to know the facts about these vaccines so that they can make informed consent. prgtoken Number one: As part of Operation Warp Speed, multiple COVID-19 vaccines are being developed by private companies and simultaneously produced, accelerating the typical production process so that, as soon as a safe and effective option is cleared, it is ready to go. prgtoken Number two: Each COVID-19 vaccine is undergoing the same rigorous safety, quality, and efficacy screenings as any other modern vaccine. prgtoken Number three: The FDA will only grant emergency use authorization to a vaccine following the recommendation of an independent advisory board. prgtoken Number four: The American people can be confident in the safety and the efficacy of a COVID-19 vaccine. prgtoken Madam , like many Americans, I recognize that this vaccine has lifesaving potential, and I plan to take the vaccine as soon as I am eligible. prgtoken As part of Operation Warp Speed, our Nation is equipped to facilitate this vaccine distribution more efficiently than any other country in the world. At the same time, we know that it will take time before everyone can receive it. prgtoken As we wait, this is not the time to grow complacent. COVID-19 cases are rising in Pennsylvania and around the country, and it is up to all of us to do our part to protect our family, our friends, and our neighbors. prgtoken This year, I have been amazed by Americans' commitment to one another and to their communities. Together, we ca
Western Sahara and Abraham Accords (Executive Calendar)
James M. Inhofe (Republican, OK) \u2014 2020-12-16

6 days ago, on the 10th, I came down to the floor after having discovered something that happened. I think it really was not intentional the way it happened, but I would like to share that with you and share the frustration that I have. prgtoken There is a situation that is taking place and has taken place for 30- some years in Western Sahara. This is an area where after a colonial period, the different colonies in there were attached to other countries. In the case of Western Sahara, that actually had been attached to Spain. It was called Spanish Sahara at that time. This was way back in pre-1966. One of the many good things that President has done is that he has put together this program called the Abraham accords, and that is bringing the Arab population and the Jewish population in the Middle East together. This is something that Presidents have tried to do for a long period of time--both and , not successful. And this has become successful because the thing that was announced just 6 days ago was that Morocco was going to salvage a relationship with Israel. prgtoken I don't know how many or what kind of detail went into that, but, inadvertently, I think, they agreed to something that Morocco has been trying to do for a long period of time, and that is, to have the United States recognize that they have rights to the land that is known as Western Sahara. prgtoken Now, as for Western Sahara, back after the colonial days, they started getting their independence in various parts of that world. They had been attached to Spain at that time. Well, anyway, what the President did--and I say I think this was inadvertently done--was to give Morocco claims to the land that rightly belongs to the Western Saharans. prgtoken Now, I think that he could have secured the agreement with Morocco without giving away and reversing 45 years of our longstanding foreign policy. prgtoken Now, I have to confess that when I came down to the floor last week, I was feeling shocked and deeply saddened by the announcement. The news about the United States recognizing Morocco's claim over Western Sahara took me by surprise because I had been involved in that issue for a long period of time. And we have had a policy in the United States since pre-1966 that we firmly supported the rights of the Saharans--the Western Sahara people--to their own land that was taken unfairly from them. prgtoken Now, this came as a surprise to me, and I came down to the floor. That was 6 days ago. And I want to tell you what has happened since that time, just to refresh the memory of those individuals. prgtoken There are a lot of people out there who are concerned about this. prgtoken Remember what happened historically and kind of a chronology of what happened in Western Sahara. First of all, in 1966, the United Nations General Assembly resolution agreed that a resolution of self- determination should be held, and that is,
NEW HOLLAND AGRICULTURE 125TH ANNIVERSARY
Lloyd Smucker (Republican, PA) \u2014 2020-12-16

. Madam , I also rise today to honor the brave men and women in my district and across America who have been working hard to combat COVID-19. prgtoken Since the beginning of the pandemic, doctors, nurses, and medical professionals in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community health centers have committed long hours away from their families to put the needs of others before their own. They have worked without pause to keep our community healthy and to care for those in need. prgtoken Throughout this pandemic, farmers, producers, truck drivers, and manufacturers have also worked without pause to provide for us all. The farmers and agriculture producers in my district adjusted to changes in supply chain operations to keep our Nation fed. Truck drivers and logistics professionals ensured deliveries of essential goods and personal protective equipment were delivered, and delivered on time. prgtoken Educators have also faced significant challenges this year, but they have continued to provide students with the best education possible in these circumstances. Adapting to the challenges of remote instruction, educators in school districts had to adjust quickly to make sure students are still receiving that quality education. America's teachers always rise to the occasion, and they have done so once again. prgtoken Madam , we also honor the brave servicemembers in the United States Armed Forces who are away from their families for this upcoming holiday season, and we pray for their continued safety. We must also hold their families in our hearts as they, too, serve our Nation with bravery while their loved ones are abroad. prgtoken Madam , lastly, I thank everyone here in the Capitol working hard to put safety measures in place so we can be here in Washington to serve and work for the American people. I know that brighter days lie ahead for our neighbors and nations. Therapeutics and vaccines are going to help us turn the corner on this virus. prgtoken Please keep your loved ones and neighbors in mind. Wear a mask, wash your hands, and practice social distancing this holiday season. prgtoken Madam , .
MISSING PERSONS AND UNIDENTIFIED REMAINS ACT OF 2019
Guy Reschenthaler (Republican, PA) \u2014 2020-12-16

such time as I may consume. prgtoken , while I support this legislation, I strongly believe in ensuring justice for all victims and their families. I want to be absolutely clear that the continued crisis at our border requires more from Congress. prgtoken S. 2174 provides resources to law enforcement and related entities tasked with processing the remains of those who tragically died while making the dangerous journey to enter this country illegally. prgtoken But Congress should be doing more to secure our borders and to prevent these tragic deaths in the first place. I am concerned about the burdens this bill places on our already strained U.S. Customs and Border Protection. prgtoken Under this bill, CBP is charged with documenting information about individuals who died at the border, reporting on the causes of their deaths, and mapping their final locations. I truly fear that these reports may be used by open-border advocates to malign the men and women of the U.S. Border Patrol when those advocates inevitably decide to play politics and start to argue that CBP is not doing enough to mitigate migrant deaths. prgtoken In reality, to prevent future deaths at the border, we need to make it absolutely clear that no one should embark on this dangerous journey because illegal entry is simply not an option. We must fix our broken immigration system, which incentivizes people to cross our border illegally. Strong border security and interior enforcement is the best way to stop loss of life. prgtoken , .
TRIBUTE TO PHIL ROE
J. French Hill (Republican, AR) \u2014 2020-12-16

. Madam , I rise today to recognize my friend, Phil Roe, Representative of Tennessee's First District, as he chooses to end this chapter in his life and return to being a private citizen. prgtoken On television, many Americans are left with the impression that the U.S. House of Representatives is a place of constant combat. Naturally, over the past two centuries, the House has seen many great debates about the future of our Nation. prgtoken Debate at its essence is about passionately arguing for your preferred course of action. The beauty of the people's House and the reason that former Longworth described the House as coming nearer reflecting at all time the popular will than does any other individual or legislative body in this or any other country is that we debate in earnest, yet we do so with a premium on civility. But, alas, as I say, many Americans are left, based on the evening cable entertainment shows, with the opposite impression. prgtoken My experience over the past 6 years is that this Chamber is, in fact, a place where the great issues of the day are debated and where, through that work and debate, firm friendships are established. Those friendships extend across the aisle, across cultures, and across generations. prgtoken Over the past 6 years, I have come to have the greatest respect for one of my colleagues who, after 12 years, has elected to leave the House and return to that most basic title that we all hold with honor, that of citizen. prgtoken During the course of these years, I recognize my friend, Phil Roe, Representative of Tennessee's First District, as a man of high character, immense intellect, and great loyalty. His loyalty to the people of the Tri-Cities of east Tennessee is shown in his daily spirit. prgtoken His loyalty, passion, and care for his fellow veterans have overflowed in his role as chairman of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee and currently as ranking member. He has never forgotten his service in the U.S. Army in the Medical Corps, where he was stationed in Korea. prgtoken He has never forgotten his constituents, who enjoy a livelihood in the thriving region in and around Johnson City, Tennessee. prgtoken For three decades, prior to coming to Congress, Phil was an OB/GYN. He claims, Madam , that his terrific record of public service and local office, including being mayor of Johnson City, were essential to his preparation for and success in earning a seat in Congress. But we all know better, Madam . We know that simply delivering the vast majority of your constituents is a surefire way to be successfully elected. prgtoken As a Christian, Phil sets a high standard and is a stalwart in the annual National Prayer Breakfast preparation and our weekly Thursday morning bipartisan fellowship, where he never hesitates to bring his guitar and share his musical talents. There must be something in the water in Bristol, Tennessee, home of country music. prgtoken It is true th
NEIL A. ARMSTRONG TEST FACILITY ACT
Anthony Gonzalez (Republican, OH) \u2014 2020-12-16

such time as I may consume. prgtoken Neil Armstrong's heroism not only inspired a generation during the Apollo era, but also continues to inspire generations today as we look forward to the Artemis program. prgtoken As America looks to send the first woman and next man back to the Moon, and as we look to Mars and beyond, renaming Plum Brook Station would be a great gesture of thanks for Armstrong's service to the Nation. prgtoken , I urge my colleagues to support this legislation, and .
HONORING CORAL ERIKSEN, THE OWNER OF CORAL'S CORNER AND CONES OF CAMBRIDGE, NEW YORK, FOR HER EXEMPLARY ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT
Elise M. Stefanik (Republican, NY) \u2014 2020-12-16

. Madam , I rise today to honor Coral Eriksen, owner of Coral's Corner and Cones, for her exceptional entrepreneurial spirit and her dedication to community service. prgtoken Coral's Corner and Cones is a greenhouse nursery, owned and operated by high school prgtoken entrepreneur, Coral. I recently had the pleasure of touring Coral's Corner, where I witnessed the hard work that Coral puts into growing and selling her products while balancing her academic responsibilities. Through collection and recycling of gardening products, partnerships with other local vendors, and customer-appreciation events, Coral has established her business as a generous and compassionate figure in the community. Coral's Corner has been in business for just over a year and has expanded to an additional location in response to strong community interest. prgtoken Businesses like Coral's Corner are vital to the economic livelihood of the North Country. Entrepreneurship drives job growth and sustainability and creates the opportunity for individuals to turn passions into careers. Coral's drive to pursue her passion from a young age makes her a tremendous role model for both her peers and adults. Her commitment to growing and selling quality products while also giving back to her community reflects exemplary professionalism and maturity. prgtoken On behalf of New York's 21st District, I would like to thank Coral for her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to her community, and I congratulate Coral's Corner and Cones on a successful first year in business.