mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
150TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SIGNING OF THE 1868 TREATY OF FORT LARAMIE
John Barrasso (Republican, WY) \u2014 2018-4-19

today I wish to recognize the passage of time and a particularly significant event in this Nation's history. In a few short days, Tribal leadership, historians, community leaders, and the public will gather at the Fort Laramie National Historic Site in Wyoming to commemorate the sesquicentennial of the signing of the 1868 Treaty of Fort Laramie. As it did in the years preceding the signing of the treaty, the area around Fort Laramie, WY, will again serve as a place where cultures, minds, and governments meet. prgtoken Over its history, the Fort Laramie area was home to Tribes of the Great Plains, represented a waypoint for emigrants as they traveled West, and became an economic center as trade routes were established. As conflict among Indian and non-Indian groups grew, Fort Laramie became a military post to quell disputes. prgtoken History is marred by the years-long conflicts with Tribal communities. The 1868 Treaty of Fort Laramie and others like it were intended to bring peace to whole regions of peoples. It took nearly 7 months to negotiate the contents of the treaty and gather signatories. Among the more than 200 signatories were Tribal leaders, U.S. Government officials, and military leaders. It is important to recognize and remember those who signed in the hope that the treaty would bring resolution to ongoing conflicts. Equally, we should reflect on those who did not sign, as that omission is an important part of this history. prgtoken Despite the signing of the treaty, conflict persisted. Today we must continue to work to address the inequities that remain across Indian Country. As those signatories of the treaty knew in 1868, treaties and the trust responsibilities to which the U.S. Government committed continue to shape modern relationships with the sovereign Tribes. True government-to-government relationships and respect for Tribal sovereignty are at the heart of Congress's responsibilities in helping to ensure a brighter future for Tribal communities. prgtoken As they gather at Fort Laramie at the end of April, Tribes will share their histories and cultures. Among the exchange of traditional prayers, songs, and dances, Tribes will also lead discussions about the future of Tribal sovereignty and treaty rights. prgtoken In the joint resolution passed during this year's session, the Wyoming State Legislature appropriately recognized that `` . . . the legacy of the 1868 Treaty of Fort Laramie has had an impact in numerous ways on the lives of Tribal members of Tribes party to the Treaty from generation to generation since the signing. . . .'' prgtoken Recognizing the 150th anniversary of the signing of the treaty requires reflection and introspection, but should also inspire hope for the future. The upcoming events at Fort Laramie National Historic Site offer a unique educational opportunity to highlight the vibrant Tribal cultures that have also endured for generations. prgtoken I am p
HONORING FORMER ALABAMA CONGRESSMAN CARL A. ELLIOTT
Robert B. Aderholt (Republican, AL) \u2014 2018-4-19

I would like to honor former Alabama Congressman Carl A. Elliott as a historical marker is scheduled to be dedicated on Sunday, April 22, 2018 at his birthplace in Vina, Franklin County, Alabama, recognizing Congressman Elliott's contributions to his hometown, his state, and his country. I am honored to stand before this body of Congress and this Nation to recognize Congressman Elliott for his dedication to public service and as a former member of this body and someone who served years as Congressman in the district that I am now honored to represent. prgtoken Carl Atwood Elliott was the oldest of nine children of G.W. and Nora Elliott. He left home at 16 to attend the University of Alabama, working his way through college. He was elected President of the Student Government Association, earning his law degree in 1936. Continuing on his road to success, he was elected to the U.S. Congress in 1948 using the theme ``From Farm Boy To Congress''. For 16 years, he faithfully represented the families of small farmers, coal miners, and small businesses in his Northwest Alabama district. A lifelong champion of universal access to education, Congressman Elliott's Library Services Act of 1956 brought books to readers in rural counties. His National Defense Education Act of 1958 enabled millions of needy students to attend college. During the years that followed, he became a local writer and in 1972 was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Laws Degree by the University of Alabama. In 1990, Congressman Elliott received the first John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award. His autobiography, The Cost of Courage: The Journey of an American Congressman, was published in 1992. prgtoken Congressman Carl Elliott was, in every sense, a devoted and passionate public servant. I am proud to call Congressman Elliott a fellow Alabamian, and he is truly deserving of this recognition that is to take place in his home county of Franklin near his birthplace in Vina, Alabama.
HONORING THE EXTRAORDINARY LIFE OF MARION COUNTY JUDGE PATRICIA GIFFORD
Susan W. Brooks (Republican, IN) \u2014 2018-4-19

I rise today to honor the life of Judge Patricia Gifford, a pillar in the Marion County community and one of the people who inspired me to seek a career in public service. For three decades, Judge Gifford served as Superior Court Judge of the Criminal Division in Marion County, Indiana. She was a pioneer in her field, and will be forever remembered for inspiring women in the legal profession. The people of Indiana's Fifth Congressional District, and especially in Marion County, are forever grateful for Judge Gifford's contributions to our Hoosier community. prgtoken A life-long Hoosier, Judge Gifford grew up in Indianapolis, Indiana. In 1960, she graduated from the College of William and Mary and began her career as a school teacher before earning her law degree. After graduating from the Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law in 1968, Judge Gifford became an associate at the law firm of Runnels and Rademacher. In 1969, she began her career in public service as Deputy Attorney General and later as Marion County Deputy Prosecutor under Noble F. Pearcy. While serving as Marion County Deputy Prosecutor, Judge Gifford was simultaneously a partner at the law firm of Moriarty & Gifford. She later became a referee for the Marion Juvenile Court in 1975, before serving as Superior Judge. Winning her first election in 1978, Judge Gifford was a well revered leader in the Marion County Party. She went on to win re-election to the bench four more times. prgtoken Throughout her three decades on the bench, Judge Gifford constantly redefined the role of women in the courtroom. She was one of the first women in the U.S. appointed to prosecute only sex offense cases. In 1978, she became the sixth female to be elected to a Hoosier trial court. Known for her sharp demeanor and even-handed leadership, Judge Gifford had strict business like control over the courtroom. Although tough, her reputation as a courteous and fair judge was known throughout the entire Indiana legal community. prgtoken In 1992, Judge Gifford gained national recognition for presiding over former heavy weight boxing champion Mike Tyson's rape trial. The extensive international media coverage could have easily turned the trial into a circus. Judge Gifford did not allow that to happen, and was widely praised for keeping order throughout the trial. In an exceptional 30-year career as a trial judge, thousands of defendants, victims, attorneys, and jurors appeared in her courtroom. She was an extraordinarily fair judge who upheld the highest ideals of equal justice under the law. Judge Gifford retired in 2008. Even in retirement, her accomplishments paved the way for women on the bench, and Judge Gifford remains an inspiration to the legal community across the State of Indiana. prgtoken Judge Gifford's work was not only greatly appreciated, but also recognized and awarded by her peers. She was the recipient of numerous awards includi
TRIBUTE TO RICHARD W. POGUE
Rob Portman (Republican, OH) \u2014 2018-4-23

today I wish to honor the achievements of Richard W. Pogue on the occasion of his 90th birthday. Mr. Pogue is a respected attorney and community leader who continues to this day to work tirelessly to serve greater Cleveland, the State of Ohio, and our country. The impact of his generosity, commitment to the northeast Ohio community where he lives, and tradition of service has touched countless organizations and individuals. I am pleased to recognize Mr. Pogue's over six decades of service today. prgtoken Mr. Pogue was born on April 26, 1928. He graduated from Cornell University in 1950 and the University of Michigan Law School in 1953. After serving 3 years, from 1954 to 1957, in the office of the Judge Advocate General, U.S. Army, in the Pentagon, he was honorably discharged with the rank of captain and joined the Cleveland law firm of Jones, Day, Cockley & Reavis as an associate in 1957. He became a partner in the firm nearly 60 years ago. prgtoken In 1984, Pogue became managing partner of the firm, which was at this time known as Jones, Day, Reavis & Pogue. During the 9 years he spent as managing partner, he led the firm during a period of unprecedented growth, including taking the firm into international markets. His area of practice has primarily focused on antitrust and corporate takeover work, and he has served as a mediator in a large number of major commercial disputes. prgtoken Mr. Pogue retired from Jones Day in 1994, only to take on a second career as senior adviser to Dix & Eaton, a Cleveland public relations firm. He returned to Jones Day in 2004 and currently serves as senior adviser to the firm. prgtoken Mr. Pogue's distinguished professional career as an accomplished lawyer and corporate adviser alone warrants this recognition. However, his caring leadership and dedication to civic engagement is even more impressive and has left a lasting impact on countless organizations throughout our community and State. He has served as chairperson of many organizations, including the Cleveland Foundation, Greater Cleveland Growth Association, Business Volunteers Unlimited, University Hospitals, and the Cleveland Council on World Affairs. He is known for his commitment to helping young people, improving our neighborhoods, many philanthropic endeavors, advising public and private sector leaders, and guiding business organizations through changing times. He chairs the advisory committee for the Regula Institute at Mount Union University and was a founding trustee of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum. He is a member of the Ohio State Bar Association Committee to preserve the legacy of Ohio Chief Justice Thomas J. Moyer, the Access to Justice Task Force appointed by Ohio's Supreme Court Chief Justice, and the Ohio Legal Assistance Foundation. prgtoken He continues to be committed to higher education and has remained an active contributor to the University of Michigan Law School, which
Nomination of Mike Pompeo (Executive Session)
Mitch McConnell (Republican, KY) \u2014 2018-4-23

today our colleagues on the Foreign Relations Committee will vote to report the President's choice for the next Secretary of State. prgtoken It is really hard to imagine someone more thoroughly qualified than Mike Pompeo. His career is a success story on every single level. He graduated first in his class from West Point, served as a U.S. Army officer, and attended Harvard Law School. Then came success in business, and then Mike's neighbors elected him to Congress in 2010. prgtoken That impressive resume explains why, a little more than a year ago, a large bipartisan majority of Senators confirmed Mike as CIA Director. His qualifications were perfectly obvious, and, by all accounts, his track record at the CIA shows that vote of confidence was exactly the right decision. He has demonstrated mastery of the daily briefings he both receives and delivers. His high-quality counsel on sensitive matters has won the confidence not only of our national clandestine service but also of the Commander in Chief, and he has returned our CIA to the aggressive gathering of foreign intelligence. Along the way, he has built a reputation for listening to all points of view, trusting career staff, treating everyone fairly, and acting decisively. prgtoken In Mike Pompeo, the United States will have a chief diplomat who will enjoy the total confidence of the President and is uniquely qualified to reinvigorate our Foreign Service and represent our interests abroad. It is hard to imagine a better nominee for this mission, at this moment, than Mike Pompeo. I look forward to upholding the tradition of this body and voting to confirm him this week. prgtoken The Senate will also vote later this afternoon to advance the nomination of Kyle Duncan of Louisiana to serve on the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals. Mr. Duncan's legal credentials show that the President has made another outstanding choice. prgtoken With degrees from LSU and Columbia under his belt, he built an impressive record in litigation, rising to serve as appellate chief in the Louisiana office of attorney general. prgtoken His accomplishments also extend to private practice, where his work earned the respect of his colleagues and peers, including his opponents in court. prgtoken A few weeks ago, a law professor and litigator who sparred with Kyle Duncan in a high-profile case wrote: Kyle Duncan is a magnificent nominee for the Fifth Circuit. . . . His confirmation should be supported by all who value judges committed to fairness and scrupulous application of the law. prgtoken A bipartisan group of current and former State solicitors general wrote to our colleagues on the Judiciary Committee to praise his nomination. Here is what they said: As frequent advocates in the U.S. Courts of Appeals, we are well-acquainted with the qualifications and characteristics that make good judges, including intellect, integrity, legal e
Nomination of Mike Pompeo (Executive Session)
John Cornyn (Republican, TX) \u2014 2018-4-23

article II, section 2 of our Nation's founding document grants the Senate the prerogative to confirm the President's Cabinet nominees. One of those nominees--the current administration's most important nominee, at least today and this week-- is Mike Pompeo, the current Director of the Central Intelligence Agency. prgtoken Director Pompeo has been asked to become the Nation's chief diplomat, the Secretary of State, and now filling this post is entirely up to the Senate. The relevant questions couldn't be graver or more obvious. prgtoken Do we as a country, with so many longstanding relationships around the world, really feel the need for, the utter necessity of a Secretary of State or not? Do we believe in furthering international diplomacy by filling this post expeditiously or not? Do peace talks--for example, in North Korea--rank among our highest national priorities? Do we want to demonstrate as much by confirming Mr. Pompeo so that those talks can proceed, or is this Chamber too self-absorbed in partisan divides to see the much bigger, global picture? prgtoken It is time to be serious about Director Pompeo and what this nomination represents. The stakes are high, and the time is short. So why is it, then, that some of our colleagues, all of a sudden, seem to have suffered from sort of a situational amnesia? prgtoken Take this, for example. Our colleague from New Hampshire said last year that Mike Pompeo's nomination for CIA Director demonstrated his ``strong condemnation of Russian aggression'' and ``gives [her] confidence'' that he can step into this role and effectively lead the CIA. Now she seems to have forgotten those previous positive statements. Frankly, it is hard to reconcile what she is saying now about her vote on the nominee for Secretary of State and her vote on the Director of the Central Intelligence Agency. prgtoken Now our friend from New Hampshire says she has deep concerns and cannot support Director Pompeo's nomination to the State Department. How is it that you support a nomination to be Director of the Central Intelligence Agency--the leader of the intelligence community and an Agency so important to our national security interests--and then turn around and say you cannot support the nomination for Secretary of State of the same person whom you have just spoken so highly about? prgtoken Well, like I said, it is hard for me to reconcile the differences. Perhaps that would make sense if there were some allegation that Director Pompeo had done a bad job leading the CIA, but no one thinks that. Indeed, we have learned--from leaks, unfortunately--that he traveled to meet with Kim Jong Un, the leader of North Korea, to lay the foundation for the talks that will now occur between Kim Jong Un and President on denuclearizing the Korean Peninsula. I can't imagine a more urgent, a more dangerous, and a more necessary negotiation than the negotiation between President a
CELEBRATING THE 100TH BIRTHDAY OF MRS. GRACE MILROY
Rod Blum (Republican, IA) \u2014 2018-4-23

I rise today to honor the 100th birthday of a veteran, artist, neighbor, wife, mother, and grandmother, Grace Milroy of Vinton, Iowa. prgtoken Mrs. Milroy has a family of four children, ten grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren to celebrate this special day with her. She is a family oriented woman who was married for 68 years to Boyd Milroy, and together they made a beautiful family and life. prgtoken During World War II, she was stationed in Washington, D.C. working in the Office of Correspondence. Beginning in 1942 until the end of the war, she wrote letters to families that no family hoped to receive. The letters, unfortunately, were to inform the families that their loved ones in the service would not make it home. The most memorable she described was to the parents of a chaplain who was killed in action. While it was a tiring endeavor, she understood the importance of each letter and wrote as much information as the rules would allow to all recipients. prgtoken After the war, she returned to Iowa where she attended college and met her husband. She was an artist in her free time, creating cross stitch projects and quilts. She even won awards for her exemplary work, and her family describes Grace as independent and hardworking. I'm proud to be able to say Happy 100th Birthday to this amazing woman, Mrs. Grace Milroy.
CELEBRATING THE TOWN OF CORINTH'S BICENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY
Elise M. Stefanik (Republican, NY) \u2014 2018-4-23

I rise today to honor and recognize the Town of Corinth as it celebrates its 200th Anniversary. prgtoken The Town of Corinth was formally created in 1818 from the Town of Hadley, but was originally called Jessup's Landing after brothers Edward and Ebenezer Jessup arrived from England. To establish the area as a town, the town fathers gave Mrs. Washington Chapman the honor of officially naming the town. She opened the Bible by chance to the First Corinthians, and proclaimed the town to be called Corinth. Since then, the people of Corinth have worked hard to develop a prosperous community loved by all who live there. prgtoken Located on the banks of the Hudson River in the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains, the surrounding lakes, streams, and woodlands of the quaint town provide beauty at every turn. For the past 200 years, the residents of Corinth have enjoyed life in this beautiful area of the North Country as they continue to develop and modernize their community. On behalf of New York's 21st District, I want to congratulate Corinth, New York, on its 200th Anniversary, and wish its residents all the best as they celebrate this momentous occasion.
HONORING THE SACRIFICE OF WARRANT OFFICER FIRST CLASS REGINALD DAVID CLEVE
Jason Smith (Republican, MO) \u2014 2018-4-23

I rise today to honor the sacrifice of U.S. Army Warrant Officer First Class Reginald David Cleve of Farmington, MO, missing in action since March 22, 1971. prgtoken The 23-year-old Mr. Cleve was a member of the 176th Aviation Company, 14th Aviation Battalion, 10th Aviation Group and the 23rd Infantry Division. He was the commander aboard a UH1H ``Huey'' aircraft in a group of five helicopters conducting an emergency re-supply mission on that day. With a crew of prgtoken four, the helicopter was flying low above Savannakhet province in Laos. The helicopter took intense enemy fire and was shot down. No rescue mission was conducted because of the heavy concentration of enemy troops. Mr. Cleve's remains have never been recovered. His family was left to wonder whether he might have survived and been taken prisoner. But Mr. Cleve never returned home. He and his crew remain numbered among the nearly 600 Americans who disappeared in Laos. prgtoken Today, 47 years later, his sacrifice is honored at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. At another ceremony in his hometown on March 24, 2018, his name will be etched on a memorial at the St. Francois County Courthouse. prgtoken It is with great appreciation and respect to honor the service and sacrifice of Warrant Officer First Class Reginald David Cleve today before the United States House of Representatives.
TRIBUTE TO MARIEL BAILEY, MELISSA BUSS, JOHN ENGEL AND ETHAN KOZAK
Mike Coffman (Republican, CO) \u2014 2018-4-23

I rise today to recognize Mariel Bailey, Melissa Buss, John Engel, and Ethan Kozak for their hard work and dedication to the people of Colorado's Sixth District as interns in my Washington, D.C. office for the spring of the 115th Congress, Second Session. prgtoken The work of these young professionals has been nothing short of exemplary. During their time in my office, Mariel, Melissa, John, and Ethan served as tour guides, interacted with constituents, conducted legislative research and learned a great deal about the United States Congress. I know they all have especially bright futures ahead of them and I look forward to seeing them build their prospective careers. prgtoken Mariel, Melissa, John, and Ethan have made plans to continue their education and professional occupations in Washington, D.C. and throughout the United States. I am certain they will succeed in their new roles and wish them all the best in their future endeavors. Mr it is an honor to recognize Mariel Bailey, Melissa Buss, John Engel, and Ethan Kozak for their service this spring.