mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
IMPEACHING DONALD JOHN TRUMP, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, FOR HIGH CRIMES AND MISDEMEANORS
Alma S. Adams (Democrat, NC) \u2014 2021-1-15

. Madam , last Wednesday, domestic terrorists breached the security of our Capitol, desecrated the temple of our democratic republic, and disrupted one of our most sacred duties: counting the people's votes for president. prgtoken This mob acted on baseless conspiracy theories under the direction and encouragement of . prgtoken While they did not stop us from fulfilling our constitutional duty, six people died, including two Capitol Police Officers. prgtoken Today, we gather to deliver accountability; and it starts with the President, whose actions and words led directly to the insurrection on January 6th. prgtoken Make no mistake, the choice is clear: we either stand as guardians of justice and democracy, or as appeasers of fascism, autocracy, and white supremacy. prgtoken We have an obligation to defend the sanctity of our Constitution and lead our country toward healing and unity. prgtoken That does not happen by brushing the President's actions under the rug. It requires speaking the truth and doing the right thing. prgtoken If my colleagues are supporters and champions of American democracy and the rule of law, they should vote YES on this resolution, and show that attacks against our most sacred institutions will not stand.
IMPEACHING DONALD JOHN TRUMP, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, FOR HIGH CRIMES AND MISDEMEANORS
Lucille Roybal-Allard (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2021-1-15

. Madam , last week, we experienced a tragic day in American history when President incited insurrection with irresponsible aggressive rhetoric that encouraged and incited a mob of his supporters to violently breach and defile the United States Capitol Building. This attack was a supreme act of domestic terrorism that ultimately led to bloodshed and death in the sacred temple of our democracy. prgtoken I take no joy in voting to impeach President , but the president has blood on his hands in the wake of this attempted coup. The fact remains no one, including the president of the United States, is above the law. And this president has sadly violated his oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic. As members of Congress who have taken that same pledge, it is our duty to take this action. prgtoken His constant bombardment of false information alleging widespread voter fraud and his repeated attempts to delegitimize the 2020 presidential election has deeply divided an already fractured nation and has violently turned American against American. As this unprecedented attack on American democracy and our Constitution transpired, President was reported to gleefully watch on television the attempted destruction to our nation's capitol while ignoring repeated pleas for him to call on his supporters to stand down. prgtoken continues to reject any responsibility for the violence and has shown no remorse or prgtoken concern for those who have died because of his insurrection. A heartbreaking example was his initial failure to honor the fallen Capitol Police officers by lowering the White House flag to half-staff. prgtoken At a time when thousands of Americans are dying of an insidious virus, which demands effective presidential leadership and unity of purpose to defeat, the president continues to be focused solely on himself. Defeating this pandemic cannot be undertaken while we have a president who denies its existence and is actively encouraging violence to overturn a well-documented free and fair election. prgtoken Even after the tragedy of January 6th, continues to fuel the fire of his supporters with his self-serving and dangerous rhetoric and to incite violence and distrust across America. He still refuses to denounce the insurrection and unequivocally call on his supporters to stand down from carrying out their armed threats against our nation's capitol and state capitols across the country. prgtoken This lack of leadership and concern for the lives of our countrymen and women is one more example that confirms is unfit for office and poses a true danger to America and American democracy. To protect our country and our democracy, he must be impeached and barred from holding federal office again. prgtoken This lack of leadership and concern for the lives of our countrymen and women is one more example that con
HONORING DIANA BISHOP
Jared Huffman (Democrat, CA) \u2014 2021-1-15

. Madam , I rise today in recognition of Diana Bishop as she retires from a distinguished career in law enforcement spanning more than three decades and culminating in her role as Chief of the San Rafael Police Department. prgtoken Chief Bishop grew up in Los Altos, CA. She earned a bachelor's degree in public administration from the University of San Francisco followed by an executive master's degree in public administration from Golden Gate University. She went on to graduate from the 219th Session of the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy. Her career in law enforcement began with the Santa Clara Police Department where she served for 26 years and rose to the rank of Captain. She was selected to serve as Chief of the San Rafael Police Department on January 4, 2012. Notably, she was the first woman to lead the organization since its creation in 1915. prgtoken Chief Bishop developed a reputation for her hands-on approach to leadership, accessibility to the local community, and penchant for innovation. Under her leadership, the Department adopted numerous reforms and initiatives including being the first agency in Marin County to implement body-worn cameras across its entire force. She launched a unique Spanish-language citizens academy to increase transparency and foster community relations. Chief Bishop also strengthened the Department's focus on social services by hiring a Mental Health Outreach Provider to support those suffering from behavioral issues, substance abuse, or experiencing homelessness, among others. prgtoken Diversity and racial equality were key priorities for Chief Bishop. She joined the community in voicing strong support for efforts to combat racial injustice, and her mentorship increased diversity among the Department's ranks. Chief Bishop's emphasis on de-escalation and implicit bias training helped ensure the Department delivered a higher standard of service. prgtoken Through good times and difficult moments, Chief Bishop never wavered from her core mission of serving San Rafael residents, and the City is better because of her dedication to its people and places. Madam , I respectfully ask that you join me in honoring Chief Bishop for her many years of selfless service to San Rafael and extending to her best wishes on her next endeavors.
RECOGNIZING ALTOMONTE'S ITALIAN MARKET AND DELI FOR THEIR 50TH ANNIVERSARY
Brian K. Fitzpatrick (Republican, PA) \u2014 2021-1-15

. Madam , I rise today to recognize a staple of my district, Altomonte's Italian Market and Deli. Altomonte's was originally founded as Mike's Meat Shop in 1971 by 2 Italian immigrants, Mike and Frances Grispino. In honor of their Italian hometown, Altomonte, they elected to change the name of the establishment to Altomonte's. Through much commitment and hard work, this family owned business has grown from a small butcher shop to a full-scale market and deli with 2 locations in Bucks County. prgtoken Altomonte's prides themselves in having a friendly, hard-working, and knowledgeable staff. In addition to serving fine Italian cuisine, Altomonte's plays an active role enriching the community they live in. As our Nation continues to deal with the realities of COVID-19, they have been a shining example for both customer and employee safety. This year, 2021, Altomonte's will celebrate its 50th anniversary. We are extremely grateful for the impact Altomonte's has had on our community.
COMMENDING THE LEADERSHIP OF MARK MORGAN AT CUSTOMS AND BORDER PROTECTION
Chip Roy (Republican, TX) \u2014 2021-1-15

. Madam , today, I want to pay tribute to the members of the Customs and Border Protection who keep our nation safe, and in particular, their leader for the last 18 months, Commissioner Mark Morgan. prgtoken As a Texan, I have spent countless hours with the courageous men and women of the Border Patrol who have confronted often insurmountable odds on a southwest border forsaken by Washington politicians and left to be operationally controlled by dangerous Mexican cartels. prgtoken Mark has been an extraordinary leader of CBP--fearlessly standing up against those cartels, condemning reckless open border policies, guarding the American people from the various threats posed by China, and relentlessly fighting to defend our national security and with the patriotism and dedication appropriate for a career law enforcement officer. prgtoken America is a safer, stronger, and better country because of his service, and I am honored to call him a friend.
HONORING UNITED STATES CAPITOL POLICE OFFICER EUGENE GOODMAN
Richard Hudson (Republican, NC) \u2014 2021-1-15

. Madam , as we move forward and heal from the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, I rise to honor U.S. Capitol Police Officer Eugene Goodman. An Iraq combat veteran and former member of the XVIII Airborne Corps at Fort Bragg, Officer Goodman was an American hero long before he valiantly protected this body. prgtoken Officer Goodman risked his life on January 6, 2021, as he lured a violent mob away from an unguarded entrance to the U.S. Senate Chamber. His courageous actions that day protected our colleagues, their staff, and our democracy. Officer Goodman represents the very best of law enforcement, and to him our nation owes an immeasurable debt. prgtoken As Fort Bragg's Congressman, I extend my most heartfelt appreciation to Officer Goodman on behalf of North Carolina and our entire country. prgtoken Madam , please join me today in honoring U.S. Capitol Police Officer Eugene Goodman.
HONORING PETE LOPEZ
Jenniffer González-Colón (Republican, PR) \u2014 2021-1-15

. Madam I rise today in recognition of the service of Pete Lopez, who is ending his term as Regional Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency for Region 2. prgtoken Region 2 includes New York, New Jersey, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico, and having someone with Puerto Rico roots in charge of this Region was especially important in these last 4 years. prgtoken Puerto Rico was already facing important challenges in the areas of solid waste management, brownfields, power plant emissions and Superfund sites, in a territory with very limited extension of lands and waters. Pete Lopez made a great effort to work together with the Island government, the municipalities, and my office, to move through bureaucratic hurdles, review prior decisions, and inform the stakeholders, in order to perform the necessary work to protect the environment and empower the economic recovery of our communities. prgtoken But it was the devastation created by Hurricanes Irma and Maria that resulted in the biggest challenge with damage to environmental control facilities, drinking and wastewater processing infrastructure, and the generation of prodigious amounts of debris that our overstretched solid waste management systems were in no position to handle. Puerto Rico found in Pete Lopez a tireless supporter committed to our recovery and to have our rebuilding proceed the right way. Prior to joining EPA Mr. Lopez served as a Member of the New York State Assembly for over 10 years and 6 terms. During this time, Mr. Lopez successfully addressed flood recovery issues; helped create jobs; and both supported and advocated for children, families, teachers, schools, businesses, family farms and more. This definitely prepared him for what he had to face during his tenure at EPA. He knows what constituents need and what are their concerns, and what local and state governments need from the federal agencies. prgtoken As he completes this stage in his career, I congratulate him on his achievements, recognize his great efforts and wish him every possible success on the road ahead. Thank you, gracias, Pete, for your collaboration and for being there for us.
IMPEACHING DONALD JOHN TRUMP, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, FOR HIGH CRIMES AND MISDEMEANORS
Angie Craig (Democrat, MN) \u2014 2021-1-19

. Madam , last week, the United States Capitol was attacked and defiled by insurrectionists. These criminals killed a Capitol Police officer and wounded many more in a brazen attack not only on this building, but on American Democracy itself. prgtoken I am sad, shocked and angry about last Wednesday's events, but I am determined to ensure that those responsible are held to account, including the President of the United States. prgtoken The President invited this mob to Washington. He fueled their rage with false information and lies. And then he directed them to the U.S. Capitol himself--where they desecrated the home of our democracy and put elected leaders and law enforcement in danger. None of this would have happened without the words and deeds of . None of it. prgtoken He threatened our democracy, interfered with the transition of power, and imperiled a coequal branch of government. There simply must be consequences for his indefensible behavior. prgtoken Some of my colleagues are now calling for unity. I agree. We must unify around the truth. That America just completed one of the most secure elections in our nation's history--an election that won. The lies stoking the flames of insurrection must stop. And those perpetuating them must be held accountable. prgtoken I am committed to holding those who stormed this building accountable for their actions. I am committed to defending our democracy. And I am committed to upholding the oath to the Constitution that I took just over a week ago. prgtoken The President should not serve another day in office. And for that reason, I will vote in favor of the article of impeachment before me today, for my district and for this Nation's history. We must never find ourselves here again.
59TH INAUGURATION CEREMONIES
Charles E. Schumer (Democrat, NY) \u2014 2021-1-19

the Senate returns to session today for what will be a very busy and consequential period. Tomorrow, we will celebrate one of democracy's core attributes: the peaceful transfer of power, albeit under much different circumstances than most Americans are used to. prgtoken Rioters, insurrectionists, White supremacists, and domestic terrorists tried to prevent the transfer of power. They were incited by none other than the President of the United States. They have failed. Though they have made the transition of power anything but peaceful, democracy's oldest and most revered tradition, the peaceful passing of the torch, will take place tomorrow. prgtoken We must remain vigilant. We must remain strong. If we do, democracy will always prevail. Despite what these evil terrorists tried to do, the peaceful passing of the torch will take place tomorrow as it has for generations. prgtoken In the weeks since the attack, the Nation has learned about the heroism displayed by many Capitol Police officers on January 6. I want to again thank those officers who protected Members and staff. Let us also recognize the bravery of one officer in particular, Brian Sicknick, who was killed in the line of duty. prgtoken I also want to acknowledge those members of the fourth estate for their efforts during these difficult times, for continuing to shine a light on what is happening at the Capitol, sometimes at great personal risk. prgtoken Now, in the wake of the despicable assault on the U.S. Capitol on January 6, we have taken precautions to ensure the safety of the Inauguration of President-Elect tomorrow. Senate leadership has been in close and constant communication with the Secret Service, the FBI, the National Guard, and the D.C. police. As we speak, there are more troops around the Capitol than there are in Afghanistan. No force--no force--will prevent tomorrow's constitutional proceedings from taking place. prgtoken Tomorrow, and will be administered the oath of office. They will be sworn into the Presidency and Vice Presidency of the United States, and the powers vested in our Chief Executive will flow to a new office holder, a peaceful passing of the torch, as it has been for over two centuries in the grand tradition of democracy in the United States of America. prgtoken Tomorrow, the country will turn the page on the most chaotic and divisive Presidency that can ever be remembered. We will begin again the hard work of unifying and healing this Nation, defeating the pandemic, recovering our economy, and repairing our standing and stature in the world--and this is just the beginning.
HONORING LONG-TIME PUBLIC SERVANTS IN PIMA COUNTY, ARIZONA
Ann Kirkpatrick (Democrat, AZ) \u2014 2021-1-19

. Madam , I rise before you today to recognize four important community leaders in Tucson and Southern Arizona. These public servants have now completed their service to Pima County, Arizona, and they deserve high distinction. They include Mr. Ramon Valadez, Pima County Supervisor; F. Ann Rodriguez, Pima County Recorder; Bill Staples, Pima County Assessor; and Barbara LaWall, Pima County Attorney. Each of these distinguished Arizonans has dedicated many years of their lives and their careers to serve our people. They provided security, integrity, dedication, and the highest leadership. Madam , I ask you to join me in celebrating the public service of these exemplary individuals, to wish them good luck in their future endeavors, and to join me in recommending that young leaders seeking careers in public service look to them as models of what it means to live a good life in the service of things larger than oneself.
PROTESTS
Richard J. Durbin (Democrat, IL) \u2014 2021-1-19

before I make my prepared remarks, I would like to note the fact that this is the first time that I am returning to the floor of the Senate since the events of January 6. It was in the early morning hours of January 7 that we concluded our business and left this Chamber to return to our homes for the interim period. prgtoken We left, knowing that something terrible had happened in this building on January 6, but we didn't know the extent of it. As Members of the Senate, we were largely protected from this terrorist insurrection, which took place in this building. prgtoken It was about 2:15 p.m. on that afternoon of January 6, when Vice President was presiding over the Senate and most of us were in our seats, that there was a commotion at the Chair and the Secret Service came in and literally pulled the Vice President away from that podium and took him out the door. We weren't sure what was happening. It all unfolded quickly. There was an effort to make a quorum call to determine which Senators were on the floor. It was interrupted when a representative of the Capitol Police stood where the Presiding Officer is now seated and instructed us to stay in this room, in this Chamber, in the Senate, in our chairs. The staff people and surrounding offices were going to line the walls. This was going to be a safe place of refuge for whatever was going on. prgtoken I remember that moment particularly because something happened, which is etched in my memory. Two plain clothes officers came down into the well of the Senate and stood there, just a few feet from where I am standing. One of them had an automatic weapon around his neck. I couldn't imagine what was going on, where, in the U.S. Senate Chamber, it was necessary to have that kind of firepower. prgtoken He stayed there for a few minutes, and then we were told to leave and leave quickly. We filed out the doors and down the steps and walked across through the tunnel to the Hart building, where Members of the Senate were safely protected. prgtoken That is one of the reasons I wanted to say a word this afternoon and this morning. The Capitol Police, throughout this, were heroic. They were overwhelmed by this massive insurrectionist mob. The Capitol Police, as well as the others who joined them--the DC Metropolitan Police and other law enforcement agencies, which I don't know the names of as I stand here--I want to thank them all for literally risking their lives for me, for Members of the Senate, for our staff, and visitors. prgtoken It wasn't until the next day that we learned--that many of us learned--that a Capitol policeman had been killed--killed by this mob. My heart goes out to him and his family. I thank him and all of his colleagues, men and women, who each day get up in the morning, put on their uniforms, and come to this building to protect me and protect the other Members of the Senate and the House and all of the staff who work here.
HONORING THE RETIREMENT AND LIFE'S WORK OF HARLEY FRANKEL
Debra A. Haaland (Democrat, NM) \u2014 2021-1-19

. Madam , I rise today with my colleague, Congressman Ted Lieu, to honor his constituent and life-long education champion, Harley Frankel. We join his friends and family in celebrating his retirement from College Match, Harley's non-profit that assists low-income students with applying to and excelling in college. prgtoken After a career in public service, Harley founded College Match in 2003 after witnessing the steep hurdles his son faced while applying to college. As a first-generation college student himself, Harley realized that the grueling and time-consuming application process presented far more consequential barriers to students in overcrowded schools who often lack built-in support, financial safety nets, and adequate college guidance. Following this realization, College Match was born, accommodating 40 students in just its first year. The program has ballooned to nearly 600 students accepted annually, each receiving one- on-one guidance from trained college counselors, SAT prep, tutoring, assistance with college applications and essays, and college campus visits. In the past 6 years, 95 percent of College Match's students have been admitted to a U.S. News and World Report Top 50 college or university, and 70 percent were admitted to a Top 25 school. prgtoken Harley's students have deemed him their ``fairy godfather''--a reliably approachable, friendly, and caring figure determined to help put them on the college path they deserve but would otherwise be out of reach. Harley's powerful impact on students across Los Angeles makes me think of my own academic career and the tremendous challenges I faced completing my undergraduate, and later my law degree as a single mother. No one ever told me to go to college, let alone guided me through the intimidating college application process. The education I received changed my life and put me on the path to serving in Congress. Every student determined to succeed should have that opportunity, regardless of their background or financial limitations, and Harley's work has helped to make that happen. prgtoken A born change maker, Harley's tangible impact on his students will last lifetimes. Even more profound is his organization's direct challenging of the unfair obstacles that prevent some of our country's brightest minds from reaching their full potential. It is an honor to witness the monumental work College Match is leading. Congressman Lieu and I thank Harley for his life's commitment to uplifting our future leaders.