mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS
John Boozman (Republican, AR) \u2014 2023-3-29

I rise today to recognize Faulkner County, Arkansas's 150th anniversary. Founded on April 12, 1873, Faulkner County has a rich history that is as diverse and vibrant as the rolling hills and farmland that make up its landscape. With the establishment of a railway station in the county seat of Conway, people started to settle in the area. Since then, thousands have come to know the area as home. prgtoken Named after the legendary Sandy Faulkner who was instrumental in the early development of Arkansas, Faulkner County has become a beacon of culture and community in the heart of The Natural State. From the official prgtoken state historic song, ``Arkansas Traveler,'' to the renowned Toad Suck Daze festival, Faulkner County has been proud to embrace its heritage and celebrate its unique identity. prgtoken With around 125,000 residents, Faulkner County is now the State's sixth most populated county and home to a thriving economy that has enhanced the quality of life. In Conway, also known as the City of Colleges, students at the University of Central Arkansas, Hendrix College, and Central Baptist College enrich its social life and culture during the school year and long after graduation. prgtoken The county's proximity to Little Rock and major transportation routes makes it an ideal location for industry and business, while Lake Conway and Cadron Creek provide ample opportunities for recreation and relaxation. prgtoken As we mark this historic milestone, we celebrate the generations of families, workers, and leaders who have made Faulkner County the wonderful place it is today. From the pioneering settlers who first carved out a life in this beautiful land, to the innovative businesses and industries that now call it home, Faulkner County has always been defined by its spirit of resilience and determination. prgtoken Congratulations to the entire community on the 150th anniversary. I applaud the Faulkner County Historical Society for planning celebrations for all to enjoy and commemorate this occasion. I look forward to continuing working with area leaders to support their vision for future growth.
LOWER ENERGY COSTS ACT
Tim Walberg (Republican, MI) \u2014 2023-3-29

. Madam Chair, I thank the gentleman for yielding. prgtoken Madam Chair, here is the deal: It is January 19, 2021. Gas is $2.38 per gallon. We had just replenished our Strategic Petroleum Reserve. American energy dominance provided stability across the geopolitical landscape. prgtoken The following day, the war on domestic energy began with the cancellation of the Keystone XL pipeline and executive action restricting domestic production. prgtoken In a matter of mere months, gas prices would reach record highs. Our emergency reserves would be tapped for political purposes, and we would be begging adversaries to increase their production while an empowered Russia and an empowered China both eyed territorial expansion. prgtoken This is what the radical Green New Deal looks like in implementation. prgtoken My constituents have told me about the energy bills that they can't budget for, the unaffordable rate spikes in peak hours, and even stories of gas tanks being drilled into. prgtoken Everything costs more when energy costs more. prgtoken With H.R. 1, energy will cost less. prgtoken The Lower Energy Costs Act will unleash domestic production. H.R. 1 includes permitting reforms, increased production and processing of critical minerals, and an undoing of the administration's regulatory stranglehold on the energy sector. prgtoken In Michigan, activists have long eyed shutting down Line 5, an essential international pipeline sustaining 34,000 jobs across the Midwest and billions in economic activity. prgtoken Language I authored, included in H.R. 1, would protect these pipelines from being unilaterally shut down by an overzealous executive branch. prgtoken Prosperity, opportunity, and security are on the line. prgtoken I urge my colleagues to pass H.R. 1.
LOWER ENERGY COSTS ACT
Pete Stauber (Republican, MN) \u2014 2023-3-29

. Madam Chair, I rise today in opposition to the amendment. prgtoken Madam Chair, the whole purpose of passing H.R. 1 is to make it easier to build and move America forward. prgtoken Lease awardees, under current law, are subject to extensive delays if the lease sale is protested. These delays could take weeks, months, or even years. prgtoken Meanwhile, the prices at the gas pump continue to skyrocket while we have acres of land ready to be put into production. prgtoken The current situation makes very little sense. Allowing for practically unfettered protests to lease sales with no timeline is a de facto ban on development--except this way, the administration doesn't have to admit that they actually are trying to ban American energy. It just takes a wink and a nod to the radical, wealthy, activist lawyer class that exists only to ``keep it in the ground.'' prgtoken Working together, Interior and their friends in the protest class just drag it out, protest after protest, while American workers and families struggle to afford their daily commute. prgtoken Section 20103 of H.R. 1 resolves this problem by putting in place a commonsense timeframe that concludes 60 days after the awardee makes the payment. prgtoken Striking this section, as my colleague's amendment does, is just another attempt at slowing down any sort of oil and gas development. I urge opposition to the amendment.
LEGISLATIVE SESSION
Todd Young (Republican, IN) \u2014 2023-3-29

I am proud to join my colleague, the great Senator from Virginia, Senator Tim Kaine, on the floor of the Senate today. And as we await this final vote--final passage of the repeal of the Authorizations for Use of Military Force in 1991, the Gulf war, and, in 2002, the Iraq war--I reflect on just how much work it took to get here, how much persistence. And I thank Senator Kaine for sticking it out. prgtoken A lot has happened over the last couple of decades. prgtoken A lot has happened over the last couple of decades. Twenty years ago, American soldiers were fighting that war in Iraq. Today, they are still there. They are advising Iraq's army at the invitation of the current government. Twenty years ago, Iraq was our enemy. Today Iraq is a strategic partner, an ally in advancing stability across the Middle East. A lot has changed in the last 20 years; and, yet, according to our laws, today we are still at war with Iraq. prgtoken This isn't just the result of an oversight. It is an intentional abdication of this body, of its constitutional role in America's national security. Allowing it to continue is a strategic mistake. It is a mistake that disrespects the sacrifices of our soldiers and their Iraqi partners as well. It is one that could endanger their work across the Middle East, and it is central to our national security that we set this right. prgtoken Here is why. prgtoken Iran has designs on a path to the Mediterranean Sea. The world's leading exporter of terror wants to build a route to move manpower and materiel to its proxies all across the region. Once it reaches the sea, it will establish a foothold to threaten Europe. This terrorism thoroughfare would run through Syria, through Lebanon, and, of course, through Iraq. Iran has sent many thousands of soldiers into Syria to prop up Dictator Bashar Al Assad and co-opted regions of that war-torn nation. Lebanon's institutions are weak. Hezbollah, with Iran's backing, dominates many sectors of the governments and the country. prgtoken Iraq cannot follow this path. It cannot become a satellite of Iran, and Iran cannot be permitted unrestricted access across the region. prgtoken Our advisers are fortifying and working with the Iraqi Army to prevent this dangerous future. prgtoken But we are undertaking this vital mission with a nation we are still technically at war with. The authorizations for both the 1991 Gulf war and 2002 Operation Iraqi Freedom are both still on the books. These authorizations for long-ended wars passed almost entirely by Members of Congress long-retired. These authorizations are outdated. They are a detriment to our national security strategy, and they are an abdication of Congress's constitutional role in declaring and, yes, ending wars. prgtoken In the centuries before our revolution, Kings waged wars--wars that their subjects fought. Reflecting on this history, our Founding Fathers placed the power to make war not with the
RECOGNIZING HELENA LOCAL AND MONTANA SENATE AIDE JACKSON RACICOT FOR HIS OUTSTANDING PUBLIC SERVICE
Matthew M. Rosendale, Sr. (Republican, MT) \u2014 2023-3-29

it is my privilege to recognize the work of an outstanding young man whose service in the Montana Legislature is an example of the extraordinary impact those with physical disabilities can have on their community. prgtoken Jack Racicot is an aide to the Montana Legislature and serves as a clerk for the Senate Energy and Telecommunications Committee. prgtoken During the 2021 Legislative Session, Jack was on a snowboarding trip at Great Divide Ski Area near Helena where he suffered a debilitating accident that crushed his C5 vertebrae and left him paralyzed from the neck down. prgtoken After an extensive recovery at the University of Utah Medical Center, Jack returned to the Senate as an aide in the 68th Legislative Session and continues to serve with distinction to this day. Jack's courageous return to work is a poignant reminder of the strength of Montana's young men and women. prgtoken I'm humbled to see such a dedicated young man serving his state despite his injuries, and I am proud to recognize him in the United States House of Representatives.
HONORING THE YEARS OF SERVICE OF MS. WENDI LIPSICH IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Jared Moskowitz (Democrat, FL) \u2014 2023-3-29

I rise today to thank my District Director, Ms. Wendi Lipsich, for her remarkable 26 years of public service in the House of Representatives. prgtoken Since the age of 26, Wendi has been instrumental in helping multiple Members of Congress successfully serve our constituents. Wendi launched her career as a Congressional District Director to former Congressman Robert Wexler in 1997, soon after she graduated from the University of Miami Law School. While working for Congressman Wexler, Wendi married her husband Todd, and had 2 beautiful children, Taylor and Joey. prgtoken In commemoration of such a noteworthy career, I would like to relay a message from Congressman Wexler: With an infectious smile and positive spirit, Wendi Lipsich has been a public servant in the truest sense for three decades. Wendi has helped countless people solve problems big and small. Everyone--and I mean everyone--loves Wendi. And for a good reason. Wendi personifies impeccable character and integrity. What joy it was for me to work alongside Wendi for 15+ years. The people of Palm Beach and Broward Counties owe Wendi enormous gratitude for her never-ending dedication and kindness. Wendi is one of a kind, amazing! prgtoken Immediately after Congressman Wexler retired, she was hired as the District Director for my predecessor and friend, former Congressman Ted Deutch, from 2010 to 2022. Congressman Deutch had this to say about Wendi: Wendi is more than the district director. She is and will continue to be a good friend to anyone needing assistance. Even if it's not related to Congress, people know Wendi will happily do anything she can to try to help them. She cares so deeply about our community and about all of the talented people she has worked with to help our constituents. Everyone, literally everyone, loves and appreciates Wendi Lipsich. prgtoken , I have always known Wendi to be a selfless public servant, and I am eternally grateful for her service to the constituents of Florida's 23rd Congressional District. prgtoken In addition to enjoying her professional life, Wendi goes above and beyond to give back to her community. She is the founder and Co-Chair of the Boca Raton Lupus Walk with the Alliance for Lupus Research and continues to play an active role in raising awareness and funds to help cure lupus. Wendi has also been the Hillel of Broward and Palm Beach Board Member and Chair of the Student Life Committee, Guardian Ad Litem Child Advocate with the 15th Judicial Circuit of West Palm Beach, Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County, Business and Professional Cabinet Co-Chair and Board Member, KidSafe Foundation Board Member, Spanish River Community High School Foundation Board Member, Junior League of Boca Raton's Volunteer of the Year honoree, ic Professionals Council of Palm Beach County, Alliance of Delray Associati
S. 870
Gary C. Peters (Democrat, MI) \u2014 2023-3-29

fire departments across the country rely on critical Federal resources that keep firefighters and emergency responders safe. These heroes need our support as they continue protecting our communities. That is why I urge my colleagues to support the Fire Grants and Safety Act. prgtoken This bipartisan bill reauthorizes two vital grant programs administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and also reauthorizes the U.S. Fire Administration. prgtoken Fire departments depend on these programs to address staffing needs, replace outdated equipment, fund fire training and education programs, and invest in health screenings for firefighters in the line of duty. prgtoken It is clear that, without these grant programs, many fire departments, especially those in smaller or more rural communities, would simply not be able to invest in their vehicles, equipment, or training that they need to protect their communities. prgtoken I urge all of my colleagues to vote to move forward with this important, bipartisan legislation that will help ensure that our firefighters and first responders have what they need.
HONORING THE HEROES OF WEST READING, PENNSYLVANIA
Chrissy Houlahan (Democrat, PA) \u2014 2023-3-29

last week, tragedy struck my community when an explosion rocked the R.M. Palmer chocolate factory in West Reading, claiming the lives of seven people and injuring many others. prgtoken Most people know Palmer chocolate for their Easter bunnies and other holiday treats, but we know them as an important part of our community. prgtoken Since the tragedy, our first responders have been heroes. prgtoken Our neighbors, nonprofits, and local businesses have set up programs to help and, in some cases, literally have given the shirts off their backs for those who were impacted. prgtoken Similarly, and also not surprisingly in our community, government leaders at the local, State, and Federal levels are also on the ground, collaborating together to support our community and recovery. prgtoken I speak today full of grief for the families and friends of those whom we have lost, and I speak today full of gratitude for the strength and dedication of so many in our community who are doing so much. prgtoken We see you, and we honor you. We are very proud to stand with you.
LOWER ENERGY COSTS ACT
Teresa Leger Fernandez (Democrat, NM) \u2014 2023-3-29

. Madam Chair, I thank the gentleman from Arkansas for his visit to my district. I also invite the gentleman to the northern part because, at New Mexico Highlands University, we have an excellent forestry department where we are looking at the center of excellence. I know the gentleman's interest in forestry. prgtoken Madam Chair, I urge my colleagues to vote for this amendment, and .
LEGISLATIVE SESSION
Mark R. Warner (Democrat, VA) \u2014 2023-3-29

I have come to speak on a different topic, but I want to commend my friend the Senator from Illinois for his comments. I agree with him. prgtoken Just yesterday, my colleague and dear friend Senator Kaine and I met with four of the families who were part of one of that litany of shootings, in Virginia Beach, where a mentally deranged individual came in and brutally murdered 12--mostly city employees and a few folks who were there to try to get city services. The anguish, pain, and hurt of these four families 4 years after the fact reflect the kind of anguish and hurt that the families in Nashville are feeling and so many countless others. prgtoken I commend the Senator again and agree that it is incumbent upon us to do our job. Thoughts and prayers are not enough. prgtoken I thank him for his comments.
LOWER ENERGY COSTS ACT
Hillary J. Scholten (Democrat, MI) \u2014 2023-3-29

. Mr. Chair, permitting reform, we all want it. There is a simple solution. Separate the question. prgtoken But why not? We need to ask why not. prgtoken Because this bill includes massive handouts to big corporations and incentivizes them to leak methane into the atmosphere. prgtoken Let's just look at the bill's name: LECA. They are telling it like it is, folks, and we should be listening. prgtoken There is a choice being made here by House s, Mr. Chair. They are not doing this to make our system more efficient or to lower costs for the American people, quite the opposite. prgtoken This bill repeals $4.5 billion in home electrification, a program that the Department of Energy estimates could save Americans thousands of dollars annually. prgtoken If we were focused on lowering costs for American families, this is what we would be focused on. prgtoken I talk to west Michiganders every single day about what they want and what they need. prgtoken We want to protect the Great Lakes. We want to lower our energy costs, and that means investing in conservation efforts and putting smart regulations in place that support the longevity of the Great Lakes economy. That means ensuring a future for the next generation of west Michiganders. prgtoken The Big Oil giveaway act does none of that. It greatly expands companies' ability to exploit public land. prgtoken Michigan-3 is home to a large portion of the Grand River watershed and miles of beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline. I support protecting our most beautiful protected areas, not stripping them for parts. prgtoken What House s are doing is this: Holding an antiquated permitting system hostage to extract benefits for Big Oil corporations. prgtoken If they want to come to the table in good faith on serious bipartisan efforts to streamline the permitting process and lower energy costs for American families, I will be the first in line.
AMERICAN GUN VIOLENCE EPIDEMIC
Bonnie Watson Coleman (Democrat, NJ) \u2014 2023-3-29

. Madam , I rise today heartbroken by perpetual tragedy and outraged by perpetual inaction. prgtoken On Monday, a school shooting in Nashville left three 9-year-old students and three adults dead. The next day, when asked about solutions to the American gun violence epidemic, the majority leader of the House of Representatives offered his solution: prayers. prgtoken Let's be clear, thoughts and prayers don't save a single solitary life. Yet, after more than 130 mass shootings in less than 3 months, the Party has still chosen to allow our children to be murdered in their classrooms. prgtoken To be clear, this is a choice. After every mass shooting, s choose to offer empty thoughts and prayers instead of commonsense solutions, and then they turn around and cash their NRA checks. prgtoken I have spent my entire career in public service and every Sunday in church. I will never understand how a human being, let alone one elected to serve others, would willingly endanger the lives of their children for a little bit of money. Frankly, it makes me sick to my stomach. prgtoken Every American--, , and Independent--wants to live in a country where they don't have to fear that dropping off their child at the bus stop may be the last time they see them alive. prgtoken Too many of us, however, accept this dystopian reality. The cycle of murder, devastation, and inaction has become so commonplace that most mass shootings don't even make the headlines. Outside of war zones, no country on Earth so consistently chooses to accept so much death and terror. prgtoken I certainly choose not to accept it. I choose to take necessary action to curb the scourge of gun violence in our country. I choose to fight for universal background checks, an assault weapons ban, and whatever it takes to protect our communities. prgtoken I dream of a safer America. I choose to keep fighting until it is no longer just a dream. Words mean nothing. Action is what we need.
RELATING TO A NATIONAL EMERGENCY DECLARED BY THE PRESIDENT ON MARCH 13, 2020
Jeanne Shaheen (Democrat, NH) \u2014 2023-3-29

I now get to the reason that I came to the floor today, which is to recognize and express appreciation for a member of my staff, my legislative director, Dr. Ariel Marshall. Ariel will be leaving for a new opportunity next month, and I can't let her go without thanking her for her service and sharing how much she has meant to me, to her colleagues, and to the State of New Hampshire over the past 8 years. And all you have to do is look at all of our staff from our DC office who are here on the floor as part of this recognition of Ariel. prgtoken Ariel came to my Senate office in 2015 through a congressional fellowship for scientists and engineers with an interest in public policy. As a chemist with a Ph.D. in hand, Ariel approached policymaking as if it were a research topic or an experiment. She asked questions. She identified problems. She dove into research to understand different subjects and issue areas and their relationship to one another. She formed theories based on her observations. She looked for creative ways to test her ideas and analyze her findings, and she eagerly shared her conclusions with her colleagues and with an open mind on how the process could be improved. prgtoken With her background, it is no surprise that Ariel quickly developed a reputation as a capable and friendly team player. As her fellowship came to an end, Ariel made the decision to stay on staff as a legislative assistant with a focus on energy and environmental issues. prgtoken Her responsibilities grew in a very short time when she became a senior domestic policy adviser. And when the legislative director position opened on my team, Ariel was a natural fit, and she accepted her new leadership role with her trademark positivity, grace, and good humor. prgtoken Over the last 8 years, there have been historic moments that I know will be the cornerstone of Ariel's memories in the Senate. At the top of that list--for me, anyway--is Ariel's success in getting the Shaheen-Portman--Portman-Shaheen energy efficiency bill across the finish line and signed into law. prgtoken Her steady, unwavering efforts to move that bill forward, year after year, piece by piece, should be taught to every incoming legislative staffer in the Senate. It is a study in perseverance and effectiveness. prgtoken Her work on Shaheen-Portman--and the work of others before her--is making a huge difference in the global fight against climate change. prgtoken Ariel was also instrumental during one of the most difficult, most intense, and most important crises this body has had to face--the fight against COVID. Ariel led our legislative team at a time of great uncertainty here in the Senate. She was a key negotiator of the Senate's legislative response, including the historic CARES Act. Ariel's work on that bill, particularly on the small business provisions and the PPP program--in the midst of a nationwide pandemic and a potential economic collaps