mesut/congress_speeches huggingface dataset:
REMARKS ON TERRI FREEMAN LEAVING THE NATIONAL CIVIL RIGHTS MUSEUM
Steve Cohen (Democrat, TN) \u2014 2021-1-25

. Madam , I rise today to bid a reluctant farewell to Terri Lee Freeman, who for the past six years has served as President of the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis. Ms. Freeman has done an exceptional job leading the nation's premiere Civil Rights museum, located in the Lorraine Motel where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968. During her tenure, Ms. Freeman organized the 50th anniversary of that seminal event in American history--``MLK50--Where Do We Go From Here?''--featuring such national figures as our late Congressional colleague, John Lewis; the Reverend Jesse Jackson, former Polish President and 1983 Nobel Peace Prize laureate Lech Walesa; the Reverend William Barber of the Poor People's Campaign, and many others who traveled from around the world to spend time in our showcase institution. In her six years, she saw the museum's budget double to $9.7 million while overseeing a staff of 50 and an increased physical footprint. She also helped affiliate the museum with the Smithsonian Institution and its traveling exhibits. Also while at the museum, she began ``Unpacking Racism in Action,'' a series of community dialogues aimed at confronting implicit and structural bias. Last year, she was named ``Memphian of the Year'' by Memphis Magazine. Before moving to Memphis, she was president of what is now the Greater Washington Community Foundation. In her 18 years with that organization, she increased the organization's assets from $52 million in 1996 to more than $350 million in 2014. A proven leader, Ms. Freeman was a 2016 graduate of Leadership Memphis and served on the boards of the Community Foundation of Greater Memphis, the New Memphis Institute and the Memphis Convention and Visitors Bureau, as well as being a member of the Tennessee Educational Equity Coalition Steering Committee. Born in Chicago, Ms. Freeman is a graduate of Hamtramck High School (1977) and the University of Dayton (1981 through 1983) and received a Master's degree in organizational communications from Howard University. Ms. Freeman is married to Dr. Bowyer G. Freeman, senior pastor of the New Saint Mark Baptist Church in Baltimore, and the mother of three grown daughters. I wish Ms. Freeman every success in her new post as executive director of the Reginald Lewis Museum of African American History and Culture in Baltimore. I'm pleased to read that Ms. Freeman will always consider herself an ``adopted child'' of our city where her work and dedication will remain her lasting legacy.
WISHING TREVA GREEN A HAPPY 100TH BIRTHDAY
Tom Rice (Republican, SC) \u2014 2021-1-25

. Madam , I rise today to honor an extraordinary South Carolinian, Ms. Treva Green of Conway and wish her a happy 100th birthday. prgtoken Ms. Green was 18 years old when she volunteered to become a nurse with the U.S Army. She served our nation in England, France, and Germany during World War II. Following the war, Treva and her husband moved to Conway and served the Grand Strand community as a nurse for over four decades. Wow. prgtoken Her commitment to her nation and community are truly admirable. She is a shining example of the best of our country. Ms. Green is now enjoying retirement in Conway. Treva recently said ``I've done everything the Lord wants me to do, or at least I tried to and asked for forgiveness for everything I couldn't prgtoken get by. I'm happy to be alive and I'm happy to be able to tell my story.'' We should all live by this sentiment. prgtoken Madam , I join her family and friends in wishing Treva Green happy 100th birthday! I am sure they are excited to see her reach this incredible milestone.
Nomination of Janet Louise Yellen (Executive Session)
Susan M. Collins (Republican, ME) \u2014 2021-1-25

as we face an economic crisis brought on by COVID-19, we will need steady, proven leadership at the Treasury Department. A highly respected economist, Dr. Yellen served first as Vice Chair and then Chair of the Federal Reserve. She has served under ic and presidents and during periods of economic crisis and economic growth. prgtoken Last year, I worked with my colleagues to deliver bipartisan relief for those who have been harmed by the pandemic. We addressed the crisis in five bills totaling approximately $3 trillion. Through subsequent negotiations in November and December on an additional $900 billion package, we secured a second round of Paycheck Protection Program forgivable loans for the hardest hit small businesses and extended unemployment programs, assistance for schools, vaccine delivery, and more. But additional work remains. prgtoken During this crisis, Secretary Mnuchin proved himself to be an able partner to all of us in delivering this relief. It is my hope that Treasury Secretary-designate Yellen will build on our work. In her testimony before the Senate Finance Committee and during the subsequent questions, Dr. Yellen made clear that she understands these needs. prgtoken Our nation's eight living former Secretaries of the Treasury have provided their support for the nomination. I urge the swift confirmation of Janet Yellen to ensure that President has a qualified economic team in place. prgtoken Thank you.
PROVIDING FOR EXCEPTION TO LIMITATION AGAINST APPOINTMENT OF PERSONS AS SECRETARY OF DEFENSE WITHIN SEVEN YEARS OF RELIEF FROM ACTIVE DUTY
Bill Posey (Republican, FL) \u2014 2021-1-25

through the National Security Act, Congress required that the Secretary of Defense be from civilian life and placed a limitation on the appointment of former military personnel to that position mandating that a nominee be retired from military service for ten years. In 2008, Congress shortened that period to seven years. prgtoken I have several concerns which I would like to express and go on record in opposition to providing a waiver. First, I thank the General for his service to our nation in uniform. I have reservations about providing yet another waiver from the law intended to preserve civilian leadership in the role of Secretary of Defense. If confirmed as Secretary of Defense by the U.S. Senate, after fewer than five years from his last military assignment, General Lloyd Austin (Ret.) will be expected to uphold the principles of civilian control of the military. prgtoken My hope is that General Austin's focus will be ensuring that our nation is prepared to meet head-on the threat posed by adversaries including China, Russia, and Iran. He should follow and focus on the bipartisan 2018 National Defense Strategy that stresses the need to strengthen our military for potential major conflict. Mr. Austin should work to preserve the strategic nuclear triad, protect and ensure American space superiority, and maintain Naval supremacy as cornerstones of our freedom. prgtoken Serving as our nation's Secretary of Defense is an awesome responsibility and I await the U.S. Senate vetting General Austin as the U.S. Senate has the responsibility under the Constitution of reviewing Presidential nominees.
CORONAVIRUS
Mitch McConnell (Republican, KY) \u2014 2021-1-25

our Nation has spent nearly a year locked in this terrible battle with COVID-19. This virus that spread from China around the world has taken more than 400,000 American lives. It has effectively cost many children an entire school year. It made us slam the brakes on one of the best job markets in modern history and threw millions of families into financial chaos. prgtoken But thanks to a lot of hard work in 2020, the dawn of 2021 has brought a turning point. The genius of science and the support of Operation Warp Speed produced vaccines in record time. And in December, after months of delay, finally let Congress move ahead with another major rescue package. The light at the end of the tunnel is getting closer, and both s and are going to continue working together to accelerate victory. prgtoken Curiously, the President's candidate to run the Department of Health and Human Services is the famously partisan attorney general of California. His recent experience in health policies seems largely limited to promoting abortion-on-demand and suing groups like the Little Sisters of the Poor, which dare to live out their religious convictions. prgtoken In an interview just yesterday, Mr. Becerra compared the current state of vaccinations inherited by the administration to an airplane in a nosedive--a disaster. He contrasted the status quo with the new administration's stated goal of 1 million vaccinations per day, which he called ``ambitious.'' prgtoken There is a problem here. Even the press has repeatedly pointed it out, which said our Nation is already meeting that very pace--already meeting that very pace. That is not a big new goal. It is exactly what they inherited from the administration in Operation Warp Speed. prgtoken Inauguration Day, Thursday, and Friday, each topped 1 million vaccinations. As of today, we are averaging 1.16 million shots per day over the last prgtoken week. They are claiming the exact same number can either be a total catastrophe or a smashing success. I guess it depends on whether are in power. So much for science without politics. prgtoken Here is how the Washington Post put it: The accelerating speed of the [vaccine] program undercuts assertions by some advisers that they were left no plan by the administration, and suggests they need only to keep their feet on the pedal to clear the bar they set for themselves. prgtoken Yesterday, Mr. Becerra was asked about increasing vaccinations in the months ahead. Here is what he said: ``I first have to be sworn in to give you a timeline.'' Perhaps that is like the time the of the House famously said she had to pass a bill before the public could learn what was in it. prgtoken The new administration campaigned heavily on having a new master plan to fight the pandemic. Well, now they are in office, President has said: ``[T]here's nothing
TRIBUTE TO GARLAND SHEPHEARD
Thom Tillis (Republican, NC) \u2014 2021-1-25

I rise today to pay tribute to Garland Shepheard, who retired as the North Carolina House sergeant-in- arms at the beginning of the year. Mr. Shepheard is a proud North Carolinian who was committed to keeping North Carolina legislators safe. prgtoken Garland Shepheard is a lifelong resident of Tarboro, NC, where he resides with his wife Betty Jo. Mr. Shepheard was successful car salesman and additionally served as Edgecombe County Party chairman. He also served two terms on the Tarboro Town Council and has contributed a lifetime of service to his community. prgtoken Before representing North Carolina in the U.S. Senate, I had the pleasure of interacting with Mr. Shepheard serving as North Carolina speaker of the house. Widely known for his brightly colored jackets and distinct Eastern North Carolina accent, Garland was loved by members from both sides of the aisle. prgtoken As the U.S. Senator from North Carolina, I am grateful for Garland's service to our State and Nation. I hope he enjoys his much-deserved retirement back in Eastern North Carolina, and we will never forget his commitment to keeping North Carolinians safe.
IN HONOR OF THE LIFE OF SGT. MAJ. JERRY BELL
Kevin Brady (Republican, TX) \u2014 2021-1-25

. Madam , I rise today to recognize the life of Sergeant Major Jerry Bell, a decorated veteran of the United States Army, who sadly passed away Sunday, January 10, 2021. prgtoken Jerry Lynn Bell was born May 2, 1943 to parents William Ernest and Mary Adeline (Johnson) Bell in Leon County, Texas. Jerry Bell's entire life has been defined by bravery and selfless service. At the age of 17, he enlisted in the U.S. Army. During his time in the military, he rose to the rank of Sergeant Major and proved himself to be a true American hero, receiving the Purple Heart, the Distinguished Flying Cross, three Air Medals for valor, two Bronze Stars for valor, and an Army Commendation Medal for valor during his service in the Vietnam War as a tanker and helicopter gunner. His nephew, Texas State Representative Cecil Bell Jr describes Sgt. Maj. Bell as a ``true warrior who fought with valor and distinction.'' prgtoken While his military service took him from Alaska to Germany, Sgt. Maj. Bell could not help but return to his home of Leon County. After returning to Texas, he worked for B-5 Construction, the U.S. Postal Service, and was the owner and operator of Bell Alley Gun Shop. prgtoken Sgt. Maj. Bell was a mainstay of the community. At his gun shop, he did what he loved most, selling guns and working as a gunsmith while sharing thoughts on conservatism, 2nd amendment rights, and religion. While Sgt. Maj. Bell leaves behind a military legacy to be heralded, it comes second to his legacy as a man who placed God first in his life, a man who loved his country and state, and a man who was a devoted husband, father, and great-grandfather. Sgt. Maj. Bell's favorite times were those spent with family at Bell family reunions and Christmas parties at his home in Leona. The Bell family shared their lives with each other and the entire community, making everyone feel like they were a part of this tight-knit family. prgtoken In the words of his nephew, Cecil Bell Jr ``On January 10, 2021, as the cold rains fell in Leon County, Texas, the chopping sounds of an Army helicopter landing were heard as Jerry Bell, age 77, Sergeant Major, U.S. Army Retired, deployed to Heaven's shore.'' Sgt. Maj. is remembered by his loving wife, Alice Cothron Bell of Leona and a host of loving children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. prgtoken I join the entire community in honoring Sgt. Maj. Bell for a lifetime of service both overseas and stateside. His service to our nation will never be forgotten.
REMEMBERING KEITH E. FREELAND
Joe Wilson (Republican, SC) \u2014 2021-1-25

. Madam , I would like to include in the Record the following obituary for Keith E. Freeland. With deep sorrow we pronounce the passing of Keith E. Freeland of Lewiston, NY on Friday, January 1, 2021. He passed away peacefully at the age of 67. Born in Niagara Falls, NY, he was the son of the late Edward C. and Norma E. (Klipfel) Freeland. He was raised along with his three sisters in Ransomville, NY. Keith married Christine A. (Covatta) Freeland in Lewiston, NY on October 18, 1975 and was a devoted and loving husband for 45 years. Keith attended Lewiston-Porter High School and graduated from Buffalo State College with a degree in business education. He ultimately pursued his life-long career in manufacturing and sales, founding Package Design and Supply in 1995. Viewed as a kind, selfless and devoted leader, he demonstrated unwavering loyalty and compassion to all of his beloved employees and colleagues. Keith not only excelled in his career but he was devoted to several hobbies. Boating was his ultimate passion and anytime the sun was shining in the summer you could find him at the boat docks in Lewiston or cruising along the Lower Niagara River. He was fervent about the community of friends who shared his desire for being on the water; often traveling and seeking new adventures each summer. Keith was a dedicated board member of the Youngstown Yacht Club aiding in annual fundraising events. He also enjoyed vintage car restoration, proudly displaying vehicles he worked so tirelessly on at various local shows. Keith found solace in meticulously maintaining his yard in Thornwood Forest and working diligently on various projects around the home he so cherished. He was an avid Buffalo sports fan and longtime season ticket holder for his beloved Bills and Sabres, for whom he shared in the joys and sorrows with his two sons. Above all, Keith cared about family and he would stop at nothing to be there for them. He instilled in them the value of hard work, honesty, loyalty and simply to be thankful and appreciative. In addition to his wife of 45 years, Keith is survived by his children, Dr. Erik Freeland, Jeffrey Freeland, and Julie Freeland; his siblings, Kathy (late Dr. F. Craig) Fisher of Chicago, IL and Jane (Greg) DiPietro of League City, TX. He was predeceased by his sister, Linda (James) Giardino of Scottsdale, AZ. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and countless friends
ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS
John Boozman (Republican, AR) \u2014 2021-1-25

. Madman President, I rise today to honor the life of Mrs. Barbara Hardcastle, who passed away on January 13, 2020, at the age of 94. prgtoken Mrs. Hardcastle was trailblazer and a fierce advocate for her community and her State. A native of Fort Smith, AK, she also made her mark in politics and government in California. I was honored to know her, and so I join her friends and family in grieving her loss. prgtoken Barbara Turner was born in Fort Smith on April 6, 1927. She graduated from Fort Smith High School in 1944 and went on to earn a bachelor's degree from Fort Smith Junior College. She prgtoken married Ben Hardcastle, a banker and World War II veteran, in 1947, and they would spend almost 63 years together before his passing in 2010. prgtoken Early in their married life, Ben accepted a job at the Beverly Hills Savings and Loan, so they moved to North Hollywood, CA. They immediately became active in their local church and, as a result, made friends with many Hollywood actors, including Ronald and Nancy Reagan. prgtoken Their friendship with the Reagans led to Barbara's involvement in California politics, including playing a key role in his race for Governor of California. She is also credited by many as having introduced the future President to Jelly Belly candy as he attempted to stop smoking. Friends and family say she kept him stocked with the company's signature jelly beans throughout his Presidency. prgtoken During their time in California, Barbara became an ordained minister and public speaker. She was also a trailblazing professional, serving as a supervisor and one of the first female executives with the Federal housing agency, Fannie Mae. prgtoken Ben and Barbara decided to retire in 1991 and returned to Arkansas, where they continued to be active in local, State and national politics. In addition to helping candidates for all levels of public office, Barbara used her experience to make a difference in the community. prgtoken I had many opportunities to work with Barbara over the years, but no occasion stands out more than her determined efforts on behalf of the 188th Fighter Wing when its future was threatened by the Base Realignment and Closure Commission, BRAC. She used her organizing skills to rally the community and show visiting BRAC committee members how strong support was for the base. Her leadership and industry helped save the Wing and bring more opportunity to the region. prgtoken Barbara was truly a force. Her strong values, hard work, wonderful sense of humor and personal conviction made a difference. I am grateful to have counted her as a friend and hope her legacy will continue to inspire young Arkansans to fight for their communities and their causes with the same determination that she did throughout her life.
CONDEMNING IRRESPONSIBLE DEFAMATION IN CONGRESS
Paul A. Gosar (Republican, AZ) \u2014 2021-1-25

. Madam , I rise today to express my dismay that members of Congress are making unfounded claims of treason and sedition against their colleagues without evidence to back their outlandish claims. By this, I mean the numerous members alleging that members aided in ``reconnaissance'' tours for those individuals who would storm the Capitol during the Electoral College certification. prgtoken These accusations leveled by several members make these bold statements without offering a shred of evidence. In fact, over 30 members put their names on a letter which made these allegations without even an indication to whom they were referring to. In the absence of fact, these accusations have allowed conspiracy to permeate the narrative from the deepest enclaves of the Internet. Leftist media sources, from major 24 hour broadcast companies to biogs, have picked up on these hollow accusations, and the effects have been damaging. prgtoken Since evidence and due process have been replaced with speculation, members of Congress are being deemed guilty of these crimes, including myself. In fact, there is now a narrative running that since I supported the objection to the certification of the count, I must be one of the members guilty of this treason. Multiple media sources have reported as ``fact'' that me and other objectors conducted tours of the Capitol to do some type of ``reconnaissance''. This is patently and unequivocally false. They offered no proof of this scurrilous and defamatory falsehood. I asked Capitol Police to pull and preserve all video footage from House security cameras which can establish with finality who, if anyone, gave even one tour during the days leading to the unrest. I can say this: my office has not given a tour since February 2020. The continuing publication of this defamation by members of Congress and media is unprofessional, unethical, and actionable. prgtoken The increase in violent, threatening messages received in our offices because of the irresponsible political messaging from my colleagues in coordination with their media pals is sickening and indicative of our larger societal issues, such as a media which tells their viewers what they know to be true, not what the facts are. So, let me set the record straight. I have not given a tour of the Capitol since 2017, and my staff has not given a tour since they closed to the public early in 2020 as a COVID-19 response. Further, at no time did anyone with Stop the Steal talk to me about violence, and my efforts to speak to the American people and fight for my constituents were guided by the First Amendment and the Electoral Count Act of 1878. prgtoken Madam , the purpose of this body is to serve as the voice of the American people, a voice which speaks with honesty to conduct the business of this country and contribute to the overall good. Yet, the passions of humanity can undermine these principles, and these unfounded accusations are a mena