Ben Cline

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Blue Ridge Christian girls' basketball team on winning the Virginia Association of Christian Athletics, VACA, State championship. After being down 21-7 at one point in the game, the Bears fought their way back into contention, winning their second VACA title in 3 years. The team had a tremendous performance throughout the season, finishing 18-2 and going on to win the championship. Despite the countless challenges of working through illnesses and other obstacles, the perseverance and commitment to success demonstrated throughout the year led their team to victory. Winning the State championship title is a testament to the unwavering dedication and hard work that the coaches and players display each and every day throughout the season. Mr. Speaker, I extend my sincerest congratulations to the entire Bears coaching staff and team for their incredible season. It is my honor to recognize their well-deserved victory, and I wish them nothing but the best for seasons to come. Standing With Israel

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to reaffirm my unwavering support for Israel, our foremost ally in the Middle East and the beacon of democracy in that region. Over the weekend, Iran launched a direct attack on Israel from Iranian soil, firing over 300 missiles and drones at the nation. This is the first time Iran has ever directly attacked the Nation of Israel. These direct attacks also follow the brutal war launched by Iran- backed Hamas terrorists on October 7 of this last year. This vicious attack claimed the lives of over 1,200 innocent Israeli citizens and took more than 240 hostage, some of whom were Americans. While some on the other side of the aisle and in the media attempt to draw a moral parallel between Hamas and Israel, there is simply no comparison to be made. As Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu once said: ``You cannot equate a democracy that values life with a terror organization that glorifies death.'' Israel has an absolute right to defend itself, and while they continue to fight for their country's survival, Hamas continues to intentionally target population centers, seeking death and destruction. Let me be clear: Hamas has no interest in peace or a solution. Their only objective is to eliminate the Jewish State. I cannot fathom why people choose to back Hamas despite its atrocious human rights record. We must stand with Israel, and I remain steadfast in my support of America's closest ally.

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Chair, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Connecticut (Mr. Himes).

Mr. CLINE. If the gentlewoman will yield back, I will yield a minute to the gentleman from Connecticut.

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Chair, I have an amendment at the desk.

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Chair, I rise in support of these vital reforms to the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, especially section 702. While H.R. 7888 in its current form includes many provisions that the Judiciary and Intelligence Committees agree on, it falls short of preventing numerous documented abuses by our government against U.S. citizens. Congress must act to protect Americans' privacy and civil rights. To do that, any legislation that reauthorizes FISA section 702 must also include a warrant requirement for searches of Americans' communications collected; an end to the law enforcement and intelligence agencies' purchases of Americans' location data and other sensitive information; the reporting requirements offered by Congressman Roy and my amendment, which would permanently end the practice of ``abouts'' collection, which has long been a controversial subject. On top of collecting communications to or from the selector of an intelligence target, upstream collection of communications from companies that operate internet cables that interconnect with ISPs' local networks has included the collection of communications about the selector. FISA court opinions from 2011, since declassified, have shone a light on this type of collection and noted that it resulted in the collection of ``tens of thousands of wholly domestic communications each year'' by the NSA due to what was described then as technical limitations in the implementation of ``about'' collection. This practice has been halted by the FBI, but they have acknowledged that they maintain the right to initiate this upon notification back to Congress. This must be codified in order to stop this type of abuse from occurring, and my amendment would do that. Mr. Chair, I yield 2\1/2\ minutes to the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. Jackson Lee).

Mr. CLINE. I yield to the gentleman.

Mr. CLINE. For 1 minute.

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Chair, I yield such time as she may consume to the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. Jackson Lee).

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in celebration of the 100th anniversary of Page Memorial Hospital. For the last century, Page Memorial Hospital has dedicated their resources to serving residents of Page County and beyond. This year, Page Memorial was named a Top 100 Critical Access Hospital by The Chartis Center for Rural Health. As a critical access hospital, they provide a wide range of services that are vital to maintaining good health and inspiring overall wellness across Virginia's Sixth District. In 2014, the hospital moved into a new 67,700-square-foot replacement facility, which features private inpatient rooms, an expanded emergency department and greatly enhanced transitional care program for patients who require additional nursing and rehabilitation care after being discharged from the hospital. The hospital also has a state-of-the-art outpatient rehab center, which brings all of the physical, occupational, and speech therapy services together to provide patients with better coordination of care while increasing patient safety. I am so grateful to have them serving Page County and all the folks across Virginia's Sixth District. I thank Page Memorial Hospital for 100 years of care, and I wish them the best and most successful 100 more years to come. Congratulating Salem High School Forensics Team

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate the Salem High School forensics team for making history by winning its 18th consecutive State championship. The team dominated the class 4 field with a 40-17 win over the runner up. These champions include senior Kade Lakin who led the team with his third straight Serious Duo championship this year with sophomore Bella Poarch. Along with Poarch, Salem had several first-time State champions, including Lebron Parsell in Extemporaneous Speaking, Claire Rawlins in Impromptu Speaking, Noah Lovern Storytelling, Charlie Bain in Humorous, and eighth grader Tara Farrokhpoor in Prose. Since 2004, Salem has won 99 individual event championships in forensics. Coach Mark Ingerson has done an incredible job of driving home the importance of teamwork amongst the students, and his leadership has bolstered the team's success. I congratulate the participants, parents, coaches, and staff for this incredible win and making this milestone possible. Congratulating Kate Collins Middle School and Waynesboro High School Beta Club Teams

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize the remarkable students of the Kate Collins Middle School and Waynesboro High School beta clubs for their outstanding achievements in winning first place at the Virginia Beta Convention in Hampton. The young Virginians from Kate Collins Middle School showcased their exceptional talent and skills, with Preston Stacy winning first place in Accessory Design, and Emma Loyacano securing second place in Onsite Art Drawing. The team of Parker Newton, Archer Craft, Asher Shepherd, and Sophia Williams earned second place in Musicology. I also want to celebrate Waynesboro High School's beta club, returning triumphantly to the State convention for the first time since 2019. The Quiz Bowl team, made up of Jacob Hostetter, Tac Shepherd, Josh Short, and Colton Redifer showed unparalleled academic prowess, earning first place and being crowned State champions. I wish them the best of luck as they advance to the National Beta Club Convention in Savannah, Georgia. Please join me in congratulating these remarkable students and their advisers for their exceptional achievements. Congratulating Glenvar High School Men's Swim and Dive Teams

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Glenvar High School men's swimming and diving teams from Virginia's Sixth Congressional District for their remarkable win at the Virginia High School League Class 2 championship. Their victory, by a significant margin of 238 points, underscores their hard work, dedication, and team unity. These champions include Avery Thompson, Ashton Meadows, Landon Cairns; and Kees VanGerven and Connor Wilkes also won four individual State titles. The victory is a testament to the support of coaches, parents, and the community, reflecting the values of perseverance and teamwork we hold dear. I congratulate the Glenvar men's swim and dive team on their championship win, it is an inspiring achievement for athletes and all constituents across Virginia's Sixth District. Holding Secretary Mayorkas Accountable

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to address a matter of grave constitutional importance. The Senate holds the solemn duty to conduct the impeachment trial of the Department of Homeland Security's Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas for high crimes and misdemeanors, a charge the House has clearly laid out. Our decision to impeach Secretary Mayorkas is not one we have taken lightly. For nearly a year, the House Committee on Homeland Security has meticulously uncovered the depths of the border crisis. The findings are unequivocal: Secretary Mayorkas has willfully disregarded the laws of the United States, betraying the trust of the American people and the very Constitution he swore to uphold. He has not only refused to comply with the law but has also made a mockery of our separation of powers, attacking the very foundation of our constitutional order. As the House managers deliver the articles in the next few weeks, I remain hopeful that the Senate will take up this matter with the seriousness it deserves for the sake of our Constitution, our security, and our American principles.

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Bradley Free Clinic of Roanoke, Virginia, as it celebrates 50 years of remarkable service to the underserved members in our community. This institution embodies the enduring power of volunteerism and compassion, providing comprehensive healthcare to those in need, free of charge. Founded on the vision of Henry Bell and led by the selfless efforts of Estelle Nichols Avner and countless volunteers, the Bradley Free Clinic has been a staple of hope and care in the Roanoke community. Its legacy is one of community solidarity, ensuring accessible healthcare, and underscored by the dedication of its volunteers and staff. As we mark this significant anniversary, let us honor the Bradley Free Clinic's half-century of service. I commend the tireless dedication of everyone involved with the clinic and celebrate the impact of their work on the Roanoke Valley. Mr. Speaker, I hope they have a great 50th celebration here next month, and I hope that it continues to flourish and serve as a testament to the power of community and care in the years to come. Warm Springs Valley Garden Club Celebrates 100 Year Anniversary

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an institution that holds a cherished place in Bath County, Virginia, the Warm Springs Valley Garden Club. As they mark a century of dedication to the preservation of natural splendor in our community, we recognize their tireless efforts. One hundred years ago, a group of 13 visionary women established a legacy in horticulture that endures to this day. The commitment of these women, bolstered by 30 to 50 members each year, has crafted a rich and vibrant culture of gardening throughout Bath County that continues to flourish. It is their mission that truly embodies the spirit of the Warm Springs Valley Garden Club--cultivating a deep appreciation for gardening, championing conservation, and enhancing civic and natural allure. As they celebrate 100 years of exceptional service in educating, nurturing, and community building, we salute the Warm Springs Valley Garden Club. Their continued efforts enhance not just our natural environment but also the very essence of our community. Congratulations to the Warm Springs Valley Garden Club on their 100- year anniversary. I wish them another 100 years of success. Virginia Elks Youth Camp Celebrates 75th Anniversary

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Virginia Elks Youth Camp and recognize its remarkable journey to becoming a beacon of hope and joy for over 50,000 boys and girls aged 8 to 13. Nestled in the Allegheny Mountains, near the Cowpasture River, this camp, fully funded through the generosity of the Virginia Elks Association, has not only offered a free outdoors experience but also fostered a sense of adventure and friendship among campers. Thanks to the support of the 26 Elks Lodges across the Commonwealth and the tireless work of countless volunteers, the doors of this camp have remained open since the late 1940s. As we look back on these 75 years, let us commend the Virginia Elks Association for its unwavering commitment to youth and veterans' needs. I wish them all the best as they continue to ensure that the Virginia Elks Youth Camp remains a cornerstone of our community's investment in its youth for years to come. Jefferson Center Celebrates 100th Anniversary

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 100th anniversary of the Jefferson Center in Roanoke, Virginia. This institution stands not just as a building but as a place of education and culture that has profoundly touched our community over the past century. Originally serving as Jefferson High School in the early 1920s, the auditorium was built larger than the high school so that it could be used by and for the community. From 1924 to 1974, the high school paved the way for the education of over 19,000 students, laying a strong foundation for our future generations. By 1989, the building had evolved into a center for the arts, nonprofit activities, and civic engagement that has inspired and enriched the lives of the people of Roanoke. Today, we celebrate a century-long legacy of community enrichment and unity. Let's honor this remarkable anniversary by commemorating the Jefferson Center's achievement, ensuring it remains a cornerstone of our community for generations to come. Fighting Back Against President Biden's War on American Energy

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to address President Biden's war on American energy, which seeks to undermine our Nation's energy independence and impose the radical visions of the left's Green New Deal upon the American people. Under the guise of environmental progress, the Biden administration has embarked on a campaign that has directly assaulted the backbone of our energy infrastructure. From day one, from the senseless restrictions on liquefied natural gas export terminals to the absurd proposals to ban gas stoves and target gas-powered vehicles, this administration has shown a reckless disregard for American energy dominance and the welfare of the American people. Furthermore, in a misguided effort to cushion the blow of his own policies, President Biden has depleted our Strategic Petroleum Reserve to its lowest level since 1984. This depletion not only threatens our national security but weakens our position on the global stage. The consequences of these actions are evident in rising gas prices, which continue to be a painful burden for the American family. In 2022, we witnessed the national average for a gallon of gas exceed $5 a gallon for the first time in history. Almost exactly 1 year ago, I gave a speech on this floor in support of H.R. 1, the Lower Energy Costs Act. I urge us to continue to act in furtherance of this agenda.

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for scheduling this Special Order and for taking the lead on addressing the challenges that are facing us with regard to the Biden energy policy in addition to a number of other areas where the Biden administration is doing so much to harm to the average American family. At this critical juncture in our country's history, when our country is facing enormous challenges, it is becoming increasingly clear that President Biden and his administration are firmly unwilling to confront the stark realities of our Nation's fiscal path. Instead, the path we are on is marked by reckless, unnecessary spending and failed energy and economic policies, a direct result of years of out-of-control spending by Biden and the left. This trajectory has not only jeopardized our economy but also significantly increased the daily costs burdening the American people, and not just with regard to their energy costs. Just look at the tax-and-spend budget released by the Biden White House last week. We have all heard the promises that folks earning less than $400,000 won't see their taxes go up, but what we are actually seeing with inflation hidden in this budget is a hidden tax hitting every American. Biden wants to increase Federal spending by $325 billion right away, on day one, pushing our national spending to over $86 trillion over the next decade. This means higher prices for everyday things, making life harder for all hardworking Americans. Now, as March Madness begins, President Biden's budget talks a good game about fighting inflation, but his plan does the opposite. It is small ball set to make things more expensive for families across the country. Here is the technical. Even with massive tax increases, his budget doesn't ever balance. It will keep adding to our national debt. The President plans to spend $7.3 trillion in just 1 year and push up our debt to $45 trillion by 2034. To cover this spending spree, the President is pitching $4.9 trillion in new taxes--not just on the rich but on every American. In stark contrast, I proudly stand here today to commend my Budget Committee colleagues and my colleagues on the Republican Study Committee for releasing and approving balanced budgets for fiscal year 2025 weeks ahead of Biden's too little, too late proposal. The budget approved by the House Budget Committee and the budget approved by the Republican Study Committee are testaments to the House's commitment to rein in unsustainable spending and get our Nation back on track. Compared to Biden's budget, our budgets propose no new taxes, balance the budget, and spend trillions less throughout the budget window. For far too long, House Republicans have been sounding the alarm bells over the looming fiscal cliff that our Nation is facing. The RSC budget plan and the House Budget Committee budget are roadmaps to restoring fiscal responsibility and ensuring the prosperity of future generations. It is not surprising to see the release of Biden's budget, which can only be described as a compilation of leftwing fantasies filled with wasteful spending that will undoubtedly add trillions more to the already $34 trillion debt burdening our country. This is not the future that Americans deserve, nor is it a legacy that we should ever leave behind for our children and grandchildren. The American people demand and rightly deserve a budget plan that protects them from the looming debt disaster, and I am proud to highlight House Republicans' efforts to work toward delivering budgets that exemplify fiscal responsibility. The House budget plan and the RSC budget are not just plans filled with numbers and forecasts. They are pledges to the American people to reinstate the fiscal sanity our country needs. We can either continue down the path of fiscal irresponsibility, saddling our Nation with debt and economic instability, or we can choose a new direction, one of prudence, accountability, and prosperity. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support the fiscally responsible budgets proposed by the House Republican Budget Committee and the Republican Study Committee, and I urge leadership to bring both to the floor for a vote alongside the false hopes of the Biden budget. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding.

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to shine a spotlight on the remarkable achievements of the Shenandoah Valley Short Circuits from Virginia's Sixth District. These driven students formed a club which has now gained international acclaim at the Electric Vehicle Grand Prix in Abu Dhabi. Thanks to local support and a grant funded kit, these hardworking students emerged victorious in 2023, winning both the Shenandoah Valley Electric Vehicle Grand Prix and the Washington DC Electric Vehicle Grand Prix, earning their spot on the global stage. Faced with international competition, the Short Circuits secured a first-place triumph against 28 teams from around the world. Their ascent from a Virginia school club to top contenders in Abu Dhabi is a testament to perseverance, technical skill, and the pursuit of excellence. I would like to take a moment to congratulate the members of this team: Mary Farris, Hailey Preuss, Andrew Berry, Jaxon Stadjuhar, Lauren Farris, Lily May, and Madison Miller. The students' monumental success is more than a victory in competition. It is a demonstration of American innovation and proof of what our young people can achieve with the support of their community. Madam Speaker, I congratulate the Short Circuits. Putting a Stop to Communist China's Influence

Mr. CLINE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to both thank and celebrate the retirement of my long time chief of staff, Matt Miller. After 30 years of Federal service with a great majority of it spent working with former and current Members of this body, Matt wraps up a distinguished career, encompassing pivotal roles in both the executive and legislative branches. Matt also serves in the U.S. Navy being deployed to Iraq and Guantanamo Bay, as well as civilian Department of Defense tours in Afghanistan. He has demonstrated unwavering dedication to assistance and advocacy for others, which I have personally witnessed since I came to office in January 2019. I extend my profound gratitude and thank him for being by my side for the last 5 years. This body will miss his devotion to making a difference, and I wish him fair winds and following seas in his next chapter.

Mr. CLINE. Madam Speaker, today I stand before this Chamber to raise a very serious concern: the growing threat emanating from China, not through conventional means, but through the digital specter of surveillance and manipulation, specifically via TikTok. The Communist Party of China is penetrating American society and harvesting data on 170 million American users from just TikTok alone. This is a clear and present danger to our national security. The legislation we bring forth this week, the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, directly addresses this threat. We must close the door on China's access to our citizens' personal and sensitive information. China's manipulation of TikTok and other applications empowers them to shape narratives and spread disinformation, targeting the vulnerabilities of our democracy, creating division, and undermining our values. The evidence is clear. From deceiving content to secret data harvesting, China's digital choke hold on our Nation is tightening. Our bill is not an act of censorship. It is a safeguard for our citizens and a firewall against foreign adversary controlled applications. We must act decisively to ensure that the CCP cannot weaponize information and turn our freedoms against us. Security and freedom of the American people are nonnegotiable. We must defend America not only from the tyranny of armies but also the tyranny of digital espionage and manipulation. Congratulating Strasburg Wrestling State Champions

Mr. CLINE. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the Strasburg High School wrestling team for their Class 2 State championship victory with 205 points. It was the Rams' third State title in a row. The two individual State champions who led Strasburg's victory include senior David Burks, who won the Class 2 State title at 150 points, and sophomore teammate Hutson Conrad, who won the State title at 215 points. In addition to Strasburg Rams performers were Aiden Swink, Peyton Dean, Lucas Martinez, Zach Bracken, Donovan Burks, and Colby Shaw. This performance was truly exceptional, showcasing the talent and teamwork that define this group. I wish the seniors the best of luck in their future endeavors. Recognizing Harrisonburg High School Students at the 2024 UAE Electric Vehicle Grand Prix

Mr. CLINE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize an exceptional group of students from Harrisonburg High School, whose remarkable talents were showcased on the international stage during the 2024 UAE Electric Vehicle Grand Prix. Competing in Abu Dhabi, these young innovators represented not only our great Commonwealth, but exemplified the American spirit of ingenuity and excellence. In only their third season, the Harrisonburg High School Electric Vehicle team, the Blue Streaks, faced off with 28 formidable teams from across four nations. Through sheer determination and exceptional skill, Team Blue Streaks charged ahead, not only clinching the fastest qualifying time, but also securing the esteemed pole position. I will take a moment to honor the bright young minds of this team: Seniors Johanna Mayfield and Jack Rooker; Juniors Davis Bert, Monica Espinoza-Martinez, Peter Johnston, Joshua Nafziger, and Colin Snider. Their collective effort earned Harrisonburg the bronze, landing them a commendable third place overall. Special acknowledgement goes to Johanna and Monica, who were bestowed the Women in Science and Engineering award, inspiring young women everywhere that the sky is the limit in STEM fields. Let us celebrate these young leaders who embody the best of Harrisonburg and Virginia. They are not just students or competitors; they are pioneers, paving the way toward a brighter, more sustainable future. Congratulating Chief of Staff Matt Miller on His Retirement