Ben Cline

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary young man, Caleb Gilbert, the world champion of the 86th annual All- American Soap Box Derby in Akron, Ohio, where he represented Harrisonburg, Virginia, to claim first place in the super stock division. Starting at just 7 years old, Caleb has dedicated countless hours to this sport, logging thousands of miles up and down the East Coast to compete in every kind of weather: rain, shine, and even snow. Last year, he became the national rally point champion in the stock division, racking up an impressive 1,198 points. His family: his father, Ron; his mother, Mary; and his younger sister, Gracelyn have been his steadfast support, being by his side as he spent hours meticulously assembling and calibrating his car, which was painted to echo the iconic guitar of Eddie Van Halen. The Soap Box Derby community is full of camaraderie, helping to keep the spirit of this uniquely American tradition alive. Caleb has received mentorship from engineers in the automotive and aviation industries, and he has built lasting friendships with fellow competitors from around the country. Madam Speaker, please join me in congratulating Caleb Gilbert, our all-American Soap Box Derby world champion. Congratulating the North Cross School Boys' Tennis Team Winning VISAA Division II State Championship

Mr. CLINE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the North Cross School boys' tennis team from Roanoke, Virginia, for winning the 2024 Virginia Independent Schools Athletic Association Division II State championship. This momentous win marks a historic three-peat for the Raiders, who went 16 and 1 this season and now have added a fifth boys' tennis State championship to North Cross School's trophy cabinet. The roster, consisting of Tyler Bloomfield, Attilio Ciccozzi, Jamey Davis, Jacob Juneau, Christian Lang, George Lugar, Henry Lugar, Shar Nanda, Anderson Ratliff, Sam Schaefer, Paul Schaefer, Nikheel Sherigar, and Abram Sherman, exemplified the values of hard work and perseverance. Their individual and collective achievements serve as a true testament to their commitment to excellence. I commend North Cross School Head Coach Jim Shaefer and Assistant Coach Ryan Schlachter for their unwavering dedication to nurturing a team of such extraordinary talents. I want to highlight the remarkable accomplishments of first-team all- State members Henry Lugar and George Lugar, and second-team all-State Jacob Juneau and Tyler Bloomfield. Madam Speaker, once again, I congratulate the North Cross Raiders boys' tennis team on this incredible accomplishment, and I wish them the best for seasons to come. Honoring the Life and Work of P. Buckley Moss

Mr. CLINE. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor the life and work of the late Patricia Buckley Moss. Widely known as P. Buckley Moss, or Pat, she was born and raised in New York where she received fine arts and graphic design degrees. She later moved to Waynesboro, Virginia, in 1964 with her husband and children, and it was here that she drew some of the greatest inspirations for her art, from scenic landscapes with flocks of Canadian geese to the campuses of her alma maters and especially the Mennonite and Amish subjects who became synonymous with Pat's art. Her paintings perfectly captured the nostalgic feelings of home for so many Shenandoah Valley residents. Her ability to portray these familiar sights in a way that resonated with her audiences earned her the nickname ``the people's artist.'' Her talents extended to numerous philanthropic efforts, and she became a role model and champion for children's causes. Many local students will remember her visits to their art classes or her yearly invitations to decorate The Barn's Christmas tree with ornaments of their own design. Through the donations of her art and the P. Buckley Moss Society, over $2 million have been raised for charities, endowed scholarships, and grants to assist aspiring art students and teachers. Although Pat is no longer with us, her art and generosity will leave a lasting impact on the Sixth Congressional District community.

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Chair, this amendment to H.R. 1516, the DHS Restrictions on Confucius Institutes and Chinese Entities of Concern Act, adds a clear and concise reporting requirement to provide greater transparency to Congress. This amendment requires the Department of Homeland Security to submit a report to the House and Senate committees of jurisdiction detailing any institution of higher education that maintains a relationship with a Confucius Institute or Chinese entity of concern while receiving Federal funding from DHS. Throughout many industries and sectors of the PRC, we have seen repeated attempts to disguise the fusion between civil and military life. Undoubtedly, however, the Chinese Communist Party uses Confucius Institutes to extend its national strategy of malign influence abroad. It is well documented that the CCP uses Confucius Institutes to disseminate their Communist propaganda, encourage censorship, and discourage academic freedom in the United States. In fact, many colleges and universities have ended their relationships with Confucius Institutes or entities of concern over the past 5 years due to the threats that they pose. Moreover, FBI Director Christopher Wray confirmed to Congress the existential threat caused by counterintelligence and economic espionage from the PRC. Every sector of American society is fair game for the PRC, and infiltrating our colleges and universities to undermine our national security is no different. In closing, the Department of Defense has already restricted funds to these institutions that host a Confucius Institute. It is time for the Department of Homeland Security to fall into line. Congress has a duty to conduct oversight of institutes of higher education that value their relationships with Communist China over national security for the American people. Mr. Chair, I urge my colleagues to support this commonsense amendment and support the underlying bill offered by Congressman Pfluger of Texas. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Chair, I will respond to the gentleman by saying that the Confucius Institutes are indeed a threat. They have actively rebranded their efforts and are alive and well on university campuses across the United States, and Congress has not been able to keep up in combating these new entities because of the rapidly evolving nature of these threats. There is little to no transparency from universities in what type of assistance they receive from the PRC. This is about taxpayer dollars. This is about taxpayer dollars flowing from the Department of Homeland Security to institutions of higher education in this country that are maintaining relationships with Confucius Institutes or Chinese entities of concern, and we owe it to taxpayers to ensure that their dollars are not going to further Chinese soft-power influence in this country. Over $3 billion has flowed from entities connected to the PRC and CCP to universities in the United States between 2020 and 2023. Mr. Chair, I think it is high time we take action. I urge support for the amendment, and I yield back the balance of my time.

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

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Chair, I rise in support of this amendment that adds the Chinese Academy of Sciences, or CAS, to the list of Chinese entities of concern outlined within the bill due to the vulnerabilities and threats posed by openly collaborating with an organization that answers to the Chinese Communist Party and compares notes with the People's Liberation Army. CAS has repeatedly been called out for its problematic ties with the CCP by the House Foreign Affairs Committee and the bipartisan Congressional-Executive Commission on China stating that it not only is a state-controlled entity but reports directly to China's State Council. Further, the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission reports that CAS has connections to Chinese military, nuclear, and cyber espionage programs. If that wasn't enough to raise alarm bells, it may be of interest to know that the Chinese Academy of Sciences is the parent organization of the now infamous Wuhan Institute of Virology, which engaged in gain-of- function research. This amendment is essential because, even as I speak here today, there are American institutions of higher learning engaging with the Chinese Academy of Sciences to study the highly infectious avian bird flu, and they are being paid taxpayer dollars in the form of USDA grants to do it. So long as colleges and universities are comparing notes with Chinese entities of concern like CAS, they should not be receiving DHS grants to conduct research on sensitive topics related to Homeland Security. The Chinese Academy of Sciences should be included within this bill and treated in the same manner as a CCP-controlled Confucius Institute would be. I urge my colleagues to adopt this amendment and pass this important bill. Mr. Chair, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Chair, I thank the gentleman from Texas for offering the bill, and I rise in support of it. The ranking member of the committee indicated that we are moving in the right direction, but in looking at the numbers coming out of this Justice Department, this Biden-Harris Justice Department, it is clear that we are not moving in the right direction. It is clear that we are not moving at all. We are standing still. According to the Department of Justice, approximately 80 percent of all economic espionage cases prosecuted by DOJ involved theft of trade secrets by the Chinese Government or its instrumentalities or agents. Approximately 60 percent of all trade secret misappropriation cases brought in the United States have a nexus to the People's Republic of China under the CCP. This is a strategic and intentional campaign by the CCP of intellectual property theft against the United States that has an annual cost estimated at approximately $500 billion. During the Trump administration, the DOJ established the China Initiative within the Department to address the risks posed by the CCP and to prioritize prosecution of IP theft cases. Despite the success of the China Initiative, the Biden administration bowed to pressure from radical leftists and canceled the program, and although they continue to claim that they have stood up a new program, it has not reached the successes of the China Initiative. In fact, the DOJ opened zero new economic espionage cases in 2022. I am concerned by this administration's approach to IP theft and economic espionage by the CCP. In fact, under current law, spies operating on behalf of the CCP who have been expelled from the U.S. can immediately reapply for visas. The CCP exploits this loophole as part of their whole-of-nation approach to steal sensitive information from American companies and universities. I have a bill to close this loophole, and I thank my colleague, Mr. Gooden, for cosponsoring it. As the cosponsor of the bill before us today, I believe it is important that we statutorily require that the DOJ resumes its important work that was being conducted by the DOJ's China Initiative during the Trump administration. I support this legislation.

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to highlight a significant milestone in the history of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in the heart of Covington, Virginia, as they celebrate their 100th anniversary. Originally a mission of St. Joseph's Church in Clifton Forge, Sacred Heart became a full parish in 1924, and Reverend William Payne served as its first parish priest. Reverend Joseph Jurgens served as Sacred Heart's longest tenured pastor from 1939 to 1968, and it was during this time that the church grew immensely. The many expansions and renovations the parish hall and church have seen over the years are a testament to Sacred Heart's vibrant life and giving spirit. Sacred Heart's service to the community includes a preschool that has served hundreds of children in the region, as well as the Allegheny Highlands Christmas Mother Program, which has been assisting families in need during the Christmas season for over 70 years. Sacred Heart's centennial was celebrated beginning with Mass and the ceremonial participation of the Knights of Columbus Honor Guard, followed by a catered luncheon in the parish hall. Sacred Heart is a solid rock on which Covington's faithful parishioners stand. I congratulate them on reaching this special moment in their history.

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend Captain Peter Matthiessen, a dedicated 13-year veteran firefighter serving the city of Roanoke. Captain Matthiessen's exceptional service has earned him the esteemed Veterans of Foreign Wars National Firefighter of the Year Award. Nominated by the local VFW Post 1264, Captain Matthiessen's leadership in organizing the annual Roanoke 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb has been instrumental. Working alongside First Lieutenant Stephen Curry, Captain Robert Reid, and retired Battalion Chief Matt Dewhirst, this team has brought a cherished tradition to the Roanoke Valley. For a decade now, the event has drawn around 300 participants and raises $25,000 for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation annually. The 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb challenges participants to climb the equivalent of 110 stories of the World Trade Center, thus honoring the 343 firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice on September 11, 2001. I congratulate Captain Matthiessen's humble dedication to this mission and his continued service to his community as well as all those who participate year after year in the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. May we never forget.

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life and service of my constituent and friend, Trixie Averill, who passed away on May 25, 2024. Trixie was a beloved wife to Dan; a devoted mother to Marcus and Amy; a cherished grandmother to Noah, Aurora, and Gabriel; and a dear friend to so many. Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana, Trixie moved to the Roanoke Valley in 1979. She served with enthusiasm as a member of the Virginia Tourism Board. As an activist and tireless organizer, she was always sincere, warm, dedicated, and an absolute delight to work with. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues join me in honoring the life of Trixie Averill. She diligently and effectively served her God, community, family, and Virginia's Sixth Congressional District. Congratulating Glenvar High School Girls Soccer Team

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Glenvar High School girls' soccer team on winning the 2024, VHSL, Class 2 State championship, their second State title in the last 3 years. After working hard all season, the team left it all on the field and beat Clarke County High School after four periods of overtime. Finishing the season with an impressive record of 21-0-1, there is no doubt that these girls earned this season and their championship. I would like to recognize each of the outstanding players of this team, including Giuliana Stanley, who won the VHSL Class 2 Player of the Year, I recognize Chloe Childers, Sophie Childers, Lauren Claud, Madelaine Frackelton, Annie George, Campbell Hardin, Adalee Harvey, Logann Meadows, Megan Pomerleau, Brooke Smyth, Avery Steger, Davin Tate, Caitlin Underwood, Anna Vecellio, and Sawyer Wilson. As the head coach for 3 years, Coach Kyleigh Drew won the VHSL Coach of the Year. Mr. Speaker, again, I congratulate the 2024 Glenvar High School girls' soccer team. Virginia's Sixth Congressional District is incredibly proud of their accomplishment, and I wish them continued success in the seasons ahead. Congratulating Israel Hairston

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize the outstanding achievements of Israel Hairston from Vinton. A standout graduate of William Byrd High School, Israel's leadership on the football field and in academics is truly commendable. He not only brought home the school's first regional football title but also earned the prestigious title of Class 3 Virginia High School League Foundation Achievement Award Scholar Athlete of the Year for his exemplary high school career. Israel's commitment to excellence and dedication is further exemplified by his upcoming enrollment in Virginia Tech to play football for the Hokies. I congratulate Israel on a job well done and wish him all the best in his future endeavors. Protecting Election Integrity

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to address a pressing issue that poses a direct threat to the integrity of American elections. While the left has made baseless claims of a stolen 2016 election due to alleged foreign interference, they neglect the real peril of foreign meddling through noncitizen voting in our elections. Under the Biden administration's leadership for the past 3 years, we have witnessed an alarming surge of over 9.6 million illegal immigrant encounters, with certain States even granting driver's licenses to illegal immigrants. To safeguard the integrity of American elections, we must pass the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act, or SAVE Act. This vital legislation requires States to verify proof of citizenship during voter registration for Federal elections. It is simply common sense that only U.S. citizens should vote in Federal elections. However, the left seems to care more about noncitizens' ability to vote over upholding the rights of American citizens. While they prioritize their agendas, we are committed to safeguarding election integrity. Let us uphold the bedrock principles of our democracy and protect the voices of the American people. Congratulating Glenvar High School Boys' Soccer Team State Champions

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Glenvar High School boys' soccer team on their remarkable victory in the 2024 Virginia High School League Class 2 State championship, their second State title in a row. They had a flawless 22-0 record this year and an outstanding 18 shutouts, including a streak of 10 consecutive shutouts. These talented student athletes include Jake Williams, who was named VHSL Class 2 Player of the Year, Grayson Shepherd, Jackson Jones, Alan Vu, Kees Van Gerven, Gavin Miller, Tyler Curfiss, Zach Curfiss, Levi King, Seth Nichols, Heath Russell, Kian Fisher, Luke Farmer, Jax Boling, Avery McClanahan, Cooper Mullins, Bryce King, Dylan Ludlow, Griffin Geddes, Adam Saunders, Alex Rotkamp, Aidan Hylton, Zach Adams, Evan Harris, Ryder Francisco, Wesley Feliciano, Connor Magruder, and Tyler Shannon. Their continued success is a testament to a winning culture led by Head Coach Josh Jones, head coach for 4 years and VHSL Class 2 Coach of the Year. I congratulate the 2024 Glenvar Highlanders boys' soccer team on this incredible achievement. It is an honor to have such a program in Virginia's Sixth Congressional District. I wish them the best for many seasons to come.

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Michael McKee on being the recipient of the 2024 John van Hengel Fellowship Award. Feeding America presents this award to an executive of a partner food bank for excellence in leadership, local impact, national influence, and entrepreneurial spirit in the area of hunger relief. For over a decade, Michael has served as the CEO of the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank, which distributes food to one of the largest regions in Virginia. He has overseen the food bank's tremendous growth, including expanded warehouse capacity, thousands of people served each month, and millions of pounds of food distributed each year. During COVID, Michael ensured that vulnerable populations, such as children, seniors, and immigrants, continued to have access to nutritious food. More recently, his innovative partnerships include collaborating with Sentara RMH to launch a new online directory of food assistance resources and with the National Association of Letter Carriers in a successful Stamp Out Hunger campaign. Mr. Speaker, I once again congratulate Michael for the national recognition of his efforts and tireless advocacy to end hunger in our part of Virginia. Congratulating Debbie Martin

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Debbie Martin of Frederick County Middle School for being named the Discovery Education Educator of the Year. This distinguished award recognizes educators who demonstrate unwavering commitment to student achievement, innovative teaching practices, and unique contributions to learning. Debbie Martin exemplifies all of these qualities and more. Discovery Education offers digital classroom resources, including podcasts, science experiments, videos, and articles, which Debbie Martin has utilized in her own classroom to shape the next generation of Virginians. After 28 years of teaching in Frederick County, including 21 years at Frederick County Middle School, Debbie announced her retirement at the end of the school year. Mr. Speaker, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Debbie Martin for her well-deserved recognition and thank her for her years of devotion to the students of Frederick County. Celebrating The George Washington Hotel's 100th Anniversary

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate The George Washington Hotel in Winchester, Virginia, as it celebrates its remarkable 100th anniversary. Since its opening in 1924, ``The GW'' has stood as a beacon of hospitality and splendor. Located at the intersection of East Piccadilly and North Cameron Streets, it was once the tallest building in Winchester. For half a century, The GW flourished as a premier luxury destination. By 1978, it had transformed into an assisted living facility before closing its doors 1993. In 2003, The George Washington Hotel was purchased and underwent a meticulous restoration. By 2008, the hotel once again opened its doors, rejuvenating its historic grandeur. Today we honor The George Washington Hotel's first century, celebrating its enduring legacy of resilience and charm. Congratulations to The GW on reaching this significant milestone. Here's to another hundred years of exceptional hospitality and profound success. Congratulating Clarke County 4-H Poultry Judging Junior Team

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the extraordinary achievement of the Clarke County 4-H Poultry Judging Junior Team. For the third consecutive year, these outstanding young Virginians won first place at the State level. Among this talented group of fourth to eighth graders were Samuel Sinclair, Josiah Sinclair, Molly Solich, Brendan Whalen, and Finn Whalen. The team won the 2024 State 4-H/FFA Poultry Evaluation Contest in Harrisonburg, Virginia, which consisted of evaluating eggs, patties, live birds, and ready-to-cook birds. Under the guidance of their coach, Brian Cather of Clarke County, these students have been practicing since February, preparing rigorously for the statewide competition. Their hard work and commitment are truly commendable. Please join me in congratulating these remarkable 4-H members and their coach for this extraordinary accomplishment. Biden's Weak Immigration Executive Order

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, last week, the Biden administration rolled out another ineffective executive order supposedly aimed at securing our border. This executive order claimed that the U.S.-Mexico border would shut down once illegal crossings hit 2,500 per day. That would result in nearly 1 million additional illegals crossing over the border during the next year. The American people deserve more than an election-year stunt that won't actually secure our borders. For the past 3\1/2\ years, Biden has failed his responsibility to the American people to secure our borders and safeguard our national security. Instead, Biden and his administration have taken over 60 executive actions to open our borders and completely dismantle one of the most secure borders our country has ever had. The chaos unleashed by Biden's policies has turned every community into a border community whether in the form of rising crime, the fentanyl crisis, or massive strains on our hospitals, schools, and other community services. Mr. Speaker, it is far past time that we hold the Biden administration accountable for its complete dereliction of duty to secure our borders. The executive order is nothing but a desperate ploy to boost Biden's poll numbers ahead of November. The American people deserve an administration that will put their safety and concern first by implementing actual solutions to this border crisis, not political theatrics.

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and to include extraneous material on H.R. 8580, and that I may include tabular material on the same.

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Chairman, I am pleased today to speak in support of this year's Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies appropriations bill. Under current leadership, the Veterans Health Administration has been distracted from its core mission, using official resources for political purposes such as lobbying Congress, pushing for DEI policies, and even going so far as to process medical care claims for illegal aliens. Our veterans deserve better. Therefore, House Republicans are moving forward with a bill that refocuses the VA back to its core mission by fully funding veterans' healthcare programs and benefits while cutting out radical prerogatives that divert resources away from critical veteran care. In addition to supporting those who have served, this bill would bolster our national security interests in the Indo-Pacific region to counter China by improving our defense posture in the region. The funding allocated in this bill would equip our Active-Duty servicemembers by constructing the facilities they so desperately need and honor our commitment to the veterans who have so dutifully served us here at home. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Chair, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Carter).

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Madam Speaker, I had planned today to congratulate a poultry judging team in my district, but I need to address what happened at Marine Corps Base Quantico in Triangle, Virginia, because what happened there are the chickens coming home to roost from the broken Biden border policy. Madam Speaker, on May 3, 2024, two Jordanian foreign nationals that entered the United States unlawfully attempted to breach the Quantico Marine Corps Base in Triangle, Virginia. Press reports indicate that they were in a van posing as delivery men and tried to ram their way through. I am quoting from a letter that our Governor has sent to the President because he has not received a briefing on what happened in the Commonwealth of Virginia. The American people didn't learn about what happened at Quantico for 2 weeks. During that time, we don't know who else had entered this country illegally or what else their designs were, but it is proven that the broken Biden border policy is having an effect on the national security of this country. The President needs to take action now, or Congress and the Senate need to take action on H.R. 2.

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the Rockingham County Baseball League as they celebrate 100 years of America's favorite pastime. Founded in 1924, the Rockingham County Baseball League is the second oldest continuously operating league in the United States. J.R. ``Polly'' Lineweaver, a sportswriter for the Daily News-Record, helped organize the league. This effort brought players together from seven communities across Rockingham County in both spirit and game, with a consistent schedule and designated rules. From there, the league would go to include teams up and down the Shenandoah Valley. The league has a rich history. It survived the Great Depression, World War II, and integrated with African-American players in the 1950s. RCBL boasts players who went on to play in Major League Baseball and even the National Basketball Association. Today its fields remain a welcoming place that brings athletes together. Recently, the league's storied history and many accomplishments were highlighted in a new exhibit at the Rocktown History Museum in Dayton. It calls attention to the hard work of players, coaches, fans, and other community members who have shown care toward each other through the common love of baseball. I congratulate RCBL on the many wonderful seasons they have enjoyed over the last century, and I wish them many more to come.