Ben Cline

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, on Roll Call No. 297, I mistakenly voted Nay when I intended to vote Yea.

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Walnut Springs Christian Church in Strasburg as it celebrates 200 years of faith, fellowship, and service. The congregation traces its founding to August 26, 1826, when members made the Stickley Meeting House their permanent place of worship. In 1848, David Stickley donated the land where the church stands today. Over two centuries, Walnut Springs has endured hardships, such as the Civil War and a devastating fire in 1945. Yet, through every challenge, its members persevered. Remarkably, when the church burned just 2 days before Christmas in 1945, members rushed inside and saved the communion table, piano, and pews--pews that remain in use today. That spirit of faithfulness continues under Pastor Wendell Shurtz, who has served Walnut Springs for an extraordinary 41 years. Mr. Speaker, Pastor Shurtz continues a tradition of faith and welcome that has defined generations of this church family. I congratulate the Walnut Springs congregation. May their simple but powerful message continue to guide them. Be faithful.

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a remarkable public servant from Virginia's Sixth Congressional District, Mr. Spencer Suter. A native of Rockingham County, Spencer dedicated 30 years to local government, including 14 as administrator of my home, Rockbridge County, a community he and his family also proudly call home. Under Spencer's leadership, Rockbridge County experienced significant progress. The county expanded broadband into rural communities and worked with neighboring localities to open a joint Department of Social Services building. His tenure also saw the creation of the county's first strategic economic development plan and millions of dollars in investment and expansion at Modine Manufacturing. Spencer also helped oversee the transition of Natural Bridge into a Virginia State Park, preserving one of Rockbridge County's most treasured landmarks. These accomplishments reflect Spencer's calm, practical, and people- centered approach to public service. He treated county employees like family, placed the needs of the community first, and demonstrated that no task was beneath him, whether managing a crisis, shoveling snow, or picking up trash along the road. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring Spencer Suter for his distinguished service and lasting impact on Rockbridge County. We wish Spencer and his wife, Tina, all the best in his well-deserved retirement. recognizing walnut springs christian church

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize an extraordinary individual, Mr. Frank Shakespeare, a U.S. Olympic gold medalist, United States Navy veteran, and retired public school teacher living in Virginia's Sixth Congressional District. For almost 70 years, he was united in marriage to the love of his life, Shirley. This May, he celebrated his 96th birthday and is the oldest living U.S. Olympic champion. As a member of the U.S. Naval Academy's rowing team, he and his teammates represented the United States at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics. They defeated the Soviet Union to win gold and were later dubbed by Life Magazine as ``The Great Eight.'' After 11 years of faithful service in the Navy, he went on to enjoy a long career teaching math to students in Baltimore, Maryland. To this day, he continues to share his life's lessons with young people. If you meet Frank, he will hand you his business card that reads: ``Be a Winner.'' Through failures, challenges, and learning to embrace the talents and opportunities that God grants, Frank wants everyone to know that when you live by this motto, Be a Winner, all things are possible. Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognizing Mr. Frank Shakespeare, a proud American yet humble Christian whose incredible achievements and message are something we can all learn from. recognizing spencer suter's retirement

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the life of Rodney Eagle, a true pillar of the Harrisonburg community. Rodney passed away just shy of his 90th birthday, leaving a lasting impression on the city he loved. Rodney served our country honorably in the U.S. Marine Corps, achieving the rank of corporal. Shortly after his discharge, he married Sylvia Liskey. Together, they shared 67 years of devoted marriage. While Rodney served Harrisonburg in many official capacities, including three terms as mayor, he may be remembered most for the countless unofficial ways he stepped up to serve others. He supported numerous civic organizations and nonprofits, often quietly lending a hand wherever it was needed--from loaning Eagle Carpet tents for community events to personally driving and then donating the company truck to help Open Doors move from one host church to the next. Rodney freely offered his wisdom and advice to everyone, from young, aspiring realtors and fellow city councilmembers to the person sitting on the barstool beside him. Mr. Speaker, let us toast a man who lived a genuinely colorful life, whether riding his turquoise Harley-Davidson downtown, wearing purple to cheer on the JMU Dukes, or adding a few extra maraschino cherries to his glass. Here is to Rodney Eagle, a man who cared for Harrisonburg deeply and spent his life making it a better place for all. honoring frank shakespeare's lifetime achievements

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak about the recent arrests of 1,328 illegal immigrants across Virginia. Among those arrested were individuals wanted for serious crimes, including murder, rape, sexual assault, kidnapping, DUI, and attempted murder. During the Biden administration, our immigration laws went unenforced. When individuals who entered our country illegally are allowed to remain in our communities, the rule of law is undermined and public safety is put at risk. Govern Spanberger and prosecutors like Fairfax Commonwealth Attorney Steve Descano are making it harder to enforce our immigration laws, weaken cooperation with ICE, and remove dangerous criminals from our communities. The Trump administration and House Republicans are taking action to restore accountability and protect our communities. These efforts not only make Virginia safer but also strengthen public safety across our entire Nation.

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Catherine Watts of Buchanan, Virginia, who celebrated her 100th birthday on August 17, 2026. For 100 years, Catherine's life has been rooted in Buchanan. She has built a life defined by faith, family, hard work, and service to her community. For more than 75 years, she has been a devoted member of Trinity United Methodist Church, serving on committees, singing in the choir, and continuing to give back to her church and her community. Catherine spent 45 years with Lee's Carpets and Burlington Industries, raised a family, and served organizations throughout the region. She and her late husband, Joseph, shared 53 years of marriage and raised a family grounded in faith and strong values. Catherine says: ``God has been good to me.'' Her life is a testament to those blessings. Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating Catherine Watts on 100 remarkable years and wishing her continued health and happiness. Recognizing Phoenix Wood 16U Fastpitch Softball Team

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Virginia Phoenix Wood 16U Fastpitch softball team of Vinton, Virginia, for capturing the 2026 USA Softball One True National Championship. These talented young women completed an undefeated tournament run, averaging 10 runs per game, while outscoring their opponents 67-9, and finishing with an outstanding .490 team batting average. This outstanding team includes Alexis McFarland, Lilly Gillispie, Addie Lowry, Tinley Humphries, Averi Fuller, Heidi Dixon, Jocelyn Weddle, Morgan Smith, Elissa Caricofe, Madelynn Ray, Katelyn Mills, Olivia Pierce, Kenley Cundiff, Gianna Pitzer, Zoe Sartin, Emma Sartin, Madison McDaniel, Ava DeJesus, Matilyn Gouldthorpe, and Ashleigh Johnson. I also commend Head Coach Allen Wood and Assistant Coaches Kassie Brammer and Ashley McCallum for their exceptional leadership and dedication to these young women. I congratulate the Virginia Phoenix on this remarkable achievement. Their hard work, sportsmanship, and perseverance have brought great pride to Vinton, to the Roanoke Valley, and the Commonwealth of Virginia. I wish them continued success. Recognizing the Strasburg High Football Team

Mr. CLINE. I rise today, Mr. Speaker, to recognize an extraordinary achievement by a high school football program from the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. The Strasburg High School Rams captured the first State football championship in their school history, defeating Glenvar High School 49-27 in the Class 2 State final on December 13, 2025. Strasburg's come-from-behind victory under the leadership of second year Head Coach Tripp Lamb showed resilience and composure. Senior Brady Knight, playing both running back and linebacker, helped lead the comeback and finished as one of three Rams to rush for over 100 yards. Juniors Quincy Williams and Linkyn Bosworth also surpassed the century mark on the ground, while Williams delivered game-changing defensive play. Quarterback Brayden Hough added a late rushing score to seal the victory. Mr. Speaker, this win belongs to not only this year's team, but to decades of Strasburg athletes and coaches, including Jeff Smoot, Glenn Proctor, and Mark Roller, who laid the foundation for success. This championship is a testament to perseverance, teamwork, and a community that never stopped believing. I proudly commend the Strasburg High School Rams on making history. National News on Immigration

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary Virginian whose life has been defined by service to others. After 45 years of leadership, Pam Irvine is retiring as president and CEO of Feeding Southwest Virginia. When Ms. Irvine founded the organization in 1981, it began with little more than a vision--and even the food bank's first truck caught fire on the road. Undeterred, she persevered, building one of the Commonwealth's leading hunger relief organizations. Under her leadership, Feeding Southwest Virginia has grown from distributing 1 million pounds of food annually to more than 20 million pounds, serving 26 counties and 9 cities, and helping more than 127,000 neighbors each month. Guided by compassion, faith, and an unwavering belief that no one should go hungry, Pam Irvine has transformed the fight against hunger throughout southwest Virginia. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of Virginia's Sixth Congressional District, I thank Pamela Irvine for her extraordinary service, congratulate her on an exceptional career, and wish her every happiness in her well- deserved retirement. Recognizing Luray Fire Department

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Luray Fire Department of Luray, Virginia, as it marks an extraordinary milestone: 125 years of dedicated service to the people of Luray and Page County. Founded in 1901 and chartered in 1933, the Luray Fire Department has stood as a proud, all-volunteer, and nonprofit organization with the goal of protecting the lives and property of so many for over a century. From its early days when the department attended its first State Firefighters Convention in Staunton and a year later sent its first reel team to a State contest in Portsmouth, the department has remained the cornerstone of community safety and pride. With a membership of nearly 100 volunteers, the LFD has celebrated many milestones and accomplishments since then, and it continues to strengthen community ties through annual traditions such as the concert and ceremony held on September 11 as well as its raffle and fundraiser held on September 12. Today, we honor the men and women, past and present, whose selfless service reflects the very best of our Commonwealth. Join me in celebrating the strong and brave Luray Fire Department on 125 years of steadfast commitment to not only their community but to the Nation. providing certainty for america

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the passage of the concurrent resolution on the budget for fiscal year 2027 out of the Budget Committee last week. Congress' primary responsibility is to defend the American people and preserve the strength of our Nation, and this resolution reflects that duty. It invests in our warfighters; supports our ranchers, farmers, and producers; and secures the integrity of our voting systems with the SAVE America Act. For rural districts like Virginia's Sixth, this resolution delivers real support and stability for our farmers. It empowers our national defense, stands behind our warfighters, secures our food supply, and ensures American elections are decided only by American citizens. This budget reflects a commitment to responsible governance while restoring the faith and confidence of voters in our election system. Mr. Speaker, this resolution reflects a vision of a stronger, safer, and more prosperous America. It demonstrates our commitment to defending our Nation, supporting the American people, and governing with responsibility. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution this week and join us in advancing policies that strengthen our country for generations to come.

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Happy Birthday America, a cherished Independence Day tradition in Staunton, Virginia, as it joins communities across the Nation in celebrating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence through the America250 initiative. Founded in 1970 by the Statler Brothers, Happy Birthday America has spent more than five decades fostering civic pride, community engagement, and appreciation for the ideals upon which our Nation was founded. Designated an official America250 Block Party and VA250 Commemorative Partner, this year's celebration highlights Virginia's central role in our country's story. The event brings together veterans, service members, first responders, youth organizations, and community leaders in a powerful display of patriotism and service. It also honors Virginia's rich musical heritage through performances by Wilson Fairchild and Jimmy Fortune. As thousands gather for the annual parade, festivities, and fireworks, Happy Birthday America stands as a fitting tribute to our Nation's enduring spirit and history.

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Rotary Club of Front Royal as it celebrates 100 years of service to Warren County and the Commonwealth of Virginia. Chartered in 1926, this club has helped shape the very fabric of its community. Its members were instrumental in the early advocacy that led to the creation of Skyline Drive and Shenandoah National Park, even sending a delegation to meet with President Calvin Coolidge. They supported the establishment of the Front Royal State Fish Hatchery and helped found the local Chamber of Commerce. For generations, many of the community's civic, business, and educational leaders have been proud Rotarians. For a century, the Rotary Club of Front Royal has embodied the commitment of Service Above Self. The club has contributed more than $1.5 million to local and international causes, supported youth leadership and scholarship programs, and partnered with Warren County Public Schools and countless community organizations. Mr. Speaker, I commend the club for 100 years of extraordinary leadership and service, and I look forward to its continued impact in the century ahead. Recognizing Luray High School Boys' Basketball Team

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, the Luray High School Bulldogs boys' basketball team are champions for the first time in 50 years, defeating Fort Chiswell in a historic, double-overtime victory at the Siegel Center. This championship was not about one star. It was a total team effort. While a player from Fort Chiswell delivered a record-setting performance, Luray answered with contributions across the roster. Matthew Owens, Connor Hilliard, Riley Benson, Ayden Haddock, and Will Judy all stepped up in key moments, while younger players like Cole Hilliard, Aiden Cook, and Cade Horn delivered when called upon. Under the leadership of Coach Mat Huff, this team showed resilience through foul trouble, multiple lead changes, and two overtime periods. They stayed composed, executed when it mattered most, and never quit. Mr. Speaker, this was a complete team victory earned through discipline, toughness, and trust in one another in a moment that will be remembered in Luray for generations. Please join me in congratulating the Luray Bulldogs. Celebrating Salem Host Lions Club's 90th Anniversary

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 90th anniversary of the Salem Host Lions Club, whose members have faithfully served the city of Salem and the Roanoke Valley since 1935. Founded with 21 charter members, the club continues its proud tradition of service through dedicated volunteers who strengthen their community every day. For decades, Salem Host Lions have operated concession stands at Salem Stadium, raising funds that support scholarships, local schools, youth programs, charitable organizations, and first responders throughout southwest Virginia. In the past year alone, the club distributed more than $40,000 in community donations while providing student vision screenings, recycling eyeglasses, and supporting families across the region. I also recognize the club's current leadership: President Phil Eddy, Secretary Tammie Brightwell, Administrative Treasurer Earl Pettrey, and Activities Treasurer Barry Dick. For 90 years, the Salem Host Lions Club has exemplified service above self and the enduring spirit of volunteerism. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Salem Host Lions Club on this milestone anniversary and thanking its members for their outstanding service. Promises Made, Promises Kept

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in celebration of the Working Families Tax Cut Act, one of the boldest, most successful acts of legislation in recent history. For years, American families were burdened by unnecessary taxes, forcing families to bear the brunt of government overreach. Under House Republican leadership, we returned that money to the American people and restored commonsense, family-first policies to Washington. Mr. Speaker, the numbers do not lie. According to IRS data, the Working Families Tax Cut Act returned more than $310 billion to Americans and their families, with the average tax refund climbing to nearly $3,300, an increase of more than 11 percent from the year before. More than 60 million Americans, over 40 percent of all filers, claimed relief through commonsense provisions like no tax on tips and no tax on overtime, and our seniors gained an additional deduction on their Social Security benefits. The Working Families Tax Cut Act is what it looks like when Washington works for families. For millions of Americans, this marks the 1-year anniversary of more money for groceries, more money for childcare, and more money for the things the average American needs to succeed in the country. I look forward to celebrating more wins for American economic security. House Republicans have delivered, and the American people are better for it.

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary coach, mentor, and pillar of the Roanoke community, Bill Pope, upon his retirement from Northside High School. For more than four decades as head coach and an incredible 46 years in total, Coach Pope has shaped generations of young men both on and off the basketball court. Under his leadership, the Northside Vikings achieved 680 wins, one of the highest totals in Virginia High School League history. His teams captured 17 district championships, 8 regional titles, and 3 State championships, including remarkable recent titles in 2019, 2023, and 2024. These achievements speak not only to his excellence as a coach but to his consistency, discipline, and enduring commitment to his players. In recognition of his lasting impact, the school fittingly named its gymnasium in his honor, a testament to the legacy he has built and the lives he has touched. As he steps away from the game, we thank Coach Pope for his service, his leadership, and his unwavering dedication to his community. May his legacy continue to inspire future generations of student-athletes. Recognizing Clarke County Girls' Basketball Team

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary group of young women from Clarke County, whose teamwork and determination led them to victory in the Virginia High School League Class 2 State championship. The Clarke County girls' basketball team defeated Union 67-55 at VCU's Siegel Center and earned their second State title in four seasons and the third in program history. This 27-2 team was powered by the talent and unity of all of their players. Five players earned All-Bull Run District honors; and standout senior Alainah McKavish, the Class 2 Player of the Year, capped her career with over 2,200 points and a powerful performance in the title game. Teammates Anna Taylor, Paige McKavish, Savannah McCaw, Kendall Harman, Haley Foltz, Eryn Demko, Emmerson Kennedy, and Paige Stemberger also rose to the challenge. Coach Shadd McCaw guided the team to a nearly flawless season, which earned him the Class 2 Coach of the Year honors from the VHSL and Basketball Coaches Association of Virginia. Please join me in congratulating the Clarke County Eagles on their hard work, resilience, and success. Recognizing John Handley Boys' Basketball Team

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the John Handley High School boys' basketball team on capturing the program's first State championship. Located in the city of Winchester and led by Head Coach Zach Harrell- Zook, along with Assistant Coaches Jason Combs, Trey Brisco, Donald Finley, Taralle Hayden, and Michael Brown, Hanley defeated Hampton in the Virginia High School League Class 4 championship game. The team earned not only the program's first State title but also the school's 50th State championship overall. Christian Dinges led the way and was recognized as the Class 4 State Player of the Year, with full support from teammates: Isaiah Baxter, Will Braun-Duin, Jaevon Brisco, Kyren Oglesby, Amari Brown, Silas Miller, Joaquin Pearce-Gonzales, Timothy Campbell, Asher Mattison, Aaron DeChristopher, Keon Ulmer, and ZeQuon Williams. Coach Harrell-Zook was also recognized as the Class 4 State Coach of the Year. I proudly commend this team for not only winning a State title but for making history in Handley's 103-year legacy. I congratulate the Judges.

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Gene Copenhaver of southwest Virginia on his selection as president of the National Cattlemen's Beef Association, the Nation's oldest and largest cattle producer organization. A fifth-generation cattleman whose family roots in Virginia date back to the 1850s, Gene has devoted his life to agriculture, service, and leadership. He is the first Virginian in the association's 128-year history to serve as its president, assuming this role on February 5. As President of the National Cattlemen's Beef Association, Gene Copenhaver represents producers nationwide, including cattlemen and women here in Virginia's Sixth Congressional District. For over four decades, Gene balanced managing his family's cattle operation with a 38-year career as an agricultural loan officer, serving cattle producers across five East Coast States. He has held numerous leadership roles within NCBA and is past president of the Virginia Cattlemen's Association. Despite a demanding travel schedule, he remains committed to grassroots engagement and local cattlemen's organizations, believing that strong agriculture begins at the community level. I congratulate Gene, his wife, Jodi, and their family, and I thank him for his leadership in strengthening American agriculture and our Nation's food security. Honoring National Police Week

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Police Week to pay tribute to the heroes who protect and serve our communities every day. Our Nation and our streets are safer because police officers put themselves in harm's way in the service of others. Their courage, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to duty are the foundation of safe neighborhoods, strong communities, and the rule of law. This week, we recognize the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice and lost their lives in the line of duty. We honor their memory, and we stand with the families they left behind whose own sacrifices are immeasurable. Their loved ones answered the call to serve, and we owe them a debt that can never fully be paid. We also recognize the law enforcement officers who continue to serve with courage and dedication, knowing each day that their calling is the safety and protection of others. In the Sixth District and across the Commonwealth, our officers exemplify that spirit of service. This is a time of reflection, unity, and gratitude as we honor the resilience, commitment, and steadfast dedication of those who wear the badge. Recognizing Pam Simmons' Retirement

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ms. Pam Simmons for her well-deserved retirement as director of the Rockingham-Harrisonburg Alcohol Safety Action Program, or ASAP, where she served for 38 years. ASAP works to reduce alcohol-related accidents and fatalities through education and prevention. During her tenure, she strengthened partnerships with law enforcement, providing training and donating equipment, such as Alco-Sensors, funded entirely through ASAP fees, not through taxpayer dollars. She also worked with local colleges, serving on the board of JMU's community coalition and established ASAP as a field placement site for psychology and health science students, helping prepare the next generation of professionals. Pam is also proud to have served as president of the Virginia ASAP Directors' Association. Beyond her official duties, she volunteered on the board and is president of Harrisonburg's First Night, a well-loved, family-centered, and alcohol-free New Year's Eve celebration. Mr. Speaker, Pam Simmons is an unsung hero whose career was devoted to making our communities safer, and her services undoubtedly saved lives and strengthened the Shenandoah Valley. I thank her and wish her the very best in her next chapter of life. Recognizing Mount Jackson's Bicentennial

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the continued celebration of the town of Mount Jackson's bicentennial, as this historic Shenandoah Valley community marks 200 years since its incorporation in 1826. This milestone is not just about celebrating the passage of time, but the incredible story of a town that transformed and refuses to stand still. Mount Jackson is a master class in how to honor the past while building for the future. The historic 1939 Triplett School has been beautifully reimagined as the Shenandoah County Community Center, now a vibrant 30,000-square-foot hub for residents. The Nelson Theater, a beacon of Main Street culture, is poised for its own massive renovation that will once again make it a centerpiece of community life. Mayor Donnie Pifer highlights that the town's forward momentum is powered by its people and businesses: Holtzman Oil and Propane, Route 11 Potato Chips, and Bowman Andros Products, each contributing to the local economy and carrying Mount Jackson's name across the globe. As town manager Olivia Hilton put it, they are the authors of the next 200 years, and it is time to make them historic. Let us all recognize the town of Mount Jackson as a shining example of Virginia's spirit--a town that honors its heritage and investments in its future.

Mr. CLINE

Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to recognize bipartisan legislation that I have introduced called the Fiscal Contingency Preparedness Act, which has garnered widespread support from Members on both sides of the Chamber. Just this week, the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus endorsed the bill. At its core, this bill reflects a simple principle: Just as American families plan ahead for emergencies, the Federal Government must do the same. Whether facing a natural disaster, an economic crisis, or a national security threat, Washington must understand its financial readiness to respond effectively. For too long, the Federal Government has failed to seriously assess its ability to weather major national emergencies. Families across Virginia save for unexpected expenses and prepare for uncertainty. It is only reasonable that the government entrusted with safeguarding the Nation apply the same level of responsibility and foresight. This bill would require the Federal Government to conduct regular stress tests and publicly report on its capacity to respond to major emergency situations, ensuring transparency and sound decisionmaking during times of crisis. Preparedness should never be a partisan issue. By identifying risks ahead of time, we can strengthen our response and protect taxpayers from avoidable failures during moments of national urgency. Mr. Speaker, the Fiscal Contingency Preparedness Act is about responsibility and readiness. I urge my colleagues to support this bipartisan effort and take a meaningful step toward ensuring that our government is prepared to meet tomorrow's challenges. Honoring the Life and Legacy of Mildred Scott