Mario Diaz-Balart

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize my dear, long-time friend and Deputy Chief of Staff, Miguel A. Otero. His decades-long dedication to public service has created a long-lasting impact on our community and well beyond Florida's 26th District. Born in New York City, New York, in 1962 to parents Mr. Eliseo Marrero Otero and Dr. Dulce Amada Otero, Miguel Otero's family moved to Miami, Florida in the late 1960s. Miguel and his sister, Dolores, grew up being taught the value of hands-on, hard work, with Miguel often accompanying his father on project, performing manual labor like painting and building. In the summer, the family would go on road trHs across the country, imbuing Miguel with a deep sense of appreciation for the beauty of America and its history. Miguel later applied these principles to his studies, earning a bachelor's of business administration at Florida International University while simultaneously working at Luria's department store. It was there that he met his loving wife of 36 years, Sheila. In 1993, Miguel officially began his long civil service career working for Alex Villalobos in the Florida House of Representatives and the Florida Senate, working diligently as his Chief Legislative Assistant as well as his Chief of Staff. Since his days in the Florida legislature, Miguel has consistently demonstrated his steadfast commitment to safeguarding and assisting the people of South Florida. In fact, Miguel is a proud 1996 graduate of the Miami-Dade County Citizens' Police Academy, a 2007 graduate of the U.S. Department of Justice Federal Bureau of Investigations Miami Division Citizens' Academy, and a 2019 graduate of the Doral Police Department's Citizens' Police Academy. Since joining my office in 2003, he has continually invested in and maintained foundational relationships in our community with consular officers, local and State- elected officials, as well as law enforcement and first responders throughout the 26th District of Florida; work critical to my effort to represent and serve my constituents. Miguel's ethos has always been one of service. He continually looks for ways he can help others, whether that means assisting a constituent with an immigration issue, meeting with community leaders to understand their needs and concerns, reaching for something off a high shelf for a stranger at the grocery store, or caring for family members during times of illness. As one of my trusted advisors, I can always count on Miguel to remember every detail, and he has such a great memory. He is a principled person, and his character is a direct reflection of his beliefs. In his many years of service, he has never needed nor sought the spotlight, and his integrity lies in his desire to do the right thing for the sake of doing so. Mr. Speaker, Miguel's commitment to his community is demonstrative of the very best this country has to offer. A tireless civil servant who uses his skills to advocate for his community, a loving husband to Sheila, and devoted father to their daughter Victoria, and a man who is relentless in his desire to serve. I am honored to know him, and I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing this outstanding individual.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the honorable and decades-long career in public service of my Counsel and Senior Policy Advisor, Autumn Morley. While Autumn started her education at Davidson College in North Carolina, an internship in Washington, D.C. so impacted her, that she chose to transfer to George Washington University, where she graduated summa cum laude with majors in political science and religion. In 2004, she received her J.D. from Emory University School of Law and Masters of Theological Studies from Emory's Candler School of Theology. That same year, she joined the Florida Bar. Autumn began her career on Capitol Hill as a Staff Assistant in the office of Representative Lincoln Diaz-Balart in 2005. However, it was in 2008 in her role as Legislative Assistant that Autumn would begin to hone her knowledge and skills in defense of democracy and on behalf of those suffering under repression. Taking charge of the Congressman's Cuba and foreign policy portfolios, Autumn began to lay the groundwork for her near-unparalleled expertise on Capitol Hill in the fight for freedom; a fight not only in our Nation or our hemisphere, but across the globe. Following her years of dedicated work as a Legislative Assistant, Autumn was later promoted to Legislative Director. In 2011, following Representative Lincoln Diaz-Balart's retirement, I had the immense privilege of having Autumn join my team as Counsel and Senior Policy Advisor. Once again, our community in South Florida was afforded the opportunity to have the best and brightest at the helm of our freedom agenda. Overseeing Cuba and Western Hemisphere affairs more broadly, democracy promotion, and the work in opposition to Communism, Autumn became an asset not only to my office or community in Miami, but she also became the preeminent expert in the fight for freedom for offices across Capitol Hill. Never seeking after credit, accolades, or praise, Autumn was for years an unsung hero on Capitol Hill, fighting for democracy and for the human rights of men and women she will likely never meet. Among her many contributions, Autumn was critical in drafting pro- freedom language for numerous appropriations bills, in preparing floor statements and other speeches, and always worked hand in glove with my entire team and committee staff in facilitating the passage of key legislation. Throughout the years, Autumn was clear in her convictions, unwavering in her commitment and hard work, and perpetually delivered for our community with humility and grace. For this and so much more, I wish to express my deepest gratitude on behalf of myself, our team, and our district for the 21 years of steadfast service Autumn has given to our community and her resolute dedication to the cause of freedom. Mr. Speaker, as a lifelong public servant, a dear friend, and a true patriot, Autumn has been instrumental in our team. Autumn now begins a new chapter, as she retires from public service. I am grateful for the time that she has graciously given to serve our community, state and country. She is a source of great pride to us all, including her husband, Michael, and her two sons, Zachary and Nicholas. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the service and accomplishments of this outstanding individual.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize my dear friend Cesar Alvarez, an outstanding leader in law, civic advocacy, and an inspiring member of my community. His longstanding commitment to justice and leadership in the Cuba-American community has culminated today in his recognition by the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce in awarding him the ``Sand in My Shoes Award.'' Originally from Havana, Cuba, Cesar exemplifies what it means to pursue and live out the American dream. His father, Licinio Alvarez, played a pivotal role in his upbringing, both in making the decision to pursue a life in Miami and instilling the importance of hard work and community involvement. With these values driven into him at a young age, it is no surprise Cesar chose one of the most rigorous and demanding career paths available in our Nation: law. In 1973 Cesar began his life's work at Greenberg Traurig as an associate. Throughout his time at the firm, he has been involved in nationally recognized cases, taking Greenberg Traurig time and again to new heights. Notably, Cesar has worked on cases that have significantly impacted the Cuban American community. During the Cuban Rafter Crisis in 1994, Cesar led a legal challenge against the government stance that Guantanamo was not U.S. territory. This involved seeking representation for those being detained and those that were denied asylum protection. This case served as essential legal precedent that influenced future policies regarding detainment at Guantanamo Bay, a reality which continues to this day. Perhaps the most recognizable of these victories includes his work in bringing justice to the families of the ``Brothers to the Rescue''. This horrific attack in 1996 resulting in the death of four unarmed American pilots tore through Miami's Cuban-American community; an attack perpetrated by the Castro regime in cold blood. Cuban MiGs shot down two aircraft operated by ``Brothers to the Rescue,'' seeking to save the lives of countless Cuban men and women crossing the Straits of Florida and forced into exile by the Cuban regime. Alongside Frank Angones, Cesar fought for justice for the pilots through U.S. anti- terrorism laws. While successful in their heroic efforts, they encountered challenges upon attempting to collect the damages from the Cuban regime from the wrongful death suit, Alejandre v. Republic of Cuba 1999. This galvanized congressional action aiming to increase pressure for democratic change in Cuba, leading to the introduction and passage of the Cuban Liberty and Democratic Solidarity Act in 1996, an act for which my dear brother Representative Lincoln Diaz-Balart and close friend Representative Ileana Ros-Lehtinen each provided critical support. This marked a singular moment in history for the Cuban American community, and Cesar's contributions were monumental. Similarly, Cesar played a pivotal role in the legal dispute between George W. Bush and Al Gore in 2000. He was contacted by Florida Governor Jeb Bush's legal team personally and ultimately approved of the firm's participation in this case. He worked to ensure Greenberg Traurig remained neutral and provided bipartisan representation. This case was essential in Greenberg Traurig's growth, opening the door for high profile cases, and placing them among other major players in the legal world. In clear acknowledgment of his historic contributions, Cesar ascended to CEO and President of Greenberg Traurig in 1997, leading the firm from these to become an internationally recognized organization with thousands of attorneys. Today, the heart of the firm remains in Miami, with Cesar serving as Senior Chairman, where it not only provides its legal services but contributes to the community by providing leadership and financial support to numerous local and national charitable organizations. Whether in law or in service to our community, Cesar Alvarez remains a singular figure in our Cuban-American community. Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to recognize my close friend Cesar Alvarez. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring his remarkable career and achievements. His work has truly shaped the Miami community, and his leadership has left a significant impact.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate one of South Florida's most prestigious healthcare institutions, Leon Medical Centers, on the occasion of its 30th anniversary, and the Leon family, whose dedication and commitment to service have had a generational impact on families across our community. For three decades, Leon Medical Centers has stood as a symbol of innovation and compassionate care. Founded on August 3, 1996, by Benjamin Leon, Jr., Leon Medical Centers was created with a powerful mission: to ensure that members of South Florida's growing community could receive high-quality healthcare with dignity and accessibility. What began as one medical center in Miami has grown into one of Florida's most distinguished healthcare organizations, now serving more than 40,000 patients throughout the region. Mr. Speaker, the story of Leon Medical Centers is deeply rooted in the vision and perseverance of the Leon family. Benjamin Leon, Jr. arrived in the United States from Cuba in 1961 at just 16 years old, joining his father, Benjamin Leon, Sr., who had established Clinica Cuba to provide essential medical care to Miami's growing Cuban community. At a time when language barriers and an overwhelmed healthcare system created significant obstacles to care, Clinica Cuba became a lifeline for thousands of families seeking medical attention. Together, Benjamin Leon, Sr. and Benjamin Leon, Jr. continued expanding access to healthcare, establishing Clinica Asociacion Cubana in 1970 and helping introduce managed care to Florida. In 1973, their efforts led to the organization receiving the first HMO license in the state of Florida, marking a historic advancement in healthcare delivery and setting the foundation for the future of Leon Medical Centers. In 1996, Benjamin Leon, Jr. opened the first Leon Medical Centers location at 27th Avenue and Southwest First street in Miami. Less than a year later, the organization expanded with a second location in Westchester, beginning a period of tremendous growth that would eventually lead to six regional facilities across Miami-Dade County. Today, Leon Medical Centers represents the future of integrated healthcare. Its nearly one million square foot, state-of-the-art facility provides patients with access to advanced screening technology, comprehensive dental services, physical therapy, and numerous medical specialties, often within a single location. This innovative approach has made healthcare more convenient and accessible while reflecting Benjamin Leon, Jr.'s belief that patients should receive care in an environment where they feel valued and treated like family. Leon Medical Centers' impact extends far beyond the walls of its facilities. The organization has earned national recognition for its contributions to healthcare, receiving honors from organizations including the South Florida Business Journal, Health Affairs, Florida International University, and the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society. Leon remains the only managed care organization partnered with Florida International University to provide a specialized teaching curriculum focused on genetic care demonstrating its continued commitment to advancing medical education and innovation. Beyond its philanthropic contributions, Leon Medical Centers has built strong partnerships with leading hospitals throughout Miami-Dade, including Kendall Regional and Hialeah Hospital, further expanding access to quality care and strengthening the healthcare network in our community. As Leon Medical Centers celebrates its 30th anniversary, we recognize the lasting impact of Benjamin Leon, Jr., the Leon family, and the thousands of physicians, nurses, and healthcare professionals who carry forward this mission. Their work, commitment to service, and compassion represent the best of South Florida. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to celebrate Leon Medical Centers on this important milestone and to commend everyone who has contributed to its historic legacy. From its humble beginnings servicing Miami's Cuban community to its role as a leader in modern healthcare, Leon Medical Centers remains a testament to what can be achieved through perseverance and dedication to service.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Madam Chair, I move that the Committee do now rise.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Madam Chair, to conclude, as I said just a few minutes ago, and I said it at the opening of the debate on this bill: If you are a friend or an ally of the United States, this bill supports you. If you are an adversary or you are cozying up to our adversaries, you are not going to like this bill. All of that we do, by the way, while significantly cutting spending. The reason we have alliances and partnerships has to be and is to support our own security. Our partnership with Jordan is indispensable in opposing terrorism in the Middle East. Supporting Jordan helps the national security interest of the United States, which is why I urge my colleagues to oppose this amendment, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Madam Chair, I yield to the gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. Lois Frankel), the ranking member of the subcommittee.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Madam Chair, it is a dangerous world, and the Middle East is a very dangerous neighborhood, but Jordan is one of our most important allies in the Middle East. It is a bulwark against extremism and terrorism. Jordan has been on the front line of the fight against ISIS. It is an essential partner in stopping Iran's terrorist proxies like Hezbollah and Hamas. For decades, Jordan has generously hosted refugees from numerous conflicts across the Middle East, but this is the key point: The United States, the American people, are safer because of Jordan. For that reason, it is well worthwhile to make sure that Jordan has the resources it needs to keep contributing to our collective security. Madam Chair, I urge defeat of the amendment, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Madam Chair, I rise in opposition to the amendment.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Madam Chair, as I have said before with this bill, and I have said it many times: If you are an ally and a friend of the United States, this bill supports you. If you are an adversary, you are not going to like this bill. We have no stronger ally than the State of Israel. This is our commitment under the MOU, which is why I respectfully, but very strongly--very strongly--oppose this amendment. Madam Chair, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Madam Chair, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Hoyer).

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Madam Chair, I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. Lois Frankel), the distinguished ranking member of the subcommittee.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Madam Chairwoman, as chairman of this subcommittee since 2023, I am proud to be a leader in this body in providing unwavering support to our friend and ally, Israel, especially-- especially--after the October 7 terrorist attack. The $3.3 billion in foreign military financing for Israel included in this bill supports American--our--national security interests overseas. We see the same terrorists and terrorist entities that threaten Israel also threaten the United States and our people directly. When we give Israel the tools and capabilities to eliminate these terrorist threats and to protect their homeland, while including the many Americans who visit and live there, we are making America and the American people safer. The United States and Israel have worked together on successful military operations like those in the past year to decimate Iran's nuclear program and missile capabilities. Israel is also using the overwhelming majority of this funding to actually purchase American- made weaponry, so it actually helps our defense industrial base and our economy. We have worked together extensively on developing military capabilities and other capabilities. Because of these advancements for our mutual interest and security, there is currently a discussion of moving to a new security partnership with Israel after fiscal year 2028. Just to be clear, the assistance in this bill for fiscal year 2027 is under the terms of the existing MOU, memorandum of understanding, which runs for 2 more fiscal years. This does not, in any way, prejudge the outcome of ongoing negotiations. This is about fulfilling our commitment to one of our closest and most important allies that we have in the entire world at a time when terrorists are butchering people around the world. We made that commitment because it makes the American people--our country--stronger. Madam Chair, I urge defeat of the amendment, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Madam Chairwoman, I claim time in opposition to the gentleman's amendment.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Chair, I thank the ranking member for yielding. I rise in respectful opposition to the amendment offered by the gentlewoman from Colorado. I share, by the way, and understand her desire to reduce spending. As a matter of fact, since 2023, as I mentioned before, I have cut spending under the purview of this subcommittee by $12 billion. The bill that we are considering right now puts forward an additional $2.7 billion in reductions. In this bill, the education and cultural exchange programs account is also reduced. It is actually $94 million below the fiscal year 2024 enacted level. We did cut back funding, but we left in place sufficient funds to support exchange programs that we can show make America safer, stronger, and more prosperous. The Fulbright Program is the crown jewel of our exchange programs. It allows the U.S. to develop key relationships with senior leaders of national security, technology, business, and entrepreneurship. Also, it strengthens U.S. relationships in fields that advance U.S. interests. In a recent official trip to South America, I heard directly from President Trump's ambassadors about how the Fulbright Program is a valuable tool to combat Confucius centers from Communist China and other CCP malign influence efforts in this hemisphere. This is a program that gives us the opportunity to, again, create those long alliances that have been so helpful. It cultivates future leaders who champion our values, not Chinese values, and also, again, combats Chinese surveillance, data breaches, et cetera. This bill makes large reductions in wasteful programs, but Fulbright is not one of those programs. It is an important facilitator to our national security goals. Mr. Chair, I very respectfully urge a ``no'' vote on this amendment.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Chairman, I appreciate the cooperation of my colleagues, the ranking member and others. I urge adoption of these bipartisan amendments en bloc, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of the bipartisan amendments en bloc, which includes amendments from both sides of the aisle. The amendments include nine noncontroversial amendments that advance the priorities of both sides, including support for Taiwan, countering the PRC's influence in Latin America and the Caribbean, better leveraging U.S. assistance to Mexico, and increasing funding designated to combat human trafficking. Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues to support these amendments, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Chair, pursuant to House Resolution 1423, I offer amendments en bloc.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Chairman, this is a really good bill. I have already talked about it, and you have heard other people talk about it. It strengthens the national security interests of the United States. It supports our allies. It confronts our adversaries, and, yes, it does all of that while saving taxpayers' money. Mr. Chairman, I urge a ``yes'' vote, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Chair, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Chair, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Chair, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Chair, I yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from Wyoming (Ms. Hageman), but this is proof that you don't have to be on the Appropriations Committee to have a huge impact on the bill.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Chair, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Shreve), a member of the Appropriations Committee.