Mario Diaz-Balart

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Chairman, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from West Virginia (Mr. Moore), an important member who has brought great experience to the subcommittee.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Chairman, I am now pleased to yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Missouri (Mr. Alford), a valuable member of the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Subcommittee.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Chairman, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Oklahoma (Mr. Cole), who is the chairman and the leader of the Appropriations Committee.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I am pleased to present the fiscal year 2027 National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs appropriations bill to the House for consideration and for approval. Now, let me start by noting the untimely, sad passing of our friend and colleague, Senator Lindsey Graham. As chairman of the State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Subcommittee in the Senate, he was my counterpart. We worked together closely on our top priority, the national security of the United States. Senator Graham was a tough negotiator, but always, always, an honorable partner. He will be greatly missed, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family, his staff, and those who knew and loved him. At the outset, I thank Chairman Cole for his invaluable leadership and commitment to ensuring that Congress upholds its responsibility to provide the tools necessary to safeguard our national security along with his partner in this endeavor, Ranking Member DeLauro. I also thank the ranking member of the subcommittee, Ranking Member Frankel, for the longstanding relationship that she and I have--we have been friends for many, many years--and for her valuable contributions during the bill development process. I will tell you, anybody who knows Lois Frankel, she is tough, but she is always trustworthy. Mr. Chairman, this bill is very straightforward. If you are a friend or an ally of the United States, this bill supports you, but if you are an adversary or you are cozying up to the adversaries of the United States, then, frankly, you are just not going to like this bill. This bill is the next step in strengthening our national security while reducing spending. Under Chairman Cole's leadership, House Republicans have delivered nearly $12 billion in responsible cuts within the purview of this subcommittee just since 2023. The fiscal year 2027 bill continues this work with another $2.7 billion in reductions, yet our national security priorities are funded at or above prior year levels. The bill maintains $1.8 billion for partners in the Indo-Pacific, including $500 million in military assistance for Taiwan. It provides unwavering support for Israel and fully funds the United States-Israel Memorandum of Understanding by providing $3.3 billion in security assistance. The bill recognizes the valuable partnerships in the Western Hemisphere which continue to expand and realign under the leadership of President Trump and Secretary Marco Rubio. The bill, again, increases support for our friends and allies, such as Paraguay, Argentina, and Costa Rica. As part of this effort, the bill increases funds to fight the trafficking of fentanyl, which has devastated every community and so many families across America. It also continues strong support for a democratic transition to freedom for the people of Cuba, Venezuela, and Nicaragua, and it supports religious freedom in Nigeria and around the world. Last year, the NSRP Subcommittee, as we like to call it, focused on responsibly transitioning the program PEPFAR to capable partners and to countries that are capable of doing more. PEPFAR has been and is a great success story, but I think most of us would agree that the program, or any program, should not and cannot just go on forever in perpetuity. So working alongside the administration, countries are now investing significant resources of their own towards their own health, allowing this committee to reduce funding, but--this is key--while maintaining the same outcomes. Just as critical as what the bill funds--I have talked about some of that--is what this bill does not fund and how it demands accountability for every single tax dollar. The bill prohibits funds to the People's Republic of China, the Chinese Communist Party, and from being used by other countries to repay a debt owed to Communist China. It also prohibits lending to the PRC within the multilateral development banks, something that we shouldn't have to do. This bill does it, however. The bill continues a key provision adopted in the previous year that blocks assistance to anyone that supports, finances, or facilitates the operations of the Cuban military. It prohibits all assistance to the Taliban and puts Americans first by withholding funds from Mexico until water owed to the United States is finally delivered. Assessed funding to the United Nations is cut by $1.8 billion. No funds are included for the United Nations regular budget, and funds are prohibited to organizations such as the World Health Organization, the United Nations Relief and Work Agency, known as UNRWA, which actively contradicts U.S. priorities and national security interests. The bill helps secure justice for victims of the October 7, 2023, terrorist attack, which, by the way, includes 50 murdered Americans, by requiring full accountability for UNRWA staff involved. A key measure from last year's bill, which was enacted into law in fiscal year 2026, is also maintained in this one, requiring the Secretary of State to consider the U.N. voting record of countries in determining the allocation of funds. The bill supports full implementation of key executive orders that reflect a clear commitment to a secure border, limited government, free speech, ending censorship, ending DEI programs, and so much more. Finally, Mr. Chairman, the bill maintains all longstanding pro-life provisions. It prohibits funds to the U.N. Population Fund and upholds the President's policy on Protecting Life in Foreign Assistance. These measures, Mr. Chairman, alongside enhanced oversight and transparency, ensure American taxpayer dollars do not fund abortions, a policy that Americans overwhelmingly support. Now, before reserving, Mr. Chairman, I thank the staff of the committee on both sides of the aisle for their hard work. I, frankly, sometimes think that they are not human. Their work ethic is really beyond compare, and one cannot thank them enough, so I thank the staff. Mr. Chairman, I commend the Speaker for bringing this crucial legislation to the floor. It supports our allies and protects our national security in a smart, efficient, and thoughtful way. Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues to support this bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. 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. 8595 and that I may include tabular material on the same.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Haridopolos was President of the Florida Senate and served with Bill Posey in the State legislature and then again as the person who succeeded our wonderful friend, Bill Posey. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Haridopolos).

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, this past weekend, our State, our country, and this institution lost a dedicated public servant, a friend of all of us, and a former colleague, Congressman Bill Posey. Congressman Posey served for 16 years first in the Florida Legislature. He did so honorably and with passion. Then he served here in the people's House for 16 years as well, representing both the 15th and the Eighth Congressional Districts of Florida. He served on various committees, including Financial Services and the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. Mr. Posey had a deep, unwavering love and passion for our great country. He had a strong commitment to his beliefs, but he always was respectful to his colleagues. Again, his deep passion and love for the United States was evident to all of us who knew him, or who dealt with him. We respected him. He was a devoted public servant. Mr. Speaker, it is interesting. I learned so much from him just having lunch with him, because he was also somebody who was a fountain of knowledge, of wisdom, and of experience, but always with humility, with passion, with joy, and with love. Our condolences to his devoted, wonderful life partner, his wife, Katie; his daughters, Cathi and Pam, and the entire Posey family. It is with deep sorrow that we are here recognizing this great friend and colleague who we have lost. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. Wasserman Schultz).

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, I mistakenly voted incorrectly on the sixth vote today. My intention was to vote NAY on H. Res. 965, Roll Call No. 119. Announcement by the Speaker Pro Tempore

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, in honor of Women's History Month, I rise today to recognize and honor Rosanna ``Rosie'' Cordero-Stutz, who made history on January 7, 2025, when she was sworn in as the first female sheriff of Miami-Dade County and Florida's first Hispanic woman Sheriff. Her historic appointment coincided with a significant milestone in the county's public safety history--the transition of the Miami-Dade Police Department back into the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office for the first time in nearly sixty years. Sheriff Cordero-Stutz has dedicated more than three decades to law enforcement and public service, building an exemplary career defined by leadership, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to safety. Since joining the then Department in 1996, she has served her community without interruption, rising through the ranks. By 2024, she was entrusted with command of Investigative Services, directing divisions responsible for criminal investigations, government affairs, and forensic services, while also serving as acting assistant director overseeing police services for multiple districts and specialized operations. Beyond her operational leadership, Sheriff Cordero-Stutz has been deeply engaged in professional organizations and community initiatives. She has served on the legislative committee for the Major County Sheriffs of America and has been a member of the Federal Emergency Management Agency Review Council, appointed by President Donald J. Trump. She has also worked closely with organizations dedicated to strengthening local relationships and preventing violence. Today, as the chief law enforcement officer of Miami-Dade County, Sheriff Cordero-Stutz's priorities remain clear: ensuring the safety and security of residents and visitors while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and respect within the Miami- Dade Sheriff's Office. Her leadership ensures that the county continues to be a place where families feel safe, visitors feel welcome, and businesses can prosper. Beyond the badge, Sheriff Cordero-Stutz is grounded by her deep commitment to family. Alongside her husband, Kurt--a retired Miami-Dade police officer--and their son, Evan, she exemplifies the strength and sacrifice of a law enforcement family, balancing the heavy mantle of public safety with the grace of a devoted wife and mother. It is therefore fitting that we recognize Sheriff Rosanna ``Rosie'' Cordero-Stutz for her groundbreaking achievements, her decades of distinguished service, and her continued dedication to the people of Miami-Dade County. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring her remarkable career and her steadfast commitment to protecting and serving her community.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, I rise today during Women's History Month to honor and recognize Danee Williams, a remarkable entrepreneur and community leader from Ave Maria, Florida, whose dedication to service and business excellence has left an indelible mark on Collier County. As the owner of two beloved local businesses--Oil Well Craft Beer and The Secret Ingredient--Danee embodies the spirit of American entrepreneurship. Her commitment to quality and hospitality was recently recognized by Gulfshore Life, with her businesses securing four ``Best of the Gulfshore'' awards, including being named the best Brewery in Collier County and taking top honors in the Women's Apparel category. Beyond her commercial success, Danee is a pillar of community engagement. Ten years ago, she founded the Ave Maria Trunk or Treat, an annual tradition that has grown from a local brewery event into a massive town-wide celebration for hundreds of families. During the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, she demonstrated her adaptability and commitment to her neighbors by expanding her business operations to ensure residents continued to have access to essential services and dining. Danee's true legacy, however, is her tireless philanthropy and her ``community-first'' mentality. She consistently utilizes her business platforms to host fundraisers and support a vast array of noble causes, ranging from healthcare and support through the Cancer Alliance Network and the Alzheimer's Support Network to education and youth initiatives with Ave Maria University, The Guadalupe Center, and Our Lady of the Rosary Orphanage. Her advocacy extends to critical community needs, including supporting Path2Freedom in their work with child trafficking survivors, aiding local veterans' organizations, and participating in the Christmas Angel Tree program to help children in need. Danee, alongside her husband Matt and their children Cole, Peyton, and Reese, has proven that a small business with a big heart can shape the soul of a town. Her efforts have helped transform Ave Maria's Town Center into a vibrant gathering place where neighbors become friends. Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to honor Danee Williams today for her leadership, generosity, and unwavering dedication to the people of Florida's 26th District.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, I was unable to vote on March 17, 2026, as I was detained due to unforeseen inclement weather causing extended flight cancellations, prohibiting me from arriving for the first vote series of the week. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 88, H.R. 4294, Mitigation and Watermen Support Act of 2025; YEA on Roll Call No. 89, S. 3971, Small Business Innovation and Economic Security Act; YEA on Roll Call No. 90, H. Res. 1115, Ordering the previous question; and YEA on Roll Call No. 91, H. Res. 1115, Agreeing to the Resolution.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the Ted Smallwood Store, a singular and enduring landmark of our Florida Everglades, in recognition of its centennial anniversary. Flanked by mangroves among the Ten Thousand Islands and perched south of the southernmost city in Collier County, the Ted Smallwood Store overlooks Chokoloskee Bay as it has for generations. Originally constructed in 1906 by C.S. ``Ted'' Smallwood as a trading outpost and post office on Chokoloskee Island, the store served a remote community that lacked road access until 1956. For decades, it was accessible only by water, standing as a vital hub of commerce, communication, and connection in a rugged and isolated landscape. In 1924, recognizing the mounting threat posed by storm surge and rising waters, Ted Smallwood made a visionary and ultimately life- saving decision: He undertook a major renovation to elevate the structure, completing the project in January 1926 by lifting the store's floor approximately seven feet above ground level. That feat of engineering--remarkable for its time--has preserved the building for a full century, allowing it to withstand at least seven hurricanes, including Hurricanes Donna in 1960 and Irma in 2017, both of which delivered record water levels to the site. Historically, the Ted Smallwood Store had long stood as an outpost of Florida's last frontier. It functioned as a multicultural center where members of the Seminole and Miccosukee Tribes traded alligator hides, pottery, and thorn bird feathers for coffee, flour, cloth, and other essential goods. Boats met wagons, cultures engaged in commerce, and the store became a crossroads for people and stories. The store's survival is owed not only to its elevation, but also to the intentional care taken by the Smallwood family to preserve its contents. Today, visitors can see artifacts that have remained inside the building for decades. The interior stands as a time capsule from the 1920s through the mid-1970s, housing items such as a land-surveying machine, an 1873-patented coffee grinder, pharmaceuticals, groceries, tools, typewriters, books, Native American artifacts, and more. In fact, in recognition of its historical significance, the Ted Smallwood Store was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974, less than a decade after that designation was first established. Today, it operates as a museum and gift shop under the stewardship of Ted Smallwood's granddaughter, Lynn McMillin, who has spent her entire life on Chokoloskee Island. Today, the Smallwood legacy of service to the community remains as strong as ever. Ted Smallwood's own great-granddaughter, Dottie Smallwood Joiner, serves faithfully as the City Clerk for Everglades City. In her role, Ms. Smallwood Joiner carries forward her family's long-standing commitment to public service, civic stewardship, and the preservation of local history, helping to ensure that the heritage of the Everglades community remains accessible and well-respected for future generations. Mr. Speaker, the Ted Smallwood Store is more than a building. It is a living monument to the resilience, stewardship, and ingenuity of the community that embodies the spirit of Old Florida. At this centennial milestone, we honor not only a structure, but the people, the communities, and the foresight of the founding family that ensured it would endure. I commend the Smallwood family and the people of Chokoloskee for preserving this irreplaceable piece of American history, and I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the one-of- its-kind Ted Smallwood Store.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Madam Speaker, I am going to reserve what I am going to say about Chairman Cole until the end, but I thank the ranking member of the full committee, Congresswoman DeLauro, and the subcommittee ranking member, Congresswoman Frankel, for their work on this bill. Madam Speaker, this full-year funding really refocuses our Nation's foreign policy in historic ways. It focuses on the United States' national security, but it does so while also restoring fiscal sanity. In the foreign policy arena, it actually reduces spending by 16 percent. Within those really historic reductions, the bill does more to counter our adversaries like China and Iran, the cartels in our hemisphere, and support our allies and friends. It does a lot more while spending a lot less money. Madam Speaker, the bill increases funding to counter fentanyl. It increases support for religious freedom and to address religious persecution around the planet. It maintains our longstanding pro-life provisions, and this bill removes controversial funding directives like the U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change. It makes double-digit reductions to the U.N. funding. More importantly, or equally as important, it gives the Secretary of State the tools and leverage to demand much-needed reforms. These are historic changes, and this approach, again, protects American taxpayers but also the national security interests of the United States. Madam Speaker, we would not be here debating this if it wasn't for the brilliant, persistent leadership of the full committee chairman. A lot of folks said that we would never get here and that we would end up with another long-term CR, which would have been so detrimental to our country, but I will tell you that it was Tom Cole--yes, with his partners--but Tom Cole who brought us this far, who is going to actually get these bills passed and sent to the President for his signature. Madam Speaker, the country owes Chairman Cole a debt of gratitude.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the 100-year anniversary of the City of Miami Springs, a historic and vibrant community in Miami-Dade County, Florida. Founded in 1926, Miami Springs was envisioned as a planned community that blended thoughtful design, natural beauty, and a strong sense of civic pride. From its earliest days, the city distinguished itself through its distinctive architecture, tree-lined streets, and commitment to preserving green spaces, creating a unique character that endures to this day. Over the past century, Miami Springs has grown into a close-knit community that values public service, cultural heritage, and local engagement. Its residents have played an integral role in the economic, civic, and social fabric of South Florida, contributing to the region's growth while maintaining the small-town spirit that makes Miami Springs special. The city's centennial is not only a celebration of its past, but also a recognition of the generations of residents, public servants, educators, first responders, and local leaders whose dedication has shaped its success. Their commitment to community, stewardship, and neighborly values serves as a model for cities across our Nation. As Miami Springs marks this historic milestone, I commend its residents and leaders for preserving the city's legacy while preparing for the opportunities and challenges of the next century. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the City of Miami Springs on 100 years of history, resilience, and community, and I wish it continued prosperity for generations to come.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, here we go again. As Chairman Mast has said, there are no troops in Venezuela. Look, the only purpose of this resolution, let's be clear, is to counter and stop narcoterrorism and drug traffickers in this hemisphere. I know that so many on the radical left are upset that Maduro, the head of the Cartel de los Soles, was picked up and brought to New York to stand trial. These narcoterrorists are responsible for the deaths of thousands of Americans every single year because of drugs. Every time the U.S. eliminates one of these drug boats, it actually saves American lives. Let's talk about what is actually going on. While there are no U.S. troops, the men and women of the Armed Forces, what they are doing is they have struck 35 drug boats smuggling drugs that kill Americans. They have seized seven oil tankers attempting to evade sanctions. It is very simple. Let's not protect those drug dealers, those cartels. Let's protect the American people. The way to do that is to vote ``no'' on this resolution.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Chairman, before anything else, I will tell you what I have told Mr. Crane privately. I will say it publicly. I revere his service to the country. We must always thank those who served, and he served honorably. On this amendment, the bill that we are debating right now substantially reduces spending, while strengthening our national security. Part of the strategy is to ensure that the most effective tools to achieve this objective are strong and ready to deliver, including the National Endowment for Democracy. Now, remember, NED was a brilliant initiative from President Ronald Reagan to fight communism and enemies abroad, and it succeeded, strengthening democracy forces from within and helping to get rid of the Berlin Wall. Today, the adversaries of the United States are still there, and they threaten democracy and freedom all over the world. NED, just as envisioned by President Reagan, is needed once again on the forefront of fighting the enemies of the United States. NED and democracy programs have been supporting those struggling for freedom in the most repressive places in the world. In Iran, China, Cuba, and Venezuela, the people are hitting the streets, and NED is there with them. Those who are anti-American tyrannies are where NED is effective, and that is where we need them now the most. At this critical time, America cannot turn its back to those who are courageously fighting, advocating for freedom around the world. There is nothing better for our long-term national security than democratic transitions within those anti-American dangerous regimes around the globe, and NED is a pivotal part of that, which is why, with great admiration and respect to the sponsor of this amendment, I must ask for a ``no'' vote.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. This bill does that. It protects our national security. It protects the hard-earned tax dollars of every American who pays taxes. This bill plays an integral part in the noble endeavor. Mr. Chair, for that reason, I urge my colleagues to support this measure.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Chairman, as chairman of the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Subcommittee, I rise in strong support for H.R. 7006. This full-year funding bill really carries out our Nation's foreign policy in a historic way in so many different aspects. First and foremost, the bill restores fiscal sanity by reducing spending by 16 percent, which is nearly a $10 billion cut, in recognition of the President's and the Secretary of State's effort to make the Department of State, frankly, more efficient, streamlined, and responsive to the national security priorities. Within these really, I think, dramatic but necessary reductions, the bill will make sure that the Secretary has the resources that he needs to counter our adversaries--adversaries like China, Iran, cartels in our hemisphere, and the regime of Cuba in our hemisphere. This bill takes serious steps toward confronting, for example, the regime in Cuba and includes limitations on funding for countries and organizations that participate in the human trafficking of Cuban medical professionals while directing the Secretary of State to revoke visas for officials of countries involved in this grotesque human trafficking. Mr. Chairman, a smart foreign policy doesn't just require opposing our enemies, although that is a big part of it. It means supporting and standing with our allies, with our friends, who can be a force multiplier in our national security interests. That is why this bill acknowledges our friends and provides robust assistance for allies, partners like Israel, Egypt, Jordan, Taiwan, and the Philippines, to name a few. Mr. Chairman, for too long, we have ignored our hemisphere, our neighbors in our own region. This bill changes that and provides special emphasis to key partners in the Western Hemisphere who are aligned with our values and our policies, such as Costa Rica, Panama, Paraguay, Argentina, and the Dominican Republic. This bill increases funding for counter-fentanyl and synthetic drug programs to stop these deadly poisons from crossing our borders and coming to the United States. It puts American businesses first, prioritizing diplomatic engagement to favorably resolve commercial disputes, disputes abroad, some of them that have been going on for years, to promote American business and American interests overseas. This bill also makes sure that we are spending money according to our American values. It increases support for religious freedom and addresses religious persecution. The bill also maintains longstanding pro-life provisions and enhances oversight and transparency over those requirements. It protects free speech and prohibits censorship or disinformation and misinformation programs that violate the right of American citizens. The bill makes double-digit cuts to U.N. funding and gives the Secretary of State the tools and the leverage to demand much-needed reforms there. These are historic changes in our approach that the American people have been demanding for decades, Mr. Chairman. The fiscal year 2026 bill removes controversial funding directives from the CR, like the U.N. climate funds and others. Throughout this process, the goal is to be good stewards of American taxpayer money, to represent our constituents' priorities within this financial funding and, above all, protect the national security of the United States. Now, this bill would not be here without the help of so many others in this body. I have got to start with the remarkable leadership of Chairman Tom Cole. We wouldn't be here discussing this if it wasn't for him and his partner on the other side of the aisle, and I am so grateful for their leadership and recommendations. Every single member has made this bill so much better. It has shaped this bill, and I am grateful for the contributions. I do need to thank again my dear friend--and we have had some tough issues--the ranking member, Lois Frankel, who has been an amazing partner in putting this bill together, and, by the way, Chairman Brian Mast, another Floridian, who has been incredibly helpful. I also thank my staff, the amazing staff. This bill never would have happened without them; my clerk, Susan Adams, and the entire majority team, as well as the minority staff. We have no greater duty to the American people than to protect the security of our country while safeguarding tax dollars.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor one of South Florida's most treasured landmarks, the Biltmore Hotel of Coral Gables on the occasion of its centennial anniversary, as well as the extraordinary Prescott family, whose vision and leadership have only elevated its legacy in our community. For a century, the Biltmore has stood as a symbol of beauty, resilience, and service. Conceived by Coral Gables founder George Merrick and opened in 1926, its Mediterranean architecture, soaring tower, and lush gardens established a new standard of elegance in South Florida. Its storied past includes hosting presidents, world leaders, celebrities, and generations of families--even serving as a military hospital during World War II, when its grand halls became a place of healing for our Nation's wounded servicemembers. Mr. Speaker, the Biltmore is iconic not only because of its history, but because of the extraordinary stewardship that has safeguarded that history. Since 1992, under the leadership of Gene Prescott and his son Tom, the Biltmore has enjoyed its longest continuous period of operation since its opening. Their commitment restored the hotel from decades of deterioration and helped reintroduce it to the world as a signature symbol of South Florida's heritage. During Gene Prescott's early years at the helm, one pivotal moment propelled the Biltmore back onto the global stage: hosting the 1994 Summit of the Americas, where nearly every head of state from the Western Hemisphere stayed within its walls. Just two years after Hurricane Andrew devastated the region, this event reaffirmed the Biltmore's resilience and reestablished it as one of the most important historic hotels in the Nation. Mr. Prescott's devotion to hospitality extends far beyond the Biltmore itself. His decades of service earned him the title of Chair Emeritus of the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, a recognition of his tireless work to elevate South Florida's tourism industry. His guiding principles--hard work, integrity, and unwavering focus--have shaped not only the hotel's success, but the culture of the hospitality community throughout Miami-Dade County. Working alongside him is his son, Tom Prescott, whose experience in hospitality, law, and public policy has brought a modern and innovative approach to the family business. Together, father and son form a unique leadership team--one that blends tradition and forward-thinking vision. Tom's dedication to service excellence is evident in the hotel's acclaimed guest experience, supported by the Biltmore's ``Passion Program,'' an onboarding process that instills team-oriented values and fosters employee longevity. Many members of the Biltmore staff have been with the hotel for twenty or even thirty years--a remarkable testament to the positive culture the Prescotts have nurtured. Their leadership is not merely business-oriented--it is deeply personal. Gene speaks proudly of watching Tom grow into his role, calling him not only a partner but a teacher. Tom, in turn, attributes much of his professional compass to Gene's mentorship and example. And now, a new generation has begun to emerge. Tom's nephew, Royce Prescott, has already begun building his foundation in hospitality, working at the Biltmore before earning a position at the St. Regis in Aspen. Tom's own sons, too, have spent their youth learning the values of service and responsibility within the hotel's halls. The Prescott legacy is not only enduring--it is expanding. Mr. Speaker, the story of the Biltmore is a story of South Florida itself: a story of resilience, reinvention, and community. It is also a story of family--of a father and son whose shared commitment has ensured that this historic landmark not only survives but thrives. Their leadership has transformed the Biltmore into an award-winning destination for tourism, culture, and community engagement, while preserving the historic integrity that makes it beloved by generations. As the Biltlnore Hotel marks its centennial, we recognize not only its architectural grandeur and historical significance, but the Prescott family's profound contributions to safeguarding its legacy. Because of their vision, dedication, and stewardship, the Biltmore continues to stand as a source of pride for Coral Gables, for South Florida, and for our Nation. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to celebrate the Biltmore Hotel on its 100th anniversary and to commend Gene, Tom, and the entire Prescott family for their extraordinary role in shaping its past, present, and future. May this landmark, and the legacy behind it, continue to inspire generations to come.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the University of Miami on its 100th anniversary. The U, as it is affectionally called, was first chartered in 1925, and it has grown from humble beginnings into a premier research university and an anchor of opportunity for not only South Florida, but for the entire Western Hemisphere. As Miami-Dade County's second largest employer, the University of Miami sustains tens of thousands of jobs in our region and powers our regional economy. Its top-tier health system--UHealth--is home to the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, the No. 1 ophthalmology hospital in the United States, the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, the only National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center in South Florida, the Miller School of Medicine, which is actively training our next generation of doctors and health care professionals, and is nationally recognized in other program areas including neurology/neurosurgery, geriatrics, urology, and rehabilitation. In addition to its cutting- edge health care research, University of Miami investigators conduct hundreds of studies in other areas, including marine science, engineering, education, and psychology. All-in, the U is responsible for nearly $500 million in research and sponsored program expenditures on an annual basis. ``The U's impact extends far beyond laboratories and clinics. Its scholars, educators, and students drive progress in other fields including engineering, business, law, communications, architecture, music, and the arts. And on the field, the Miami Hurricanes have brought pride to generations of sports fans, capturing five NCAA football national championships, four baseball championships and two in swimming and diving while excelling across other men's and women's sports including basketball, golf and track and field, to name a few. As we look to the next century, the world faces increasingly complex challenges--public health threats, infrastructure resilience, technological disruption, and the need for stronger democratic institutions and international cooperation. The leaders trained at the University of Miami will be exceptionally well-positioned to meet those challenges with rigor, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to service. Mr. Speaker, as we celebrate the University of Miami's Centennial, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to its Board of Trustees, Presidents past and present, faculty, staff, students, alumni, patients, and supporters. Their shared dedication has transformed a 100-year-old bold idea into a global force for discovery, education, and impact. May The U's second century be defined by even greater excellence, opportunity, and service to South Florida, our Nation, and to the world. Go `Canes.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, I missed the first vote during the second voting series on December 17, 2025, as I was detained in a time- sensitive meeting at that time. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call No. 345, H. Con. Res. 61.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, I strongly oppose this resolution, which limits the United States' ability to fight narcoterrorist traffickers in our own hemisphere, where we are most directly impacted. I just heard from the distinguished gentlewoman that these are fishermen, that these are fishermen in these boats. Really? I guess we are supposed to not believe our own eyes when we see these boats loaded with narcotics coming to the United States and going to other countries. These are narcoterrorists who have been killing Americans by the thousands every single year through their poison. It is about time that we have a President who is taking the murdering and the poisoning of our youth seriously. Literally, Mr. Speaker, every time one of these narcoboats is removed from the water, it literally is saving thousands of American lives. Let me refresh everybody's memory about who we are dealing with and who the President of the United States is going after. They are going after narcoterrorist organizations such as Tren de Aragua, Cartel de los Soles, Clan del Golfo, and MS-13, just to mention some of these dangerous cartels that kidnap and maim and poison our youth. Let's put it in perspective, Mr. Speaker. More Americans have died because of these narcocartels that are poisoning our youth than Americans we lost in World War I, World War II, Vietnam, and Korea. They are staggering numbers. These cartels are responsible for the loss of lives of more Americans than ISIS and al-Qaida combined. These are terrorist organizations that are responsible for the death of our people. I just also heard, oh, upset about pressuring Maduro, President Maduro. Maduro is not a President. He is the head of a narcocartel that has taken over by force and by terror a great country, the country of Venezuela. This is man who is under indictment. Let's vote this down, and let's protect the American people. Let's not defend the narcocartel's drugs that are poisoning our people.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, I missed the second vote in the series on July 14, 2025. Had I not missed the vote, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call 192, H.R. 177.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, let me first start by thanking the chairman and the ranking member for their fine work. Mr. Speaker, the ranking member already mentioned some of the issues that we are trying to solve with this bill, and there are so many other communities that this bill will help, including Miami Lakes, which I have the privilege to represent. Mr. Speaker, this is going to be the third time if it passes--and I hope it will--that we pass this bill out of the House. This bill has a Senate companion, and, Mr. Speaker, it is a bipartisan Senate companion. I want to mention the sponsors: Senator Rick Scott, Senator Joni Ernst, and Senator Alex Padilla. It deals with a lot of issues that we have already heard about, but it is important to note that those are not small issues for those communities. They are problematic issues. We have heard from mayors, local elected officials, and constituents for many, many years--I think all of us that this bill is dealing with--but I am referring particularly to Miami Lakes in Miami-Dade County. Unfortunately, the Postal Service has done nothing about it. Miami Lakes alone has gone through the USPS' boundary review process three times to no avail, which is, again, unfortunate. While the Postal Service operates, by the way, on a fee-for-service basis and receives no direct appropriations--I want to make sure that everybody understands that--my team, my staff, has talked to the Congressional Budget Office to make sure that there is no score with this. The news is, as I just mentioned, this bill does not score. I am confident--I sincerely hope, for the people of Miami Lakes and the folks around the country--that the third time will be the charm, that this will become law. I am confident that it will. I started by thanking the chairman of the committee and his staff. I thank the staff, along with the chairman and the ranking member. I also thank, from my team, Vanessa Scott, who is my staffer who has worked day in and day out. I would be remiss if I didn't thank the Speaker, the majority leader, the whip, and all leadership for all they are doing to get this bill to the floor once again. I thank all the Members whose districts this will benefit for their hard work.

Mr. DIAZ-BALART

Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, I was unable to vote on June 27, 2025, as I was detained due to unforeseen circumstances following the highly sensitive bipartisan national security briefing. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 185, H. Res. 516.