Steve Daines

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Madam President, I ask unanimous consent that the votes in this series be 10 minutes in length.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Madam President, I rise today in the very Chamber where just three Presidential impeachment trials have been held over the course of our Nation's history--President Johnson in 1868, President Clinton in 1999, and now President Trump. In fact, I sat at this desk the past 2 weeks listening to over 65 hours of trial proceedings, and during that time, we heard from 13 witnesses, and we viewed 193 video clips and 28,000-plus pages of documentation. Senators, over a 16-hour period, asked over 180 questions. In the Senate, we took our solemn duty seriously. If there is one thing to be remembered from this trial for generations to come, it is this: Sadly, over the course of our country's 244-year history, never has our Nation faced such a partisan abuse of power. Never has the Senate been faced with Articles of Impeachment that allege no crimes in an attempt to remove a duly elected President of the United States from office. Never before have we seen such a partisan Presidential impeachment process. In 1974, when President Nixon faced impeachment--Nixon, a Republican--177 House Republicans joined Democrats in support of the impeachment inquiry. During President Clinton's impeachment--a Democrat--31 Democrats joined House Republicans. But with President Trump, there were zero. Not one Republican supported it. In fact, there were some Democrats who opposed it. So, to be clear, there was actually bipartisan opposition. This impeachment is an unprecedented, purely partisan threat to the Constitution. Our Founding Fathers, the Framers of our great Constitution, understood what the power of impeachment meant when they gave it to Congress after great deliberation. Alexander Hamilton and James Madison feared--they feared-- congressional abuse of power and legislative tyranny as they debated whether to include the power of impeachment in the Constitution because the Founders knew the removal of a President from office amounted to a political death sentence. In Federalist 65, Hamilton warns that the House could be ``intemperate,'' was the word he used, and abuse their majority. He proclaimed that the Senate would be--and I use his words--``unawed and uninfluenced,'' the ``independent'' institution to determine whether a House impeachment was warranted. The Founders had the wisdom to establish a two-thirds Senate vote threshold to help ensure that removal could not be achieved by mere partisan politics. The Founders established that the thermonuclear option of impeachment must be bipartisan to safeguard not just the President from unwarranted removal but, importantly, to protect the will of the American people who elected the President in the first place. Unfortunately, Nancy Pelosi, Adam Schiff, and House Democrats have done exactly what the Founding Fathers feared. They have ignored what House manager and the chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, Jerry Nadler, himself correctly observed during the 1998 Clinton impeachment when he stated: There must never be a narrowly voted impeachment or an impeachment substantially supported by one of our major political parties and largely opposed by the other. Such an impeachment would lack legitimacy. That was Jerry Nadler in 1998. Unfortunately, Nancy Pelosi's House of Representatives discarded Nadler's very wise words, and they stubbornly defied historical precedent by rushing these Articles of Impeachment, driven by a Christmas deadline, on a purely partisan vote and sending it to the Senate. The Democrats' decision was a mistake, and it has only further divided our Nation at a time when we need to be working together. It was wrong, and it has damaged our country. We now need to fear for future Presidents, Democrats or Republicans, who will hold the oath of office in this newly hyperpartisan era. Importantly, for the first time in our Nation's history, the Articles of Presidential Impeachment passed by Nancy Pelosi's House accuse President Trump of no crimes, let alone demonstrate the President's actions warranted removal from office. This partisan and weak case from the House managers proves what this impeachment has always been about--it is about purely partisan politics. This impeachment has been nothing more than an attempt to overturn the 2016 Presidential election and to severely impact the 2020 election. By the way, if we were to convict the President of either one of these articles, one or both, he literally would be removed not only from office but from the 2020 ballot. Speaking of the 2020 ballot, the 2020 election is already underway. Just yesterday, Americans cast their votes in Iowa for President of the United States. In fact, last Friday, Montanans submitted signatures and filed the paperwork to place President Trump on the Montana ballot for the 2020 election. Sadly, it is no surprise that we are in this situation today. You see, the Democrats have been obsessed with impeaching President Trump since before he was even sworn into office. They could not accept the fact that Donald Trump won the 2016 election. On December 15, 2016, just 5 weeks following the 2016 Presidential election, there was a headline from Vanity Fair, and I quote it: ``Democrats are Paving the Way to Impeach Donald Trump.'' On January 20--now, when I think of January 20, 2017, I think about the day the President was inaugurated, which it was--the Washington Post headline read ``The campaign to impeach President Trump has begun.'' This article was posted 19 minutes--just 19 minutes--after President Trump was sworn into office. It gets worse. Ten days later, on January 30, 2017, the attorney for the whistleblower who was talked about during the trial--the whistleblower's attorney, 10 days after President Trump was inaugurated back in 2017, said this in a tweet: ``Coup has started. First of many steps. Rebellion. Impeachment will follow immediately.'' That was the attorney for the whistleblower who really started this entire impeachment process. We have even seen some House Democrats publicly state that the only way to beat President Trump in the next election is to impeach him. Our Founding Fathers would be grieved by the careless use of this most powerful tool against the Presidency. Impeachment is not a tool to overturn the results of a past election. It is not a tool to change the outcome of an upcoming election. You see, in America, the power of our government doesn't come from 100 Senators in this body or a handful of lawmakers; our power is derived from the people whom we serve. This grand American experiment of our democratic Republic is built upon the idea of a government of, by, and for the people. Montanans elected me to represent them in the U.S. Senate, to be their voice on this floor and in Washington, DC. Montanans overwhelmingly oppose this impeachment. Montanans stand with President Trump. In fact, President Trump won Montana by over 20 points in the 2016 election. Supporting this impeachment means ignoring the voices of Montanans who voted for President Trump in the last election, and it means silencing Montanans who plan to vote for President Trump in the 2020 election. Keep in mind--never before has the U.S. Senate ever removed a President from office, and it is not going to happen now. I am voting to acquit President Donald J. Trump. For the good of our country, let it be seared in our minds forevermore: Impeachment must never ever again be used as a partisan weapon. I encourage my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to fully understand the magnitude of what this would mean for our country. This is the first purely partisan impeachment in our Nation's history, and it must be our last. It should be up to the American people to decide who their next President is, not the U.S. Senate. The answer is an election, not impeachment. I yield the floor.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. Chief Justice, I send a question to the desk on behalf of myself and Senator Lankford and Senator Hawley.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, this week I have the honor of recognizing Brandon Roberts and Stacia Fuzesy of Chouteau County for their hard work and entrepreneurial spirit. Brandon and Stacia opened the Golden Triangle Brewing Co. in Fort Benton. Their craft beers showcase the rich history of Montana ag and the grain growers of the Golden Triangle. Working with local farmers, Brandon and Stacia are energizing the local economy and crafting beers that Montanans can call their own. They have also worked with local historians to help create unique names for their craft beer that highlight Montana history such as Shepweizen and Bentonbier. It is my honor to recognize Brandon and Stacia for opening up this thriving Montana small business that promotes our rich history and values. Small craft breweries like the Golden Triangle Brewing Co. are helping drive the economy across Big Sky Country. Keep on brewing.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, this week I have the honor of recognizing Anna, Grace, and Joy Williams of Daniels County, for their hard work in planning Hands Across Scobey, an event that raised money for Montana foster children. These three Montana sisters took the initiative to give back to their community and organize an effort to help those most vulnerable in our society--foster children. Their mother, Ruth Williams, a mother of five, including one foster child, was the motivation for the `Hands Across Scobey' event. It is my honor to recognize Anna, Grace, and Joy for their selflessness and willingness to serve others. Their charitable effort is exemplary of the Montana spirit. I look forward to following the future accomplishments of these three young ladies.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, this week I have the honor of recognizing Linda Rost of Fallon County for being named Montana's 2020 Teacher of the Year. Linda is a highly qualified science teacher at Baker High School with a master's degree in science education from Montana State University. Linda has been inspiring students and motivating them to dig deeper when it comes to science education. The folks in Fallon County are very proud of Linda's prestigious recognition. Because of the size of Baker High School, Linda teaches multiple age groups. While it is a joy, it is also one of the many challenges that comes from teaching at a small rural school. Linda goes above and beyond to find a variety of ways to connect with each student ensuring they understand the course material in a fun and engaging way. The Montana Teacher of the Year award is a long and competitive process. After interacting with several selection committees made up of top education leaders from across Montana, Linda was selected as the 2020 winner. Linda will now go on to represent Montana in the 2020 National Teacher of the Year competition. It is my honor to recognize Linda for her dedication to teaching young Montanans. Fallon County and Montana are very fortunate to have a teacher like Linda to ensure that our rural students are getting the highest quality education possible.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, this week I have the honor of recognizing Tim McAllister, a 96-year-old veteran who served in World War II. Tim is currently the oldest veteran living in Judith Basin County. Tim is a humble man who speaks quietly about his military service. In fact, he spends more time reflecting on the service of his two brothers, both of whom were soldiers in the D-Day invasion at Normandy. Tim's military service took him to the South Pacific, where he was engaged in the liberation of the Philippines with the American Division in the region of Cebu City. Tim's impact on the community is pronounced. This past November, Tim wasn't able to attend the Veterans Day celebration at the local elementary school, and his presence was missed. Because of his absence, students in first and second grade at the school made a massive card to thank him for his service and delivered it to his home. This small act of kindness was very meaningful to Tim. Tim's roots in Montana run strong and deep. His father rode the range with the legendary Charlie M. Russell. Tim carried on those western values from his father and developed a love for ranching and horses. Tim truly understands and loves the Montana way of life. I am proud of Tim for his service to our country and his tremendous impact on his community. I am confident his legacy of service will live on for generations to come, and I am honored to recognize him today.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, I ask for the yeas and nays.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, this week I have the honor of recognizing Charlotte Kinnoman of Lake County for her dedication to Montana's first responders during Christmas. When Charlotte met a law enforcement officer at an event with her family, she learned of the sacrifices our first responders make to protect Montana's families and communities. After that meeting, and at just 12 years old, Charlotte decided she wanted to give back to our first responders. She has been writing 125 Christmas cards a day to give to every first responder she meets. She even has a goal of writing 12,000 total. Charlotte's mom and classmates have also been helpful in writing Christmas cards to make sure they are spreading holiday cheer all across Big Sky Country. I commend Charlotte for her compassion. Charlotte is a great role model for all young Montanans, and I thank her for supporting our first responders this Christmas season.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. I ask for the yeas and nays.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, I rise to pay tribute to MAJ Brad Caton for his exemplary dedication to duty while serving as a Department of Defense congressional fellow and a congressional budget liaison for the Assistant Secretary of the Army, Financial Management and Comptroller. This month, he will begin his transition to serve as a budgetary analyst in the Army's Budget Office. As a native of Libby, MT, Brad was commissioned as an infantry officer upon graduation from the University of Montana, where he earned a bachelor's of science degree in business administration. A dedicated scholar, Brad went on to earn his master of business administration from the University of Montana and later a master's degree in legislative affairs from the George Washington University. Brad has been very successful in his Army career and has served in a broad range of assignments. His billets have spanned from serving as an infantry platoon commander with the 4th Infantry Division with a deployment to Iraq to assignments managing the Army's financial resources. Brad exemplifies what it means to be a Montanan with his leadership, perseverance, and versatility. This was evident during his first assignment as a budget analyst for U.S. Army Central Command and while he commanded the Pontiac Recruiting Company in Eastern, MI. Following command, Brad continued to display his Montana Resolve as the support operations officer at Camp Carroll, Republic of Korea. Additionally, he was deployed to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan while serving as the deputy assistant chief of staff, financial management for the 1st Armored Division. In 2017, Brad served as my Department of Defense congressional fellow. For a year, I had the privilege of working closely with Brad. He was extremely passionate about serving and representing Montanans. He consistently went above and beyond his immediate responsibilities to work in areas outside of the veterans and defense realm. He used his insight as a Montanan to provide critical local feedback on rural Montana priorities, including Tribal and energy issues. He was always thinking of Montana while representing the Department of Defense in my office. Following his fellowship, Brad transitioned to serve as a congressional budget liaison for the U.S. Army. In this capacity Brad arranged and escorted me over to visit the Montana National Guard while they were deployed to Afghanistan over the holidays. He continued to work tirelessly with all Members of Congress and their staffs to accurately articulate the Army's budget positions to the Appropriations Committees. His professionalism, diligence, and commitment to the mission are unmatched, and his work both as a fellow and as a liaison was outstanding and represented the Department of Defense and U.S. Army to the U.S. Congress well. The foundation of Brad's military success is his family and his Montana roots. In fact, Brad bought a house in Red Lodge during his fellowship which he hopes to retire to 1 day. He is a devoted husband to his wife, Eryn Beckman of Colstrip, MT, and a committed father to his children, Isabel, Evan, Pierce, and Audrey. Brad and Eryn's attitude of service, sacrifice, and care for others permeates every organization and activity they participate in, and they are truly examples of servant leaders in the Army and their communities. Throughout his career, Brad has exemplified what it truly means to be a Montanan as he positively impacted soldiers, peers, and superiors. Our country has benefited tremendously from his extraordinary leadership, judgment, and passion. I join my colleagues today in honoring his dedication to our Nation and his invaluable service to the U.S. Congress as an Army congressional liaison. It has been a genuine pleasure to have worked with MAJ Brad Caton over the past 3 years. On behalf of a grateful nation, I join my colleagues today in recognizing and commending Brad for his service to our country, and we wish him all the best as he continues service in the U.S. Army.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, this week I have the honor of recognizing the first set of graduates from Anaconda Junior/Senior High School's Copper Academy, Alyssa Liedle-Caissey and Kai Bauer. The Anaconda Junior/Senior High School's Copper Academy allows students to learn at a different pace and in a unique environment which includes the use of online programs that have visual demonstrations and explanations for different educational requirements. Alyssa and Kai both took a chance participating in this program, and it paid off. They both graduated 6 months early. I am very proud of these two young Montanans for pushing themselves and showing the Anaconda community that this new, individualized program allows students to thrive. Congratulations to Alyssa and Kai on their graduation from the Copper Academy. I wish them the best of luck as they transition into the next steps of their lives.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, this week I have the honor of recognizing four Montana school teachers for their passion and dedication to teaching math and science to young Montanans. Beth Walsh from East Valley Middle School, Claire Pichette from Helena High School, Thomas Redmon from Daly Elementary, and Justine Hurley from White Sulphur Springs Elementary School have all been awarded the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching between 2017 and 2018. The Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching is an incredibly high honor for school teachers across the country and no easy task to receive. A committee of Montana math and science teachers select finalists from a collection of statewide applications followed by a national panel of distinguished scientists, mathematician, and educators who select four national award winners from those finalists. These teachers won the Presidential Award for their superior abilities to educate young Montanans on mathematics and science ranging from kindergarten children to seniors in high school. They show passion for their profession daily. and this award is a symbol of that passion. We are lucky to have such highly qualified teachers educating Montana students. It is my honor to recognize Beth Walsh, Claire Pichette, Thomas Redmon, and Justine Hurley for their exemplary work educating Montana students. They are a true testament to the incredible education system we have throughout Big Sky Country.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, this week I have the honor of recognizing Parker Walter of Madison County for his extraordinary bravery in the face of danger. In late September, the American Red Cross awarded 6-year-old Parker Walter with a Certificate of Extraordinary Personal Action from their National Lifesaving Award Program. This was the first time in 20 years that a Montanan has received the distinguished Lifesaving Award from the American Red Cross. Parker heroically saved his 4-year-old brother Cooper from drowning when he slipped into a rushing irrigation ditch behind their home. Parker immediately screamed out to his mother and grandmother to alert them and quickly ran over to pull his younger brother from the ditch. Parker's swift action and response saved Cooper's life. It is my honor to recognize Parker for his incredible lifesaving action. Parker has made all of Montana proud for his bravery.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, Montanans are growing restless, as Speaker Pelosi and the House Democrats continue to slow-walk a very important trade agreement for Montana and for our country. That is the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. In fact, just last week, I was in Billings to celebrate the Montana Farm Bureau Federation's 100 year anniversary--and, again, another big congratulations to the Montana Farm Bureau. As I was talking with folks at the farm bureau event, there were a lot of cowboy boots and hats. These are the farmers and ranchers of Montana, the salt of the earth folks. They are all asking the same question: Why is it taking so long? What is going on? Frankly, there is one answer: Speaker Nancy Pelosi and House Democrats are playing political games and holding up this trade deal. They are holding this trade deal hostage. It has been a year since the USMCA was signed by President Trump and leaders of Canada and Mexico--a year. Nancy Pelosi has had this signed trade agreement in her hands for about a year, and rather than deliver this win for our farmers and ranchers in Montana and across the United States, she is focused on one thing: impeachment--because, at the end of the day, this is about our farmers and ranchers. It is time we get the job done because, in Montana, agriculture is the No. 1 driver of our economy, and it is a large part of our Montana way of life. This trade agreement is expected to create over 180,000 new American jobs and to boost our GDP by over $70 billion. Canada and Mexico both are in high demand for our products like wheat, barley, beef. In fact, in 2018 alone, Montana had $731 million in total exports to Canada and to Mexico. For our producers and our ag-related industries in Montana, passing this trade agreement would help provide certainty and alleviate the challenges and obstacles they have faced over a very tough season. Mexico is ready. Canada is ready. The United States is ready. I can tell you, Montana is ready. Unfortunately, Nancy Pelosi is not. While the Democrats continue to obsess over impeaching our President, they continue to ignore the voices of our rural communities. This unnecessary reality TV show is nothing but a waste of time to stall the important work like the USMCA. Montanans are sick and tired of the politics and the partisan games being played here in Washington, DC, and frankly, I am, too. I am grateful for the leadership of my good friend and colleague, Greg Gianforte, who is standing up to House Democrats and fighting boldly for the USMCA. Realize, Montana has but one Member in the U.S. House of Representatives, and he is fighting a good fight over there. We are both fighting to ensure that the votes of Montana farmers and ranchers are heard loud and clear in both Chambers of Congress. The longer the House Democrats stall on this deal, the further we stall opportunity and economic growth in Montana and across our Nation. To Speaker Pelosi, to my colleagues in the House, enough is enough. Let's deliver the USMCA for the American people and for Montana farmers and ranchers. I yield the floor.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, this week I have the honor of recognizing Sherriff Tony Harbaugh of Custer County for his tremendous impact on the State of Montana. In early October, Sheriff Harbaugh was awarded the Montana Board of Crime Control Lifetime Achievement Award at the 12th Annual Montana Crime Prevention Conference in Billings. Harbaugh began his career at the Custer County Sheriff's Office in 1978 as the only jailer. He was then officially sworn in as a deputy with the sheriff's office in May of 1979. Harbough quickly climbed the ranks and was officially elected as Custer County Sherriff in 1986, holding that title until today. Throughout his long career in law enforcement, Harbaugh has served in a number of leadership positions in law enforcement. Currently, Harbaugh is the Montana law enforcement representative on the Western States Sheriff's Board, chairman of the Peace Officers Standards and Training Council, chairman of the Eastern Montana Drug Task Force, and is the National Sheriffs liaison for Montana Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association. It is my honor to recognize Sherriff Harbaugh for his extraordinary dedication to public service and public safety. His role as leader in the law enforcement community has made Montana a better place to live, and I am grateful for his selfless service to the Custer community and Montanans statewide.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, for generations, America has been a beacon of hope and freedom around the world. When confronted with tyranny and evil, America has always overcome. In every generation, patriots have answered the call to service in defense of our country and in defense of freedom and democracy. Their bravery and willingness to serve is a testament to the American and Montanan spirit. It is my highest honor to serve as a voice for Montana's veterans in the Halls of Congress. You see, Montana has one of the highest veteran populations per capita in the United States. Montana's veterans are what make living in Big Sky Country all the more special. I know I speak for most Montanans when I say, while growing up, we learned very early on about the importance of service to our country. For me, that lesson was taught by my father. My dad is a marine who served in the 58th Rifle Company out of Billings, MT. He instilled in me the values of hard work, of sacrifice, of service to others, and of humility. I am grateful for his service to our country, and I am proud to live every day with the values that he taught me when I was so young. Those same values that my dad taught me are held by veterans all across Montana. I am grateful for Montana's veterans. I am grateful to have several veterans serve on my staff both in Montana and in Washington, DC. I thank Denny in Helena, Robin in Great Falls, Jim in Bozeman, and Christy in Washington, DC. They are all Montanans who are also veterans who serve on my team and serve the people of Montana. We have an extraordinary legacy of service in Montana. We are home to heroes like Medal of Honor recipient Army SSG Travis Atkins, who was honored by President Trump at the White House this year for his ultimate sacrifice in defense of our country. Right now, in Congress, I am working to rename the Bozeman VA healthcare facility after this great, fallen, Montana hero. Travis and I attended the same high school in Bozeman. I make it my top priority to hear from all of our veterans across all corners of our State and to learn about the issues they face, such as access to rural healthcare, or to ensure they receive the recognition they deserve. In fact, just last month, I was in Great Falls to help honor veteran Alfred E. Shryer with the Bronze Star Medal for his service in Vietnam. It was recognition that was long overdue--nearly 50 years in the making. After all our veterans and their families have given to our Nation, it is due time that our country gives them the care, the treatment, and the recognition they have earned. That is why I am taking action. I have introduced a number of bipartisan solutions to help resolve issues that plague our vets, like my bipartisan bill to protect veterans' pensions from scam artists. I have also led a bipartisan effort to ensure that our Blue Water veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange while they served in Vietnam receive the healthcare they deserve. Those who risk it all--those who put their lives on the line in defense of our freedom--deserve the utmost honor, thanks, and care. To all of our veterans, thank you for your service. Our country is freer and our country is safer because of you. I yield the floor.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, this week I have the honor of recognizing Edna Boyce of Dawson County for her impact on the Glendive community. When young schoolchildren begin their day in Glendive, Edna is the first face they see because, for 41 years, Edna has been driving the school bus for the Glendive School District! In April of 1978, Edna decided she wanted a change in her career from working at the Glendive Bakery. That April, she marched into the school district supervisor's office for an interview. When the district supervisor asked if she had any experience, Edna said she had experience driving sugarbeet trucks. The supervisor gave her the job as bus driver, and Edna has been happily serving the Glendive School District ever since. It is my honor to recognize Edna Boyce for her commitment to the Glendive community. She has been a committed bus driver, and her bright smile and cheerful attitude has brightened the morning for so many young Montanans. She has made a tremendous impact on Glendive and the State of Montana, and I thank her for all of her years of hard work.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, just over a year ago, President Trump signed into law a major bipartisan bill, the SUPPORT Act, to help combat the opioid and drug epidemic that is devastating this country. I call that a very good first step in this long fight, and now we must continue working to do even more. Drug overdoses are now the leading cause of death for those under age 50 in the United States. Our country is in the middle of a major opioid and meth crisis, and the sad reality is, this epidemic isn't slowing down anytime soon. It has been said that meth is the next wave of the opioid crisis. Sadly, in my home State of Montana, that wave is already reality. Meth is destroying Montana families and communities. As I travel across Montana, I hear far too many heartbreaking stories of addiction and tragedy. From Great Falls to Wibaux, to the Flathead and across Indian Country, the stories are all too real. We need to do more to put an end to the tragic stories we are seeing in the news--no more stories of babies being born addicted to meth; no more stories of meth breaking up families; no more stories of babies being left in the forest--literally left in the forest--because their parents were high on meth. These stories are real, and their impacts are real. Montana's meth crisis is claiming lives, breaking up families, and leaving our foster care systems overcrowded and sometimes overloaded. It is leading to a significant rise in violent crime. In fact, from 2011 to 2017, there was a 415-percent increase in meth cases in Montana, with meth-related deaths rising 375 percent during those same years. In Montana, the meth crisis is disproportionately impacting Native American Tribes. Enough is enough. That is why I fought to include my legislation, the Mitigating METH Act, which strengthens Indian Tribes' ability to combat drug use, in the SUPPORT Act that was signed into law just last year. That historic and comprehensive legislation was a great first step, but there is a lot more work that needs to be done, and tangible things can be done. In Montana--we are a northern border State, but we have a southern border crisis. I say that for a very clear reason. There is no denying the fact that the meth that is invading Montana and that is devastating Montana is Mexican cartel meth. It is not homegrown meth anymore; it is Mexican cartel meth that is smuggled across the southern border. Mexican meth is cheaper and more potent. In fact, several years ago, the meth we saw in Montana was homegrown meth. It had potency levels around 25 percent. Today, the Mexican cartel meth has a potency level of over 90 percent. That results in a much more dangerous form of meth. It is much more widespread, and the price has dropped. I have met with Montanans across our State--whether it is law enforcement, doctors, nurses, treatment facility professionals--to come together, to work together, and to help combat the meth crisis we see in Montana. I am committed to fighting for more resources that give law enforcement and Border Patrol the tools they need to fight this epidemic. I will also continue to advocate for stronger support for treatment and care for our most vulnerable. Those who are addicted to meth need help, and they need compassion. One thing we absolutely must do to help combat the drug epidemic is to secure our southern border because without secure borders, these illegal drugs and meth will continue to come across that southern border and have easy access into our country and into States like Montana. I won't stand by and let this be the norm. Earlier this summer, I was honored to welcome Vice President Pence and Karen Pence to Billings. They got to see this crisis firsthand. They got to hear directly from law enforcement and Montana families impacted by the crisis. I saw Vice President Pence and Mrs. Pence sitting around a table inside a facility that is helping moms who are addicted to meth and who are working with moms and their children to get better. They were telling their stories about how they have gotten better through treatment at the Rimrock Foundation facility there in Billings and starting out a much brighter chapter in their lives because of the help provided from Rimrock. I stand with President Trump. I stand with his administration as we work together to secure our borders and protect our communities from illegal drugs and to end this crisis. I yield the floor.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, this week I have the honor of recognizing Dottie Wilson of Hill County for her tremendous impact on the north central Montana community of Havre. Dottie, a former baker at Grateful Bread, took a tremendous leap of faith and made the decision to open her own bakery, Infinity Bake Shoppe LLC in April of 2017. Dottie's bakery offers a variety of baked goods including cookies, pastries, scones, and cinnamon rolls, as well as three different varieties of baked donuts, soups, and lunch items. Since Infinity Bake Shoppe opened, it has been a great addition to the Havre community. Dottie did not anticipate her new business would take off so quickly, but folks from all across the HiLine are lining up for her baked goods. Dottie said she was inspired to start her own business in order to provide her daughter Keeley with a more purposeful future. Keeley, who has Williams syndrome, followed in her mother's entrepreneurial spirit and opened up, Lady Bug Bites LLC, making and selling treats for dogs and cats. It is my honor to recognize Dottie Wilson for her hard work and talent in opening up Infinity Bake Shoppe LLC. She is a fine example of the type of entrepreneurship coming from Montana Main Street businesses.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, this week I have the honor of recognizing Jocelyn Taylor, Michaela Osborne, and Addison Evans of Cut Bank Middle School in Glacier County for their extraordinary impact on the local community. Jocelyn, Michaela, and Addison all had grandparents who suffered from cancer. Because of that, the three young women wanted to do more in their community to raise awareness for cancer with hopes to help folks detect the disease early. Jocelyn's mom, Cherie, suggested that the girls aim their fundraising efforts towards upgrading the Winkley Women's Center mobile mammography unit that visits Cutbank often. Kalispell Regional Healthcare had been working to raise the funds for a new unit. Jocelyn, Michaela, and Addison joined Kalispell Regional Healthcare at the Lewis and Clark Festival in July to bake goods for a bake sale. They managed to raise $109.50 and donated all proceeds to the cause. Kalispell Regional Healthcare Foundation shared the story of the girls' efforts with their supporters, and the story caught fire. The message about their donation kept spreading, and on October 1, $750,000 was raised because of their dedication and work. Thanks to the extraordinary efforts of these inspirational young women, they were able to make a tremendous impact on their local community and raise funds for a cause that can save Montana lives. It is my honor to recognize Jocelyn, Michaela, and Addison for their amazing endeavor. Montanans across our State are proud of the work they achieved, and I look forward to following the future accomplishments of these bright young women.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, it has been over 1 year since the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement was signed by President Trump and the leaders of Canada and Mexico. This landmark trade agreement is expected to create 176,000 new American jobs. It is expected to grow American businesses all over our country and help give a jump-start to our hard- working farmers and ranchers. With 95 percent of the world's population outside of the United States, Montana producers need access to these global markets. Agriculture drives our economy in Montana. In fact, it is the No. 1 economic driver in our State. Canada and Mexico both are in high demand for our products like wheat, barley, and beef. In fact, in 2018 alone, Montana had $731 million in total exports to Canada and Mexico. For our producers in Montana, the USMCA would be a positive step forward in providing certainty and alleviating the challenges and obstacles they faced virtually every single day this season. When I travel across Montana, I have heard from folks in every corner of our State: 4-H members, FFA members, farmers and ranchers at local county fairs, and producers along the highway. They all want action on USMCA. They all need relief. They are looking for something certain coming out of Washington, DC, in these uncertain times. I cannot stand by any longer as my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives fail to act. Listen, we have enough votes in the Senate to pass it. There are enough votes in the House to pass it. President Trump can't wait to sign it. Mexico is ready; Canada is ready; the United States is ready; and I can state that in my home State of Montana, we are very ready. I, along with the majority in the U.S. Senate, am ready to get this deal done and get it across the finish line for some of the hardest working folks in our Nation, our farmers and ranchers. Hard-working small business owners and folks on farms and ranches all over Montana are sitting and waiting for Speaker Pelosi to stop slow- walking the USMCA. The House Democrats cannot continue to hold our farmers and ranchers hostage for any future political gain that we are seeing right now in the House. It has been a political game over there. This is negatively impacting the Montana way of life. There are countless numbers of Montana families out there who are surviving paycheck to paycheck. They are living on a prayer. They are sick and tired of politics and the partisan games being played in Washington, DC, and, you know what, I am too. We were elected to come here and get something done, not spin the wheels on cable TV at night just talking about other issues that aren't moving the ball forward on behalf of the American people. What Montanans care about is how they are going to put food on the table and how they are going to make ends meet this winter coming up. The USMCA is more than just a trade deal, it is an opportunity for more jobs and, importantly, higher wages. That is why I am here today. I am here to encourage our Democratic colleagues in the House to stop playing politics with our communities, our jobs, and our very lives. I am calling on the U.S. House to act, bring this important trade deal up for a vote. Let's have an up-or-down vote. Let the House Chamber speak. Let them vote. The USMCA has the potential to boost our Nation's GDP by $68 billion, plain and simple. That means more money in the pockets of Montanans. It is a better opportunity for our folks in agriculture. There is more revenue for Main Street businesses in Montana. The USMCA will deliver much needed trade certainty, secure intellectual property rights, and modernize digital trade. I am not alone in wanting swift action. I am honored to have support from the Montana Chamber of Commerce, the Montana Farm Bureau Federation, from the Montana Grain Growers Association, from the Montana Stockgrowers Association, and from the Montana Pork Producers Association. They are all with us to get the USMCA done. The longer we stall this deal, the further we stall economic opportunity in Montana and across this Nation. To Speaker Pelosi and to my colleagues in the House, the time to act is now. Our neighbors depend on it, my Montana farmers and ranchers depend on it, and the entire country depends on it. I yield the floor.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Madam President, this week I have the honor of recognizing pilot Bill Stebbins of Dawson County for his tremendous impact on Montana and over 60 years of experience as a pilot. Bill was honored by his colleagues and the Federal Aviation Administration with the distinguished Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award in August of 2019. This high honor is reserved for few pilots who have had a pilot's license in good standing for 50 or more years. Bill has been flying since 1955, putting him at over 60 years of flight with an outstanding 13,000 hours spent in the air. After earning a mechanical engineering degree, Bill joined the Army where he trained in fixed-wing aircraft at Gary Air Force Base in San Marcos, TX. He later advanced to fixed-wing and helicopter training at Fort Rucker in Alabama. Upon leaving military service, Bill worked for Montana-Dakota Utilities and then Williston Basin Interstate Pipeline, where he flew thousands of miles of pipeline in a variety of fixed-wing and rotary aircrafts to help inspect and maintain the pipeline's protection. Over the years, Bill has also committed himself to helping those in need, including participating in countless search and rescue operations. Most notably, in the 1980s Bill airlifted food and supplies into Makoshika State Park to support a youth group stranded at the Lion's camp by heavy rains and washed out roads. Bill has spent 50 years based at the Dawson Community Airport, where he has served as the assistant airport manager since 2015. He has had a tremendous impact on the operation of the Dawson County Airport. It is my honor to recognize Bill for his extraordinary accomplishments. Bill's experience as a pilot and his selfless service to his community and country is exemplary of the Montana spirit.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, this week I have the honor of recognizing Joel Graves, principal at Lincoln County High School, for his tremendous impact on the students in Eureka and the local community. Joel was selected as the recipient of the 2019 Montana Association of Secondary School Principals' Principal of the Year award in late January. This prestigious award recognizes outstanding school leaders who have succeeded in providing high-quality learning opportunities for students, as well as demonstrating exemplary contributions to the profession. Joel's commitment to the young people of North Lincoln County has earned him the recognition and admiration of his colleagues, students, and teachers across the State. His leadership as an administrator has fostered an environment where the teachers at Lincoln County High School can excel in providing their students a quality education. He is a strong supporter of encouraging young Montanans to explore all educational opportunities, including career technical training and the trades. It is my honor to recognize Joel Graves for his excellence as principal of Lincoln County High School. I look forward to following the wonderful successes that will come out of Lincoln County High School because of Joel's leadership.

Mr. DAINES

Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, this week I have the honor of recognizing the Hardin High School Marching Band for being selected to represent Montana at the 2020 Independence Day Parade in Washington, DC. Countless hours of practice, dedication, and hard work earned these young musicians this prestigious honor, and I am proud they are representing the Treasure State on the national stage. While making their way to Washington, DC, these students will have the opportunity to travel on a 10-day journey across the country before reaching the Nation's Capital. They will get to experience some of America's national attractions like Mount Rushmore, Wrigley Stadium, and the National Football Hall of Fame. The memories these young leaders will make on this trip will last them a lifetime. It is my honor to recognize the Hardin High School Marching Band. Their talent and musical ability is a testament to the quality of the music education programs we have in Big Sky Country. I know that they will make all of Montana proud.