Mark DeSaulnier

Mr. DeSAULNIER

Mr. DeSAULNIER. Mr. Chair, I regret that I was unable to vote today, as I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted NO on Roll Call No. 258, on agreeing to McCormick Amendment No. 25 to H.R. 3838, the Streamlining Procurement for Effective Execution and Delivery and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026. Amendment No. 29 Offered by Mr. Biggs of Arizona

Mr. DeSAULNIER

Mr. DeSAULNIER. Mr. Speaker I rise today to recognize Terry Bowen as she retires from her role with Gray-Bowen-Scott. Teresa Bowen has worked tirelessly to bring transportation and development initiatives to life throughout the Bay Area. She graduated from U.C. Berkeley with a degree in Civil Engineering and began her career with Contra Costa Public Works Department, where she served as a Senior Civil Engineer. In 1986, Terry joined what is now known as Gray- Bowen-Scott as the organization's fourth employee. Throughout her tenure with Gray-Bowen-Scott, she has lent her expertise in local government to help countless clients navigate the system to make their projects a reality. Terry has fostered relationships with key partners such as Caltrans, the Federal Highway Administration, the California Transportation Commission, and other regional transportation agencies. She prides herself on the strong relationships she's built with these stakeholders and her work has helped to deliver transportation and land development projects for our community for over forty years. Additionally, Terry was instrumental in the Sunol Grade Express Lane Project in Alameda County. Throughout this project, Terry worked closely with environmental groups, advocated for necessary state legislation, and secured funding to help complete the first express lane project in the Bay Area. Her work on this has set a precedent for how these projects are handled throughout the region. Terry's approach has demonstrated collaborative, creative problem-solving to address complex transportation issues. Beyond her work at Gray-Bowen-Scott. Terry previously served as Chair of the East Bay Leadership Council, where she further demonstrated her commitment to improving quality of life for Bay Area residents and bolstering our region's economy. Outside of her professional accomplishments, Terry enjoys seeking out new learning opportunities, a good red wine, dancing, and spoiling her four-legged friends. Terry's work has been critical in shaping our region and her leadership has left an indelible impact on our community. Please join me in congratulating Terry Bowen on her retirement after decades of dedicated service and wishing her well as she begins this new chapter.

Mr. DeSAULNIER

Mr. DeSAULNIER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life and service of Ron Nunn. Born on April 8, 1933, Ron was a proud lifelong resident of Brentwood, California. He graduated from Liberty High School in 1951 as a three-sport varsity athlete and went on to play football at the University of the Pacific and Stanford University. He later played semi-pro football for the Antioch Hornets. Additionally, Ron courageously served in the Army and was stationed at Fort Lewis, Washington, fighting in the Korean War. After his time in service, Ron returned to Brentwood where he raised his three children alongside his wife, Shirley. Ron was a passionate advocate for education and a key member of our community. In recognition of his service on the Brentwood School Board, a new elementary school was named in his honor in 1991. Ron was also a very successful farmer and developer. He continued to lead his family's farming operations, a legacy that dates back to the 1880's. Ron expanded operations to build RRS partnership, which manages thousands of acres of farmland, including the largest wine grape operation in Contra Costa County. Ron also led the development of over 5,000 homes in the area through his partnership with the Blackhawk Corporation. Beyond his professional pursuits, Ron enjoyed many interests including cars, wine making, flying planes, and skiing with family and friends. Sadly, Ron passed away on August 8, 2025 at the age of 92. Ron will be remembered for his leadership, dedication to his family, and for his incredible impact on East County. Please join me in honoring Ron Nunn for his many contributions to our community.

Mr. DeSAULNIER

Mr. DeSAULNIER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life of Harriett Burt. Harriett was born in Alameda, California in 1940. Throughout her life, Harriett demonstrated her compassion and dedication to service. She followed in her parents' footsteps, becoming a teacher and educator. She moved to Martinez, California shortly after college to teach at Martinez Junior High and later taught in Australia before stepping into administrative and consulting roles in the education field. Her work took her throughout the United States and Canada. Additionally, Harriett was deeply passionate about serving her community. She was a journalist for the Martinez News-Gazette and served on the Martinez City Council, the city's planning commission, and the California Public Utilities Commission. She was an active member of our community, a part of the Boys and Girls Club, the Soroptimist Club, the Martinez Education Association, Kiwanis, the Lyons Club, the American Association of University Women (AAUW), and more. Additionally, she was the first woman to serve as board president for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Contra Costa. Harriett's leadership in the community has had a profound impact on countless lives and has paved the way for future generations. Sadly, Harriett recently passed away at the age of 85. She will be remembered for her indelible impact in Martinez and beyond and for her intellect, warmth, and kindness. Please join me in recognizing Harriett Burt for her many contributions to our community.

Mr. DeSAULNIER

Mr. DeSAULNIER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the distinguished career of Tom Torlakson, a dedicated public servant and steadfast advocate for California's students, families and educators. Tom's career in service began in the classroom. As a high school science teacher and coach in the Mount Diablo Unified School District, he saw firsthand the transformative power of education. His early experience in education shaped a lifelong commitment to ensuring that every child could learn, grow, and succeed, regardless of their background or zip code. Recognizing the broader systemic challenges facing education, Mr. Torlakson entered public office to expand his impact. He served on the Antioch City Council and the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors, where he advocated for stronger schools, safer communities, and greater opportunities for all residents. His leadership in local government paved the way for his election to the California State Assembly and later the California State Senate, where he continued to be a leading voice on education and public health policy. During his tenure in the California Legislature, Mr. Torlakson authored significant legislation that fundamentally improved the lives of millions. Among his many accomplishments, he was instrumental in establishing California's system of after-school programs, the largest after-school program system in the nation, providing students with safe, enriching environments after school hours. He also spearheaded the Quality Education Investment Act (SB 1133), securing billions of dollars in critical funding to support the state's most challenged schools and reduce educational inequities. In 2011, Tom was elected as California's 27th State Superintendent of Public Instruction, a position he held with honor and distinction until 2019. As superintendent, he championed initiatives to close the digital divide, address achievements gaps, reduce dropout rates, and promote innovative programs such as the State Seal of Biliteracy, recognizing students who achieved proficiency in multiple languages. His leadership was key in preserving vital resources for schools and safeguarding educational opportunities for California's six million students, despite the state's budget challenges. Beyond policy achievements, Tom's tenure was marked by his compassionate nature, which underscored his belief that the future of our communities, our economy, and our democracy depends on how we nurture and educate our young people. He worked collaboratively with educators, parents, and policymakers to foster a culture of inclusion, innovation, and excellence. Mr. Speaker, it is fitting that we recognize Tom Torlakson today not only for his extraordinary record of public service but also for the profound and positive difference he has made in countless lives. His steadfast commitment to education and public welfare stands as an enduring example to us all. Please join me in honoring Tom Torlakson for his lifetime of service, leadership, and dedication to the people of California.

Mr. DeSAULNIER

Mr. DeSAULNIER. Mr. Speaker, we rise today to recognize the 50th Anniversary of the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano and their unwavering commitment to fighting hunger in our community. The Food Bank was created 50 years ago when a group of dedicated community members saw a dire need in our community and sought to address it. What began as a small endeavor has since expanded into 10 Food Bank programs, 245 agency partners, and 7,000 volunteers who we are told have served over 110,000 hours last year. The Food Bank has built powerful partnerships with Feeding America, local businesses, local farmers, and government agencies to produce tangible results in our community. As we celebrate the Food Bank's 50th anniversary, I am proud to acknowledge the work of the volunteers, founders, Board Members, staff, and donors who represent the heart of the Food Bank's mission. As we understand, the Food Bank serves 98,000 households throughout Contra Costa and Solano County and provides enough food to generate 2.7 million meals per month, 68% of which is fresh produce, protein, and dairy. As the needs of the community glow, the Food Bank continues to work toward innovative, community-oriented solutions to best serve our neighbors. This includes a focus on new initiatives, partnerships, and strategies to combat the root causes of hunger. The organization truly has a legacy of service and has worked tirelessly to strengthen our community and fight food insecurity. Please join us in honoring the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano for their invaluable work and in congratulating them for 50 years of incredible service.

Mr. DeSAULNIER

Mr. DeSAULNIER. Madam Speaker, I thank the ranking member for yielding me the time. I acknowledge the leadership of the chair and the ranking member of the full committee and the subcommittee for their great, bipartisan work on this initiative. One of the Coast Guard's primary missions is search and rescue. In fiscal year 2025 alone, their efforts saved more than 2,200 people and $40 million in property. To keep up this important work, they need robust funding and support, which is just what this bill delivers. With the administration's aggressive funding and staffing cuts, however, at the National Weather Service and FEMA and the increasing severity and frequency of natural disasters due in my opinion to climate change, the risks associated with those disasters continue to rise. Unfortunately, we don't have to look any further than recent floods and devastating storms to know how important the Coast Guard can be in responding to these emergencies and disasters, but they need their partners at FEMA and NOAA. I strongly support this bill and the great work the Coast Guard does to protect our citizens and waters, including in and around the district I represent in the San Francisco Bay Area. I also ask my colleagues to continue to endeavor to invest not just in the Coast Guard but in their partner agencies like FEMA and the National Weather Service to ensure safety and mission readiness.

Mr. DeSAULNIER

Mr. DeSAULNIER. Mr. Speaker, 1 year ago tomorrow, our community in the bay area and the country rejoiced as the Port Chicago 50 were finally exonerated 80 years after the explosion that changed the course of their lives and American history. On July 17, 1944, an explosion rang out at the shipyard at the Port Chicago Naval Magazine in California, killing or wounding 710 people, predominantly African Americans in the Navy, which was segregated at that time. Mr. Speaker, 50 of the enlisted survivors who refused to return to the same unsafe working conditions that led to the explosion were indicted, defended by Thurgood Marshall, and convicted of mutiny. After decades of advocacy from community veterans groups, civil rights groups, and more, last year, the Port Chicago 50 were finally exonerated by President Biden and the Navy. While this action does not erase the historical injustice that they suffered, it does correct the record and recognizes them as the heroes that they were. I am very proud to have been part of this endeavor to exonerate these innocent, brave American sailors.

Mr. DeSAULNIER

Mr. DeSAULNIER. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Massachusetts for yielding. Mr. Speaker, this bill would cause household resources for the poorest Americans to decrease while the obscenely rich will get richer. I offered two amendments in the Rules Committee, one to prevent people with disabilities from being kicked off Medicaid and one to help low-income students afford an education that they earned. Unfortunately, Republicans refused to consider them, as they yet again worked through the dead of night to rip off hardworking Americans and give tax breaks to the richest Americans who don't need them. Even FOX News reports that it is projected to increase the Federal deficit by $4 trillion over the next decade. This bill is nothing more than a vanity project for the President, and it betrays the American people. I strongly oppose this reckless legislation and urge my colleagues to do the right thing.

Mr. DeSAULNIER. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to amend the rule to make in order the amendment at the desk that protects against any cuts to Medicaid and SNAP.

Mr. DeSAULNIER

Mr. DeSAULNIER. Mr. Speaker, on May 22, House Republicans passed their budget bill, which would make major cuts to the Pell Grant program in order to finance tax breaks for the ultra-wealthy. This will be one of the largest transfers of multigenerational wealth in the history of the country. Pell grants are awarded to help low-income students afford the cost of higher education so that they can focus on their coursework. Republican changes would force students with disabilities, students with jobs, and primary caregivers to increase their course load or risk losing their Pell grant awards. Over 5,000 students in the district I represent in northern California receive Pell grants. A study by the Center for Economic and Policy Research found that the average income in a community rises by 2\1/2\ percent for every 1 percent increase in Pell grants. We should focus on making education more accessible and doubling the maximum Pell grant, not cutting off support for students who need it the most for people who need support the least.

Mr. DeSAULNIER

Mr. DeSAULNIER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of our Nation's investments in biomedical research through the National Institutes of Health and the National Cancer Institute. The research that is conducted through NIH and NCI improves health outcomes, creates jobs, and furthers our global leadership in biomedical research and innovation. I am proud to have been a consistent supporter of funding for these institutions, having visited both institutions in Bethesda and around this country. NIH is the largest public funding source of biomedical research worldwide, with a current budget of $47.7 billion. Similarly, NCI is the largest public funder of cancer research in the world, with a current budget of $7.22 billion. NCI was created by a Republican President, Richard Nixon, as his war on cancer, which has been phenomenally successful. NIH funding attracts top talent from across the country and, indeed, the globe to help make our biomedical research industry the best by far in the world, an accomplishment Americans should be incredibly proud of. As a survivor of chronic lymphocytic leukemia, stage IV, the work that goes on at the National Cancer Institute is of personal importance to me and approximately 20 million American cancer survivors. We are alive today because of innovations in medicine funded by taxpayers and the private sector in a wonderful public-private partnership. Research funded through NCI has undoubtedly helped improve health outcomes. A study published by the American Cancer Society notes that the cancer mortality rate has declined 33 percent since 1991. Those are all Americans who are living today, like myself. When I was diagnosed, my oncologist said: You are lucky. Ten years ago, with the same diagnosis, I would have had to say all we could do was tell you to enjoy whatever time you have left. Now, because of these investments, I am able to live a full life expectancy, like many of the other survivors. From developing the first chemotherapy drug to treat metastatic cancer in 1956 to promising new research on immunotherapy, NCI-funded research has developed numerous new drugs and therapies for cancer. While these investments and research are good for health outcomes, they are also tremendously good for our economy. In fiscal year 2023, NIH funding generated approximately $92.9 billion in economic activity. That is a great return on investment, Mr. Speaker. NIH awards over 80 percent of its annual budget in the form of research grants to 2,500 research institutions across the country, in red States and blue. These grants support the jobs of more than 300,000 researchers at institutions in all 50 States and provide immeasurable benefits to our local communities, especially local community economies. I am proud that the area that I represent, the San Francisco Bay Area in northern California, is home to 2 of the top 10 recipients of NIH grants, the University of California San Francisco and Stanford University. UCSF is the top public university recipient of NIH grants, making the region a leader in biomedical research, which benefits the economy and individuals like myself. The economic benefits are further compounded by private investment. In 2020, private industry as a whole invested $161.8 billion in biomedical research in the U.S. This was allowed because of the basic research done at NIH and NCI. Despite these numerous benefits, the current administration and many of my Republican colleagues are proposing to cut the NIH's budget by 40 percent and NCI's budget by 37 percent. That would be a grave mistake for individual Americans who will die and their families and for our economy. While some claim that private industry alone can replace Federal investment in biomedical research, this just isn't the case. It has been proven over decades. The private sector needs this public-sector investment for them to do many of the drugs and treatments that we currently have. This has been the case for decades. While some claim that this is easily done, there is no way. Mr. Speaker, the Chinese are investing billions of dollars to catch up to us in this field. We should not lose American leadership.

Mr. DeSAULNIER

Mr. DeSAULNIER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Father Paul Shaughnessy and to welcome him as our guest chaplain for today. I first met Father Shaughnessy at the College of the Holy Cross in Mr. McGovern's district, in Worcester, Massachusetts. We were classmates, friends, teammates, and we spent an occasional evening in Worcester at an Irish bar having a pint, maybe two--we were young-- talking about life. Father Shaughnessy joined the Jesuits and became an ordained priest before making the noble decision to enlist in the Marines in 1994. Lieutenant Commander Shaughnessy brought faith and comfort to many soldiers, including a congregation of 32,000 in Iraq. His impact has earned him a number of accolades, such as Meritorious Service Medals and the Navy and Marine Corps commendation medals. Mr. Speaker, I thank Father Paul Shaughnessy for his service and for sharing his wisdom and faith with us today.

Mr. DeSAULNIER

Mr. DeSAULNIER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life and service of Gwen Watson, who worked to uplift vulnerable populations throughout her life in my community in the East Bay of the San Francisco Bay Area and throughout the State of California. Gwen began her career as a teacher in Louisiana, working with high school students seeking vocational services. She later moved to the San Francisco Bay Area where she served Contra Costa County's homeless population through the St. Vincent de Paul Hope Conference and the Interstate Faith Council of Contra Costa. Gwen also served as the president of the League of Women Voters Diablo Valley, overseeing the ``You Don't Need a Home Vote'' project. In addition, in that position on the League of Women Voters, she facilitated candidate forums. I remember many years ago when I first ran for the Concord City Council, Gwen was there doing her civic best with the League of Women Voters. Sadly, Gwen passed away in May. She will be remembered for her advocacy and her commitment to service. She was an inspiration to all of us who knew her and called her a friend. Please join me in honoring Gwen Watson for her invaluable contributions to her community and to our country.

Mr. DeSAULNIER

Mr. DeSAULNIER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Joseph Calabrigo as he retires from the Town of Danville. Joe has served Danville residents for decades, starting with the Town of Danville in 1985. He has served in many positions for the town, including Chief of Planning, Transportation Director, Administrative Services Director and Assistant Town Manager. He was appointed as Town Manager in 1993, being only the third person to hold this title since the town's inception. Throughout his tenure, Joe has worked tirelessly to foster a vibrant community in the Town of Danville and has diligently served the town's residents. Joe oversaw the development of all three of Danville's General Plans and both Master Plans. He has worked with every councilmember ever elected in the town and worked alongside seven police chiefs. Additionally, Joe's leadership was critical as he guided the town through three recessions and a global pandemic while still maintaining a balanced budget. Joe has continually demonstrated his steadfast commitment to service and his community. Joe is a consummate professional and his work has helped to shape Danville into the beautiful community it is today. His time as Town Manager is marked by his dedication and years of expertise as the longest tenured city or town manager in the Tri-Valley. His leadership and collaboration have galvanized the respect of many and have left an indelible impact on his neighbors and peers. Please join me in congratulating Joseph Calabrigo on his well- deserved retirement after decades of devoted service to the Town of Danville.

Mr. DeSAULNIER

Mr. DeSAULNIER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today alongside Congressman Garamendi to recognize the life and service of Federal Glover. Throughout his life, Federal demonstrated his unwavering devotion to service and advancing opportunity for all. Born to Morris Glover and Lucille Ball who came to the San Francisco Bay Area during the Great Migration, Federal was born and raised in Pittsburg, California. He attended Pittsburg High School, where he was elected Homecoming King. He went on to attend San Francisco State University where he studied Business Administration and was the first among his eleven siblings to attend college. He worked at Dow Chemical for 22 years before beginning his career in public service. Federal was first elected to the Pittsburg City Council in 1996, serving as Mayor from 1998 to 1999. During his tenure, he worked tirelessly to improve the lives of residents, supporting neighborhood revitalization efforts throughout the City and establishing a ``Mayor's Forum'' to increase transparency in local government and facilitate better communication between city staff and residents. In 2000, Federal was elected to represent District 5 on the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors, serving as chairman in 2004, 2008, 2013, and 2017, and being the first Black supervisor to serve Contra Costa County. In this role, he was dedicated to empowering community members, increasing public safety, and bolstering youth engagement throughout the County. He was instrumental in supporting major transportation projects throughout the County, leading efforts to widen Highway 4, extend BART service to Pittsburg and Antioch, and implement safety improvements on Vasco Road. These projects have been critical in increasing access to public transit, reducing congestion and pollution, and improving quality of life for residents. Further, he served on the board for the Metropolitan Transportation Commission for 18 years, working to improve transportation infrastructure throughout the Bay Area. Additionally, he spearheaded the County youth conferences and the first Gang Task Force to foster youth participation in civics and provide holistic approaches to youth intervention. Throughout his tenure, he led with humility, compassion, and integrity. He retired from the Board of Supervisors in 2024 after over two decades of incredible service. Sadly, Federal passed away on May 18, 2025, at the age of 69. He will be remembered for his resilience, his steadfast commitment to justice, and for the indelible mark that he left on this community. Please join us in extending our condolences to Federal's wife of 47 years, Janis, his children, Tederal and Carissa, and his grandchildren, and in honoring Federal Glover for his invaluable impact in Contra Costa and beyond.

Mr. DeSAULNIER

Mr. DeSAULNIER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor World War II veteran and D-Day survivor, ``Papa'' Jake Larson, for his invaluable contributions to our nation. Eager to serve his country, Jake enlisted in the National Guard at just 15 years old after lying about his age. After the attack on Pearl Harbor in December, 1941, Jake was sent to Fort Dix, New Jersey before heading overseas to Europe. He advanced to the position of Operations Sergeant where he assisted in planning the invasion of Normandy in Operation Overlord. In 1944, Jake arrived on the shores of Omaha Beach carrying 74 pounds of gear and narrowly surviving what was at the time the largest amphibious operation in history. He avoided gunfire and landmines, fighting the German Nazi forces and helping to liberate France from Nazi control. Throughout his time in service, Jake bravely endured six battles, including the infamous Battle of the Bulge. The heroism and courage demonstrated by Jake and others were critical in defeating the Nazis and putting an end to the war. More recently, Jake Larson earned the nickname of ``Papa Jake'' from his online presence as a storyteller on TikTok and Instagram. Online, Papa Jake shares details of his time in the U.S. Army, teaching audiences about our nation's history and reminding us of the sacrifices that have been made to protect our freedom. Jake has amassed over 1.3 million followers on social media and his stories have touched countless lives. As we commemorate the 81st anniversary of D-Day, I'd like to extend my gratitude and respect to Jake for his extraordinary bravery. Please join me in recognizing ``Papa'' Jake Larson for his dedicated service to our country.

Mr. DeSAULNIER

Mr. DeSAULNIER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life and service of Gwen Watson. Throughout her life, Gwen was committed to serving vulnerable populations and empowering community members. She began her career as an educator, working with high school students in her home state of Louisiana who were interested in pursuing vocational careers. After moving to the San Francisco Bay Area, Gwen remained focused on giving back to her community. She was a part of St. Vincent de Paul's Advisory Task Force, working to serve Contra Costa County's homeless population. Driven by her faith and her dedication to service, Gwen helped to provide rental assistance and other critical resources to unhoused individuals through St. Vincent de Paul's mobile homeless shelter. That program has grown into what is known today as the St. Vincent de Paul Hope Conference. Additionally, Gwen was a member of the Interfaith Council of Contra Costa County and cofounded the Winter Nights program. This program aims to break the cycle of homelessness by providing shelter, food, childcare, and other key services to unhoused families. Through this program, Gwen helped countless Contra Costa families to get back on their feet and to have access to the resources they need in order to thrive. Furthermore, Gwen served as President of the League of Women Voters of Diablo Valley. In this role, she oversaw the ``You Don't Need a Home to Vote'' project, which worked to increase civic engagement from unhoused and low-income individuals and help them register to vote. Gwen's fierce commitment to advocacy and social justice was evident to all who knew her. Sadly, Gwen passed away in May 2025. She will be remembered for her compassion, unwavering commitment to service, and her deep love for this community. Please join me in honoring Gwen Watson for her invaluable contributions to our community.

Mr. DeSAULNIER

Mr. DeSAULNIER. Mr. Speaker, the administration's reckless public servant firing spree is hurting the health, safety, and financial security of people across the United States. Since he came into office, the President has laid off at least 58,000 Federal civil service workers with plans to eliminate an additional 150,000 workers. Another 76,000 workers accepted buyouts after being threatened with relocation or termination. These layoffs include hundreds of staff members at the Centers for Disease Control who protected children from lead poisoning and air pollution, among other services. Staff cuts at the Social Security Administration have resulted in longer wait times for seniors applying for benefits. I have been proud to join legal briefs filed against the administration, which are resulting in the reinstatement of thousands of Federal workers. I will continue to push back against the President and oppose illegal cuts to the Federal workforce, which block Americans from accessing the critical government services they rely on. Mr. Speaker, if we want to talk about efficiency, then let's join together to evaluate it, not do it this way.

Mr. DeSAULNIER

Mr. DeSAULNIER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor World War II veteran and D-Day survivor ``Papa'' Jake Larson for his invaluable contributions to our country. After Pearl Harbor, Jake was eager to serve his country. He enlisted in the National Guard at 15 years old, not telling the truth about his age. He was sent to Europe, where he assisted in the planning of and participated in the Invasion of Normandy on D-Day and bravely endured six battles, including the Battle of the Bulge. More recently, at 102 years old, Jake's storytelling on social media about his military service has earned him over 1.3 million social media followers and the nickname ``Papa Jake.'' As we commemorate the 81st anniversary of D-Day, I extend my gratitude and respect to Jake for his extraordinary service to this country. Please join me in recognizing ``Papa'' Jake Larson for his dedicated service to America.

Mr. DeSAULNIER

Mr. DeSAULNIER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a good friend and a great political and community leader in my community and in the bay area in San Francisco, California, former Contra Costa County Supervisor Federal Glover, who passed away on Sunday after a distinguished life of service to his community and his country. Born in Pittsburg, California, Federal served as a city council member and mayor of the city of Pittsburg before becoming the first African American to serve on the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors in the east bay. I was lucky to serve alongside Federal on the county board for 6 of his 20 years. He supported efforts to expand job opportunities, create the board of supervisors' public protection committee, and he was an instrumental leader on regional transportation in a transformative period of time in northern California and the bay area. Federal was a good man, a good friend, and I will miss him very, very much. I wish Federal good luck, and I hope I will see him again in the future.

Mr. DeSAULNIER

Mr. DeSAULNIER. Mr. Speaker, I am reminded of the first oath the gentlewoman took before she got here: First, do no harm. I wish my Republican colleagues would take that oath because the harm that this proposal does to the least amongst us in this country is unfathomable, cruel, and madness from a financial perspective. When everyone is cut off from Medicaid, where will they go? They will go to public hospitals that are already underfunded and trying to serve the least among us. After all the stories you have heard, I want to put in some numbers. Think of multiplying these numbers to the stories you have heard, particularly for people who are the least among us as Americans. There are 78.5 million people enrolled in Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program across America. This is 10 percent higher than in February 2020, pre-COVID. One in three people with disabilities, 15 million, have Medicaid. Comparatively, 19 percent of adults without disabilities have Medicaid. These are the people who Republicans and Democrats in the past have tried to protect. Now, we are being cruel and dismissive of their needs. One in five Medicaid enrollees has a disability. Two-thirds of Medicaid enrollees do not receive SSI benefits. Mr. Speaker, 10.3 million people would lose Medicaid coverage in the next 10 years if the budget reconciliation bill of the Republicans passes because of its punitive work requirements. Most of these people are already working. In 2022, Medicaid covered two-thirds of all home-care spending. 4.5 million people receive Medicaid-covered home-care services each year in America. Medicaid cuts as proposed under the Republican budget threaten optional benefits the most, including long-term services and supports that help the disabled and the elderly in home- and community-based services that help protect these Americans who need our help. They live with disabilities in their own communities and get the support, love, and affection of those communities and their families. In California alone, almost 15 million Californians are on Medicaid. 1,906,300 Californians on Medicaid have a disability. Of those, 992,000 people are working, aged 19 to 65. A million people in California with disabilities who get Medicaid are working, and now they are going to be forced to go through a bureaucracy that supposedly the majority wants to make more efficient. That is not efficiency. That is cruelty to the least amongst us. Mr. Speaker, 68 percent of California adults on Medicaid have a job. In just my district, which is the fifth wealthiest district in the House, 131,634 people are on Medicaid and are at risk of losing care under the Republican budget. 45,916 of those are children, 19,000 are seniors, 10,000 are people with disabilities, 48,300 adults are on Medicaid due to ACA expansion. Mr. Speaker, this is madness. I thank my colleague for bringing this to the floor, and I thank her for her spirit and her personal testimony to what this will mean to millions of Americans who are the least amongst us.

Mr. DeSAULNIER

Mr. DeSAULNIER. Mr. Speaker, as a former small business owner, I would like to spend a moment talking about the consequences of the administration's policies, both tariffs and the erratic behavior, that have an impact on people like myself, people who owned restaurants for decades, and the thin margins they operate under. Mr. Speaker, recent surveys have said, 42 percent of small businesses reported increased costs due to the administration's policies, both tariffs and otherwise. I don't think they realized or thought through the effect of these policies on Main Street America. Over 45 percent of Americans are employed by small business. They are the backbone of Main Street and our economy. The administration and my colleagues on the other side have to think through the consequences of this erratic behavior on Main Street America.

Mr. DeSAULNIER

Mr. DeSAULNIER. Mr. Speaker, I regret that I was unable to vote today, as I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 123, H. Con. Res. 30.

Mr. DeSAULNIER

Mr. DeSAULNIER. Mr. Speaker, in 2005, the 988 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline was launched to provide 24/7 access to counseling and referrals for Americans in crisis. In recognition of these challenges, the challenges these Americans face, the 988 lifeline provides specialty services targeted at LGBTQ youth, who are at a higher risk of suicide than the population at large. According to a 2024 survey by the Trevor Project, 12 percent of LGBTQ youth attempted suicide in the past year--12 percent of American youth in this category. Now, the Trump administration is reportedly considering eliminating these specialized support services, which would cut off the lifesaving resources they provide. Young people, young Americans, when they are in crisis, should be able to speak to a professional counselor who understands their experiences and is trained to communicate with people facing similar struggles. This is a cruel idea. For the health and safety of all young Americans, the President must immediately reverse course on this ill- advised, cruel, and dangerous plan.