Joni Ernst

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to honor Hands Jewelers of Johnson County, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. Now known as Hands Jewelers, the business was founded in 1853 and bought by John Hands in 1907 after he moved to Iowa City because of the Rock Island Railroad depot. As the family recounts, railroad workers relied on precisely synchronized watches to keep trains on schedule, creating a constant need for skilled repair and craftsmanship. After John's passing, his son Harold Hands took over and married Mary Rupener Nusser. Soon, Hands Jewelers will be owned and operated under its fifth generation of leadership once Bill Nusser, Jr., passes the torch to his son Charlie to continue a legacy built on craftsmanship, trust, and dedication. For more than 170 years, the business has provided high-quality jewelry and personalized service, helping customers celebrate life's most meaningful moments, from engagements and weddings to anniversaries and family milestones. Through a dedication to excellence and attention to detail, Hands Jewelers ensures each piece tells a story and has earned a reputation as a trusted name across eastern Iowa. In recent years, Hands Jewelers has demonstrated its ability to adapt and evolve while honoring its long-standing traditions. Through a thoughtful rebranding effort, the business has modernized its marketing, expanded its e-commerce presence, and embraced new ways to connect with customers, ensuring continued success in an ever-changing marketplace. Beyond its work in fine jewelry, Hands Jewelers is deeply woven into the fabric of the Iowa City community. The Nusser family has remained actively engaged in local leadership and service, including involvement with the Community Foundation of Johnson County, the Englert Theater, and Greater Iowa City, Inc., where they have helped support local economic growth and strengthen the small business community. Their leadership extends beyond the local level through participation in industry organizations such as Charlie's service on the Centurion Retail Advisory Board contributing to the Centurion Jewelry show, further underscoring their commitment to excellence and deep engagement in the fine jewelry business. With a team of 15 employees, the business supports local jobs while contributing to the vibrancy of Iowa City and the broader Johnson County community. Today, with multiple family members still involved in the business, Hands Jewelers continues to reflect the values that have sustained it for generations: hard work, integrity, and a deep commitment to community. I am pleased to recognize Bill and Charlie Nusser, along with the entire team at Hands Jewelers, for their dedication to Iowa City and Johnson County. I look forward to their continued success and wish them the very best in the years ahead.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, as chair of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to honor Boone River Financial of Hamilton County, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. Founded in 2021 by Andrew Hejlik, Boone River Financial is committed to helping individuals and businessowners develop thoughtful financial strategies and make informed decisions. Based in Webster City, the firm's team of five professionals takes pride in their mission to ensure client relationships are at the center of everything they do, making sure each interaction reflects their core values: client focus, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Boone River Financial provides a wide range of services, including investment management, comprehensive financial planning, and small business and 401(k) advisory services. The team works closely with clients to establish personalized investment goals and create sustainable strategies for long-term asset growth. By taking a holistic approach to financial planning, Boone River ensures that every aspect of a client's financial picture is carefully considered, making them a trusted partner every step of the way. Their commitment to education also empowers clients to understand their options and make confident financial decisions. Boone River Financial is deeply committed to strengthening the local economy. They are active members of the Webster City Chamber of Commerce, Hamilton County Growth Partnership, and the Iowa chapter of the Association of Legal Administrators. Additionally, Boone River proudly sponsors the annual Thanksgiving Turkey Trot, helping organize donations for the local food bank. They are also involved in the Fly High Memorial Car and Truck Show and Cruise, which supports education scholarships, as well as the Webster City Chamber Memorial Golf Tournament. Andrew Hejlik's leadership and dedication to excellence have earned him continued recognition within the financial industry, including membership in the prestigious Million Dollar Round Table of the Premier Association of Financial Professionals and the Professional Plan Consultant designation from the Center for Fiduciary Studies. He worked closely with the Enhance Hamilton County Foundation to help restore the historic Elks Club Building in downtown Webster City and serves as a member of the Fred M. Fuller Board of Trustees, which is tasked with maintaining the Fuller Recreational Hall. It is my honor to recognize Andrew Hejlik and the entire Boone River Financial team for their outstanding work and dedication to their community. I look forward to their continued success and wish them the very best in the years ahead.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. I ask for the yeas and nays.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, Iowa and our Nation mourn the loss of SGT Declan Coady. A native of West Des Moines, IA, Sergeant Coady served his Nation honorably. He represented the best of us, and I am incredibly thankful for his brave and selfless dedication to defending our freedoms and keeping our homeland safe. On March 1, 2026, Sergeant Coady was tragically killed in an Iranian drone strike on an American tactical operations center in Kuwait's Port of Shuaiba, alongside five other servicemembers assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command. Sergeant Coady, just 20 years old, was a sophomore at Drake University. He joined the U.S. Army Reserves upon graduating from high school in 2023 and served as an information technology specialist. Enrolled in the Reserve Officers' Training Corps Program, he could have been exempt from deployment, but loved serving his country so much that he chose to deploy to Kuwait this past August anyway. Through his commitment to our country, Sergeant Coady earned several awards and decorations, including the Army Service Ribbon, National Defense Service Ribbon, and Overseas Service Ribbon. Sergeant Coady is survived by his sister, two brothers, and father. He was an Eagle Scout, an avid outdoorsman, and an athlete. He cared deeply about his family, who will remember him for his kindness and intelligence. He was a superb student studying cyber security at Drake, with an incredibly bright future ahead of him. Sergeant Coady made the courageous choice to serve his country and paid the ultimate sacrifice. His invaluable service will not be forgotten. I, along with the entire country, extend my deepest gratitude to Sergeant Coady, and my deepest condolences to his family and friends.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, Waukee, IA, native MAJ Jeffrey O'Brien devoted his life to the defense of the United States for more than a decade. Today, I am mourning, alongside our entire Nation, his loss. His courageous decision to answer the call to serve and put our Nation before himself will never be forgotten. Major O'Brien was commissioned into the U.S. Army Reserves nearly 15 years ago. He was assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command based in Des Moines, IA. Major O'Brien deployed to the Middle East multiple times. His honorable service earned him several awards, including the Army Achievement Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Army Superior Unit Award, Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Army Service Ribbon, and the Armed Forces Reserve Medal with ``M'' Device. On March 1, 2026, Iranian forces launched a drone strike on an American tactical operations center in Kuwait's Port of Shuaiba, killing Major O'Brien and five other American servicemembers. These servicemembers died in support of a mission to protect fellow Americans from the duplicitous and evil regime of the Ayatollah, which has been responsible for the deaths of thousands of Americans. Their sacrifice cannot be repaid and will not be forgotten. Major O'Brien is survived by his courageous wife Roxane and his beautiful children, as well as his parents Helen and Daniel of Coggon, IA; his brothers David and Gregory of Marion, IA; and his sister Natalie Navarro. He was a true son of Iowa. A lifelong Iowan, he graduated from Iowa State University in 2005 with a bachelor of science in computer engineering. He excelled in his career as an information systems engineer and has led ProCircular's Defensive Cyber Operations program since 2024. He was a true leader, most known for his compassion, uplifting humor, and calm guidance. On behalf of a grateful nation, I extend my deepest gratitude for Major O'Brien's extraordinary service and sacrifice and my most sincere condolences to his family.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, today, we remember CW3 Robert Marzan, a longtime resident of Des Moines, IA. While his sacrifice can never be repaid, his courageous service will never be forgotten. On March 1, 2026, Chief Warrant Officer 3 Marzan was killed in an Iranian drone strike on an American tactical operations center in Kuwait's Port of Shuaiba, alongside five other members of the 103rd Sustainment Command. He had served in the U.S. Army Reserves for more than three decades and had deployed to the Middle East multiple times. He served his country with tremendous dignity and honor. Chief Warrant Officer 3 Marzan is remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father, and a friend to many. Residing in Des Moines for more than 15 years, he represented the very best of Iowa. He was a skilled problem-solver, a supportive friend, a mentor, and a brave American hero. He will be sorely missed by his family and friends. I, alongside the entire Nation, mourn the loss of Chief Warrant Officer 3 Marzan and pray for his family. Our Nation owes him and his family an incredible debt of gratitude for his service and sacrifice. My heart goes out to all Iowans as we grieve the loss of Chief Warrant Officer 3 Marzan and his brothers in arms of the 103rd Sustainment Command.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to honor Grant Ranch Grub & Pub of Keokuk County, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. Originally founded in the late 1960s in Marengo by Duane and Mary Grant, the Grant Ranch is known for remaining true to local traditions and as a community gathering spot. After changing locations over the decades, Grant Ranch was revived in Sigourney in 2003 by their daughter Sherry Fisher. Today, the Grant Ranch legacy lives on through the Grant family's first-born grandchild Danette Meyer, who restored and reopened the establishment as Grant Ranch Grub & Pub on Sigourney Square. With its full-service dining experience, the restaurant quickly became a local favorite, carrying forward a family legacy rooted in Iowa hospitality. Danette Meyer brings more than 30 years of hands-on experience in the hospitality industry after working in nearly every role in the restaurant industry before reopening Grant Ranch Grub & Pub. When she relaunched it during the COVID-19 pandemic while raising five children, Danette demonstrated extraordinary resilience and commitment to her community. With a team of four employees, the business supports local jobs while contributing to the vibrancy of Sigourney and the broader Keokuk County community. Backed by the support of her family and the local community, Danette led an extensive renovation of the property, transforming it into a welcoming space offering full-service dining, catering, and private event rentals. The restaurant hosts themed events throughout each month and offers a popular ``Try It Tuesday,'' showcasing a new sandwich each week. Menu favorites include the haystacks, their signature take on onion rings, the Frisco Melt, and a variety of all-beef hot dogs. Beyond its role as a local gathering place, Grant Ranch Grub & Pub plays an active role in supporting the Sigourney community. Danette regularly gives back by mentoring youth and individuals with disabilities to help prepare them for future employment, as well as providing meals for local schools and community organizations. Her dedication to service and leadership has earned recognition across Iowa, including being named one of the Iowa Restaurant Association's 2025 ``40 Women to Watch'' in the hospitality industry. Grant Ranch was also awarded Best Pub & Bar on Restaurant Guru in 2025 and is a proud member of the Keokuk County Economic Development Group and the Iowa Restaurant Association. Through its emphasis on family tradition and community involvement, Grant Ranch Grub & Pub exemplifies the spirit of small business in Iowa. I am pleased to recognize Danette Meyer, along with the entire team at Grant Grub & Pub, for their dedication to Sigourney and Keokuk County. I look forward to their continued success and wish them the very best in the years ahead.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to honor Sunset Scoops of Shelby County, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. Founded in April 2025 by Jeremy and Tina Schechinger, Sunset Scoops is a small, family-owned business rooted in a passion for service and its community. Inspired by a desire to create a welcoming and fun environment for their four children and neighbors, the Schechingers opened Sunset Scoops in downtown Harlan as a gathering place where residents could connect and enjoy a fun treat together. Tina, a physician by day and a proud ``scooperista'' by night, drew inspiration from memories of working at a local cookie shop as a teenager and the joy that comes from creating special moments for others. Her vision for Sunset Scoops is a product of that lifelong dream, offering a space where families can make memories just as Tina once did. Tina chose the name Sunset Scoops because she wanted to provide Harlan with a place open past sunset, giving people the opportunity to enjoy themselves after work or a movie, something rare in a small town. Since opening its doors, the business has embraced its role as a community gathering space by hosting seasonal celebrations and participating in local events that bring families and neighbors together. Recently, the shop offered a ``12 Days of Ice Cream'' box set for Christmas and hosted a New Year's party for Harlan to celebrate as a community. The shop also provides a variety of board games, giving families and friends another way to enjoy time together. Today, Sunset Scoops operates as a local ice cream shop offering a wide variety of sweet treats, including banana splits, sundaes, root beer floats, donuts, milkshakes, and their best-selling specialty, ice cream nachos. The shop strives to be a nut-free facility, accommodating patrons with food allergies and providing options for folks with dietary restrictions. With a team of 10 employees, the business contributes to the vibrancy of Harlan's downtown and the broader Shelby County community. Through regular promotions and community-focused initiatives, Sunset Scoops demonstrates a commitment to giving back to the families and residents who support local small businesses. The business offers birthday parties, curbside pickup for a cozy night in, and discounted specials throughout the week. Beyond providing scoops for the Shelby County community, Sunset Scoops is a club- level member of the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce. Tina and Jeremy are also board members of the Harlan community athletic booster club. In its first year, Sunset Scoops has become more than a place to enjoy desserts; it has become a space where memories are made and community bonds are strengthened. Its story is a reminder that small businesses play an essential role in enriching local communities and sustaining rural economies. I am pleased to recognize Jeremy and Tina Schechinger, along with the entire team at Sunset Scoops, for their dedication to Harlan and Shelby County. I look forward to their continued success and wish them the very best in the years ahead.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, as a combat veteran who deployed to the Middle East, I serve to protect America, not just then but always. And I stand strongly with our Commander in Chief as he acts on behalf of the safety and security of Americans. The Iranian regime has been threatening, targeting, and taking the lives of our citizens for 47 years. Yet President Obama gave the regime billions to enrich uranium and obtain weapons used against our own servicemembers. And President Biden's appeasement strategy continued to fuel and fund Iran's proxy terrorism. Enough is enough. This weekend, President Trump took decisive action so neither Iran nor its proxies can ever take another one of our citizen's lives. And the objective is clear: Ensure no American has to live under the threat of Iran-backed terror again. Like every American, I have no desire to see a long, drawn-out war, but this mission is worthy of being completed. God bless our servicemembers around the world who are bravely and selflessly carrying out this noble endeavor. When I served in Iraq and Kuwait in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, each day I put on my boots, I donned my Kevlar, and I stood shoulder to shoulder with my fellow Iowa National Guardsmen, unsure of what the day ahead would bring. But I knew it was my responsibility, as a company commander, to help my men and women stay focused when we were surrounded by chaos. And that remains my prayer for every single one of our men and women in uniform who are working to end Iran-backed terror. Our Nation is still grappling with the news that six courageous heroes, including those from Des Moines' 103rd Sustainment Command and young Iowan SGT Declan J. Coady of West Des Moines, were killed in action. These young men and women gave their lives in support of a noble mission: protecting their fellow Americans and keeping our homeland secure. Our Nation owes them an incredible debt of gratitude. It is one that can never be repaid. But as their fellow brothers and sisters in uniform carry out the mission to ensure we never lose another American to Iran-backed terror, their sacrifice to protect our Nation is not and will not ever be in vain. Every American life is precious, and in Iran's decades-long pursuit of creating chaos around the globe, too many of our servicemembers have been killed. In 1979, militants backed by Iran's regime seized 66 Americans from the U.S. Embassy in Tehran and held them hostage for 444 days. Eight U.S. servicemembers were killed attempting to rescue them. In 1983, Iran-backed Hezbollah terrorists drove a truck bomb into a Marine barracks in Beirut, killing 220 marines, 18 Navy sailors, and 3 Army soldiers. In January 2024, a drone launched by Iran-backed Hezbollah killed three U.S. soldiers at Tower 22 in Jordan. Those soldiers were engineers from the 718th Engineer Company out of Georgia. It is one of my former companies. And no one can forget October 7, 2023, when Iran-backed Hamas terrorists massacred more than 1,200 men, women, and children-- including nearly 50 Americans--and they took 12 of our U.S. citizens hostage. I was in the region that night and immediately went to Israel, where I witnessed the effects of Iran's brutality up close. Make no mistake, folks, when Iran's leaders chant ``Death to America,'' they mean it. Our adversaries must understand that a single American loss is one too many and that they will pay dearly for spilling the blood of those who wear the uniform. Already, President Trump's ``peace through strength'' efforts are working. Iran's Supreme Leader and over 40 senior Iranian regime leaders have been wiped out. Their weapons systems, their navy, and their nuclear ambitions are being demolished. And our President, Donald J. Trump, is bringing the region together, united against their common enemy, Iran. Since October 7, I have traveled to the Middle East more than 10 times in pursuit of peace, and I have heard firsthand from leaders across the Middle East for years about their fears of Iran and its proxies. While a more peaceful world was always the goal, as long as the Iranian regime and its proxies existed, it seemed far from reality. This week, Iran launched sustained attacks at our partners, thinking they would fracture our relationships in that region. They thought wrong. Instead, our partners have been brought together. They know who the real enemy is, and they have told me they stand with the United States and they support our actions. These are our Arab friends in the region. For too long, they have also lived under the threat of the Iranian regime and are ready for a region where peace and prosperity can finally take hold. And we know a safer Middle East means a safer world. Iowans are no strangers to the consequences of the chaos in the Middle East, which is why I want to bring an end to it. In December, two Iowa National Guardsman--Staff Sergeants Nate Howard and Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar--were killed by terrorists in Syria. Shortly after, in January, I visited the Iowa troops that were stationed in the region, including the unit that our staff sergeants came from, and I had one simple but very important message for them: Their noble mission matters. The work our men and women are doing overseas is helping keep the American homeland safe, but now is our opportunity to bring an end to the decades of chaos--the sooner the better. While the power to declare war exclusively rests with Congress, the responsibility to defend our Nation and our homeland is in the hands of our Commander in Chief. And don't forget, Congress holds the power of the purse. Yet, at this very moment, the Department of Homeland Security is shut down by Senate Democrats who are blocking its funding. This is a dangerous time for a political stunt. We don't know if there are terrorist sleeper cells waiting to avenge the death of the Ayatollah, or even lone radicals. Consider, a gunman who killed two in Austin, TX, on Sunday was wearing a T-shirt featuring an Iranian flag, and a Virginia mosque less than an hour's drive away from this very Capitol honored the ``martyrdom'' of the Ayatollah this week. While I appreciate the gentleman from Virginia's interest in exercising Congress' war powers, I would urge all of my Democrat colleagues to get behind those who are at this moment defending our Nation. We have already lost too many lives at the hands of Iran, but as long as the Iranian regime chants ``Death to America,'' the lives of our citizens will continue to be threatened. Mr. President, I yield the floor.

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. I ask unanimous consent that the bill be considered read a third time and passed and that the motion to reconsider be considered made and laid upon the table.

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to the immediate consideration of H.R. 3377, which was received from the House.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, if there is no further business to come before the Senate, I ask that it stand adjourned under the previous order following the remarks of Senator Klobuchar.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that when the Senate completes its business today, it stand adjourned until 10 a.m. on Wednesday, March 4; that following the prayer and pledge, the Journal of proceedings be approved to date, the morning hour be deemed expired, the time for the two leaders be reserved for their use later in the day, morning business be closed, and the Senate resume consideration of the motion to proceed to H.R. 6644, postcloture, and at 11 a.m., all time be expired and the Senate vote on the motion to proceed; further, that if Senator Kaine makes a motion to discharge S.J. Res. 104, the Senate vote on the motion at 4 p.m.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. I ask unanimous consent that the bill be considered read a third time and passed and that the motion to reconsider be considered made and laid upon the table.

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Committee on Armed Services be discharged from further consideration of H.R. 7211 and the Senate proceed to its immediate consideration.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. I ask unanimous consent that the bill be considered read a third time and passed and that the motion to reconsider be considered made and laid upon the table.

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Committee on Armed Services be discharged from further consideration of H.R. 7194 and the Senate proceed to its immediate consideration.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. I now ask for a second reading, and in order to place the bill on the calendar under the provisions of rule XIV, I object to my own request.

Ms. ERNST. I understand there is a bill at the desk, and I ask for its first reading.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate be in a period of morning business, with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. I ask unanimous consent that the motion to reconsider be considered made and laid upon the table.

Ms. ERNST. I know of no further debate on the bill.

Ms. ERNST. I ask unanimous consent that the bill be considered read a third time.