Joni Ernst

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Madam President, today the Senate will vote to advance the nomination of Dr. Casey Mulligan to be the Chief Counsel of the Office of Advocacy at the Small Business Administration. I strongly urge my colleagues to vote yes in support of his nomination. Over the past few years, the cost of regulations for small businesses has been out of control. The previous administration created more than 1,100 final rules, costing $1.8 trillion. The Biden administration's regulatory costs were 600 times higher than that of the first Trump administration, and 3.7 times higher than that of the Obama administration. In stark contrast, during his first 6 months back in office, President Trump's deregulatory actions have already saved an estimated $86 billion and 52.2 million hours in paperwork. Small businesses back in Iowa and across the country can now spend more time building their business and hiring employees, instead of dealing with pointless redtape. While SBA Administrator Loeffler and the White House are working hard every day to optimize the regulatory landscape, small businesses deserve a Senate-confirmed Chief Counsel to help advance this mission. The Office of Chief Counsel For Advocacy has been vacant, without a Senate-confirmed occupant, for nearly a decade. This key role champions the interests and protection of small businesses, and President Trump nominated a highly qualified individual for this role. Dr. Casey Mulligan's unique mix of academic success and real-world experience makes him an ideal candidate for this job. Dr. Mulligan received his Ph.D. in economics from the University of Chicago, where he currently serves as an economics professor. In addition, Dr. Mulligan also owns two small consulting and economic research businesses. Over the years, he has conducted extensive research on the economic effects of regulation on small businesses. At the SBA Office of Advocacy, Dr. Mulligan will serve as an advocate for small businesses nationwide. The Office of Advocacy's duty remains the same regardless of party: to stand up for the little guy and warn regulators when their proposals could harm small firms. Dr. Mulligan understands the significance of Main Street and the need to evaluate every burden placed on America's entrepreneurs. Again, I urge my colleagues to support the confirmation of Dr. Mulligan as Chief Counsel of the Office of Advocacy at SBA. I yield the floor.

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 recognize Sweets by Keke of New Hampton, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In January 2021, mother-daughter duo, Jenny and Kenzie Bouillon, started Sweets by Keke in their garage with the vision of selling homemade baked goods to their community. By October, Sweets by Keke expanded to a location on East Main Street in New Hampton, IA, where the bakery still operates today. The name, Sweets by Keke, is inspired by Kenzie, who helps run the family business with her mom Jenny, her dad Randy, and siblings Chelsie and Carver. When the business was just taking off, Kenzie was a high school student and took classes towards her associate's degree from Northeast Iowa Community College. In May of 2021, Kenzie graduated with both her high school and college diplomas, highlighting her hard-working character that has led to the business' success. The sweets are made from special Bouillon family recipes. Two fan favorites are their cheesecakes and sugar cookies. Cheesecakes are a specialty product made by Kenzie, who creates and rotates new flavors weekly, including raspberry swirl, sea salt caramel, key lime, and more. The bakery produces a wide variety of products, including homemade mini cakes, apple cinnamon snickerdoodles, and custom sugar cookies. Sweets by Keke also offers lunch specials. The business has become the go-to spot for the Chickasaw County community for baked goods for holidays, weddings, and events. Sweets by Keke not only serves quality baked goods but also gives back to their community. Jenny and her family are consistently contributing to local fire departments, schools, and more. Every spring, the family works with local schools through the National Honor Society to provide prizes and sweet treats for their annual proms. Sweets by Keke also donates and provides baked goods year-round for local events supporting army veterans, a cause that is very near and dear to the family. Sweets by Keke is also a member of the New Hampton Chamber of Commerce. Through their sweet offerings and dedication to the community, Sweets by Keke has become a standout business in New Hampton, IA. This year, Sweets by Keke looks forward to celebrating its fourth anniversary in Iowa. I want to congratulate Jenny and Kenzie Bouillion and the entire Bouillion family for their hard work and dedication to providing exceptional services to families across Iowa and beyond. I look forward to seeing their continued growth and success.

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 recognize Sponheim Sales and Services of Nora Springs, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. Founded in 2015 by Dean Sponheim, a fourth-generation Mitchell County farmer, Sponheim Sales and Services is the culmination of decades of agricultural innovation and a deep commitment to soil health and sustainability. Dean, along with his son Josh and longtime colleague Rachel Amundson, launched the acclaimed one-stop shop to provide cover crop seed, aerial application, custom seeding services, and more. What began as an effort to improve farming practices beyond conservation evolved into a full-service operation supporting farmers across Iowa. Dean's journey began in the late 1990s, when he started strip-tilling and providing custom strip-till services. By 2012, Dean was aerially applying cover crops. With the official establishment of Sponheim Sales and Services a few years later, the team expanded to offer cover crop seed sales, custom seed cleaning, drilling, interseeding, and contracting with local oat and rye growers. Recently, they have partnered with Continuum Ag to help farmers participate in sustainability-driven markets while reducing their environmental footprint. Today, Sponheim Sales and Services continues to operate out of Nora Springs, IA, serving farmers across the region, while carrying forward the family's Century Farm legacy. The business remains highly involved within the community, actively participating with organizations such as the Iowa Soybean Association, Iowa Corn Growers Association, and Iowa Farm Bureau Federation. Dean also serves on the Rock Creek Watershed Advisory Board and contributes to national conservation efforts through the National Strip-Till Conference. In 2014, Dean was recognized with the Iowa Farm Environmental Leader Award, a testament to his commitment and ongoing pursuit of sustainable farming. In addition to these leadership roles, Sponheim Sales and Services is dedicated to supporting its local community, sponsoring many schools and county fairs. The team is a trusted resource for farmers seeking professional guidance, offering skills and knowledge drawn from years of firsthand experience and continuous learning. Last year, I witnessed the entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to land stewardship demonstrated by Sponheim Sales and Services firsthand. As a trusted partner to local farmers and a leader in conservation agriculture, this family-owned business continues to make a positive impact across our State and region. I want to congratulate Dean, Josh, Rachel, and the entire Sponheim Sales and Services team for their outstanding work, and I look forward to their continued success supporting Iowa's agricultural future.

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 recognize Groom Curriculum of Emmetsburg, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 2022, Sierra Elbert founded Groom Curriculum with the vision of teaching others the intricacies of pet grooming. From a young age, Sierra assisted her mother with dog grooming, naturally growing her skills and expertise and now serves as the president and founder of Groom Curriculum. As the first nationally collegiate approved dog grooming curriculum provider, the small business offers a 10-week continuing education workforce program specializing in dog grooming, where students earn a professional grooming credential upon completion. Groom Curriculum currently works with 21 community college programs, workforce training organizations, and registered apprenticeship programs across the country. Groom Curriculum ensures student success from all walks of life by removing barriers and guiding students from education to employment. With Groom Curriculum, students learn the skills needed to start a job or run their own dog grooming business. To ensure the curriculum prepares students for excellence and proficiency, the program upholds the educational standards established by the American Kennel Club. Within 3 years, Sierra Elbert and her team, including Patricia Pierce, Shelby Mitchel, and Rachel Colant, have led the way for Groom Curriculum to be recognized and commended nationwide. Elbert was recently named the 2025 Deb Dalziel Woman Entrepreneur of the Year by the Iowa Small Business Development Center. Groom Curriculum currently holds a national accreditation from the National Council for Continuing Education and Training and is supported nationally by the World Pet Association. Groom Curriculum further serves as a community provider by regularly hosting free webinars for dog groomers across the country to support continuing education and promote safe, professional grooming practices. Furthermore, the business has participated in high school career day events to introduce grooming as a skilled trade and has provided free tuition vouchers to select students to reduce financial barriers to training. The team at Groom Curriculum also donates their time to groom dogs in need of homes, further amplifying Groom Curriculum's positive impact within the community. I want to congratulate Sierra and the entire Groom Curriculum team for their hard work and dedication to providing an exceptional service to families and businesses across Iowa. I look forward to seeing their continued growth and success.

Ms. ERNST

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

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, all Americans can take great pride in our Nation's generosity that has saved millions of people around the world from starvation and disease, and our government Agencies coordinating aid efforts should be eager to share details about how their use of taxpayer money makes the world a better place. Yet, over the past decade, USAID repeatedly rebuffed my request for information, using intimidation and shell games to hide where money is going, how it is being spent, and why. As a result of my oversight, I learned that the U.S. Agency for International Development, or USAID, is a rogue bureaucracy operating with little accountability and even sometimes at odds with our Nation's best interests. What warranted such secrecy and stonewalling? Here is just some of USAID's questionable spending that I uncovered: Money intended to alleviate economic distress in war-torn Ukraine was spent sending models and designers on junkets to New York City and fashion weeks in Paris and London at a cost of more than $203,000, $148,000 went to a pickle maker, a dog collar manufacturer fetched $300,000, and a custom carpet manufacturer collected $2 million. Elsewhere, $20 million was awarded to Sesame Workshop, which produces ``Sesame Street,'' to create content for Iraq. Two million dollars went toward promoting--get this, folks--promoting tourism to Lebanon--a nation that our very own State Department warns against traveling to due to the risks of terrorism and kidnapping. Yes, folks, 2 million bucks for tourism to Lebanon when we are saying: Don't travel there. Also, $67,000 was spent to feed edible insects to children in Madagascar, and over $800,000 was sent to China's notorious Wuhan Institute of Virology to collect coronaviruses. What exactly was our International Development Agency developing at China's Wuhan Institute of Virology? Well, if the CIA, the FBI, and other experts are correct that the COVID virus likely originated from a lab leak, USAID may have had a hand in a once-in-a-century pandemic that claimed the lives of millions. There is no shortage of other questionable USAID projects, but President Trump is putting an end to this deep state operation. The foreign assistance programs that do advance American interests are now being administered under the watchful eye of Secretary Marco Rubio. This includes projects previously supported by USAID that were caring for orphans and people living with HIV. Imagine how much more good work like this could be done with the dollars that instead financed fashion shows, supported ``Sesame Street'' programs in Iraq, or ended up at China's Wuhan Institute. Overseas projects without merit are being ended, and the tax dollars that were paying for them will be refunded if the Senate passes the rescissions bill. It also cancels taxpayers' subsidies to public broadcasting. Too often, these programs are partisan propaganda. And you don't have to take my word for it. A National Public Radio senior editor recently confessed, and I will quote this editor's words, not mine: It's true NPR has always had a liberal bent. He admits the organization has zero--zero--Republicans in editorial positions. Come on, folks, even CNN has Scott Jennings to roast the loony liberal lunatics on that failing network. NPR has the right to say whatever the heck they want, but they don't have a right to force hard-working Americans to pay for their political propaganda being masked as a public service. Defunding this nonsense is causing a lot of squealing from the big spenders around here. Washington insiders are more upset at this effort to stop wasteful spending than at the misuse of taxpayer dollars. In fact, saving tax money is such a crazy concept in Washington that Democrats are threatening to shut down the entire government if this bill passes. It says a lot about the other side's priorities when they are willing to take hostage funding for veterans and senior citizens to prevent $9 billion in unnecessary waste, fraud, and abuse from being trimmed from our $7 trillion annual budget. The interest that we are paying on our debt alone is costing nearly $3 billion every single day--every day. If we are ever going to get serious about our debt crisis, Congress needs to pass a rescissions bill like this every single week--every week. Folks, the simple truth is, if you can't find waste in Washington, it is because you simply are not looking. With our national debt now exceeding $37 trillion, the real question we should be asking isn't why is government spending now being scrutinized, but, rather, why did it take so long? I yield the floor. I suggest the absence of a quorum.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the following interns on the Committee on Agriculture be granted floor privileges through August 1, 2025: Amara Jackson, Jodi Robinson, Keeton Dassinger, Patrick Phillips, and Mary Eichenberger.

Ms. ERNST

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

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, today the Senate will vote to advance the nomination of Mr. William Briggs to be the Deputy Administrator of the Small Business Administration. I strongly urge my colleagues to vote yes in support of his nomination. As chair of the Small Business Committee, I have had the honor of getting to know Mr. Briggs and have seen firsthand what he is bringing to the table. He is sharp; he is steady; and he is the right person for the job. Throughout the committee's rigorous nomination process, Mr. Briggs showed up prepared. He was respectful and ready to engage. The professionalism and seriousness with which he approached the committee made it clear that he would be ready to lead on day one. In fact, Mr. Briggs is no stranger to the responsibilities of SBA leadership, having previously served as the Acting Administrator of the Office of Capital Access. During his nomination hearing, he emphasized how his previous work rolling out the Paycheck Protection Program equipped him with practical knowledge and the necessary experience to effectively root out fraud and waste throughout the SBA. As we continue to uncover and pursue fraud, it is critical that we have a Deputy Administrator who can identify and evade those pitfalls while simultaneously ensuring the Agency's day-to-day operations are running smoothly. Mr. Briggs has also committed to working hand in hand with SBA's field offices to ensure that small businesses from any community, instead of just certain demographics, can access the support that they deserve. This position isn't just professional for Mr. Briggs, but it is also personal. As a former entrepreneur who ran two small businesses, he knows what it is like to balance the books, tackle redtape, and manage employees. He also understands the pressures and uncertainty that so many small business owners face every single day. The one-two punch of his government experience and private sector entrepreneurship makes Mr. Briggs the perfect candidate to help Administrator Loeffler make the SBA more accountable, more efficient, more transparent, and more focused on its core mission, which is helping America's job creators succeed. Let's give Main Street America someone who will fight with them and for them. Again, I urge all of my colleagues to support Mr. Briggs' nomination for Deputy Administrator of the Small Business Administration. I yield the floor.

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 recognize Edd the Florist of Ottumwa, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. After emigrating from Germany, Margaret and Karl Wilz moved from Chicago to Ottumwa to purchase Edd the Florist from Edd Buckley in 1956. Currently owned and operated by their son Hans, Edd the Florist remains strong under its second generation of leadership. Hans works alongside six employees, including Cathryn, who has been with the business since its early days when she was his father's assistant. When extended family comes to town during busy holidays to help at the shop, the operations of Edd the Florist are a true family affair. Hans expanded his parents' business by incorporating other retail items and gifts, in addition to contemporary and traditional floral arrangements for any occasion. The inclusion of home goods, food, and gifts has made the storefront a one-stop-shop in Ottumwa. The business also supports the community by featuring other Iowa small businesses' products. Additionally, Edd the Florist opens its parking lot and partners with local food trucks to bring new dining options to Ottumwa. Thanks to strong support from the community, Edd the Florist was voted southern Iowa's best florist for 2024 by readers of the Ottumwa Courier. The Wilz family has made integrating into the community a core priority for the business. Karl served as the president of the Ottumwa Chamber of Commerce and started the first Oktoberfest in the town. Hans also instituted a charity rubber duck race in Ottumwa. The proceeds support local organizations such as the Ottumwa YMCA and First Resources Corp., which offers a variety of services to children, families, and those with disabilities. In addition to owning the business for the last 30 years, Hans currently serves in the Iowa General Assembly as State representative for house district 25. In August, thanks to decades of hard work and community support, Edd the Florist will celebrate its 69th anniversary. The entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to excellence demonstrated by Edd the Florist is clear. I want to congratulate Hans Wilz, his family, and the entire team for their hard work and dedication to their community and providing exceptional products and services to families across Iowa. I look forward to seeing their continued growth and success.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, I call up my amendment No. 2372 and ask that it be reported by number.

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, too many of the idle rich are living high off the hog, collecting government checks for not working, while at the same time earning a million dollars or more from some other side venture. Thousands of out-of-work millionaires were paid more than $271 million in unemployment assistance during just the first 2 years of the Biden administration. In 2022, the most recent year data is available, nearly 6,000 millionaires were paid almost $58 million in jobless benefits. That is $10,000 each for each millionaire not work. The question is, Why? Able-bodied millionaires shouldn't expect handouts made possible by the overtaxed and overworked Americans. My amendment ends freebees for freeloading fat cats by disqualifying anyone making a million dollars or more from being eligible for unemployment income support. The Senate previously approved a similar proposal by a vote of 100 to 0 that unfortunately never became a law. We can't afford to miss this opportunity to save as much as $100 million by passing my amendment. So let's show some bipartisan unity for reducing the deficit by getting millionaires back to work.

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President--

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, I am happy to take a voice vote.

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 recognize Continuum Ag of Washington, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 2015, seventh-generation farmer Mitchell Hora founded Continuum Ag to help fellow farmers better understand and capitalize on their soil health. Mitchell launched Continuum Ag with a mission to empower farmers to improve their land, profitability, and sustainability through data-driven decision-making. What began as a local agricultural consulting company specializing in the Haney Soil Health Test has now evolved into a cutting-edge soil health intelligence business. Today, Continuum Ag operates a software-as-a-service platform, offering a proprietary tool called TopSoil and supports farmers in 43 U.S. States and over 20 countries. The company's platform helps producers earn the Carbon Intensity--CI--Certification, an innovative credit that rewards the production of low-carbon grain. From low-carbon biofuels to regenerative agricultural practices, Continuum Ag helps farmers navigate emerging markets while advancing sustainability and profitability. Through TopSoil, farmers are now able to monetize their data, manage soil health, and engage directly with supply chain partners. Under Mitchell's leadership, Continuum Ag has gained national attention for its innovation. Mitchell was featured in Forbes' 30 Under 30 in 2021 and AgGrad's 30 Under 30 in 2020. He also received the Iowa Department of Agriculture's Environmental Excellence Award in 2023. Mitchell is a member of the Washington County Farm Bureau Board and the Global Farmer Network and was recognized as a Soil Health Champion by the National Association of Conservation Districts. Mitchell is also an active member of the Entrepreneurs' Organization and hosts the TopSoil Podcast and CI Chit Chat, where he shares insights on sustainability, carbon intensity scoring, and regenerative agriculture trends. Continuum Ag hosts an annual TopSoil Summit that unites farmers, partners, and industry experts around the future of agriculture. I want to congratulate Mitchell Hora and the entire Continuum Ag team for their entrepreneurial leadership, commitment to innovation, and bold vision for the future of American agriculture. Their work is helping to strengthen the sustainability of farming communities across Iowa and around the world. I look forward to seeing their continued success in the years ahead.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, Uncle Sam is the Nation's largest landlord. Yet he will never win a round of Monopoly, the classic board game where players try to make money and avoid going bankrupt by buying, renting, and selling property. That is because Uncle Sam, who is already $37 trillion in debt, refuses to sell off unused and unneeded properties that are costing tens of millions of dollars a year to maintain. Many of Uncle Sam's properties are also fixer-uppers, requiring billions of dollars in much needed renovations and overdue upgrades, some of which are listed on this board. Holding on to unaffordable properties that are nearly vacant while being just a roll or two away from going bankrupt is not only a losing strategy in Monopoly but also a bad game plan in real life. But Uncle Sam gets away with it because Washington plays by its own set of rules. And no matter how you roll the dice, ``Washington-opoly'' is a losing game for taxpayers. To demonstrate, why don't we go ahead and play a round. OK. That was my attempt to roll the dice--so three. We rolled a three. One, two, three. OK. We landed on the Department of Agriculture, South Building in Washington, DC. And guess what, folks. It is owned by good old Uncle Sam. Let's look at the stats for the USDA South Building. Seventy-eight percent of this building isn't even being used on a day-to-day basis. Yet we are paying more than $11 million for utilities every single year, and the building requires $1.7 billion for repairs and upgrades. We could hold on to this property and pay these costs for a nearly empty building or we could sell it and make $261 million or more. What would you do? Well, Uncle Sam has decided to keep it and is passing along the costs to taxpayers. So let's roll again. OK. Two. We got two. Let's see. One, two. Great. We landed on Community Chest. So let's pick a card. Community Chest. Pay $818 million for unused property. That is right, folks. Every year, Uncle Sam pays out over $81 million maintaining underutilized offices. This includes nearly 7,700 vacant buildings and another 2,265 that are largely empty. No wonder the nonpartisan Public Buildings Reform Board says Washington's ``wasteful real estate practices would not endure for so long in a private sector company.'' But when playing ``Washington-opoly,'' Uncle Sam doesn't pay the costs for his wasteful decisions; you do. How about we take one more turn? Six. One, two, three, four, five, and six. This time we landed on Chance. So we get to pick another card. So there we go. There is our Chance card. Pass the For Sale Act and advance to Go. Folks, that is exactly the type of Chance we need to protect taxpayers. Selling off Uncle Sam's unneeded property has long been tied up by overly restrictive redtape and bureaucratic barriers. To revamp Washington's real estate rules, I introduced the For Sale Act. Passing this bill will put six pieces of prime property in the Nation's Capital on the auction block immediately. Selling just these spots will bring in at least $400 million, while also canceling costs, including $2.9 billion in overdue maintenance. This is just the first step in downsizing Uncle Sam's unused, unneeded, and unaffordable real estate holdings. To any interested potential buyers, you can build a house or even a hotel on these properties and earn rent just like Monopoly. But best of all, taxpayers finally get to advance to Go and collect $400 million. That, folks, is how you win the game. I yield the floor. I suggest the absence of a quorum.

Ms. ERNST

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

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent to use a prop during my remarks.

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 recognize Acorn Bluff Farms of Columbus Junction, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 2016, while actively serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, Seth Todd teamed up with his younger brother Kenan Todd to launch their own hog farm in southeast Iowa. Both Iowa State University graduates, the brothers researched the complex genetics and breed options for their heritage pork operation. After thoughtful consideration and several taste testings, the two settled on Mangalitsa pigs, a prized breed known for its rich fattiness and complex flavor profile, recognized as the Kobe of pork. The brothers secured a two-acre parcel of organic farmland from a 200-year-old homestead farm in Columbus Junction. Even after the start of their business, Seth continued to serve in the Marines as a heavy equipment mechanic while Kenan continued to practice as a physical therapist. The brothers began selling their products at the Columbus Junction Farmer's Market, where the Mangalitsa pork became an instant hit. As the brand continued to grow, especially after the Associated Press published a report highlighting the young farm, Acorn Bluff Farms expanded their sales into the online marketplace. Seth and Kenan's brother Jared leads the digital operation and serves as a co-owner of the family business. Acorn Bluff Farms sells their specialty products direct-to-consumer. The farm boasts locally and nationally famous boar sausage, chorizo, bacon, and pork chops, in addition to variety boxes and sampler packs. The Todd brothers perfected a strict breeding standard and slower life cycle for the animals, which ultimately leads to a higher quality and richer flavored product. The Todd family remains deeply involved in their community. Seth serves as a volunteer firefighter and member of the Iowa Farm Bureau, advocating on behalf of farm families in Louisa County. Kenan is an active member of the Columbus Junction City Council, a practicing physical therapist, and co-owner--alongside his wife Allison--of a local coffee shop in Columbus Junction. In 2024, Acorn Bluff Farms received a $15,000 Choose Iowa Value-Added Grant, which allowed them to add USDA-certified cold storage and the capacity to ship premium pork products nationwide. I want to congratulate the Todd brothers for their entrepreneurial drive, commitment to sustainable agriculture, and passion for producing high-quality, heritage pork. Through Acorn Bluff Farms, the team has built a standout Iowa business that reflects the values of hard work, innovation, and integrity. I look forward to seeing their continued growth and success.

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 recognize PowerTech of Council Bluffs, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In April 2016, longtime friends Josh Kallsen and Cody Forristall combined their interests in entrepreneurship to purchase PowerTech, a southwest Iowa-based electrical services company located only miles away from where the two grew up together. Although the business primarily operates out of Council Bluffs, the PowerTech team provides high-quality commercial, industrial, and residential electrical services throughout the Midwest. PowerTech works with residential clients across Iowa and its neighboring communities to design electrical remodels and repairs, install generators, provide emergency services, and fulfill everyday electrical needs. PowerTech also provides similar services for their commercial and industrial partners, in addition to around-the-clock facility maintenance. Since the duo purchased the company, Cody supports the venture as a co-owner, while Josh handles the day-to-day operations, business development, and overall strategy. Under Josh's leadership, the PowerTech brand grew from an initial team of about 50 employees into a thriving 90-person operation. In lieu of a traditional storefront, the group operates the venture out of several state-of-the-art warehouses, including a flagship 8,000-square-foot warehouse in southwest Iowa. As PowerTech continues to build strong relationships and a reputation of high-quality service, the company solidified its role as a leader in the Council Bluffs community. Cody and Josh took their enthusiasm for community service to a new level when they created their very own in-house philanthropy arm of PowerTech. In 2020, they launched the Power to Give Program, which organizes employees to volunteer their time and contribute to southwest Iowa charities, especially organizations involved with children and mental health. In a separate initiative, the PowerTech Cares Program provides free electrical services to a family in need each month. Beyond these programs, Josh serves on the board of the Council Bluffs Schools Foundation, Council Bluffs Area Chamber of Commerce, Council Bluffs Industrial Foundation, and the local chapter of the National Electrical Contractors Association. Recently, in recognition of all their hard work and service, PowerTech won the 2024 Council Bluffs Area Chamber of Commerce award for Business of the Year. I want to congratulate Josh Kallsen and Cody Forristall for their entrepreneurial spirit, impressive growth, and philanthropic mindset that they pour into PowerTech and their Iowa community. I look forward to seeing their continued growth and success.

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 recognize Northwood Foods as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 1998, Brian Burkard founded Northwood Foods in Northwood, IA, with a vision to provide high-quality, custom pork processing services. The company began with a focus on boning and fabrication, quickly gaining traction in the industry. Within just 2 years, it expanded to serve clients not only across the United States but internationally. The rapid growth prompted major facility expansions in 2001 and 2006 to support increased demand for its products and services. Today, Northwood Foods operates a 40,000-square-foot facility and employs more than 180 community employees. Renowned for its quality products and reliable service, the company now processes more than 600,000 pounds of fresh pork daily. Northwood Foods then ships the pork products directly to many of the Nation's premier pork processors for further production and distribution. Northwood Foods offers a wide range of pork processing services, including both standardized and custom-cut products tailored to client needs. Its versatile capabilities allow for pork ham boning, loin boning, rib cutting, and specialty fabrication. The company produces a broad selection of cuts, from semi-boneless and skinless shanks to various bone-in and boneless options. With a strong emphasis on food safety, consistency, and customer service, Northwood Foods upholds rigorous quality control standards and operates a production schedule 5 days a week to meet domestic and international demand. In addition to its industry leadership, Northwood Foods is deeply committed to giving back to the Northwood community and the surrounding area. As a proud Purple Ribbon Partner of the Worth County Fair, the company plays a vital role in supporting this annual event. Their sponsorship helps ensure the fair remains a vibrant celebration of the area's farming heritage and community spirit. Northwood Foods is also a member of the Northwood Chamber of Commerce and supports national industry organizations, including the U.S. Meat Export Federation and the American Association of Meat Processors. In February, Northwood Foods celebrated its 27th anniversary. I want to congratulate Brian Burkard and the entire team at Northwood Foods for their dedication and continued leadership in the pork processing industry, alongside their long-standing commitment to quality, innovation, and community support. I look forward to seeing their continued growth and success.

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 recognize B&B Gates & Supply of Doon, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 1996, Barry and Patty Pollema, hog and cattle farmers, started B&B Gates & Supply in an unheated shop on their family farm in Doon, IA. From the start, the couple had a vision for growing the business and providing jobs that support families across the community. B&B Gates & Supply began as a farm-side operation, providing community members with gates to protect all types of livestock, ranging from chickens to cattle. Today, B&B Gates & Supply is a full-service United States manufacturer of livestock gates, specializing in custom hog and cattle gates and a wide range of agricultural necessities. Due to its growth, in 2021, B&B Gates & Supply moved its operation into a 50,000-square- foot facility along highway 75 with more enclosed space and greater room to scale. That same year, the Pollemas added a retail supply store. The store offers various items such as hoses, batteries, and other farming necessities--helping customers save time by finding what they need all in one place. In addition, B&B Gates & Supply added a servicing arm to the business, enabling service technicians to visit farms and resolve a wide range of issues found by their clients. The family business now employs over 34 community members. Several of Barry and Patty's children have also taken on key roles. Their sons Jesse, Jacob, and Jason Pollema all work in the family business. Jesse serves as the cattle gates and equipment manager and is now a co-owner. Jacob and Jason work in sales. Their daughter Abby handles social media and marketing. B&B Gates & Supply plays an active role in its local community, often stepping in to provide critical support when it is needed most. During last year's flood in Rock Valley, the team spent days helping with cleanup and support. In 2021, Lyon County named B&B Gates & Supply an Iowa Master Pork Partner for its service to the hog industry in Lyon and across Iowa. Additionally, in 2023, VAL-CO awarded B&B Gates & Supply with the Gold Dealer Award for sales. That same year, VAL-CO initiated a partnership with B&B Gates & Supply to provide a range of equipment suitable for use in hog or cattle houses. In 2024, VAL-CO opened a warehouse, which is managed by B&B Gates & Supply, to make hog equipment, feed storage and transport systems, and more for customers and dealerships throughout the Midwest. This year, B&B Gates & Supply will celebrate its 29th anniversary in Iowa. I want to congratulate the Pollema family and the entire team at B&B Gates & Supply for their entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to providing high-quality American-manufactured products and agricultural services to workers and families across northwest Iowa. I look forward to seeing their continued growth and success.

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 recognize Huffman's Farm & Home of Fort Madison, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 2002, Bob Huffman and his brothers Mike and Hank founded Huffman's Farm & Home after gaining experience at their father's successful business Huffman's Welding & Machine, which the Huffman family has kept running for more than 50 years. While working there, the brothers saw an opportunity to expand into the retail industry when clients and contractors not only picked up their finished products but also purchased tools and other small offerings. The business was built and centered around providing families and farmers with great products and customer service. Designed as a one-stop shop, Huffman's Farm & Home offers an extensive selection of brand-name items, from mowers and toys to feeders and electrical repair tools. The business is also pet friendly and even serves Iowa popcorn to its customers while they shop. Over the years, Huffman's Farm & Home has steadily expanded its customer base, store locations, and physical footprint. In 2004, the business renovated and expanded the store from its original 10,000 square feet to more than 20,000 square feet. Today, the operation spans more than 30,000 square feet. In 2008, the Huffman family opened a second location in West Burlington, IA, and in 2016, they opened a third location in Aledo, IL. In addition to its wide selection of in- store products, Huffman's Farm & Home offers personalized customization options by allowing customers to place special orders. The team works closely with vendors to provide custom items tailored to each client's specific needs. Huffman's Farm & Home has grown to over 60 employees across its three locations. Additionally, Bob's nephew Jason Huffman joined the business after graduating with his degree in engineering. Today, he serves as vice president and manages many aspects of the manufacturing division, as well as project management and assessment. Huffman's Farm & Home and the entire Huffman family are actively involved with the Fort Madison community. The Huffmans have generously supported the revitalization of Southeast Iowa's vocational school programs. The business is a member of the Fort Madison Chamber of Commerce where both Jason and Bob served on the board of directors, and Bob also served a term as president. Additionally, Bob is the president of the Fort Madison Economic Development Board. He is also on the Fort Madison Football Board of Directors and served as the chairman of the Tri-State Rodeo Committee. Jason is a member of the Southeast Iowa Community College Machining Advisory Committee and the Fort Madison Airport Commission. In 2010, Huffman's Farm & Home received the Distinction Award from the Greater Burlington Partnership for their involvement in community events and initiatives. In 2019, the Fort Madison Chamber nominated Bob for the Chamber of Commerce's Ambassador of the Year. Later this year, Huffman's Farm & Home will celebrate its 23rd anniversary. I want to congratulate the Huffman family and the entire team for their dedication and support towards their community and for providing vital products and tools to families and farmers across Iowa and the Midwest. I look forward to seeing their continued growth and success.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, I want to thank my colleague and great friend, as we work on this together. I really appreciate your leadership. Thank you for allowing me to join you on the floor today as we show our support for your bill, Sanctioning Russia Act of 2025. Thank you, Senator Graham. Folks, last week, President Trump showed the world that American leadership is back. He brought home the last living American hostage, delivering Edan Alexander from Iran-backed Hamas and reuniting him to his family after nearly 600 days. He stood with our partners in the Middle East to strength the historic Abraham Accords. And he delivered a strong message to Vladimir Putin: End the war. Today, I stand in support of a sovereign Ukraine and echo the President's call to Putin to stop this bloodbath that never should have happened. This is an issue that not only affects a close partner under siege but also the strength of the United States of America and the security of the free world. Let's be clear here, folks: China is watching; so are Iran and North Korea. And, of course, Vladimir Putin is watching too. They call it the ``new axis of evil'' for a reason. I personally witnessed and experienced the growth of the U.S.- Ukrainian relationship when I visited Ukraine, in its waning days of Soviet control, as part of an agricultural student exchange program. This was in 1989. I had the privilege of living with a Ukrainian family on a very small collective farm. As we got together, there were a number of us Iowa students on that exchange. Again, it was an agricultural exchange. We came together, each of us with our families, in a group setting, one of the very first nights that we were on that collective. Again, with the premise of an agricultural exchange--we were farming tomatoes, working with the cattle and the hogs--a very small, small collective. We came together, and the Ukrainians wanted to ask us questions. So all of us American students, all of us from Iowa, we sat down with our Ukrainian families. We expected to talk about agriculture--Iowan agriculture versus Ukrainian agriculture. Much to my surprise, the first question that came from our Ukrainian counterparts was not about how we raise corn or soybeans in Iowa. It was not about the types of machinery that we use on our farm. But the first question the Ukrainians asked us was, What is it like to be free? What is it like to be an American? Because in 1989, those Ukrainians were living under Soviet socialist rule. They could not travel without having the permission of their government. My family did not have a telephone, and if they wanted to use the collective manager's telephone, they would have somebody listening in on the conversation. They would have to know the purpose of the telephone call, whom they were calling, why they needed to make a telephone call. This was 1989, and I learned a lot from that exchange. I saw a Ukrainian people who were desperate to break free of socialist economic structures and authoritarian restrictions on freedom of movement, the ability to have your own employment, and on freedom of speech. Two years later, Ukraine declared its independence from the Soviet Union and broke free. Later--many years later--in 2003, the United States is involved in the war in Iraq. I was a soldier in 2003 during Iraqi Freedom. I was a transportation company commander, permanently stationed in Kuwait. My transporters ran convoys from the ports in Kuwait up to Iraq, delivering goods for our warfighters. So I got a little subcamp in Kuwait, outside of Camp Arifjan. Half of that subcamp, called Camden Yards, was occupied by American forces. My soldiers and I lived on that subcamp. The other half of the camp was occupied by other forces. Those other forces were Ukrainian soldiers. Ukraine is not part of NATO. They were not required to support the United States of America in Iraq. But Ukraine, of its own volition, sent their soldiers--and not just as support elements. They were there as combat forces. Again, I was a transporter. We ran convoys in Iraq. The other half of that camp that I lived on, they were Ukrainian engineer forces. They did road clearing. I think back: How many American lives did those engineers save from their road-clearing efforts, clearing bombs so they wouldn't be detonated by my drivers--Ukrainian forces, combat forces? Today, Ukraine is fighting its own war. And I will remind everyone, the United States does not have forces involved in the Russia-Ukraine war--none, zero, none. Today, Ukraine fights not only for its own survival but for the very principles the United States was founded on. When America leads, the world is safer. When we disengage and when we retreat, like we saw for the last 4 years under the Biden administration, chaos fills the void. Russia's aggression has already cost too many innocent lives, about 5,000 lives every single week. Those are too many innocent lives, folks, which is why I support President Trump's efforts to get a peace deal done now. Vladimir Putin cannot keep tapping the United States of America along. I vow to keep working with my colleagues to equip the President with all the tools necessary to hold Russia accountable, including sanctioning Russia and its supporters if they continue to drag out these peace talks and carry on with the needless bloodshed so this war that never should have started can come to an end. I yield the floor.

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 recognize The Quilted Forest of Forest City, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. Founded in 1998, Shelley and Dan Robson opened The Quilted Forest in Forest City, IA, to create a one-stop shop for quilting kits, fabrics, and original pattern designs. In 2004, Shelley launched Pieced Tree Patterns, a pattern design company that now sells custom quilt patterns nationwide. By 2009, the Robsons expanded into an 8,000-square-foot store on Forest City's Main Street. The Quilted Forest has a variety of products online and in store, with thousands of different fabric and pattern designs, as well as gifts and quilt kits. A dedicated team of four community-based employees supports the shop's daily operations, website design, and inventory management. As the business grew on Main Street, so did its digital presence. In 2012, Quilt Sampler magazine named The Quilted Forest as one of the top 10 quilt shops in the United States. Furthermore, on July 4, 2021, Shelley had the idea to start a YouTube channel to share her passion with more people while connecting with other small businesses. In less than 2 years, a project gained viral attention, propelling the channel's rapid growth. Today, The Quilted Forest YouTube channel has over 120,000 subscribers from around the world. Shelley's videos feature tutorials, museum tours, and project ideas for new and experienced quilters. One project Shelley has worked on is a State quilt block of the month to celebrate the United States' 250th birthday in 2026. The Quilted Forest is very active in the Forest City community. The business is a member of the Forest City Chamber of Commerce, and Shelley formerly served a term as president on the chamber board. Through the chamber, the company participates in the community's Holiday Sip and Shop, a night to explore and shop Forest City's Main Street businesses. The Quilted Forest also participates in the All Iowa Shop Hop, a statewide event where participants collect passport stamps by visiting different stores across the State to win prizes, discover new items, and purchase unique fabrics. Beyond its retail presence, The Quilted Forest gives back by donating quilts to new mothers at the Mason City Hospital, as well as supporting fundraisers and local organizations across northern Iowa and southern Minnesota. In March, The Quilted Forest celebrated its 28th anniversary. I want to congratulate the Robsons and the entire team at The Quilted Forest for their dedication to creativity to share their love of quilting with the Forest City community and beyond. I look forward to seeing their continued growth and success.