Virginia Foxx

Ms. FOXX

Ms. FOXX. Mr. Speaker, the Democrat leadership promised the American people a ``commonsense'' plan to lower gas prices, but House Democrats have not only failed to offer any meaningful solutions, they've put forward policies that will have precisely the opposite effect. Since Democrats took control of Congress, gasoline prices have skyrocketed by more than $1 a gallon. In fact, the price of gas is at an all-time high of $3.80 a gallon today. This is the last thing middle class families need. Every dollar counts and families should not have to spend it on gasoline. Middle class families need relief, not more broken promises from the Democrat majority. That's why Republicans will continue to stand up for average Americans and offer solutions to reduce our dependence on Middle Eastern oil, lower gas prices here at home, and invest in alternative forms of energy to create American jobs and grow our economy. Energy prices are rising, cost of living expenses are rising, and the Democrat leadership is content with sitting on the sidelines and raising taxes and increasing spending. House Republicans are committed to helping working Americans who are carrying the majority of the burden of the Democrats' failure to lead.

Ms. FOXX

Ms. FOXX. Mr. Speaker, I too am here to support H.R. 6081, the Heroes Earnings Assistance and Relief Tax Act, and I think that it is very, very important that we look for every way possible to give relief to our folks who are serving in the military. I am pleased to say that 2 years ago, the President signed into law a bill that I call the HERO Act, which allowed folks who earned combat pay to use that pay to go into taking out an IRA. Again, the idea came from an average citizen who notified our office of a concern because his son had tried to invest his combat pay into an IRA, looking to prepare for his future. We were able to get that bill passed through the Ways and Means Committee 2 years ago, and that bill went through a similar experience that this bill is going through, having passed, then meeting problems in the Senate, then having to pass again. But I think this bill contains so many elements that will advantage people who are willing to serve in the military, and as Chairman Rangel has said, these are the people who have kept us free from the beginning of this country, and I think that anything that we can do to help them, we need to do. I also recommend that we do something to lower our gas prices, which will help their families who are staying here in this country while they may be overseas fighting for our freedom to deal with the rising cost of gas problems. I call on the Democrat majority to come up with their commonsense plan that they have said that they had to help us lower gas prices, not just for our military, but for all Americans.

Ms. FOXX

Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, on March 22, 2008, Taiwan elected a new president, Dr. Ma Ying-jeou of the Nationalist Party, effectively ending the era of government rule by the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). The DPP first came into power with the inauguration of President Chen Shui-bian on May 20, 2000. During the last 8 years, Chen championed human rights and established the Human Rights Consultation Task Force in the Taiwan Presidential Office in October 2000. The purpose of the task force was to lay the groundwork for the establishment of a national Human Rights Commission. Because of this process, a number of seminars on human rights have been held in Taipei over the last 8 years. Today, Taiwan's 23 million citizens enjoy human rights protection, a necessary component of any successful democracy. In addition to the promotion of human rights, Chen was equally committed to using Taiwan's resources to bring aid to less-developed countries in Africa and other parts of the world. Unfortunately, without United Nations membership, Taiwan was denied access to many international organizations which would help coordinate more effective delivery of this aid. During his presidency, Chen continually argued his country's case before the world--that Taiwan's exclusion from the United Nations was a direct violation of the U.N. Charter, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other international human rights provisions. In the same spirit, Chen never gave up in his efforts to secure observer status for Taiwan in the World Health Assembly. In 2004, the 108th Congress passed a bill, later signed into law, that requires the administration to make it a long-term policy to support Taiwan's participation in the World Health Organization as an observer. In terms of Taiwan's relations with the People's Republic of China (PRC), Chen has always expressed his willingness to talk to PRC leaders, despite the PRC's passage of the Anti-Secession Law in 2005 and its current deployment of thousands of missiles aimed at Taiwan. Chen sought peace and tranquility across the Taiwan Strait without sacrificing the permanent interests of the Taiwanese people. Chen also worked closely with the United States Government throughout his administration. He helped reduce the trade imbalance between Taiwan and the United States and cooperated fully with the United States after 9/11 by supporting U.S. antiterrorism efforts in Afghanistan and Iraq and implementing Container Security Initiatives (CSI) in two major ports in Taiwan to enhance the level of security cooperation between Taiwan and the United States. President Chen has always expressed his admiration for American democracy and fondness for the American people. Chen's accomplishments are many and it is difficult to enumerate them all here. Chen is a patriot who has shown the world that democracy is deeply rooted in Taiwan. This is most evident in the election of Mr. Chen and the DPP in 2000 and the upcoming peaceful, democratic transfer of power to President Ma and his new government this May. Mr. Chen, you have served your people well and we will miss you.

Ms. FOXX

Ms. FOXX. Thank you, Congressman Hensarling. I appreciate very much the leadership that you have provided to do this special order tonight. As you've said, the system is broken. The earmark and pork barrel system is broken. And we have to do something about it. I will have to confess that in my first 2 years in Congress, I did ask for earmarks. And my earmarks were very transparent. I felt that every project I asked for was very valid and very worthy. They were all designed to help with economic development in my district. The requests came from county commissioners, airport commissions and economic development groups. They all came very legitimately and very openly from the people in the counties that I represented in the Fifth District of North Carolina. And I have no problem at all defending those. However, what I learned in the process is that this earmark system is badly broken. Not everybody who was requesting special funding was being as transparent as I was being. And I have come to the conclusion that we must have a moratorium on earmarks until we can fix the system. I believe the American people have become very, very cynical about the Congress and about Washington in general. And I didn't come here to feed that cynicism. I came to Washington because I believe that I have a limited amount of talents that I can use on behalf of the people of my district and on behalf of the people of the United States of America. And I want to do that. I am very much in love with this country and with what we stand for. And I want to make sure that I have done everything that I can to help this country succeed. It is the greatest country in the world. I have no doubt about that. And we have done enormously good things in the little over 200 years that this country has been formed. And it is my goal to keep us as a beacon of hope for the world, to keep us as the beacon of freedom for the world, and to do everything that we can to keep the government going in a positive way. But as I said, we have made mistakes. Democrats and Republicans have made mistakes. But I will have to say that Republicans never promised to make the kinds of reforms that the Democrats promised to make. The Democrats said in 2006 a lot of things to get elected and to take over the majority. We have all kinds of charts to show they made many, many promises which they have not kept. But I think this one, this promise about earmarks and pork barrel spending, and they are broken promises related to that, has made the American people even more cynical about Washington and about elected officials than they were before. And I frankly don't want to be a part of that. If we are going to maintain our freedom, if we are going to maintain the type of country that we want, we have to get people engaged in our political process. We have to have people who want to run for office, who want to get out and vote and who want to make sure that we can continue this republic in all the positive ways that it has existed. And frankly, we can't do that as long as we allow people to use the money paid into the Treasury by hardworking Americans for projects that they deem are important. I don't believe that any Member of Congress should ever be able to appropriate money to have any kind of facility, road or anything named for him or her. That, to me, is one of the worst things that can be done, because it is not our money. It is the money of the hardworking taxpayers. And we have no right to take that money and use it, particularly, again, in these very, very difficult times, as my colleague from Texas said, when gas prices are going up, grocery prices are going up, and the hardworking American families are really struggling to make ends meet. We came up with a phrase for what the Democrats have done since they got elected in 2006: The House of Hypocrisy. Some of my colleagues are uncomfortable with that because it is a blotch on the House of Representatives which most of us love dearly. But they have turned it into the House of Hypocrisy because they have not kept the promises that they made. They made lots of promises. And again, I am going to quote some of them because I think we need to do that over and over and over again. Speaker Pelosi, then Minority Leader Pelosi: ``We pledge to make this the most honest, ethical and open Congress in history,'' Christian Science Monitor, 11/14/2006. ``We will bring transparency and openness to the budget process and to the use of earmarks, and we will give the American people the leadership they deserve.'' This was in a press release issued by Speaker Pelosi 12/11/2006. Minority Whip Steny Hoyer said, ``We are going to adopt rules that make the system of legislation transparent so that we don't legislate in the dark of night, and the public and other Members can see what is being done,'' the Washington Times, 11/25/2006. Mr. Hoyer, again, ``Words will not do it. I have a good relationship with Representative Roy Blunt. I have a good relationship with Representative John Boehner. We'll work together. We'll include them in the decision making.'' ``To the extent we create an atmosphere of mutual respect, the American public will feel more comfortable with Congress,'' Hoyer website, 12/10/2006. That is what the American people expected from the Democrats when they gave them the majority in 2006. And frankly, many of us were happy to hear the kinds of pledges that they made. And we thought, great, they have been out of power for 12 years. They have learned some things, and things will be better. DCCC Chairman Rahm Emanuel, ``Earmark reform must do more than identify an earmark's sponsor. We need to curb the proliferation of unnecessary and suspect earmarks,'' townhall.com 9/12/2006, before the election. But what has happened is that the Democratic leadership believes they don't have to keep their promises. But House conservatives are going to stand with hardworking Americans and continually demand it. We continue to offer amendments to bills that say, you cannot hide these earmarks. They have been done over and over and over again. Every promise that the Democrats made has been broken. None of them has been kept as it relates to earmarks and pork barrel spending. We have to hold them accountable. The American people expect us to be accountable. I am accountable to the people that I represent. My work is an open book. The Democrats have found more devious ways to hide earmarks than any of us could ever have thought possible. But we are going to continue to try to ferret out those earmarks and make them public so that the American people will know what they are. We may not be able to make the Democrats keep their promises. But we are going to reveal when they break those promises and what the consequence of breaking those promises is. We do not need to continue this broken earmark process. We need to stop it. We need to stop pork barrel spending. If we did that, we could reduce spending. We could reduce taxes. We could help the average American family cope with the increase in prices that they are coping with and help them meet those challenges more readily. I again want to thank Mr. Hensarling, Chairman Hensarling, for organizing this special order on the earmark process, for bringing to light the problems that the Democrats have brought to us, and the broken promises that they have before us every day. And I yield back to my friend from Texas.

Ms. FOXX

Ms. FOXX. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the long American legacy of religious freedom and religious expression that we have inherited as a result of the wise foresight of our Nation's founders. Throughout our history, we've been a Nation eager to rally to the cry of the motto, ``In God We Trust,'' in times of peace and prosperity or in war and upheaval. This phrase, etched not only on our coins and here in this Chamber but also on our hearts, has captured a truly American sentiment that our great historic experiment in democracy was founded on, and today, thrives in a robust sense of religious freedom. Religious freedoms were specifically included in our Constitution as a reflection of the colonial experience of religious tolerance and free expression. Yet as religions' detractors would have it, the Constitution's enumeration of American religious freedoms is a paltry clause intended to merely protect us from the forced religion of a repressed central government. This is a far cry from our Founders' full intentions. America's Founders were indeed careful to ensure that the government did not establish an official religion, but while they were at it, they crafted protection that would ensure our natural religious life would not falter under the machinations of those who would infringe on citizens' religious expression. The first amendment is clear: Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof. This amendment does not establish the freedom from religion. Rather, it grants every American freedom of religion. It is upon this freedom that our land was founded, and it is this freedom that undergirds our strength and national character today. As founding father John Adams wrote in 1776 on the eve of our independence, ``Statesmen . . . may plan and speculate for Liberty, but it is Religion and Morality alone, which can establish the Principles, upon which Freedom can securely stand end.'' By allowing for and encouraging the free exercise of religion, the Constitution set the stage for a vigorous national religious life. Most Americans are nothing if not a people of religion, committed to lives of quiet reverence to God, the practice of prayer and the exercise of their religion. Our culture of religious life informs the way we raise families, conduct business and serve our neighbors. Throughout the centuries this culture also illuminated those who governed and served to temper our laws and governmental practices with the timely wisdom of Judeo- Christian ethics. George Washington recognized that America would succeed if she adhered to the long legacy of religious values informing our public life and policy. In his first inaugural address, he said that ``the foundation of our national policy will be laid in the pure and immutable principles of private morality, and the preeminence of free government be exemplified by all the attributes which can win the affections of its citizens, and command the respect of the world.'' George Washington knew what we know today. A healthy culture of free religious expression keeps our Nation on the right track and our government's policies rooted in the values that we hold dear: life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. My continual prayer for America is that we never forsake the Judeo- Christian values that ensure these freedoms remain a centerpiece of our great Nation.

Ms. FOXX

Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, on May 10, we commemorate the 85th Jubilee of the late Azerbaijani President Heydar Aliyev. Heydar Aliyev was a strong leader at a critical time. When political strife and economic uncertainty engulfed the region, he emerged in 1993 as President of the Republic of Azerbaijan. He steered his country through regional power struggles and global changes. He negotiated a cease-fire in the war with Armenia. He deepened Azerbaijan's relationship with the United States, Turkey, Israel, as well as countries in Western Europe. He also cultivated the nation's relations with multilateral organizations such as the United Nations, NATO, the Council of Europe, and the OSCE. He oversaw economic reforms that opened the door for foreign investment. In September 1994, the ``Contract of the Century'' was signed between American and Western companies and Azerbaijan. The Contract was designed to allow Azerbaijan to develop its energy resources in order to diversify Western energy supplies. The two early oil pipelines were from Azerbaijan through Russia to the port of Novorossiysk on the Black Sea and from Azerbaijan through Georgia to Supsa. But his real dream was the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline, which, despite strong opposition, was supported by both the Clinton and Bush Administrations, and is now pumping one million barrels of oil a day. President Heydar Aliyev always valued his country's relations with the United States. The United States was one of the first countries to recognize Azerbaijan's independence. His goal was to elevate relations to a strategic level, and we can say that he has been successful. After we experienced the worst terrorist attack on United States soil on September 11, President Heydar Aliyev was one of the first in the world to offer the unconditional support of his country in the fight against terrorism. Soon after, Azerbaijan had troops in Afghanistan and was the first country with a predominantly Muslim population to send troops to Iraq. President Aliyev was instrumental in shaping Azerbaijan's Western- leaning policies and relationship building practices. Azerbaijan joined NATO's Partnership for Peace Program in 1994. It is also a 2001 charter member of the GUAM Organization for Democracy and Economic Development which works to promote democratic values, ensure stable development, enhance international and regional security, and step up European integration. Azerbaijan has consistently integrated into the Euro- Atlantic security architecture, further deepening U.S.-Azerbaijani military to military cooperation. Following his passing in 2003, Azerbaijan has continued its course first established by President Heydar Aliyev toward the greater democratic and economic development. Due to his efforts and the will and character of the people of Azerbaijan, there is no doubt about the viability of this nation or about its capability as an effective leader in the region. The United States looks forward to furthering its partnership with Azerbaijan in the region and on global issues of mutual concern.

Ms. FOXX

Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, I thank my colleague for yielding, and I really appreciate the good work that was done by my colleague from Tennessee, Zach Wamp, and my colleague from Illinois, John Shimkus, on this issue of what do we do about energy independence, what do we do about ethanol, what do we do about the alternatives that we have. And I think it's important that we continue to point out the problems that we're facing in this country on achieving energy independence and to point out that we are dealing with basically a do-nothing Congress in terms of this issue. We are not dealing with this issue now, and I share the concern that my colleague from Nebraska Mr. Terry expressed about how everything's being blamed on ethanol and George Bush. The Congress likes to blame George Bush for everything, thinking that's the mood of the American people, and the leadership thinks it can deflect any responsibility for the problem that we're seeing now. But I want to point out that right now gasoline is $3.64 a gallon on average. That's 56 percent higher than when Speaker Pelosi was sworn in, and it is 745 days after she promised this: ``Democrats have a commonsense plan to help bring down skyrocketing gas prices.'' And that was when gas was just about $2 a gallon, not $3.64. It's also 948 days after Majority Leader Steny Hoyer said, ``Democrats believe that we can do more for the American people who are struggling to deal with high gas prices.'' And it's 653 days after Democrat Whip Jim Clyburn said, ``House Democrats have a plan to help curb rising gas prices.'' All of these statements were made in 2006 when the Democrats were making statements to fool the American people on what they could do to make things different. Well, they got elected. They're now in leadership and what do we have? Blaming. We're looking for this secret plan that they have. They've never brought it forward, and we're still waiting for it, months, years after they promised it, 2 years actually after Speaker Pelosi promised that they had a plan to do this. We have all the quotes on this and the dates. Again, April 2006, October 2005, July 2006 are the dates, but what they've done is they've raised taxes four times since they've been in office on energy in this country, and what they do then is blame the President. Most people know, I think, that the President can't pass laws. All the President can do is sign them or veto them. It is our responsibility to do something about the way this country is operated in terms of laws. We operate under the rule of law, and it's no coincidence that article I of the Constitution is about the Congress and about our responsibilities, but the Democratic leadership has failed miserably in dealing with those responsibilities. I also agree with Congressman Wamp that this is a national security issue, and that in addition to providing additional supplies of energy, we must do conservation and we must be more efficient. I don't think anybody on our side of the aisle disagrees with that. However, we have to do something to increase the supply. We are dealing with a short-term and mid-term and long-term issue, and part of the problem that we're dealing with is the fact that in 1995 President Clinton vetoed the bill that would have allowed us to drill in ANWR. We have radical environmentalists who basically believe, if all the human beings in the world were to disappear, the world would be a better place because we're the ones to blame for all of the problems that we have in this country and in the world. I don't believe that. I believe the good Lord gave us the resources that we need and the brains to use those resources and extract them. We should be drilling in ANWR. I've been to ANWR, I've been to Alaska, I've seen what happens there. The people who are opposed to drilling there won't even go to Alaska to see the situation there. I think that's terribly, terribly shortsighted. We could have started doing that many years ago, and we wouldn't be in this situation that we're in now because that, along with other things that we could do, such as drilling in the outer continental shelf, such as creating other resources, such as cellulosic ethanol, would be providing us what we need. And I also agree, again, with Representative Wamp that energy independence means to me we are not going to be dependent on OPEC countries. We don't want to be dependent on people who hate us. We don't want to help fuel the terrorists. One of the things that we're doing is providing money for the terrorists to fight us, and we don't need to be doing that. We do need to conserve. We do need to use every resource available to us in this country, and it is time that the Democrats exert some leadership in this area instead of blaming George Bush and blaming others for the problem that we're facing. They absolutely refuse to take charge of what's happening here. I heard today on a radio program that there is a theory that they want to make the American people as miserable as they possibly can because President Bush is still our President, and they are so good at blaming him for things rather than accepting responsibility for their own actions. I think that has to be one of the most cynical things that anybody could possibly be doing in this country. It's our responsibility here to do everything that we can to help the American people, not do everything that we can to make them miserable. I want to give you a quote from Investors Business Daily from April 29, 2008. The title of the article is ``Congress vs. You,'' and one of the quotes, ``The current Congress, led on the House side by a Speaker who promised a `common sense plan' to cut energy prices 2 years ago, has shown itself to be incompetent and irresponsible.'' Again, we have quote after quote after quote from business journals and from responsible people to show us that the problems that we're facing now are not based in our situation with the war but is based in the incompetence and the do-nothing of this Congress. And again, let me point out, President Clinton vetoed H.R. 2491, the Balanced Budget Act of 1995, which would have allowed environmentally responsible exploration for an estimated 10.4 billion barrels of oil in a tiny sliver of ANWR. Senate Democrats have twice blocked energy exploration in ANWR via the Energy Policy Acts of 2003 and 2005. They have voted ``no'' on the American-Made Energy and Good Jobs Act which would open ANWR to exploration, over and over again. They've said no to new refineries. They've said no to the Energy Policy Act. As others have pointed out, they've said no use to using coal. They've said no to using nuclear. Everything they've done is say no, while Republicans have repeatedly said yes. Yes to Americans who drive to work and school. Yes to gasoline prices that Americans can afford. Yes to American oil. Yes to American common sense in the rules, and yes to an American future of abundant, affordable energy that working people can afford to buy. I don't think the Democrats are going to be able to continue to fool the American people that someone else is responsible for the problem that we're now facing. They're squarely responsible. They continue to say no, Republicans continue to say yes, and I think the American people are going to understand that in the short-term and in the long- term.

Ms. FOXX

Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of sacrifice and service of PFC Adam Lee Marion of Dobson, North Carolina. Private First Class Marion, who served in the Army National Guard's 171st Engineer Company, made the ultimate sacrifice for his country last week when he fell in combat near Baghdad, Iraq. Private First Class Marion's life exemplified the citizen-soldier ethic of the Army National Guard. He was known for his kindness and his heart for children. He loved to serve at home and in Iraq to protect the lives of these most vulnerable members of society. Taken at the age of 26, Private First Class Marion leaves a legacy of compassion, bravery and sacrifice. His patriotism and selfless service to country is captured in his decision to deploy to Iraq with the 171st when he learned his original unit would not deploy. This is a remarkable sacrifice and a true sign of Private First Class Marion's readiness to serve his country even at the risk of his own safety. His fellow soldiers testified to Private First Class Marion's professional skill as a soldier, his bravery in the face of danger and his sacrifice for his country. As the operator of a ``Husky,'' a vehicle that detects improvised explosive devises for convoys, he was on the front lines in Iraq. In fact, his team helped clear IEDs from more than 100 convoy routes during his service in Iraq. Private First Class Marion is survived by his parents Pam and Don Marion and his sister, Adrian. His sacrifice for our freedom will never be forgotten. He was a man who was acquainted with the dangers of combat and yet gave his life to a cause much greater than himself. In this and much more he is a hero and he hands down to future generations a legacy of valor, honor and the love of freedom. Madam Speaker, my prayer is that he will long be remembered as a man who faithfully answered the call of duty to country. My thoughts and my prayers are with Private First Class Marion's family. May they know comfort of God's presence at this very difficult time. The people of North Carolina and our nation are blessed to remember him as an honored son and we mourn his passing and celebrate his life.

Ms. FOXX

Ms. FOXX. Mr. Speaker, I also thank my colleague from Ohio (Mr. Wilson) for his service, and I urge all Members to support the passage of H. Res. 892. I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. FOXX. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to urge passage of this resolution expressing support for the designation of a National Funeral Director and Mortician Recognition Day. Mr. Speaker, I think it is critical that we recognize the service that our Nation's funeral directors and morticians provide at one of the most difficult times in a person's life. Death is something that affects us all. It sees no boundaries, nor does it discriminate among social or economic classes. It hits us all in different ways, but one thing is for certain: the time immediately following the death of a loved one is one of the most trying times for anyone. It is during this critical time that funeral directors and morticians from around the country provide our Nation's citizens with the support and guidance necessary to make the right decisions for their beloved ones. This allows for those who are grieving to concentrate on what is most important: supporting family and friends. Funeral directors and morticians have the arduous task of carrying out the final wishes of the deceased. They are involved in all details of the process, everything from arranging for pallbearers to making sure that the correct paperwork is completed to file for appropriate certificates with the State. They are tasked with demonstrating the same compassion with every family they meet, as if that family is the most important family that the funeral director has ever met. It is also important to recognize that most funeral homes are small, family-owned and operated facilities. These individuals work long, irregular hours and contribute to the economic well-being of communities around our Nation. Ultimately, Mr. Speaker, I believe recognizing those in this caring community is long overdue. They are entrusted with the enormous task of making the last hours you will have with the earthly remains of loved ones as peaceful as possible. Mr. Speaker, I ask all Members to join me in supporting this resolution. I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. FOXX

Ms. FOXX. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of this bill to designate the post office located at 1155 Seminole Trail in Charlottesville, Virginia, as the ``Corporal Bradley T. Arms Post Office Building.'' On November 19, 2004, Corporal Bradley Arms was killed during small- arms fire in Anbar province, Iraq. It is only appropriate that we honor this fallen hero for the great sacrifice he made for his country. Before becoming a Marine, Bradley was a student at the University of Georgia and a member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity. When he left Georgia before his junior year to serve in the 4th Division of the 4th Combat Engineer Battalion, it was with courage and optimism in his heart. He believed in what he was fighting for, and he wrote to his brothers of the changes he saw every day. He described his desire to influence the future of Iraq telling his friends that, ``as long as we can keep younger generations open minded, then we will win this war.'' His family members, who reside in Charlottesville, Virginia, remember Bradley's kindness and desire to help those who could not help themselves, one of the factors initially inspiring him to join the military. When speaking to his parents shortly before his death, he told them he was confident that God had a plan for him and that he was exactly where he was supposed to be. While he was only 20 years old, Bradley aspired to live the life of a leader and be a positive role model for those around him, and he did just that. Those who knew Bradley recall his honor and enthusiasm, and in recognition of the unparalleled sacrifice he made for his country, it is fitting that we should dedicate this post office to his memory. I would like to thank my respected colleague, Mr. Goode, for introducing this important legislation honoring the memory of a valiant and courageous young man. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. FOXX. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague from Ohio for his eloquent words, and I, too, urge all Members to support the passage of H.R. 5631. I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. FOXX

Ms. FOXX. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I'm pleased to rise today in support of H. Res. 1073, honoring the millions of dedicated public employees who serve our Nation. Our country would have a difficult time functioning without its innovative, professional, highly trained public service employees. At all levels of government, you will find hardworking staff implementing policies that make our country prosper and thrive through their contributions. The expertise and work ethic offered by these individuals sets an honorable example for future generations of public employees, as well as those in the private sector. From emergency responders to librarians and educators, public servants span the spectrum of jobs. They keep our country efficient and safe. Beyond the tremendous work of civilian employees, uniformed service personnel and the members of our Armed Forces are those on the front lines in the fight to maintain national security. They provide vital strategic support for our Nation's military, both at home and abroad. Additionally, their tremendous accomplishments in providing support to our 50 States, as well as countries overseas with natural disaster relief, is to be commended. Once again, I congratulate these employees who help make up the fabric of our country and government for performing the challenging and oftentimes thankless jobs with honor and dedication. I appreciate them for moving our country forward, as well as maintaining our safety and security. For these reasons, I express my support of Public Service Recognition Week. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. FOXX. Mr. Speaker, I urge all Members to support the passage of H. Res. 1073, and yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. FOXX

Ms. FOXX. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of this resolution expressing the sense that there should be established a National Letter Carriers Appreciation Day. The emblematic quote, ``Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds'' is emblazoned across the front of the Farley Post Office in New York City. It is safe to say we all know this famous, yet unofficial motto of the United States Postal Service. However, we can easily forget how much we appreciate and depend on the dedicated letter carriers of the United States Postal Service. These tireless public servants ensure that over 144 million households receive more than 43 tons of mail each year, equal to 44 percent of the world's mail volume. Letter carriers, also referred to as mailmen or mail carriers, are the public face of the U.S. Postal Service. As the front line, carriers are routinely pressured too move faster, work harder and perform more tasks in a timely manner. In the most stressful of crafts, carriers are watched, timed and inspected more than any other employees. There are three types of mail carriers in the United States, servicing all areas of this broad Nation. City letter carriers, represented by the National Association of Letter Carriers, skillfully navigate the expansive urban landscapes, providing efficient service to the millions of Americans living in densely populated areas. Rural letter carriers, represented by the National Rural Letter Carriers' Association, support the diverse territory surrounding our cities. With increased development of rural areas, the Rural Carrier Craft is the only expanding craft in the Postal Service. The final group of carriers, known as Highway Contract Route Carriers, work expansive routes where population density is less than one customer per mile driven. Driving their own vehicles, these committed carriers travel great distances to ensure timely delivery. Whether they brave bustling urban jungles, constantly changing suburban expanses, or broad rural landscapes, these men and women brave all conditions to provide us with timely and effective mail service. For their efforts, I urge my colleagues to support this resolution. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. FOXX. Mr. Speaker, I urge all Members to support the passage of H. Res. 49, and yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. FOXX

Ms. FOXX. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Gas prices have skyrocketed by more than 50 percent in the 15 months since the new majority took control of Congress. Back in North Carolina, constituents of the Fifth District and over the rest of the State are now paying $1.33 more per gallon for gas than when the Democrats took over. Two years ago, Speaker Pelosi promised the American people a ``commonsense'' plan to lower gasoline prices. We're still trying to figure out what that plan is. House Democrats have not only failed to offer any meaningful solutions, they've pushed policies that will have precisely the opposite effect. This $1.33 Pelosi premium is putting tremendous pressure on the budgets of the hardworking people of North Carolina. As gas prices soar to $3.50 and beyond, I pose this question: How much will the Pelosi premium end up costing average Americans? If this is part of the ``commonsense plan'' to lower gas prices, I'm afraid it isn't working. Middle class families and their increasingly tight budgets need relief, not more broken promises. While House Democrats propose more of the same--tax increases--House Republicans have offered real commonsense solutions to reduce America's dependence on foreign sources of energy, lower gas prices here at home, and invest in all forms of energy to create American jobs and grow our economy.

Ms. FOXX

Ms. FOXX. Mr. Speaker, I want to give thanks to all those who grow and produce watermelons and make it possible for all of us to eat them, those who plant, grow, and pick them and get them to markets where we can enjoy them. I urge Members to support the passage of H. Res. 578. I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. FOXX. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise today in support of H. Res. 578 that will establish a National Watermelon Month. Watermelon has been enjoyed over the years as one of our country's favorite foods. As Mark Twain said, ``It is chief of this world's luxuries, king by the grace of God over all the fruits of the earth. When one has tasted it, he knows what the angels eat.'' According to the United States Agriculture Department statistics, the United States produces 4.2 billion pounds of watermelon annually. This summertime staple ranges in size from 5 pounds to over 40 pounds, and is grown in 49 States. Many towns in the U.S. strive to become the Watermelon Capital of the World; however, Cordele, Georgia has won this title repeatedly by producing the biggest, best, and most abundant watermelons in the country. Watermelon may be eaten in a variety of ways and is also often used to flavor summer drinks, including sweet red wine. And lest anyone accuse us of dealing with a frivolous subject, let me call attention to a serious matter. In a time where we have all become aware of the benefits of good nutrition, it is fortunate watermelon provides an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin B, and vitamin B1. Additionally, many other beneficial minerals are contained in watermelon and are shown to help prevent cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure, and a host of other serious diseases. Furthermore, the antioxidant lycopene, found only in a few red plant foods, has been shown to reduce the risk of certain cancers. Because watermelon is such a nutritious, heart-healthy food, the American Heart Association has qualified watermelon for the well-known ``Heart-Check Mark.'' The great joy of eating a slice of watermelon on a hot summer day lives in the memories of almost all Americans. For these nutritious and delicious reasons, I express my support to a National Watermelon Month that will provide the watermelon industry many opportunities to market their product and to educate the public about the health benefits associated with consuming watermelon through various related programs. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. FOXX

Ms. FOXX. Mr. Speaker, as a proud cosponsor of House Concurrent Resolution 322, which recently passed the House of Representatives, on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of the modern State of Israel, I wish to take an opportunity to reflect on this truly monumental event. Since the time of its creation 60 years ago, Israel has served as an example of democracy and equal rights for her neighbors. Israel has also proved to be steadfast ally to the United States in a variety of ways, particularly within our country's diplomatic efforts in the Middle East. Since its founding in 1948, the modern State of Israel has served as a democratic anchor in the Middle East. Like the United States, the Israeli Declaration of Independence protects freedom of speech, freedom of religion, a free press, free elections, and many other tenets of a free society. Israel established a democracy in the midst of a politically tumultuous region and by guaranteeing the basic rights of her citizens, sets herself apart from her authoritarian neighbors. Israel prides herself on women's rights and equal pay for women in the workforce. The first female Prime Minister, Golda Meir, was elected in 1969, just 21 years after the formation of modern Israel. Women now serve as the foreign minister, speaker of the Knesset, and chief justice of the Israeli Supreme Court. Furthermore, Israel has recognized the necessity of providing equal rights regardless of gender or race and deserves to be commended. Not only is Israel an example for her neighbors as a thriving democracy, where citizens' rights are protected through the rule of law, she has also been an avid supporter in the global war on terror. The U.S. and Israel are continually working together to develop sophisticated military technology and improve Israel's defense systems and soldier protection. In the interest of global freedom I hope, and am confident that, this friendship will continue in the future. It is with great joy that I extend my best wishes for the 60th anniversary of the modern State of Israel and wish them a prosperous future.

Ms. FOXX

Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, April 23rd of every year is celebrated in Turkey as National Sovereignty and Children's Day. The genesis of these celebrations is this date in 1920. On April 23, 1920 during Turkey's War of Independence, the Grand National Assembly met in Ankara to lay the foundation for modern parliamentary democracy in the form of an emerging liberal and secular Republic. Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder and later the first President of the Republic of Turkey, designated April 23 as National Sovereignty and Children's Day, in recognition of the importance of children to the country's future. This was the first time that a world leader designated a day for children. In Turkey this day is recognized as an official public holiday. Schools participate in week-long ceremonies marked by performances by children in large stadiums that draw the attention of the entire nation. On this day children also send their own ``representatives'' to replace state officials and high ranking bureaucrats in their offices. The President, the Prime Minister, the Cabinet Ministers, and provincial governors all turn over their positions to children's representatives. This symbolic gesture is intended to show children that they are the future leaders of Turkey and to remind current leaders that they are serving these children and the nation that they will inherit. These children, in turn, sign executive orders relating to educational and environmental policies. Children also replace the parliamentarians in the Grand National Assembly and hold a special session to discuss children's issues. It is inspiring to know that this tradition of celebrating children's day has been adopted internationally. World Children's Day was the idea of two classmates, Funda Karagozler and Engin Ustundag (9 and 11 years old) from Ataturk School in New York. In April 1986, in response to an assignment to comment on the nationally celebrated Children's Day in Turkey, these two friends wrote a letter addressed to the ``Kids of the World'', inviting them to come together with the common objective of peace and friendship. The school principal was so impressed with the letter that she sent it to UNICEF, a United Nations body dedicated to children's issues. Through UNICEF's assistance, a copy of the letter was sent to the permanent missions of the United Nations. The response was overwhelming. Everyone wanted to participate. On April 27, 1986, the UN General Assembly was opened to children for the first celebration of World Children's Day. Later that same year, the World Children's Day Foundation (WCDF) was established to oversee World Children's Day activities. In addition to the annual celebration in New York, WCDF sponsored programs and community service projects in 140 countries around the world. The program's goals were: (1) To equip children to make a difference in their own lives and the future of their communities and nations; (2) To bring children of different nationalities, races, religions, and socio-economic backgrounds together and to show them that, in spite of these factors, all people have much in common; (3) To establish the Fourth Sunday in April as the internationally celebrated World Children's Day to recognize the capability and potential of children everywhere to shape the future. More than 5,300 children from 140 countries have participated in World Children's Day celebrations in the UN General Assembly. About four million children have participated in WCDF community service projects around the world. These projects have touched millions of lives worldwide. I stand to commemorate this important date dedicated to the children of the world and remember its origins in Turkey in 1920.

Ms. FOXX

Ms. FOXX. I want to thank the gentleman from California for his leadership on this special order tonight, and thank him for his leadership on the Education Committee as chairman and now as ranking member. I grew up in the mountains of North Carolina in a house with no electricity and no running water, with parents with a sixth grade and ninth grade education. My husband grew up in a similar situation, both his parents totally illiterate. But we both give credit for the success that we have had in life to public school teachers and principals who took an interest in us when we were in school and encouraged us to utilize our talents by staying in school and by going on to college. So I in no way disparage the role of teachers or the role of education in our society. In fact, I trumpet it because it has been so important to me. And I spent most of my life working in education, as the gentleman from California said, and it has been a wonderful opportunity for me. However, I have great concerns about the role of the Federal Government in education in our country, and I will continue to express those concerns because I remember very well my own excellent education in a county that had very little money. The school buildings weren't wonderful, we had almost no science lab, but we had excellent teachers again who cared about the students. And I would put up that education against anything that is happening in the country today. Now, I am happy to serve on the Education and Labor Committee. And last year, when talks began in the committee on the reauthorization of No Child Left Behind, I did what I often do, and that is to look at the genesis and the history of the legislation. And it was a real revelation to me at the time that No Child Left Behind legislation is simply the latest reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, called ESEA by people in education, which was created in 1965 by President Johnson in the midst of the war on poverty. Most folks are unaware that the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 was in fact the seventh reauthorization of this 1965 legislation. So when you hear it talked about, very few people ever make that connection. Now, I heard a lot of criticism of No Child Left Behind before I was elected and after I was elected. And so one of the things that I did last year in my district was to have a forum with parents, teachers, and administrators about their concerns with No Child Left Behind; and the people who came to that forum gave me a lot of information that has been very helpful to me in helping to formulate what I think we ought to be doing with No Child Left Behind. Part of the very important feedback that I received is that teachers and principals welcome appropriate accountability for Federal education funding. Teachers and administrators don't want to do away with accountability. What they are concerned about is having appropriate accountability. Now, I want to talk a little bit about title I, and I know some of my colleagues have mentioned this before. Title I of No Child Left Behind, or the ESEA Act as it used to be called, is the largest single grant program in the U.S. Department of Education. It has been around since 1965. But between 1965 and 2002, American taxpayers funded almost $200 billion through title I spending with little or no discernible effect in improving the educational opportunities for disadvantaged children, which was the original intent of the law. I think most of us realize that it is not just funding that improves academic performance or gets anything out of programs. But, many of the Federal programs and regulations have simply not improved the performance of disadvantaged children as a group. My long-standing position has been, and continues to be, that the education of America's youth would be better served if Washington bureaucrats were removed from the equation. Control and accountability should be returned to local communities, where they can effectively make changes in the areas they know need it most. So I am disappointed in what looks like the direction that the majority is taking in Congress now, which is to eliminate much of the accountability that was put into No Child Left Behind, or the ESEA, when it was reauthorized in 2001, but simply put more funding into it. I think that is going in the wrong direction. We know that 9-year-olds have made more reading progress in the last 5 years than in the previous 28 years combined. We can achieve excellence in education by encouraging the kind of accountability that promotes locally focused education and ultimately well educated young people. Parents, students and educators need more choices in the way No Child Left Behind is administered. The current my-way-or-the-highway approach to the Federal funding of education is broken, and imposing a top-down mechanism shortchanges millions of students and parents. A good system will have more flexibility and will put the best decision makers in the driver's seat. Those are the parents and local educators who know what works best for students and should have the greater control and input. We know in almost every program that a Federal Government one-size- fits-all approach does not work. It doesn't allow for tailor-made solutions to the unique situations facing school systems in every single district in America. What works in one State doesn't work in another one. Reducing the role of the Federal Government makes sense for students who are not served by cookie-cutter policies promulgated by Washington bureaucrats. There are many of us who believe that education is not the province of the Federal Government at all. However, we also know that efforts to remove the Federal Government from education have not passed and they are not going to pass. So the best thing that we can do is to make sure that we have accountability for the money that is spent in education, as we should have accountability in every program that takes Federal dollars. Mr. Ranking Member, I am going to yield back to you.

Ms. FOXX

Ms. FOXX. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yesterday, I was honored to join the Ashe County High School ``Cans and Pans'' Steel Drum Band at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center where these fine young people performed for our Nation's wounded warriors. It was a true privilege to give these student musicians, their committed parents and their band director, Scott Turnmyre, a tour of the Capitol before they played for our brave men and women in uniform. Earlier in the morning while we shared breakfast together, I was struck with how unique this group of young people is. Their desire to perform for our Nation's brave men and women in uniform illustrated the depth of their character and the caliber of their families and of the communities that have raised them. Their music, no doubt, lifted the spirits of our troops at Walter Reed Medical Center. The fact that they would travel hundreds of miles was nothing short of inspiring for all who were in attendance. I want to thank Band Director Scott Turnmyre for the long hours and hard work he put into getting this trip together and for rallying the people of Ashe County to this very worthy cause. Their generous donations helped make this trip a reality. The people at the Liaison Capitol Hill Hotel also deserve praise. When they learned about the band's plans to play for the troops at Walter Reed, they graciously reduced the band's room rates during peak tourist season. Kenny Lincoln, Monica Rao and Lisa Schmitt at the hotel went the extra mile to help make this trip possible for the Ashe County Steel Drum Band. Mike Asgedom at the Union Station parking garage also generously reduced the parking rate for the band's charter bus. Here on Capitol Hill, Stefan Bieret and Ted Daniel in the Sergeant at Arms Office provided on-site parking for the bus while Scott, the students and their parents joined me for breakfast in the Capitol and for a tour. Of course, I don't want to forget the fine people serving at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. They took care of every detail from parking to setup to greeting the students. Nancy Popejoy, Dayna Jamison and Latanya Torrence dotted every ``I'' and crossed every ``T,'' and I applaud them for a job well done. I also want to thank Walter Reed Health Care System Commander, Colonel Patricia Horoho. Colonel Horoho took time out of her very busy schedule to thank personally each of the students, and she presented them each with her commander's coin in recognition of their outstanding performance. Colonel Horoho, who also is an Appalachian State University alumna, is a fine example of a dedicated leader who went above and beyond to welcome and to congratulate the students. Yesterday's performance was an illustration of the generosity and kindness of the people of the Fifth District. It was a proud moment for Ashe County High School. The band members' director, Scott Turnmyre, and the parents are to be commended for their service to our wounded warriors at Walter Reed. Mr. Speaker, the remarks made by President Bush and by Pope Benedict during the Pope's visit to the United States last week were profound and should be available widely. So I am offering them today to be included in the Record. With that, Mr. Speaker, I yield back. Remarks of President Bush and His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI at the White House, April 16, 2008 President Bush: Holy Father, Laura and I are privileged to have you here at the White House. We welcome you with the ancient words commended by Saint Augustine: ``Pax Tecum.'' Peace be with you. You've chosen to visit America on your birthday. Well, birthdays are traditionally spent with close friends, so our entire nation is moved and honored that you've decided to share this special day with us. We wish you much health and happiness--today and for many years to come. This is your first trip to the United States since you ascended to the Chair of Saint Peter. You will visit two of our greatest cities and meet countless Americans, including many who have traveled from across the country to see with you and to share in the joy of this visit. Here in America you'll find a nation of prayer. Each day millions of our citizens approach our Maker on bended knee, seeking His grace and giving thanks for the many blessings He bestows upon us. Millions of Americans have been praying for your visit, and millions look forward to praying with you this week. Here in America you'll find a nation of compassion. Americans believe that the measure of a free society is how we treat the weakest and most vulnerable among us. So each day citizens across America answer the universal call to feed the hungry and comfort the sick and care for the infirm. Each day across the world the United States is working to eradicate disease, alleviate poverty, promote peace and bring the light of hope to places still mired in the darkness of tyranny and despair. Here in America you'll find a nation that welcomes the role of faith in the public square. When our Founders declared our nation's independence, they rested their case on an appeal to the ``laws of nature, and of nature's God.'' We believe in religious liberty. We also believe that a love for freedom and a common moral law are written into every human heart, and that these constitute the firm foundation on which any successful free society must be built. Here in America, you'll find a nation that is fully modern, yet guided by ancient and eternal truths. The United States is the most innovative, creative and dynamic country on earth--it is also among the most religious. In our nation, faith and reason coexist in harmony. This is one of our country's greatest strengths, and one of the reasons that our land remains a beacon of hope and opportunity for millions across the world. Most of all, Holy Father, you will find in America people whose hearts are open to your message of hope. And America and the world need this message. In a world where some invoke the name of God to justify acts of terror and murder and hate, we need your message that ``God is love.'' And embracing this love is the surest way to save men from ``falling prey to the teaching of fanaticism and terrorism.'' In a world where some treat life as something to be debased and discarded, we need your message that all human life is sacred, and that ``each of us is willed, each of us is loved''--and your message that ``each of us is willed, each of us is loved, and each of us is necessary.'' In a world where some no longer believe that we can distinguish between simple right and wrong, we need your message to reject this ``dictatorship of relativism,'' and embrace a culture of justice and truth. In a world where some see freedom as simply the right to do as they wish, we need your message that true liberty requires us to live our freedom not just for ourselves, but ``in a spirit of mutual support.'' Holy Father, thank you for making this journey to America. Our nation welcomes you. We appreciate the example you set for the world, and we ask that you always keep us in your prayers. Pope Benedict XVI: Mr. President, thank you for your gracious words of welcome on behalf of the people of the United States of America. I deeply appreciate your invitation to visit this great country. My visit coincides with an important moment in the life of the Catholic community in America: the celebration of the 200th anniversary of elevation of the country's first Diocese--Baltimore--to a metropolitan Archdiocese and the establishment of the Sees of New York, Boston, Philadelphia and Louisville. Yet I am happy to be here as a guest of all Americans. I come as a friend, a preacher of the Gospel, and one with great respect for this vast pluralistic society. America's Catholics have made, and continue to make, an excellent contribution to the life of their country. As I begin my visit, I trust that my presence will be a source of renewal and hope for the Church in the United States, and strengthen the resolve of Catholics to contribute ever more responsibly to the life of this nation, of which they are proud to be citizens. From the dawn of the Republic, America's quest for freedom has been guided by the conviction that the principles governing political and social life are intimately linked to a moral order based on the dominion of God the Creator. The framers of this nation's founding documents drew upon this conviction when they proclaimed the self-evident truth that all men are created equal and endowed with inalienable rights grounded in the laws of nature and of nature's God. The course of American history demonstrates the difficulties, the struggles, and the great intellectual and moral resolve which were demanded to shape a society which faithfully embodied these noble principles. In that process, which forged the soul of the nation, religious beliefs were a constant inspiration and driving force, as for example in the struggle against slavery and in the civil rights movement. In our time, too, particularly in moments of crisis, Americans continue to find their strength in a commitment to this patrimony of shared ideas and aspirations. In the next few days, I look forward to meeting not only with America's Catholic community, but with other Christian communities and representatives of the many religious traditions present in this country. Historically, not only Catholics, but all believers have found here the freedom to worship God in accordance with the dictates of their conscience, while at the same time being accepted as part of a commonwealth in which each individual group can make its voice heard. As the nation faces the increasingly complex political and ethical issues of our time, I am confident that the American people will find in their religious beliefs a precious source of insight and an inspiration to pursue reasoned, responsible and respectful dialogue in the effort to build a more human and free society. Freedom is not only a gift, but also a summons to personal responsibility. Americans know this from experience--almost every town in this country has its monuments honoring those who sacrificed their lives in defense of freedom, both at home and abroad. The preservation of freedom calls for the cultivation of virtue, self-discipline, sacrifice for the common good, and a sense of responsibility towards the less fortunate. It also demands the courage to engage in civic life and to bring one's deepest beliefs and values to reasoned public debate. In a word, freedom is ever new. It is a challenge held out to each generation, and it must constantly be won over for the cause of good. Few have understood this as clearly as the late Pope John Paul II. In reflecting on the spiritual victory of freedom over totalitarianism in his native Poland and in Eastern Europe, he reminded us that history shows time and again that ``in a world without truth, freedom loses its foundation,'' and a democracy without values can lose its very soul. Those prophetic words in some sense echo the conviction of President Washington, expressed in his Farewell Address, that religion and morality represent ``indispensable supports'' of political prosperity. The Church, for her part, wishes to contribute to building a world ever more worthy of the human person, created in the image and likeness of God. She is convinced that faith sheds new light on all things, and that the Gospel reveals the noble vocation and sublime destiny of every man and woman. Faith also gives us the strength to respond to our high calling and to hope that inspires us to work for an ever more just and fraternal society. Democracy can only flourish, as your founding fathers realized, when political leaders and those whom they represent are guided by truth and bring the wisdom born of firm moral principle to decisions affecting the life and future of the nation. For well over a century, the United States of America has played an important role in the international community. On Friday, God willing, I will have the honor of addressing the United Nations organization, where I hope to encourage the efforts underway to make that institution an ever more effective voice for the legitimate aspirations of all the world's peoples. On this, the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the need for global solidarity is as urgent as ever, if all people are to live in a way worthy of their dignity--as brothers and sisters dwelling in the same house and around that table which God's bounty has set for all his children. America has traditionally shown herself generous in meeting immediate human needs, fostering development and offering relief to the victims of natural catastrophes. I am confident that this concern for the greater human family will continue to find expression in support for the patient efforts of international diplomacy to resolve conflicts and promote progress. In this way, coming generations will be able to live in a world where truth, freedom and justice can flourish--a world where the God-given dignity and the rights of every man, woman and child are cherished, protected and effectively advanced. Mr. President, dear friends, as I begin my visit to the United States, I express once more my gratitude for your invitation, my joy to be in your midst, and my fervent prayers that Almighty God will confirm this nation and its people in the ways of justice, prosperity and peace. God bless America.

Ms. FOXX

Ms. FOXX. Madam Speaker, on rollcall No. 195, on agreeing to the resolution, H. Res. 1107, a resolution providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 5715) to ensure continued availability of access to the Federal student loan program for students and families, had I been present, I would have voted ``nay.''

Ms. FOXX

Ms. FOXX. Thank you, Madam Speaker. I'm here to talk about the Pelosi Premium. Once a nightmare scenario, $4 gasoline may soon become a harsh reality on Speaker Pelosi's watch. Today, drivers are paying a dollar more per gallon at the pump than when the Speaker took office. This Pelosi Premium is hitting working families hard at a time when they are confronting soaring costs, a slowing economy and a housing crunch. Middle-class families and their increasingly tight budgets need relief, not more broken promises. We're operating under a set of broken promises. Speaker Pelosi promised the American people a commonsense plan to lower gasoline prices, but House Democrats have not only failed to offer any meaningful solutions, they've put forward policies that will have precisely the opposite effect. We cannot tax middle-class families' and truckers' tanks from empty to full. Speaker Nancy Pelosi on 4-18-2006: The Democrats have a plan to lower gas prices. Speaker Nancy Pelosi on 4-24-2006: Democrats have a commonsense plan to help bring down skyrocketing gas prices. August 4, 2007, Democrats have voted those four times to raise taxes in the 110th Congress: January 18, August 4, December 6, 2007, February 27, 2008. The Pelosi Premium continues. Since Democrats took control of Congress, gasoline prices have skyrocketed by more than $1 per gallon forcing worker families to pay a Pelosi Premium at the pump. With reports indicating gasoline prices are beginning to hit $4 per gallon, the Pelosi Premium couldn't come at a worse time for middle-class families already being squeezed by the soaring costs of living. The price we pay for both gasoline and oil is fundamentally an issue of supply and demand, but while U.S. oil consumption has largely remained the same over the past few years, world oil consumption has spiraled to 84 million barrels a day, up nearly 25 percent from 68 million barrels a decade ago. This results in a tremendous increase in prices. As you are fully aware, gas prices have increased by $1.05 per gallon since Nancy Pelosi took control of Congress on January 4, 2007. This represents an increase of nearly 45 percent. At the same time that world oil consumption has skyrocketed, access to world energy supplies has struggled to keep pace. Nowhere has this trend been worse than in the United States which stands today as the only industrialized Nation in the world that refuses to tap 85 percent of our available deep sea energy resources. While the U.S. has held its consumption steady, more needs to be done to build a bridge from where we are today to the renewable and alternative energy future in which we all want to live. In fact, under the Democrats in Congress, we've gone from 50 percent of our oil imports coming from OPEC to 57 percent coming from OPEC in 1 year. But before we achieve those things in the future, we'll have to figure out a way to live, work, and prosper in the present. For too many Democrats, growing our economy today, tomorrow, and next month isn't much of a priority. In fact, the majority has voted four separate times to raise energy taxes in the 110th Congress. But even if we had access to all of the oil in the world, we would need places to turn that oil into gasoline. Regrettably, the U.S. hasn't built a new refinery in 32 years and, in fact, has successfully shut down several at that time. The results are stunning. Today, the U.S. has only 149 operable oil refineries compared with 321 in 1981. That means roughly double the demand now must be handled with half of the number of refineries. Let's remember this fall the broken promises made in 2006 and the Pelosi Premium which is costing us so much money.