Bill Foster

Mr. FOSTER

Mr. FOSTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Rhienna McClain for receiving the ATHENA International Leadership Award. This award celebrates the leadership of women who create opportunities for other women. Ms. McClain exemplifies these qualities through her entrepreneurial vision and commitment to her community. As the owner of the 1776 Restaurant in Crystal Lake, Ms. McClain has established a fine dining experience that prioritizes high-quality, gluten-free, and allergy-safe cuisine. Through her leadership, she has strengthened the local economy by fostering partnerships with local businesses and sourcing ingredients from Illinois farms. Her restaurant not only offers an upscale dining experience but also serves as a community space that brings people together. In addition to her entrepreneurial accomplishments, Ms. McClain is deeply committed to her community. She previously served as the chairperson of Big Brothers Big Sisters of McHenry County, an organization that provides critical mentorship services to children, helping them develop the confidence they need to succeed. Since 2018, she has been a passionate advocate for the organization, opening doors of opportunity for countless young people. Furthermore, Ms. McClain has dedicated her time and expertise to various community development efforts, including serving on the Economic Development Committee of Crystal Lake, the McHenry County Department of Health, and the Gavers Community Cancer Foundation. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to represent Rhienna McClain, whose exceptional contributions have made a lasting impact on McHenry County. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating her on receiving the ATHENA International Leadership Award, a recognition that is truly well-deserved.

Mr. FOSTER

Mr. FOSTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Crystal Lake Strikers for receiving the Carl E. Wehde Award. This award honors the late Carl E. Wehde and celebrates outstanding contributions that enhance the quality of life for the people of Crystal Lake. The Crystal Lake Strikers are a drumline that seamlessly integrates the arts and education. They perform year-round and offer a wide range of programs in percussion, color guard, and other performing arts disciplines. Their mission is twofold: to provide high-quality entertainment to the community and to build confidence in students. By expanding upon lessons taught in local schools, the Strikers meet the educational needs of Crystal Lake, offering percussion experiences for children at all grade levels through six distinct groups. In recognition of their impact, the Strikers were previously honored with the Illinois Park and Recreation Association's Outstanding Program and Special Event Award for the creation of the Kingpins drumline, an educational program designed specifically for children with special needs. The Strikers' commitment to serving the Crystal Lake community extends beyond the classroom. They actively support aspiring performers through college scholarships, fundraisers, and by providing a platform for young talent in the perfomning arts. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to represent the Crystal Lake Strikers, whose contributions to the arts and education have had a profound and lasting impact on the city. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Strikers on receiving this well-deserved award and for continuing to inspire the next generation of performers.

Mr. FOSTER

Mr. FOSTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Nancy Merkling for receiving the Robert O. Covey Business of the Year Award. This award pays tribute to the late Robert O. Covey and celebrates businesses in the Crystal Lake area that have demonstrated outstanding success and community involvement. As the owner and producer of Nancy Merkling Productions, Ms. Merkling offers professional photography and mentorship services, inspiring and guiding others who are pursuing careers in the field. Her vision and artistry distinguish her work in family portraits, headshots, and commercial photography. Ms. Merkling has long demonstrated a deep commitment to the arts. She previously served as the Co-Executive Director of the Lakeside Legacy Foundation, an organization dedicated to preserving The Dole, a historic mansion in Crystal Lake, for the community to enjoy. Since 2011, Ms. Merkling has been the driving force behind the 4th Fridays Art Event at The Dole, which brings together photography, art, and music to enrich the local cultural landscape. Held ten times a year, this program fosters collaboration among a diverse range of artists and provides a vibrant social space that celebrates creative expression. Through her vision, Ms. Merkling has significantly contributed to the cultural vitality of Crystal Lake, creating valuable opportunities for artists to share their work with the community. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to represent Nancy Merkling, whose dedication as both an artist and a mentor has made a lasting impact on our community. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Ms. Merkling on receiving this well-deserved recognition.

Mr. FOSTER

Mr. FOSTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to bring attention to yet another decision by the Trump administration that puts Americans' lives at risk. On April 1, 2025, almost the entire Division of Blood Disorders and Public Health Genomics, a department of the CDC established to combat blood infections in the wake of the AIDS epidemic, was placed on administrative leave. This decision to eliminate this division was, of course, made by the Elon Musk Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE. Now, people with blood disorders across the United States will have to worry about contaminated blood transfusions. They will also be left wondering whether critical research to prevent and treat their conditions will be abandoned, and they will have to reckon with the fact that the same government that swore to help them turned its back on them, all so Republicans can find more money to give billionaires new tax breaks. Vital programs like the Division of Blood Disorders should not be subject to political games, and those suffering from blood disorders should not have to fear that a blood transfusion will kill them. Defunding the CDC puts lives at risk, and staff put on administrative leave should be reinstated immediately.

Mr. FOSTER

Mr. FOSTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the life of Delia ``Dee'' Nila Basile, whose spirit, energy and unwavering dedication to her family, community and heritage left an indelible mark on the City of Aurora. Delia ``Dee'' Nila Basile was born on April 10, 1950, as a proud member of the Nila family, one of Aurora's earliest Mexican immigrant families. The Nila family arrived in the United States in 1923, and her great-grandfather, Augustine Nila, was among the first to settle in Aurora. Like many immigrants, the Nila family contributed to their new community through hard work, sacrifice, and perseverance. Dee carried that legacy forward with honor and joy, speaking often about her family's role in helping shape Aurora's identity and its immigrant communities. Dee attended St. Nicholas Grade School and graduated from Madonna High School, both in Aurora. She later earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Northern Illinois University in 2011 at the age of 61--a testament to her determination and belief in lifelong learning. Dee began her professional path in the hospitality industry, where her charisma made her a standout presence. She later went on to work at Aurora City Hall for 18 years, contributing to many roles and quickly becoming known as one of Aurora's most dedicated public servants. Her energy and presence made her a true ambassador for the city, welcoming all who lived, worked, and visited with her signature smile and enthusiasm. After her retirement, Dee continued her service through the Aurora Regional Chamber of Commerce, where she championed local businesses and continued to work tirelessly to uplift Aurora's cultural vitality. She was a long-time board member of the Aurora Public Library Foundation, where she passionately supported educational access, literacy, and community programming. Throughout her lifetime, Dee volunteered thousands of hours to causes large and small. Whether it was a city celebration, nonprofit event, heritage initiative, or grassroots movement--if something meaningful was happening in Aurora, Dee was there. Dee was a keeper of history; she worked closely on countless cultural initiatives, ensuring that traditions and stories of the past had a strong, visible place in the present. She was instrumental in founding Aurora's Annual Parade of Nations, a celebration of the city's multicultural identity. In recognition of her unwavering service, the Aurora Hispanic Heritage Advisory Board established the Delia Nila Basile Award, presented annually to a resident, organization, or business that exemplifies the leadership, dedication, and cultural pride that Dee personified. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to represent Aurora and grateful for Delia ``Dee'' Nila Basile's service to her community. Her presence lit up every room she entered, and her commitment to her city, her family, and her culture left a permanent mark on the people of Aurora. I extend my heartfelt condolences to her family and invite my colleagues to join me in celebrating her extraordinary life.

Mr. FOSTER

Mr. FOSTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Nokia Bell Labs as they celebrate their 100th anniversary, marking a century of transformative innovation and scientific achievement. Since its founding in 1925, Bell Labs has been a leader in cutting- edge research, delivering innovative solutions to some of the most complex challenges in communications and computing. The technologies pioneered within their laboratories have fundamentally shaped the modern world, enabling the networks and digital tools we rely on every day. Following World War II, researchers at Bell Labs invented the transistor, a discovery that revolutionized electronics and launched the era of modern computing. Bell Labs also played a pivotal role in the creation of Information Theory, which remains the foundation for virtually all modern communications systems. In the 1960s, Bell Labs introduced Telstar 1, the world's first communications satellite, making live global television broadcasts possible and ushering in a new era of global connectivity. In addition to their achievements in hardware and communications. Bell Labs was responsible for developing the C programming language and the Unix operating system, both of which laid the groundwork for the digital age and the internet as we know it today. As part of Nokia, Bell Labs continues to serve as a beacon of scientific excellence and future-focused research. Today, their work in 6G technology promises to revolutionize how we interact with both the digital and physical worlds. Their advancements in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and other emerging technologies are poised to dramatically enhance our capabilities in sectors such as healthcare, transportation, energy, and science. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize Nokia Bell Labs' accomplishments as one of our Nation's leading research laboratories, and I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating their 100 years of pioneering research and continued commitment to driving humanity forward.

Mr. FOSTER

Mr. FOSTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Robert ``Bob'' P. Hubbard for receiving the 2024 Citizen of the Year Award in the City of Batavia. The Citizen of the Year Award celebrates individuals who have made a profound impact towards inspiring and uplifting the City of Batavia. As a native Batavian, Bob has lived a life rooted in the values of compassion, civic engagement, and integrity. His contributions have touched nearly every corner of the Batavia community and continue to uplift countless lives. Bob is a driving force behind the recruiting and funding work for the INCubator Entrepreneurship Program. Since 2015, he has recruited and coordinated dozens of volunteer mentors, coaches, and judges, providing over 500 students with meaningful real-world business experience. Through his leadership, the program has raised more than $80,000 and secured $100,000 in grants, helping to build a lasting foundation for future innovation. As a longtime CASA Kane County volunteer, he has dedicated his efforts to protecting the community's most vulnerable, serving as a Court-Appointed Special Advocate and Guardian Ad Litem. In these roles, he has been a steadfast voice for children in abuse and neglect cases, offering critical guidance and advocacy. He has also provided leadership to numerous community organizations, including TriCity Family Services, the LivingWell Cancer Resource Center, the Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley, and the Batavia Community Chest. Notably, his tenure with the Rotary Club of Batavia has spanned nearly four decades and includes service as club president, recognition as Rotarian of the Year, and multiple Paul Harris Fellow honors. Beyond formal roles, Bob embodies the essence of ``Service Above Self.'' Whether he's packing food for the Northern Illinois Food Bank, supporting families through CHIP IN Batavia, participating in roadside cleanups, or doing yard work for neighbors in need, Bob is always the first to volunteer. He is also a steward of Batavia's legacy. As the third-generation owner of Hubbard's Home Furnishings, his family's business served the community for over 100 years. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to represent such an extraordinary citizen of Batavia, Illinois, who exemplifies what it means to be a good neighbor and a true public servant. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Robert ``Bob'' P. Hubbard for his remarkable lifetime of service and congratulating him on being named the 2024 Citizen of the Year.

Mr. FOSTER

Mr. FOSTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate a milestone in Illinois' transportation history, the 40th anniversary of Metra, which has been an essential part of the fabric of our region's transportation network. Since its founding in 1984, Metra has provided reliable, safe, and efficient rail service for millions of residents and commuters throughout the Chicagoland area. Metra plays a crucial role in connecting neighborhoods, supporting local businesses, and ensuring that individuals can travel easily to work, school, and recreational activities. As the second-largest commuter rail system in the United States, Metra has helped foster economic growth by supporting both suburban and urban development and providing a convenient and sustainable alternative to driving. With 243 stations and 11 routes spanning nearly 500 route miles, Metra connects communities across the six-county Chicago area. Serving over 300,000 riders on an average weekday, Metra is the backbone of the region's transit system, enabling people to commute safely, reliably, and efficiently. Over the last four decades, Metra has adapted to the evolving needs of its riders, weathered economic challenges, and embraced innovations in technology to enhance the rider experience. The agency's leadership has embraced modern technologies, improved accessibility, and continuously enhanced customer service to meet the growing demands of its passengers. Whether through the expansion of services, improvements to stations, or the adoption of innovative rail solutions, Metra has remained dedicated to serving the people of Illinois with the highest standards of service. Today, we recognize the hard work and dedication of Metra's employees--from conductors to engineers, from planners to customer service representatives--whose efforts have helped ensure the continued success of this critical public transportation system. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Metra and extend my deepest appreciation to everyone who has contributed to its success. I look forward to continuing to work with Metra as it builds on its remarkable 40 years of safe and reliable commuter rail service in the Chicagoland area.

Mr. FOSTER

Mr. FOSTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the exemplary life and leadership of the late Mayor William F. Murphy, a public servant who dedicated his career to the betterment of Woodridge and its neighboring communities. Mayor Murphy's 41 years of leadership, as Village Trustee from 1972 until 1981 and then Mayor from 1981 until 2013, was paramount to the growth of Woodridge into the thriving village we see today. His negotiations brought water from Lake Michigan to DuPage County and sustained Argonne National Laboratory's research capabilities. He served in countless organizations, including as president of the DuPage Mayors and Managers Conference and the Illinois Municipal League, demonstrating Murphy's aspiration to use local government to uplift the community. Mayor Murphy remained deeply thoughtful and responsive to his residents' challenges. He consistently listened to their feedback and worked towards addressing their needs. Mayor Murphy also championed the ProLogis Fund, providing college scholarships and non-profit grants to empower the next generation of leaders and advocates. In addition, Mayor Murphy had a distinguished career as an educator, principal and Assistant Superintendent for 29 years for Woodridge School District 68, even having a local school named for him upon his retirement. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to have represented such a dedicated leader who governed with the utmost humility. I ask you all to join me in honoring his legacy through the Woodridge Village Hall renaming. May the ``William F. Murphy Village Hall'' serve as a lasting reminder of his service to our community.

Mr. FOSTER

Mr. FOSTER. Mr Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate March 14, 3.14, or Pi day. Pi is a Greek letter, and in mathematics it is a symbol for the number you always get when you divide a circle's circumference by its diameter. Many people approximate pi as 3.14 or 3.14159. But the number is irrational and will continue infinitely without repeating. If you were to try to write down the exact number for pi, there would be infinite numbers to the right of the decimal point and there would be no pattern. This means we're down to a mere infinity digits yet to be found. To date, it has been calculated to over 202 trillion digits. But there is still new math to be discovered. And mathematics is critical to everything we do. It's the language of science, engineering, and technology. So, today, don't be rational. Be irrational and celebrate Pi Day. This celebration is not only about the number itself, but also about what this day can represent for our country. One of the most important investments that we can make is getting students interested in STEM subjects--science, technology, engineering, and math. Since World War II, over half of U.S. economic growth has been driven by science and technology, and through the end of the decade, the growth rate of STEM employment is expected to be more than double the growth rate of non- STEM employment. However, we do not have enough students graduating from high school and college with necessary skills in the STEM fields to fill these jobs. As times change and we move into a more STEM-based economy, it is important that our students get the education and training they will need to succeed. This is why recognizing March 14 as Pi Day is important. It shows the fun and exciting side to math and other STEM subjects, and will hopefully lead to a crop of students developing an interest in becoming the next generation's mathematicians, engineers, and physicists. I am planning to reintroduce a resolution to support designating March 14 as National Pi Day. I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating this day and supporting our future scientists for generations to come.

Mr. FOSTER

Mr. FOSTER. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material for the Record.

Mr. FOSTER. Mr. Speaker, I will first thank my colleagues on the Democratic Rapid Response Task Force and Litigation Working Group for helping us with these various Special Order hours discussing the Trump administration's various reckless actions. Tonight, I rise to bring attention to an issue that really should have all Americans on alert, which are President Trump's tariff policies. Since the beginning of this administration, American businesses, manufacturers, and families have been stuck in limbo as the Trump administration has repeatedly threatened, then implemented, then paused, then restarted tariffs, creating uncertainty and instability. The most recent policy shift to a 25 percent tariff on goods from Canada and Mexico has been fraught with delays and exemptions, leaving American businesses, manufacturers, and consumers just stuck in limbo, not knowing how to react and how to make their plans. In fact, just this morning, Trump doubled planned tariffs on steel and aluminum from Canada to 50 percent. Then, a mere couple hours ago, a spokesman from the White House said that the tariffs on Canada were back down to 25 percent. Who knows? In true Trump administration fashion, this is complete and utter chaos. Yet, the truth is that these tariffs, no matter if and when they go into full effect, whether it is this week or next month, they will all ultimately have the same result: higher prices for everyday goods and a less competitive U.S. manufacturing sector. In fact, a business in my district, which makes precision-form steel tubing components, told me that the price of hot rolled steel is up 33 percent since Trump's inauguration in anticipation of these tariffs, and there is just no way that they are going to be able to avoid passing these inflationary price increases on to their customers. According to an analysis from the Yale Budget Lab, if implemented fully, these tariffs would cost the average American family between $1,600 and $2,000 a year, with working-class families, who can least afford it, being hit the hardest. Prices would spike across the board. Electronics, like computers, phones, and TVs, could rise by 11 percent; clothing, up by 7.5 percent; cars and auto parts, up by 6 percent; groceries, up 2 percent with fresh produce rising nearly 3 percent. Oil and other energy costs will rise over 1.6 percent, making it more expensive for families to fill up their gas tanks and heat their homes. Mr. Speaker, Trump is trying to spin these tariffs as something that is solely attacks on foreign companies, but history and macroeconomic facts tell us otherwise. When Trump first imposed tariffs during his first administration, it was not other countries that paid, but it was American consumers and businesses. Importers passed these cost increases on to their consumers, and domestic producers hiked their own prices in response. This made U.S. manufacturers less competitive worldwide. In fact, in the last administration, Trump's policies put us into a manufacturing recession well before COVID hit. Beyond hurting hardworking American families, these tariffs threatened the stability of our economy. Analysts from across the political spectrum warned that they could slash 2.3 percent from GDP by 2026, wiping out a lot of projected growth. Markets also reacted with great uncertainty, as they should. The stocks have dropped, and consumer confidence is cratering. For American farmers, many of whom are already facing mounting economic challenges, the situation is even more dire. The costs of critical supplies, such as fertilizer, fuel, and equipment, will skyrocket, making it harder for farmers to maintain their operations. Mr. Speaker, I was just at an event earlier today with corn farmers from the Midwest. For example, according to the U.S. Geological Survey, Canada supplies over 80 percent of our potash imports, which are an essential component for agricultural fertilizer. Guess who the next leading producers are after Canada? Russia, China, and Belarus. Wouldn't it be better if we could import from our friends in Canada instead of Russia, China, and Belarus, or does our President feel differently? In any case, with increased costs, farmers will be forced to either raise prices or absorb the losses, neither of which is sustainable in the long run. Besides rising costs, farmers are already facing devastating losses in international markets. China, the largest export market for U.S. food products, has already announced retaliatory tariffs on key American agricultural goods, including wheat, corn, soybeans, pork, and dairy products. Mexico, our largest corn export market, knows what they are going to do because they did it last time. When Trump did various things to insult the people of Mexico and assault their economy, they simply stopped buying corn from the United States and began buying it from Brazil. Brazil, by the way, gets two crops a year, which, when you tell that to corn farmers in the Midwest, they react. We are in danger of losing these markets permanently if Trump continues what he did in his last go-around on tariffs. According to the USDA, in fact, the last time President Trump engaged in a trade war, it cost U.S. farmers nearly $30 billion in lost sales and market disruptions. In an effort to keep the farmers' heads above water, $30 billion of taxpayer money was sent their way. That is not what farmers want. For decades, American farmers have worked tirelessly to expand access to foreign markets, ensuring their products reach consumers around the world. These new tariffs will undo years of progress in expanding those markets, closing off opportunities and shrinking demand for American- grown goods in a foreign market, something which domestic consumption alone cannot compensate for. Finally, Mr. Speaker, long before coming to Congress and long before my career as a scientist, I started a manufacturing company with my brother. Starting with $500 from our parents, we built a company that now manufactures over half of all the theater lighting equipment in the United States. It provides over 1,300 manufacturing jobs in the Midwest. We do hardware, software, painting, wiring harnesses, customer support, everything, and I am very proud that we have kept those good manufacturing jobs in the United States. That is why boosting the U.S. manufacturing and creating manufacturing jobs here has always been a top priority of mine and why I was so horrified at the damage done to U.S. manufacturing by the last set of Trump tariffs. I watched with deep concern as the first Trump administration's tariffs and our other trade policies put us in a manufacturing recession a year before COVID even started. Once again, Trump is pursuing a failed economic policy that is going to do nothing to bring jobs back, but instead it will drive up costs, kill growth, and undermine U.S. manufacturing, the very sector that he claims to protect. Manufacturers will be hit with soaring costs. Many U.S. manufacturers rely on imported raw materials, such as steel, aluminum, and auto parts from Canada and Mexico. These tariffs will increase costs across the supply chains, making it harder to produce goods economically and much harder for U.S. manufacturers to export their goods in a competitive world environment. Contrary to what Trump and the Republicans are trying to say, higher costs mean fewer jobs. When manufacturers face rising production expenses, they are forced to either pass those costs on to consumers, further driving up inflation, or cut jobs and production. Studies have shown that Trump's previous tariffs led to job losses, not gains, in the manufacturing sector. American manufacturers will, once again, struggle to compete globally. By making essential inputs more expensive, Trump is weakening U.S. manufacturers against foreign competitors who are not burdened with these artificial price hikes. Not to mention, manufacturers will likely be hit by retaliatory tariffs when trying to export their goods to the countries that President Trump has targeted. This is not America First; this is America last in the global economy. The last trade war was a disaster. Under Trump's first round of tariffs, manufacturers suffered as input prices soared, supply chains were disrupted, and retaliatory tariffs from other nations crushed U.S. exports. This time the consequences could be even worse. The truth is, there are no winners in trade wars, only those left to bear the burden of higher costs, lost jobs, and economic instability. Instead of strengthening our economy, Trump and his Republican allies are needlessly putting it at risk, gambling with the livelihoods of American families. When the U.S. is threatened with a recession, you don't have to take my word for it, you can read the front page of The Wall Street Journal. It will be those policies who are to blame. Mr. Speaker, I am glad to be joined by my colleague, Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury. As a Representative of the southern border State, New Mexico, she knows all too well, the importance of fair trade with Mexico for our Nation's economy and especially for working families' wallets. Mr. Speaker, I now yield to the gentlewoman from New Mexico (Ms. Stansbury). Real-world Impacts on Communities of Actions Taken by Elon Musk and Donald Trump

Mr. FOSTER. Mr. Speaker, I thank Representative Stansbury for speaking today and for sharing how some of Trump's policies are going to harm her constituents. In her State and near her district are national security workers, atomic scientists at Sandia and Los Alamos National Labs, who were fired and then unfired and are still being threatened with being fired. I am a scientist. I know a lot of people who are in that situation. Damage is done to our national security when you tell people who are working at a national lab, especially a national security lab, that it is not a safe place in terms of being able to depend on an income to raise their families. That does damage to our national security that can never be undone. It is not a small deal, and the fact that some 23-year-old kid with a software background has decided they know more about the workforce that we need to make sure our nuclear weapons are safe and effective is about as bad government as you can ever imagine. I would also like to echo Ms. Stansbury's questions about why does Trump do this. Why does he actually do this? The President's reputation as a great businessman is based on making a series of one-off deals. He is a real estate dealmaker, not a manufacturer, not a businessman who has real customers. He thinks he has done a good deal when he uses all the leverage in his negotiation to make sure that he has really rooked his counterpart, his customer, to the extent possible in his real estate transactions. I am very different. I am a manufacturer. The last thing you want if you are a manufacturer is a dissatisfied customer. It is a completely different mindset. The problem occurs when Donald Trump views our allies as people to be rooked, people to be insulted, people to use, to leverage to get the most out of the current situation with them instead of trying to develop the long-term business relationship that is really the basis of the long-term economic security of our country. That is my best understanding of why the President does these things because he certainly has his advisers that let him know that his policies are going to have disastrous economic effects. In fact, just a couple of nights ago, in an interview, President Trump declined to rule out the possibility of a recession, which I imagine his competent advisers have been shouting in his ear for weeks now. As I said earlier, there are no winners in a trade war. There are only those who are left to bear the burden of higher costs, lost jobs, and economic instability. Instead of strengthening our economy, Trump and his Republican allies are needlessly putting it at risk, gambling with the livelihoods of American families. If the U.S. indeed enters a recession, we will know who to blame. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. FOSTER

Mr. FOSTER. Mr. Speaker, at the time of Ukraine's independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, Ukraine held the third largest nuclear arsenal in the world. According to the Arms Control Association, this included approximately 1,900 strategic warheads, 176 intercontinental ballistic missiles, and 34 strategic bombers, an arsenal large enough to annihilate every person on Earth. By 1996, Ukraine had voluntarily given up that nuclear arsenal in exchange for written guarantees of territorial integrity, signed by America, Russia, England, and Europe. These were guarantees that were reconfirmed by Russia under Vladimir Putin in 2009. When JD Vance and Donald Trump stabbed Ukraine in the back in the Oval Office last Friday by ignorantly repudiating those security agreements and by failing to defend one of only two nations that has ever voluntarily given up its nuclear weapons, it forever raised the risk of an uncontrolled nuclear arms race and a nuclear holocaust. It put a stain on our Nation's honor that will take generations to remove.

Mr. FOSTER

Mr. FOSTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Family Counseling Service (FCS) in Aurora, Illinois. For a century, FCS has been a pillar of compassion, support, and guidance, providing critical mental health and social services to individuals and families in need. Since its founding in 1925, Family Counseling Service has remained steadfast in its mission to strengthen communities through accessible and comprehensive counseling, advocacy, and outreach programs. Over the years, FCS has expanded its services to address the evolving needs of the community, offering mental health counseling, financial empowerment programs, crisis intervention, and support for survivors of domestic violence. Through its dedicated team of professionals and community partnerships, FCS has transformed countless lives by ensuring that everyone, regardless of background or financial status, has access to the care and resources they need to thrive. Their century-long commitment to mental wellness and family stability has made an indelible impact on Aurora and beyond. As they commemorate this remarkable 100-year milestone, I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to the staff, counselors, and volunteers of Family Counseling Service. Their unwavering dedication, compassion, and expertise have been the driving force behind the organization's success. Through their hard work, they have uplifted individuals, strengthened families, and transformed lives, making our communities stronger and more resilient. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to represent such an impactful organization in my district. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Family Counseling Service on its 100th Anniversary. Their tireless efforts have enriched the lives of so many, and I am confident that their legacy of service will continue for generations to come.

Mr. FOSTER

Mr. FOSTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Reverend Jesse Hawkins, Pastor of the Cathedral of Grace St. John African Methodist Episcopal Church, in Aurora, Illinois, for receiving the 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award from the Aurora African American Heritage Advisory Board--a well-deserved recognition of his unwavering dedication and impactful leadership. The Aurora African American Heritage Advisory Board honors individuals who embody excellence, dedication, and a commitment to the betterment of society. Pastor Hawkins is a shining example of these values, having devoted his life to both spiritual and civic leadership. Reverend Hawkins was appointed to St. John AME Church in October 1982. For decades, he has dedicated himself to uplifting the people of Aurora, advocating for social justice, and fostering a spirit of unity. His work extends beyond the pulpit, touching lives through mentorship, community service, and outreach programs that provide support and empowerment to individuals and families in need. Throughout his tenure, Reverend Hawkins has guided the congregation in the development of numerous ministries, including the Agape Connection Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to community outreach and support. His commitment to social justice has made the church's lectern a forum for addressing critical issues, with nationally recognized leaders and speakers gracing the congregation. Reverend Hawkins holds his relationship with God, Christ, and people as the most valuable aspect of his journey. He shares this journey with his beloved wife, Mary Watson Hawkins, and their son, David Alexander. Together, they have built a legacy of faith and service that will endure for generations to come. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to represent such an honorable community leader in my district. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Reverend Jesse Hawkins on receiving this distinguished recognition. His tireless service and devotion to his faith and community are truly commendable.

Mr. FOSTER

Mr. FOSTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Theodia Gillespie, President and CEO of the Quad County Urban League for receiving the 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award from the Aurora African American Heritage Advisory Board--a fitting tribute to nearly four decades of tireless commitment to empowering communities and changing lives. The Aurora African American Heritage Advisory Board honors individuals who embody excellence, dedication, and a commitment to the betterment of society. Theodia is a shining example of these values, as her lifelong pursuit of excellence and equality has been the foundation of her work, advocating for a ``hand up, not a handout'' approach that empowers individuals and families to create sustainable career paths and vibrant, thriving communities. Since joining the Quad County Urban League in 1984 and assuming the role of President and CEO in 1993, Mrs. Gillespie has been a transformative leader. Under her leadership, the organization has experienced tremendous growth in education and workforce development programs, providing countless individuals with the tools they need to build better futures. Her leadership has earned her numerous prestigious accolades, including: The Best Supporting Organization Award from the Aurora Hollywood Casino, The Good Samaritan Award from WBBM-TV, The Lifetime Achievement Award from the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis, and The Legacy Recognition Award from the National Urban League. Beyond her role at the Quad County Urban League, Mrs. Gillespie continues to serve her community as Chairperson of the Board for The Marie Wilkinson Food Pantry and as a Board Member for East Aurora School District 131 Board of Education, Forefront, and the Dunham Foundation. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to have such a dedicated leader in my district. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Theodia Gillespie on receiving this distinguished recognition. Her leadership, advocacy, and service have made an indelible mark on the lives of many.

Mr. FOSTER

Mr. FOSTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise as a Ph.D. physicist in Congress, who spent most of his career in the national laboratories of the Department of Energy, to share the story of a research engineer at a national lab who was recently fired without cause by President Trump and Elon Musk. This engineer's job was: Co-leading a project developing software for critical mineral and rare earth element extraction, while also playing a lead technical role in computer modeling of desalination and water treatment processes and supporting U.S. industrial partners to use these tools to deploy and modernize their systems. Mr. Speaker, our country cannot afford to lose the talent of civic- minded scientists like this. Moreover, if Donald Trump thinks that he is going to strike a deal with Ukraine on rare earth minerals, then he is going to need real experts in our government on critical mineral extraction. We don't get that by firing them.

Mr. FOSTER

Mr. FOSTER. Mr. Speaker, I thank Representative Tonko for holding this Special Order hour on preserving scientific integrity. Mr. Speaker, I am a scientist. For 25 years before entering Congress, I worked at Fermi National Accelerator Labs, smashing protons and antiprotons together to make particles that have not been around since the Big Bang. If you are a scientist and you stand up and deliberately say something that you know is not true or if you publish something fraudulent, it is a career-ending move. You will lose your position. Nobody will publish your papers. You are done. It should be that way, frankly, in politics. The reason that we scientists take truthfulness so seriously is that we are always operating on the frontiers of what is scientifically known. We are always operating with statistically incomplete datasets, with partially confirmed hypotheses, and defining the next experiments to perform to get to the next level of scientific truth. So we scientists simply cannot tolerate the additional uncertainty of whether or not the person that we are listening to is deliberately lying or even hiding parts of what they know to be the scientific truth. That is why it is so corrosive and demeaning when the Trump administration orders scientists to suppress their best understanding of the scientific truth, forcing scientists to choose between either their scientific integrity or potentially their jobs. As the Trump administration has already made it clear that they will continue to undermine science and dismiss evidence-based policies, this discussion could not come at a more important time. Unfortunately, the situation is not new. During the first Trump administration, as chair of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee's Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight, one of the first hearings that I held was on the damage done to our Nation's scientific enterprise by the President's policies. The statistics were concerning. There were significant losses in key STEM positions at the Department of Energy, the Environmental Protection Agency, NOAA, including a 20 percent reduction in the Department of Energy Office of Nuclear Energy, something that Republicans claim to support. Far too often, a scientist's expertise was simply ignored or their motives were questioned or their work was dismissed or censored. Unsurprisingly, this resulted in the hemorrhaging of career scientists of all different backgrounds from our Federal workforce and from the university programs that they supported. Often, these talented scientists left for better offers in the private sector. The departure of so much scientific talent and institutional knowledge from the government and from our universities represents a permanent, competitive disadvantage for the United States. The responsibility, once again, falls on lawmakers like myself and my colleagues to protect the funding and the scientific freedom of speech that drives scientific advancement. It is our duty to ensure that regardless of the political climate, science remains at the forefront of our Nation's progress and innovation. Even as Trump continues his onslaught of executive orders that neglect scientific fact, I know that many of my sensible colleagues on the other side of the aisle would not want to see the U.S. fall behind in this era of rapid technological innovation. That is precisely what we risk if we do not continue to fund and support the scientists at our Federal agencies and the scientific programs that they support around the country. At the same time, we must also make sure that we support scientists of all different backgrounds, including those who come to the U.S. for their education and want to stay and contribute their skills to our economy. During my two decades at Fermi National Accelerator Lab, some of the brightest and most accomplished scientists and engineers that I had the privilege to work with came from foreign countries. In one circumstance that still makes me angry, we lost one of our best and brightest through LGBT intolerance in our immigration policies. I know firsthand that Trump's dangerous rhetoric against diversity in our Federal workforce threatens the very foundation of what fuels U.S. innovation. Both Democrats and Republicans actually recognize this truth. My Keep STEM Talent Act, which would effectively staple a green card to a graduate degree for international STEM students who study at a U.S. university, received bipartisan support with multiple Republican cosponsors. Mr. Speaker, I urge my sensible colleagues on the other side of the aisle to support efforts like this and increase the resiliency of our Federal workforce and help defend our Nation's competitive edge in the face of these growing threats.

Mr. FOSTER

Mr. FOSTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Sawyer Rinn and Tristan Souza, of Johnny 5 v2.0, a robotics team from the 11th District of Illinois, on their recent achievements in representing the United States at two international competitions. In November, Sawyer and Tristan earned 5th place at the World Robot Olympiad (WRO) International Finals, competing against 100 teams from 90 countries. Their success was the result of their exceptional engineering, problem-solving, and innovation skills, which enabled them to design and program a robot capable of completing complex tasks. Additionally, in October, the team placed 1st at the World Robotics Olympiad Americas Open in Puerto Rico, where they competed against 25 teams from 17 countries. Coach William Wong of Naperville leads the team. He is the founder of Chasewood Learning, which has produced multiple national robotics champions. His programs inspire children to develop STEM skills and pursue related careers. Sawyer Rinn, 12, from Geneva, Illinois, in his third year of robotics, won the 2022 WRO National Championship and placed 27th at the WRO International Finals. Tristan Souza, 12, from Hinsdale, Illinois, in his second year, reached the FIRST LEGO League state finals in 2022. Both aspire to study engineering at top universities. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to have outstanding students and mentors in my district who drive innovation and promote STEM career pathways. Please join me in congratulating Sawyer Rinn, Tristan Souza, and Coach William Wong on their impressive achievements.

Mr. FOSTER

Mr. FOSTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and extraordinary contributions of Kelly McCleary, a beloved educator, community advocate, and mentor from Aurora, Illinois, who recently passed away. Kelly's unwavering dedication to her family, students, and community has left a lasting impact that will be felt for generations. Born on December 30, 1961, in Augusta, Georgia, Kelly graduated from East Aurora High School in 1980. She earned a bachelor's degree in physical education from North Central College in 1985 and a master's degree in educational leadership from Aurora University. Kelly married Scott McCleary on September 5, 1987, and they had two children, Ian and Kara. She built a life centered on service, education, and community betterment. Kelly's career in education was marked by a deep commitment to nurturing the growth and development of young people. She taught elementary physical education, coached track, and served as an assistant principal and principal in the East Aurora School District. In recognition of her exceptional leadership and dedication, she was named the Kane County School Administrator of the Year in 2006. Later, Kelly continued her work in education as a teacher and director of Wesley Preschool in Aurora, where she continued to inspire and shape the lives of young learners. Outside of the classroom, Kelly's influence extended into the wider community through her service in both the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, serving as a den, pack, and troop leader, and leading numerous district and council activities. Her contributions were recognized with awards, including the Girl Scout Gold Award, the Thank Badge II, and the Hall of Fame Award. From the Boy Scouts, she was awarded the District Award of Merit and the Silver Beaver Award--both testaments to her dedication and leadership. Kelly's commitment to her community was further exemplified through her involvement in organizations, including the Aurora Public Library District Foundation's annual gala. She was a champion for causes that enriched the lives of those around her, particularly children. In her personal time, Kelly enjoyed traveling with her friends and family, especially to Disney World, and creating beautiful quilts. Her love for these activities was only surpassed by her passion for enriching the lives of others. Kelly McCleary touched the lives of countless individuals throughout her life, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, leadership, and service. She was a tireless advocate for children, a devoted educator, a loving mother, and a cherished member of the Aurora community. She will be remembered fondly for her remarkable ability to inspire, her selfless contributions, and the profound impact she had on the lives of so many. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to represent Aurora and grateful for Kelly McCleary's service to her community. Her legacy of kindness, service, and dedication will live on in the hearts of those who knew her. I extend my heartfelt condolences to her family and invite my colleagues to join me in celebrating her extraordinary life.

Mr. FOSTER

Mr. FOSTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the passage of H.R. 82, the Social Security Fairness Act. This legislation will finally repeal the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset, mistakes which have unfairly reduced or eliminated Social Security benefits for millions of Americans who have devoted their years to public service. I am proud that a strong bipartisan majority came together to protect their hard- earned benefits. As we celebrate this historic vote, it is also important to recognize that, were it not for the discharge petition, this bill, despite its strong bipartisan support, would never have even come to the floor for a vote. Too often the extreme flanks of both parties are calling the shots, leaving the majority of Members who are seeking bipartisan and thoughtful policymaking absolutely hamstrung. As we look forward to the 119th Congress, it is my hope that we can strengthen the discharge petition, allowing us to bring more meaningful bipartisan pieces of legislation to the floor and more bipartisan productivity back to this Chamber.

Mr. FOSTER

Mr. FOSTER. Mr. Speaker, I thank Representative McGovern for holding this Special Order hour to discuss the importance of nuclear security. As the only Ph.D. physicist in Congress, I feel I have a special responsibility to join this discussion and to ask what we can do to strengthen our global nuclear security architecture and maintain U.S. leadership in this area. I am proud to be the co-chair of the Congressional Nuclear Security Working Group along with Representative Chuck Fleischmann. It is important to continue the dialogue on nuclear security and the significance of arms control, especially as it connects to current events. One of our caucus' main goals is to continue to engage on the Hill and with external organizations to facilitate awareness of global threats of nuclear proliferation and nuclear terrorism. It is our hope that through building awareness and generating bipartisan dialogues we can create practical legislative solutions for these critical national security issues. With the escalation of China's nuclear program, Russian nuclear threats amid the invasion of Ukraine, Iran's growing nuclear capabilities, threats by Israeli cabinet members to use its nuclear arsenal against its neighbors, and the escalation of North Korean missile testing, this is not a small task. Above all, we see Ukraine, one of the few governments on Earth that has voluntarily given up its nuclear weapons in return for an international promise of territorial integrity, we see it threatened to be abandoned by some, including some in the United States. If we are going to be successful in confronting these unprecedented challenges, then we need to work across party lines as we look to the 119th Congress and beyond. One particular place where we are already working together in a bipartisan manner is at our national laboratories. As the co-chair of the bipartisan National Labs Caucus, our national labs create the underlying foundation for all of our nuclear security efforts, including the nonproliferation and national security priorities that we are here to talk about today. One of the features that you have got of being a Member of Congress, Mr. Speaker, is that if you ask, you can be taken into the room in our national weapons labs where you can see our nuclear weapons taken apart. If you enter that room and you talk to the experts about the details of the nuclear weapons, why they are built that way, what the capabilities are, and what the implications are if these are detonated, if you don't take your job seriously after entering that room, then you are not thinking clearly. I find that Republicans and Democrats upon entering that room think about their job in a different way than they would otherwise. This whole discussion is even more important than ever as we face an uncertain geopolitical environment that pushes against the international rules-based order and toward an age of strategic competition. I find so many of the lessons that have been well-known by Members of Congress during the Cold War seem to have been forgotten today. The simple lesson, for example, that there are weapons that you can own that make you less safe, which was well understood by Members of Congress back in the fifties and sixties, seems to have become a completely alien concept to Members of Congress today. That has led, I think, to some very bad policy, like people thinking that hypersonics make you safer; whereas, in fact, if you have hypersonics and your enemies know you have hypersonics, then they are more likely to react on a hair trigger to anything that looks like a launch against them and not have the time that they need to react rationally. Over the years, I have focused my attention specifically on several areas to strengthen our nuclear security architecture. First and foremost is H. Res. 1079, a resolution I introduced in the House with 39 other Members supporting arms control and condemning Russia's purported suspension of its participation in the New START treaty. The current extension of New START is set to expire in just over a year, and anyone who remembers previous arms control negotiations will know that there is almost no time left to negotiate a subsequent treaty. Additionally, any negotiations, whether with Russia, China, or any other country, require partners who are willing to have discussions on arms control, something that is easier said than done. In a time when traditional channels of dialogue in arms control and strategic stability have been closed or are quiet, we will rely even more on keeping alternative channels open. Nongovernmental organizations, scientists, and research institutions kept dialogue open during the worst parts of the Cold War, and we may need to rely on them to fulfill those roles again. Another institution that is crucial in these times will be the International Atomic Energy Agency, the IAEA. We are already seeing the incredibly hard work that Director General Grossi and his staff are putting in to responding to the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the nuclear plants that are being put at risk there and all the myriad other crises that are at their doorstep. In recognition of that work, I have also been leading H. Res. 641, a resolution that highlights the indispensable role that the IAEA plays in strengthening nuclear security and safety around the globe. Again, I thank Representative McGovern for this time and this very important discussion. There is a decent chance that everyone on Earth will spend their last few moments wondering why we did not spend more attention on nuclear weapons. I do not want to be part of that mistake, so I thank the gentleman for letting us participate today.

Mr. FOSTER

Mr. FOSTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate La Quinta de Los Reyes in Aurora, Illinois, for being named the 2024 Small Business of the Year by the Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. This award is a testament to the restaurant's dedication to exceptional service, cultural enrichment, and community engagement, Established in 2003 by Jesus Sanchez, an immigrant from Durango, Mexico, La Quinta de Los Reyes began as a family dream that has since become a culinary cornerstone of the Aurora community. Since 2014, together with his partner Claudia Urrutia, also an immigrant from Durango, Mexico they have overseen the growth of this business creating an atmosphere that celebrates Hispanic culture and traditions, while demonstrating a commitment to fostering inclusivity, supporting local events, and giving back to the community. Beyond its culinary offerings, La Quinta de Los Reyes hosts traditional celebrations, such as Reyes Magos, gifting thousands of toys to children in the community, and Dia de Los Ninos, bringing families together for a fun-filled day of children's activities and delicious food. Located at 36 East New York Street, La Quinta de Los Reyes occupies a historic building that dates back to the 1820s. This site has evolved over the years, from housing a shoe store and the Grand Lodge of the Knights and Ladies of Honor, to hosting Jacob Bellon's German Tavern in the early 1900s. Today, La Quinta de Los Reyes exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit that makes small businesses the lifeblood of our economy. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to have a family enterprise like La Quinta de Los Reyes in my district, to serve as a reminder of the essential role that Hispanic-owned businesses play in shaping the economic and cultural fabric of our Nation. I invite my colleagues to join me in congratulating Jesus Sanchez, Claudia Urrutia, and their entire family and team on this well-deserved honor.

Mr. FOSTER

Mr. FOSTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 40th Anniversary of Loaves & Fishes Community Services, one of the largest food pantries in Illinois. Founded in 1984 by a group of compassionate members of St. Raphael Catholic Church, this organization began as a small food pantry in a church closet, serving just eight families. Today, 40 years later, Loaves & Fishes provides assistance to over 10,000 individuals each week, including residents of DuPage, Kane, Kendall, and Will Counties. The success of Loaves & Fishes can be attributed to the collaboration of its dedicated staff and more than 1,000 volunteers, who range from teenagers to seniors nearing 90 years old. Their commitment has been instrumental in ensuring the prosperity of countless families. The extensive volunteer hours contributed over the years have allowed Loaves & Fishes to scale its operations, enabling efficient and cost- effective service at facilities such as the Frank J. Rus & Donald S. Toy Food Market & Resource Center. Over the years, Loaves & Fishes has expanded its mission beyond addressing food insecurity to include programs that promote self- sufficiency. These initiatives include offering emergency assistance for rent and utilities, help with public benefits, vehicle donations, Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA), employment readiness support, and the Moving Up program--a 20-session intensive course designed to help clients identify and overcome barriers to progress. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to have Loaves & Fishes Community Services in my district, actively working to alleviate hunger and support our community. I invite my colleagues to join me in expressing gratitude to Mike Havala, the current President and CEO of Loaves & Fishes, along with all the dedicated members of this organization. May it continue to be a beacon of service for many years to come.