Sylvia Garcia

Ms. GARCIA of Texas

Ms. GARCIA of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ida Alvarado, a beloved member of Houston's East End community, as she celebrated her 99th birthday on October 19, 2026. For nearly a century, Ida has shown us what it means to work hard, care for your family, and give back to your community. She and her late husband, Frank, raised five children and taught them the importance of faith and helping others. Ida has never been one to sit on the sidelines. She and Frank never missed an election, and they passed that sense of civic duty on to their children. From working early voting for Harris County to volunteering for her daughter Carol's campaigns, Ida has spent decades helping her neighbors make their voices heard. And Ida knows how to enjoy life, too. Whether catching up with her compadres at Mason Park or cheering on her Houston Astros, she has always made time for the people and things she loves. Ida is the kind of person who makes the East End so special. She has spent her life looking out for her family and her neighbors, and that is something worth celebrating. I join her loved ones in wishing her a very happy 99th birthday and thanking her for the examples she has set for generations.

Ms. GARCIA of Texas

Ms. GARCIA of Texas. Thank you to the gentlewoman from California for the time. Mr. Speaker, I am here to speak about a killing in my district. On July 7, an ICE agent shot and killed Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, an unarmed man with no criminal record, who was not even the target of their investigation. He was headed to a construction job when ICE aggressively pursued his van in an unmarked vehicle. No sirens, no body cameras, no dash cameras, just two unmarked cars following him. Then, an ICE agent fired through the open passenger's side window where Mr. Lorenzo's brother was sitting and killed him. Afterward came the same disgraceful playbook we saw after the killings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapolis. They claim Lorenzo, who was the driver, had weaponized his vehicle and that an agent had acted in self-defense. I spoke directly with two of the men inside that van. They told me ICE never identified themselves, never gave commands, and no agent was ever in front of the van. Then, in an added layer of cruelty, DHS, the Department of Homeland Security, released Mr. Salgado's name publicly before notifying his family. I was at the hospital when his son had to learn, through Facebook, that his father was dead. It was sickening. It was disheartening. It was despicable. Days later, DHS tried to smear Lorenzo even further by suggesting that drugs had been found in the van. It was not drugs. It was a homemade electrolyte mix workers use to survive the Texas heat. This is an outrageous abuse of government power. ICE pursued the wrong van and killed an unarmed man who wasn't their target and had no criminal record, and now we are expected to trust DHS to investigate itself. That is laughable. Absolutely not. No way. We need a real, independent investigation. We need all evidence released, and we need real accountability. We also need the truth about what happened to Mr. Salgado. His family deserves the truth. The public deserves accountability. We need justice for Mr. Salgado, and we need justice for all those killed at the hands of ICE or those in the custody of ICE. We demand accountability, and as the gentlewoman has said, we need real justice for all.

Ms. GARCIA of Texas

Ms. GARCIA of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I was unable to vote during the series today. Had I been able to vote, I would have voted: YEA on Roll Call No. 284, passage of S. 307--Prison Staff Safety Enhancement Act and YEA on Roll Call No. 285, passage of S. 32--LACA.

Ms. GARCIA of Texas

Ms. GARCIA of Texas. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Ms. GARCIA of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I have a motion to recommit at the desk.

Ms. GARCIA of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I hope my colleagues will join me in voting for the motion to recommit. Let's send this back to Committee so that we can make sure that it truly works for our community banks and that it does not give Wall Street another big win.

Ms. GARCIA of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise against H.R. 6955. Instead of the Main Street Act, this bill, Mr. Speaker, should be called the Wall Street wins Main Street loses act. It does not help end the affordability crisis, feed hardworking Americans, or keep a roof over their heads. Instead, this bill sneaks in deregulatory measures, further weakens the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, and weakens community reinvestment and anti- discrimination safeguards. For this reason, at the appropriate time, I will offer a motion to recommit this bill back to committee. If the House rules had permitted it, I would have offered the motion with an important amendment to this bill. My amendment would limit the provisions of this bill from applying to any globally systemically important bank holding companies. Simply put, it ensures that the bill's deregulatory provisions do not apply to megabanks. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to insert the text of my amendment into the Record immediately prior to the motion to recommit.

Ms. GARCIA of Texas

Ms. GARCIA of Texas. Mr. Speaker, this coming Monday, June 15, we mark 14 years since DACA, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. The keywords here are ``deferred action.'' That means you defer action and do not go into deportation. It gave Dreamers a chance to breathe. Yet, President Trump is trying to suffocate DACA one delayed renewal at a time. He is detaining and deporting Dreamers, slow-walking renewals, and creating gaps that are costing them their livelihoods. Dreamers were brought here as children. They grew up here and are American in every way--in their hearts, their souls, and their minds--except on paper. They should not have to keep proving they belong in the only country they call home. This is why I am leading the American Dream and Promise Act, to give Dreamers permanent protections and a pathway to citizenship. The House must vote on this bill and finally keep the promise that this country has made.

Ms. GARCIA of Texas

Ms. GARCIA of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ernie Manouse, a dear friend and a true Houston institution, and to congratulate him on 30 years with Houston Public Media. For three decades, Ernie has helped shape the way Houston tells its story. He has earned the respect of people across our city through his thoughtful reporting, his genuine curiosity, and his ability to connect with people from every walk of life. Anyone who has watched Ernie interview someone knows he brings warmth and humanity to every conversation. He listens carefully, asks meaningful questions, and makes people feel comfortable enough to share their stories honestly. His infectious smile and easy style are part of what make him such a rare talent, and they are among the reasons he has become such a trusted presence in Houston. Ernie's impact extends well beyond journalism. He has spent years supporting the arts, championing equality, and giving back to the community he loves. His work has helped strengthen Houston's civic and cultural life in countless ways. Houston is better because of Ernie. I thank him for his friendship, his decades of service, and everything he has done for our great city.

Ms. GARCIA of Texas

Ms. GARCIA of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I was unable to vote during the vote series today. Had I been able to vote, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 138, Passage of H.R. 7959, IRS Whistleblower Program Improvement Act, and YEA on Roll Call No. 139, Passage of H.R. 227, Clergy Act. Personal Explanation

Ms. GARCIA of Texas

Ms. GARCIA of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I was unable to vote during the vote series today. Had I been able to vote, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call No. 137, Passage of H.R. 5587--HEATS Act of 2026.

Ms. GARCIA of Texas

Ms. GARCIA of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I was unable to vote during the vote series today. Had I been able to vote, I would have voted: NAY on Roll Call No. 132, Adoption of H. Res. 1182; YEA on Roll Call No. 133, the Motion to Recommit on H.R. 4690; NAY on Roll Call No. 134, passage of H.R. 4690; YEA on Roll Call No. 135, the Motion to Recommit on H.R. 6387; and NAY on Roll Call No. 136, passage of H.R. 6387.

Ms. GARCIA of Texas

Ms. GARCIA of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I was unable to vote during this vote series today. Had I been able to vote, I would have voted: NAY on Ordering the Previous Question on H. Res. 1189 and NO on adoption of H. Res. 1189, Rule providing for consideration of H. Res. 1182, Expressing support for rural communities across the United States as stewards of the environment, major suppliers of United States energy resources, critical providers of food production and manufacturing capacity, and drivers of national economic stability, and recognizing the work of the House of Representatives in the 119th Congress in support of those vital communities; H.R. 4690, Reliable Federal Infrastructure Act; H.R. 1897, ESA Amendments Act of 2025; and H.R. 5587, HEATS Act of 2026.

Ms. GARCIA of Texas

Ms. GARCIA of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Charles H. Milby High School as it celebrates a full century since opening its doors in March 1926. In Houston's East End, Milby High School is more than a school. It is a landmark. And reaching 100 years is not just a milestone, it is a rare achievement that speaks to the strength of this institution and the neighborhoods that fuel it. Milby began with just 13 teachers and a little over 200 students, replacing Harrisburg High School just a few blocks away. One hundred years later, it stands as one of the most recognized and respected schools in Houston, serving students. Generations have walked those same halls, and many come back to serve the same school that shaped them. That pride runs deep. Milby has built a reputation for opening doors. With strong academics, STEM and career programs, and partnerships tied to Houston's industries, it has prepared students for college and the workforce. It has helped thousands of students reach graduation and realize their futures. Its graduates go on to become educators, business owners, and leaders right here in Houston. Today, that legacy continues under Principal Ruth Pena, a proud Milby graduate leading the next generation. And through all the change around it, Milby has remained in the same place, with the same name, serving the same community for 100 years. That kind of consistency is rare, and it is something to be proud of. So today, we are not just marking time. We are celebrating a century of education, of opportunity, and of hope for a better future, Here is to 100 years of Milby and to many more.

Ms. GARCIA of Texas

Ms. GARCIA of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the extraordinary service of Cynthia Nunes Colbert, President and CEO of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, as she prepares to retire after more than a decade of leadership. For nearly thirteen years, Ms. Colbert has been a tireless advocate for those most in need. Under her leadership, Catholic Charities has served as a lifeline for families across the Houston region, offering not just assistance, but hope, stability, and dignity. Her work has always been grounded in a deep sense of faith and a belief in the worth of every person she served. Her tenure was defined by steady leadership during some of the most difficult moments our community has faced. In the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, she led rapid efforts to deliver food, supplies, and financial assistance to families rebuilding their lives. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she guided the organization in delivering critical support to families facing economic hardship, ensuring help reached those who needed it most. Ms. Colbert also looked to the future, helping launch the Family Opportunity Center in the Eastex-Jensen community, an investment that will continue to support families on their path to self-sufficiency for years to come. Throughout her career, she has led with compassion, strength, and grace. Even in the face of profound personal loss, she continued to lead with clarity and purpose, never losing sight of her mission to serve others. Her impact will be felt for generations in the families she helped and the communities she strengthened. Mr. Speaker, I rise in gratitude for Cynthia Nunes Colbert's service to the people of Houston, and I wish her continued blessings in this next chapter.

Ms. GARCIA of Texas

Ms. GARCIA of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I was unable to vote during the vote series today. Had I been able to vote, I would have voted: NAY on roll call No. 79, ordering the previous question on H. Res. 1095; NO on roll call No. 80, Passage of H. Res. 1095; YEA on roll call No. 81, passage of S. 723; YEA on roll call No. 82, passage of H.R. 6472; and YEA on roll call No. 83, Motion to Refer H. Res. 1100.

Ms. GARCIA of Texas

Ms. GARCIA of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I am a lawyer. I have served as a judge. I know what the rule of law demands. What this administration is doing with ICE is not enforcement. It is lawlessness. It is cruelty. They have turned ICE into a force of masked thugs. In my community in the Houston area, people are paying the price. Luis Gustavo Nunez Caceres died in ICE custody near Houston. DHS claims it was heart failure, but this administration has shown such contempt for the truth that we can't believe a darn thing they say. His family is demanding answers, and so are we. I have requested the death report, but, Mr. Speaker, ICE has yet to respond. Under Trump, as noted earlier, 43 people have died in DHS custody or at the hands of DHS agents or their contractors. This is not a coincidence. This is cruelty masquerading as policy. In Minneapolis, two Americans--Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti-- were murdered by Federal immigration agents. We have all seen the videos. We know both deaths were completely unjustified. We know that this was not domestic terrorism. The American people know it, too, no matter how much this President tells us not to believe our very own eyes. Instead of accountability, the felon in the White House rushed to smear and lie about the victims. It is a disgrace. It is shameful. It is immoral. This administration is terrorizing our communities, threatening our cities, trampling on the Constitution, and tearing our country apart. It must stop, and it must stop now. Congress must act. Stop ICE now.

Ms. GARCIA of Texas

Ms. GARCIA of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Lawrence James Johnson of Houston, Texas, a devoted man of faith, a loving husband and father, and a tireless servant to his community. Lawrence James Johnson was born on May 24, 1954, in Houston, Texas, to L.J. Johnson and Erma Lee Dixon Johnson. He attended schools in the Houston Independent School District, including 8th Avenue School, Hogg Middle School, Booker T. Washington High School, and Reagan High School. From an early age, Lawrence was shaped by a strong and prominent Christian family. He was baptized by his grandfather, Rev. C.D. Dixon, at Greater Mt. Pillow Missionary Baptist Church, and his faith remained a steady foundation throughout his life. Lawrence's spiritual journey was marked by devotion and growth. Guided by the promise of Jeremiah 29:11, he rededicated his life to Christ and committed himself fully to living with purpose declaring, ``No turning back.'' He became not only a church member, but a faithful disciple, deepening his walk and dedicating himself to service. At The Community of Faith Church, Lawrence was a constant presence and a reliable servant. He supported the church's growth and participated in major milestones over the years. He served wherever he was needed, embodying a spirit of responsibility, humility, and love for others. On March 8, 1998, Lawrence was ordained as a Deacon at The Community of Faith by Bishop James Dixon II. He served with passion and compassion, including through the Overcomers Group and the Prison Ministry, sharing his personal testimony to uplift others and remind them that what we do in service to Christ is what endures. Lawrence also exemplified integrity and commitment through his work. He served faithfully for more than a decade at Metro, and later took a leap of faith to build his own landscaping business. The Lawn Groomer-- a reflection of his work ethic, entrepreneurial spirit, and determination. In his personal life, Lawrence found the love of his life in Vickie Gloria Johnson, whom he married on November 25, 1995, at The Community of Faith Church. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and service. Lawrence cherished every role he held--especially being ``Daddy,'' then ``Pawpaw,'' and ultimately ``Grand Pawpaw,'' embracing his family with deep joy and pride. Lawrence and Vickie also served others with special dedication-- especially homebound seniors, ensuring they received care, companionship, and support, including in the service of the Lord's Supper. He contributed to compassionate outreach efforts, helping deliver food to seniors through weekly community service initiatives. On January 6, 2026, Lawrence James Johnson entered eternal rest. His life was defined by steadfast faith, devotion to family, and an unselfish commitment to others. He is preceded in death by his parents, L.J. Johnson and Erma Lee Dixon Johnson; his brother, Lloyd ``Poncho'' Johnson; his uncle, Pastor Robert Irving Dixon, Sr.; his aunt, Doris Cole; and his niece, London Lynette Kent. Lawrence is survived by his beloved wife, Vickie Gloria Johnson; his daughters, Katrina Carroll and Brandi Williams-Lee; his siblings, Jan Kent, Doris Allen, and Danny Johnson; his beloved uncle, James Dixon, Sr.; and countless extended family members, friends, neighbors, and members of his church family who were blessed by his unique spirit. Mr. Speaker, the legacy Lawrence leaves behind is one of faith in action--service without recognition, love without condition, and perseverance through life's challenges. May we honor his memory by keeping Christ first, showing unselfish love to one another, and living by the words of his favorite scripture, Philippians 4:13: ``I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.'' I extend my deepest condolences to the Johnson family and all who loved Lawrence James Johnson. May his life continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.

Ms. GARCIA of Texas

Ms. GARCIA of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Galena Park North Shore Mustangs on winning the UIL Class 6A Division I State Championship on December 20, 2025, an extraordinary achievement for Texas's 29th Congressional District. On the biggest stage in Texas high school football, the Mustangs earned a state championship through discipline, preparation, and belief in one another. This victory marks the program's sixth state title and a return to the top, reaffirming North Shore's tradition of excellence. This championship reflects months of hard work, and a season defined by focus and resilience. It is a testament to the commitment of these student-athletes and the pride they bring to their school and community. The Galena Park North Shore Mustangs have once again given Texas 29 a moment to celebrate. Their achievement will be remembered not only for the title itself, but for what it represents about teamwork, perseverance, and community pride.

Ms. GARCIA of Texas

Ms. GARCIA of Texas. Mr. Speaker, due to illness, I was unable to vote today. Had I been able to vote, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call No. 343, Ordering the Previous Question on H. Res. 953; NO on Roll Call No. 344, H. Res. 953.

Ms. GARCIA of Texas

Ms. GARCIA of Texas. Mr. Speaker, due to illness, I was unable to vote today. Had I been able to vote, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 339, the Motion to Recommit on H.R. 4371; NAY on Roll Call No. 340, H.R. 4371; YEA on Roll Call No. 341, the Motion to Recommit on H.R. 3632; and NAY on Roll Call No. 342, H.R. 3632.

Ms. GARCIA of Texas

Ms. GARCIA of Texas. Mr. Speaker, due to illness, I was unable to vote today. Had I been able to vote, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call No. 337, Ordering the Previous Question on H. Res. 951; and NAY on Roll Call No. 338, on H. Res. 951.

Ms. GARCIA of Texas

Ms. GARCIA of Texas. Mr. Speaker, due to illness, I was unable to vote today. Had I been able to vote, I would have voted: YEA on S. 284--Congressional Award Program Reauthorization Act (Sen. Lummis-- Education and Workforce); and YEA on H.R. 3187--Conveyance of specified Forest Service property to Perry County, Arkansas (Rep. Hill--Natural Resources). personal explanation

Ms. GARCIA of Texas

Ms. GARCIA of Texas. Mr. Speaker, due to illness, I was unable to vote during the vote series. Had I been able to vote, I would have voted YEA on the Motion to Recommit H.R. 3668 and NAY on H.R. 3668, Improving Interagency Coordination for Pipeline Reviews Act. personal explanation

Ms. GARCIA of Texas

Ms. GARCIA of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Joe B. Allen, an accomplished attorney and civic leader who has devoted his career to strengthening and uplifting the City of Houston. Scenic Houston has recognized Mr. Allen with its Scenic Visionary Award for his leadership and his lasting contributions to our community. For decades, Mr. Allen has helped guide Houston's growth with a steady hand and a clear vision. Through his work in public infrastructure and policy, he has advanced the idea that a great city must be both functional and beautiful. It must be a place that serves its people and reflects their pride. He has been a leading voice for thoughtful urban design and the protection of green and scenic spaces across our region. His commitment to preserving the character of our city has inspired generations of Houstonians to see beauty as an essential part of civic life. Mr. Allen's influence endures in the parks, neighborhoods, and gathering places that define our city. Mr. Speaker, I commend Mr. Joe B. Allen on this well-deserved honor and thank him for a lifetime of service that has made Houston a stronger, more welcoming place for all.