Steny Hoyer

Mr. HOYER

Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman for her comments, making it clear that we invested. We didn't just spend money, we invested to make America better and American lives better. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from Minnesota (Ms. Craig).

Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman for talking about how the impact of the Investing in America agenda has worked for America and Americans. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from New York (Ms. Meng).

Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman for bringing to the American people's attention the consequences of the investments we have made in America and how it has impacted our families and our friends all over this country. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from Pennsylvania (Ms. Dean).

Mr. HOYER. I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on the subject of this Special Order.

Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, today, we have once again seen the majority party unable to govern. The defense bill was scheduled today, and apparently the majority party cannot get its act together, so we are not considering the defense bill today. Unfortunately, the Republicans seem to be frozen by their own dysfunction. It is interesting that we have scheduled today to show the work that the 117th Congress did that is making such a positive effect today in America. Today, we ought to reflect on what Democrats accomplished by standing together last Congress, with some bipartisan support. The 117th Congress was one of the most productive in American history because Democrats united behind a common cause: investing in America, making us stronger, safer, healthier, and more competitive in the 21st century. Now, the historic investments we made to create jobs, lower costs, and build the economy from the bottom and middle out are coming to fruition. Conveying the scale of these laws' positive impact on our country is no easy task, especially in a single hour, and we do not expect to do it in this hour alone. We can look at the past 32 months of consecutive job growth in America. We can point to the 13.5 million new jobs, including 800,000 new manufacturing jobs in the last 2\1/2\ years, added to our economy under the Biden-Harris administration. The previous administration, by comparison, Mr. Speaker, added 500,000 manufacturing jobs to the economy in the first 3 years before the pandemic. Indeed, we created more jobs in 2 years than any prior administration has added in a single 4-year term. We pushed the unemployment rate to a generational low, with more Americans working today than at any point in our Nation's history. Rather than stalling out into a recession, our economy continues to boom because Democrats put people over politics to invest in America. Goldman Sachs just put out a report estimating that we will see another 200,000 manufacturing jobs in the next 2 years alone. That makes a million new manufacturing jobs incorporated into what will then be a 15 million new jobs accomplishment. With inflation threatening to eat into more take-home pay for working Americans last Congress, Democrats stepped up to pass policies to reduce costs, raise wages, and create jobs. The results are now in: It worked, and it is still working. Wages continue to go up; inflation continues to go down; and our economy continues to grow at a steady pace. There are many factors at play, Mr. Speaker, in the global economy, but we owe these strong economic trends in no small part to the laws we enacted in the last Congress. Economic strength alone, however, doesn't capture all that these laws are accomplishing for the American people. The best way to understand how these laws are transforming our Nation for all Americans is to meet Americans where they are to hear firsthand how these policies are making a difference in their lives and the lives of their families. This year, Mr. Speaker, members of the Regional Leadership Council appointed by minority Democratic Leader Jeffries have had those conversations with countless Americans at schools, hospitals, union halls, small businesses, VA clinics, farms, and factories across the country. We have also sought to identify further funding opportunities, implement these policies, and inform the public about how they can access these programs and opportunities. Mr. Speaker, tonight we want to show Americans how their tax dollars are building a better future for their families and communities. We are working with Democrats to ensure that those investments reach every community in every corner of the country, and we look forward to working with Republicans to do the same. It doesn't seem to be their focus right now, but maybe it will be. All Americans deserve to feel the impact of these policies, whether they live on the quietest country road or the loudest city street, because investing in America, Mr. Speaker, means investing in all of America. Over the next hour, the members of the Regional Leadership Council will detail our implementation progress and show how investing in America's agenda is changing lives. Mr. Speaker, I will now turn to my colleagues, and I yield first to the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Soto).

Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for his comments, and I now yield to the gentleman from northern California (Mr. Huffman).

Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, investing in America, making a difference for people, that is what we are doing. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from Delaware (Ms. Blunt Rochester).

Mr. HOYER

Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman very much for that, and I am glad a good deed is returned. I will return it again. Would the gentleman yield to the gentlewoman from Illinois (Ms. Kelly) so she may finish her comments?

Mr. HOYER

Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to my dear friend former Maryland State Senator Norman R. Stone, Jr., who sadly passed away last month at the age of 87. I join many Marylanders and Americans in mourning his loss and in giving thanks for his life of service. Elected to the Maryland House of Delegates in 1962 and later to the State Senate in 1966, Norman served in the Maryland General Assembly for 52 years. We became good friends and close colleagues during our time in the State Senate together. He had become the longest-serving member of the Maryland General Assembly by the time of his retirement in 2015. Not only was the length of Norman's tenure admirable, so too was his character. Norman was 1 of the most steadfast, trustworthy, and honest people I've known. Although I did not agree with him on every issue, he never judged me or anyone else for a difference in opinion. He was humble and forthright--never 1 to resort to showmanship and politicking. You always knew where he stood on an issue. And you always knew that Norman would do what he thought was right for his constituents. He was truly an exemplary legislator. Norman showed devotion not only to public service but also to his family. My prayers are with his wife of 38 years Joanne; his children Norman, David, Jerry, and Lori; his stepson Lennie Lehner, Jr.; his 7 grandchildren; and the rest of his family. I like so many others throughout our community and state, grieve with them. I ask all my colleagues to join me in honoring Norman, who lived a life worthy of emulation--a life of service, character, and conviction.

Mr. HOYER

Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, on September 24, 2022, we lost my dear friend, William ``Bill'' Meyers: a principled attorney; a proud alumnus of Suitland High School, the University of Maryland, and Georgetown University Law Center; and a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. We will always mourn his loss and miss his wit, candor, and conviction. But we will also continue to honor Bill's memory and to give thanks for the many ways he touched our lives and improved our community. In that spirit, I ask that all my colleagues join me in honoring Bill and in praying for his wife Karen, his 4 children, his 6 grandchildren, and his great-granddaughter. I also want to pay tribute to Bill by including in the Record the prepared remarks I delivered at Bill's memorial service. Remarks for William V. Meyer's Memorial Service Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer--October 5, 2022 Today, as we mourn the loss of our dear friend, Bill, I understand some of the same feelings that Thomas Jefferson wrestled with after parting with a friend when he left France in 1786. In a letter to that friend, he mused that upon first glance, one might see friendship as a burden. After all, we volunteer to participate in our friends' pains, to devote our time and energy to caring for them, and to suffer immense grief when we eventually lose them. Ultimately, however, he realized that these duties were not burdens but benefits, as we receive our friends' care, attention, and company in return. Indeed, Jefferson concluded: ``friendship is precious, not only in the shade, but in the sunshine of life.'' Today, we reflect on all that we gained from our bond with Bill throughout the shadows and sunshine of our own lives. Over the sixty-seven years of our friendship, I came to admire Bill's abilities: his character and his talent as a lawyer, his charisma as lead drummer of Maryland's marching band, and of course, his penchant for pushups. Bill of course had other critically important traits that I admired and that made him the principled individual that he was. The first was his loyalty. Above all else, Bill was a family man. He displayed deep devotion to his wife and life partner, Karen, and to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild, all of whom he loved greatly and without reservation. His loyalty was not limited to his family. Whether at Suitland High School, the University of Maryland, or Georgetown Law School, and throughout my life, I always knew that I had Bill in my corner. No matter the milestone, I knew Bill would always be there to both celebrate and grieve with me. An important part of that loyalty was another vital trait: Bill's generosity. Bill was always willing to devote his time and energy to helping his friends. In 1966, he served as the treasurer of my first campaign for the Maryland State Senate. Our victory in that election altered the trajectory of my life, and it would never have been possible without Bill's work behind the scenes--not to mention the generosity of his father, Mike. As many of you know, Bill was also there for me when my wife, Judy, passed away more than twenty years ago. He helped me get through that time of sorrow. More than that, by serving as the treasurer of the Judith P. Hoyer Foundation, he took an active role in ensuring that Judy's legacy and her work supporting young children and their families would continue, and he saw the Judy Centers grow from the initial six to now sixty-nine in our state, soon to be 100. So many others benefited from his generosity, as well. And then there was his honesty! It is an understatement to say that Bill wasn't a ``yes man.'' You could rely on him to tell you what you needed to hear. Some called it candor; some called it other things. His honesty, at times, was heard through his blunt sense of humor, sometimes as uncomfortable truth. He took his beliefs very seriously. I want to read his statement, which was his conviction and his law firm's credo: ``Since I was very young, I have realized that the law is the glue which binds society together and prevents its descent into anarchy. Law, however, can only serve this laudable objective if it is directed by citizens with the highest ethical standards and the intelligence and training to discern the ethical path and to follow it without regard to personal gain or power. Since the founding of Meyers, Rodbell, and Russenbaum in 1975 our guiding policy has been to adhere strictly to the rules of court and professional conduct and to be fair and candid in our interactions with clients and others as well as opposing counsel. Our motto has always been that being ethical is not just the best policy-- it is the only policy.'' His dedication to his principles informed his representation of his clients, standing up for them and the law itself. It is rare to find someone who possesses all these traits-- loyalty, generosity, courage, honesty, conviction, integrity, and truthfulness--but when you do, you know that you've found a person of great worth. Jack Bailer, Judy, and I all recognized that integrity in Bill, and that's why we became such close friends so early in our lives--and for the rest of our lives. When I look back on my sixty-seven years as Bill's friend, it's easy to see that true friendship is not a simple transaction or a list of obligations. Instead, it is a sum that is far greater than its parts. As Jefferson wrote in that same letter I mentioned, not only do we cherish friendship in both the light and dark chapters of our lives, but ``thanks to that benevolent arrangement the greater part of life is sunshine.'' We are all together today because Bill enriched our lives in some way, so we celebrate his life as much as we mourn his Loss. May we cherish and celebrate a life to be honored, respected, and emulated. William V. Meyers was one of a kind, and he will be greatly missed. And we can thank God that he was in our lives. Thank you.

Mr. HOYER

Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman from the District of Columbia for her steadfast support of this event and her extraordinary representation of the District of Columbia. I thank the gentleman from North Carolina for his consideration in bringing this forward. Mr. Speaker, I strongly support this resolution. It authorizes an event that I am proud to support every year: the Greater Washington Soap Box Derby. The soapbox derby brings people together from across the Greater Washington metro area, encouraging kids, families, and communities to compete in a fun and educational race. Mr. Speaker, this is my 30th year introducing this resolution. I am pleased to say that every year it has passed unanimously. This is the Greater Washington Soap Box Derby's 80th year. The race will be held on June 17 and will see soapbox racers, ages 8 to 17, compete in three divisions: Stock, Super Stock, and Masters. The winner from each division will have a chance to compete at the national All- American Soap Box Derby in Akron, Ohio. Soapbox derbies have been called the greatest amateur racing event in the world. Whether that is absolute fact, it is very close. They have become a staple of the American experience all over our country. They teach sportsmanship, engineering, manufacturing, leadership skills, and so many other skills, as well. Oftentimes, racers are sponsored by local civic groups, service organizations, and police or fire departments with members coming out to cheer their local hometown participants. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to sponsor this resolution today that will authorize the use of the Capitol Grounds, which is essential for this soapbox derby to proceed. Mr. Speaker, I am proud that several Greater Washington Soap Box Derby champions have come from Maryland's Fifth District, including the winners from 2007, 2008, 2009, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2018. I am sure all of you are saying, well, it is no surprise that Hoyer supports this resolution on an annual basis. His guys do pretty well. Our racers even won a national championship in 2007 and 2008. I am excited to see how the Fifth District racers do this year, and to see their colorful and creative soapbox designs. Mr. Speaker, I hope every Member will join me in supporting this worthy event. I invite them to join me in cheering on the Greater Washington soapbox racers on June 17.

Mr. HOYER

Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of my friend Augustin `Augie' Tellez, who is this year's recipient of the Sons of Italy Foundation's Humanitarian Award. From his leadership in organized labor to his pride in his Italian heritage, Augie truly deserves this honor--as well as the gratitude of many people across Maryland and America. Serving as the Executive Vice President of the Seafarers International Union (SIU) since 2005, Augie has been an important voice for mariners, boatmen, and fishermen across North America. He has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities that people face in his industry. Augie's tenure with SIU began when he graduated from the Paul Hall Center's Lundeberg School of Seamanship down in Piney Point, Maryland, in 1975. After five years of serving the union in several posts across the country, he rose through the ranks to become port agent of SIU's headquarters port and later special assistant to the union's president. Trusting Augie's good judgement and inspiring leadership, the SIU executive board appointed him to serve as the union's vice president of contracts and contracts enforcement in 1991-- a position that union membership reelected him to the following year. He served in that role until 2005, overseeing all the union's collective bargaining efforts. From helping develop the SIU's training record book to overseeing contract implementation for the union, he has made invaluable contributions to the SIU and continues to do so as Executive Vice President. His work isn't limited to the SIU, however. Many government and industry leaders have sought out Augie's expertise and insight. He has served on the U.S. Transportation Command's Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement Executive Working Group (EWG) for over two decades, fostering closer cooperation between the federal government and his industry to ensure that the U.S. military has access to vital commercial shipping resources in the event of an emergency deployment. Similarly, between 2011 and 2022, Augie served on the U.S. Transportation Department's Marine Transportation National Advisory Council. As chair of the council's U.S. Maritime Workforce Working Group Subcommittee, he helped assess how the nation's mariner workforce could support the American merchant fleet during national emergencies. Indeed, the recent COVID-19 pandemic reminded us of the vital importance of maintaining strong supply chains, and Augie has played an important role in that effort. I've also been grateful for all that Augie has done for our community in Southern Maryland. He has served as a trustee for the Paul Hall Center and as chair of its advisory board for years. He was instrumental in securing key expansions to the school. That includes the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School, which provides maritime firefighting training, and a cutting-edge facility with a variety of simulators that help seafarers develop important shiphandling skills and learn industry procedures. Thanks in part to Augie's efforts, Paul Hall Center now offers more U.S. Coast Guard- approved training courses than any other school in America, providing a first-rate education to its students and graduating some of the world's best merchant mariners year after year. We are so lucky to have this esteemed institution in Southern Maryland and to have leaders like Augie who help run it. It's been a pleasure to know Augie all these years. From preserving America's maritime traditions to protecting workers' rights, he continues to do crucial work on behalf of our state and Nation. I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating Augie on this award and in thanking him for all that he has done for our country and its mariners.

Mr. HOYER

Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, the Republicans have claimed that they responsibly passed a debt extension proposal. They did not. They passed a default on America act, which they wrongly called the Limit, Save, and GROW Act. It was, however, a fraud on America act. Today, the Republicans canceled the scheduled markup on the bills pretending to carry out their pretended policies. Today, Republicans demonstrated what they have displayed so very often that they are unable to govern and simply use political demagoguery to propose policies that are harmful, unreasonable, and unpassable by their own party. The country needs a responsible and honest opposition party. It does not have one. The inability of Republicans to move forward on their appropriation bills proves that point. I urge our Republican colleagues to stop pandering, pass the debt extension. Be responsible. Give confidence to the American economy.

Mr. HOYER

Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding 1 minute. Maybe I can get another. I miss the magic minute, as all of you know, because this is not enough time to debate this issue. Something that is as bad as fiscal responsibility is fiscal demagoguery. The Speaker of this House has said default is not an option. Mr. Speaker, 84 of the Republicans in this House have never voted to extend the debt limit so that default would have been inevitable. That is what this is about; trying to make some sort of deal. I urge my Republican colleagues to follow what they know to be the only rational alternative; that is, vote for a debt extension. Pay our bills. America does not welch on its debts. You believe that; we believe that. Mr. Speaker, 84 of their Members have not believed that, but we have a majority of this House that believes it.

Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I urge Republicans to stop creating this lack of confidence in this body to be fiscally responsible. Let me repeat that: Stop allowing no confidence in this body's ability and willingness to be fiscally responsible. Vote ``no.''

Mr. HOYER

Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of one of the finest judges to ever serve Prince George's County and the state of Maryland: my friend, Sheila R. Tillerson Adams--Chief and Administrative Judge of the Circuit Court for Prince George's County and the Seventh Judicial Circuit of Maryland. We in Maryland have long benefitted from her keen legal mind, her character, and her commitment to service. After a long and distinguished career, she retired from the Bench at the end of last year. Sheila has been a trailblazer ever since she started practicing law decades ago. In 1984, she became only the second Black woman to serve as a State's Attorney in Prince George's County. She quickly demonstrated her aptitude not only as an attorney but also as a leader through her work for her office's sexual assault and child abuse unit. Her important work to uphold justice for vulnerable Marylanders continued when she became Deputy County Attorney four years later. Recognizing Sheila's legal prowess and her deep knowledge of the county, Governor William Donald Schaefer appointed her to the District Court of Maryland in Prince George's County in 1993--making her the first Black woman in history to serve as a judge on that court. Governor Parris Glendening elevated her to serve on the bench of the Prince George's County Circuit three years later. After Sheila's fourteen successful years as an associate judge, Maryland Court of Appeals Chief Judge Robert Bell selected her to become Administrative Judge of the Circuit Court for Prince George's County and the Seventh Judicial Circuit of Maryland in 2010. Sheila's legacy, however, will not be defined by the titles she held or the number of years she served but by all that she accomplished for her fellow Prince Georgians. From presiding over high-profile cases to ushering in key systematic changes that improved our courts, Sheila's commitment to justice never wavered. One of her greatest contributions was her successful effort to expand Maryland's Problem-Solving Courts. These specialized programs continue to support groups of vulnerable Marylanders--such as truants, veterans, people struggling with addiction, at-risk youth, and formerly-incarcerated individuals--who face unique challenges in their communities and in the justice system. Similarly, Sheila played a key role in launching the Prince George's County Family Justice Center (PGCFJC), which acts as a `one-stop' hub where survivors of domestic violence, child abuse, human trafficking, elder abuse, and sexual assault can receive counseling, legal assistance, safety-planning support, and a variety of other services. As a cosponsor of both the original Violence Against Women Act and its reauthorization, I have been proud to work with Sheila to support these survivors, and I fondly recall touring the PGCFJC with her shortly after it opened in 2016. Sheila also helped lead Prince George's County through the unprecedented challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic, serving as a key member of the Prince George's Forward Task Force. When explaining the mission statement of her court, Sheila once said: `the Circuit Court welcomes all--a forum for justice.' Although she has retired from that court, I am sure this ethos will continue to define its work. And I know that Sheila will continue to live by the same principles of justice, service, and integrity that she has displayed her whole life. She will remain an influential community leader, a respected legal expert, and an essential advocate for Maryland's families. She ought to know how much I appreciate everything that she has done for her county, state, and country, and I look forward to seeing all that she will do to build on that progress as she starts this exciting new chapter. I ask that all my colleagues join me in thanking her for her service and in congratulating her on this milestone.

Mr. HOYER

Mr. HOYER. Madam Speaker, I rise today, as I have in the past, on this floor for Republican staffers and Democratic staffers to thank them, to thank them for their service to the House of Representatives, for their service to the Congress of the United States, and for their service to individual Members and to leadership. I do so again today for my friend who was with me for approximately a quarter of a century, Dr. Keith Abouchar. He has long served as my senior policy adviser on everything from oversight and financial services to congressional ethics and campaign finance. After working with me for a few years as a professional staff member of the House Oversight Committee and the Committee on House Administration, he joined my leadership staff in 2003. He recently retired at the beginning of this year from Federal service after serving this institution, as I said, for more than a quarter of a century. Keith Abouchar, Dr. Abouchar, accomplished much in that time. He played an instrumental role in negotiating the Help America Vote Act, spending many early mornings and late nights to enact a law that The Washington Post later called ``the most significant piece of Federal election law since the Voting Rights Act.'' Congratulations, Keith. Similarly, he was integral to helping us pass the ADA Amendments Act in 2008, which strengthened and carried out the intent of Congress for the ADA and for future generations. Keith was also a steadfast advocate for our Federal employees and went to great lengths to stave off repeated partisan attempts to cut their pay and benefits and security. Perhaps the most significant result of Keith's time in my office, of course, was his marriage to a fellow staffer whose name is Jane. Once coworkers, they are now parents to two incredible children, Adele and Henry. He cherishes his role as their father above all else. It is in this spirit why, when looking back on my time with Keith, I don't think of the list of groundbreaking laws he helped enact, though that list is long. Instead, I think the virtues he displayed every day here on Capitol Hill are what I remember. Keith has a doctorate in political science. He is an epic consumer of the printed word. You would typically find him with his head buried in the mountain of papers on his desk. He made frequent use of the Library of Congress, read multiple newspapers daily, and often left the office with a cache of unread papers under his arm. Few can match Keith's mastery of technical details behind the issues on which he worked. Even fewer share his ability to understand how these details impact Americans' everyday lives. That talent is rooted in Keith's thoughtful demeanor. Quick to offer a piece of wisdom, a word of encouragement, or an expression of gratitude, Keith's generosity made him a beloved feature of our team and of so many people in the private sector and public sector who dealt with him on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. We all admired the impressive enthusiasm he brought to his work. I can recall many meetings where Keith would speak so quickly and passionately about an issue that we could hardly keep pace. A lifelong student of philosophy and a devout Catholic, Keith's earnest energy stems from his belief in the importance of our work in this, the people's House, and in the ethics that ought to guide each of us in this institution. Through it all, Keith maintained a great sense of humor and never took himself too seriously. He was serious but not serious about himself. Although I am proud to praise Keith, everyone should know that he is a man of deep humility and perhaps would not want me making this speech on the floor. He is probably squirming in his seat listening to this, and I hope he is--listening, that is, not squirming. Nevertheless, he ought to know how much we have appreciated his service. Who better to serve as my adviser on issues facing our Federal workers than a man who himself exemplifies the ideal Federal employee, a man of intellect, a man of integrity, a man of generosity, a man of humor, but a very serious, hardworking, and effective public servant. Madam Speaker, if Keith is listening, and I hope he is, I thank him for everything he has done for our country and wish him well as he begins this new chapter in an extraordinarily productive career. Madam Speaker, I bless him and his family, and I wish him Godspeed.

Mr. HOYER

Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to lament the failure today to consider a resolution which would reflect the overwhelming consensus in this House: that capitalism, not socialism, has proven to be the very best economic system. It is the most effective system to create dynamic economies and incentivize individual innovation, entrepreneurship, and risk-taking to achieve economic security and success. Such a resolution would have brought us together. It would give confidence to our fellow citizens that we are united in our support of our Democratic capitalist system. The resolution before us today, however, does not do that. Instead, it is an intellectually bankrupt screed of political demagoguery. All it aims to do is to divide and distract this institution and this country. It is a political gotcha and a distraction from the real issues that face the American people. As our departed colleague Elijah Cummings said, ``We are better than this.'' We just came from an annual prayer breakfast where we gave voice to reconciliation and unity. We prayed to one God, and we recited our pledge to one nation, under God, indivisible. This resolution seeks to divide. Americans expect more of us. This resolution does not, sadly, Mr. Speaker, further that goal.

Mr. HOYER

Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to make the point: The two individuals that we removed from committees were not removed for their speech. They were removed because they made threats against other Members. This one was made before the Representative came. Mr. Gosar's, of course, was made during, but both were removed because of the threat they posed to three of our colleagues; not because of their speech but because of their threat with an AK-47 or AR-15--I am not sure which that gun is--and promoting themselves as the biggest nightmare to three of our colleagues, and Mr. Gosar portraying the murder of one of our colleagues. There is no equivalency here. We believe in free speech, however hateful that speech is. I will tell you, I take a back seat to no one in this Chamber in my support of Israel and against anti-Semitism, to no one, and my record reflects that.

Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, the equivalency that has been made here is absolutely without merit, and you go down a terrible road. I do not agree with the statements that were made. I oppose them. I said on this floor that I opposed them. But by golly, there are a whole lot of your folks over there that I disagree with vehemently who rationalized insurrection and that would be a reason for me to vote for having them off a committee. But that is not how we operate. But if a Member threatens another Member, that is a different kettle of fish altogether. Mr. Speaker, I oppose this resolution and urge its rejection.

Mr. HOYER

Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to my dear friend, Lisa Renee Ransom, who sadly passed away just a few days ago. I join countless people across Maryland and the country in mourning Lisa and in wishing strength to her loved ones as they cope with this terrible loss. Throughout her life--which was tragically cut short--Lisa distinguished herself as a public servant and as a champion for greater equity. justice, and progress in America. She spent more than a dozen years in service to the American people as a Congressional staffer here in the House. Early in her career, she worked as an advisor to her lauded grandfather, Congressman Augustus `Gus' Hawkins. She also served on the staffs of Representatives Maxine Waters and John Olver. helping them--and this entire institution--address challenges facing our economy and the workers and families upon which it depends. She understood that promoting economic justice is essential to fulfilling America's founding promise to protect our citizens' right to ``life, liberty. and the pursuit of happiness.'' That mission continued to define Lisa's later work for organizations like the National Congress for Community Economic Development, the Center for Policy Alternatives, the Center for Responsible Lending, the National Alliance for Partnerships in Equity, and the Augustus F. Hawkins Foundation. From her support for the Bowie Economic Development Committee to her historic election to the Montgomery County Democratic Central Committee, she also made important contributions to the state of Maryland. Additionally, she was a key member on the planning committee for my Annual Women's Equality Day Luncheon and frequently helped my team bring attention to pressing issues facing Southern Maryland. I will always be grateful for her partnership in our ongoing effort to build stronger, safer, and more prosperous communities throughout the state. We were so fortunate to have Lisa return to the House just a few years ago to serve as the Outreach and Engagement Director on the Select Committee on Economic Disparity and Fairness and Growth. She helped ensure that the committee's critical work remained grounded in the real stories and experiences of Americans who must navigate the complexities and challenges of the 21st Century economy every day. I have long shared her belief that for Nation to continue outcompeting the rest of the world, we cannot afford to leave workers and underserved communities behind. Lisa and the Select Committee played an important role in identifying not only the obstacles we may face as we address inequity but also the tools and strategies we can use to overcome them. Indeed, throughout her career, Lisa served as a crucial voice for women, communities of color, and others who are too often excluded from economic opportunities. Despite the gravity of her work, Lisa remained a woman of gaiety. All those around her appreciated her warmth and humor--her family and friends most of all. Our long friendship certainly brightened my own life. Whether through Lisa's service to her fellow Marylanders and Americans, her leadership in the community, or her personal interactions with others, a sense of compassion and joy was evident in every dimension of her life. Lisa's lively spirit remained strong even as I spoke with her in her final days. Just as her work will continue to benefit countless Americans across the country, memories of Lisa's amity will continue to enrich the lives of all those lucky enough to have known her. I hope that knowledge will bring some peace and comfort to her many loved ones in this time of mourning. I ask all my colleagues to join me in praying for them and in showing our gratitude for Lisa's life of service. May God bless and keep Lisa.

Mr. HOYER

Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor a woman who has contributed so much to this Congress and this country: Marzette `Marzy' Bedford- Billinghurst. After more than 3 decades in federal service, she recently began her well-earned retirement. As someone who has had the privilege of working closely with Marzy in the past, I can personally attest to her virtues as a sharp, dedicated, and generous federal civil servant and American. She deserves recognition for her many deeds in service to this Nation. Our work together began back in 1988 when Marzy joined my legislative staff. As my Senior Legislative Assistant, she quickly became an indispensable advisor on a broad range of issues. From formulating and drafting key legislation to taking meetings with constituents and stakeholders, Marzy approached every part of the job with admirable enthusiasm and poise. She brought that same work ethic to the House Committee on the District of Columbia in 1993. Although we were sad to see Marzy leave our team, we knew she would always go wherever she was able to make the biggest difference in the lives of her fellow Americans. Indeed, that's what took her to the Department of Labor in 1995. As an important official in DOL's Women's Bureau, Marzy was at the forefront of the effort to create more equitable and inclusive workplaces for women across the Nation. She helped advance initiatives addressing everything from sexual harassment to gender, wage, and pregnancy discrimination in the workplace. Marzy also understood that faithful service to the federal government requires one to hold it to the same principles of equality, justice, and freedom that underpin our entire democracy. That's why she pushed DOL to create designated rooms in its headquarters where mothers could breastfeed and pump in privacy. Marzy's unyielding devotion to her crucial work earned her dozens of awards and honors over the years--including Vice President Al Gore's Hammer Award and, most recently, DOL's Distinguished Career Service Award. Anyone boasting such an impressive list of accomplishments and accolades could rest easy knowing they did far more than their fair share to leave their country better than they found it. Marzy's commitment to service, however, extended beyond her career. Throughout her decades working for the federal government, Marzy continued to devote much of her spare time to bettering her community. Between 2005 and 2012, for instance, she served as a House Manager for the Sacred Heart House Temporary Homeless Shelter for Women and Children in Denver, supporting women and families in need face-to-face. She also has served on the Board of Directors of the Denver chapter of Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG). After Hurricane Katrina devastated numerous communities in 2005, Marzy stepped up and volunteered to help with relief efforts for 30 days as part of a DOL delegation to the Federal Emergency Management Administration. Marzy made all these contributions through her work and her volunteering while simultaneously raising 2 incredible sons, Kahler and Cameron, with her husband Mark. If that weren't enough, her neighbors also entrusted her to serve as the captain of their local Democratic precinct and as their delegate to the Democratic National Convention in 2008. They recognized what I and everyone else who has had the pleasure to know Marzy have seen: she is a person of integrity--someone who will always stand up for what is right. That will remain true even as Marzy begins her retirement from federal service. I have no doubt that she will continue to help those in need, strengthen her community, and speak up for the principles she devoted her career to promoting. I often say that dedication and reliability are the 2 most critical traits in our federal civil service. Marzy exemplifies both. She has inspired many to follow in her footsteps and serve our country. Although the many friends and colleagues Marzy has made over the years will surely miss her guidance and expertise, I know I speak for all of us in wishing her and her family well as she begins this exciting new chapter. She has my thanks as well as the gratitude of this House and the American people. May Marzy enjoy a happy and satisfying retirement. She has earned it.

Mr. HOYER

Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I want to honor a constituent from Maryland's Fifth District who has served this institution faithfully for decades: Senior Advisor to the Sergeant at Arms Don Kellaher. He recently retired after spending 45 years in service to the House of Representatives and deserves recognition for all that he has contributed and accomplished in that time. Don began his long career in 1976 as a staff assistant in the former Office of the Doorkeeper before moving to the Office of the Sergeant at Arms three years later. Throughout his decades in that office, he worked in every division and held important positions, such as Director of Special Events, Director of Police Services, Deputy Sergeant at Arms, and Senior Advisor to the Sergeant at Arms. Don played a key role in ensuring that this institution could continue to carry out its work For the People. During his tenure in the Office of the Sergeant at Arms, he helped organize 12 presidential inaugurations, ranging from President Carter's in 1977 to President Biden's in 2021. Additionally, Don has participated in the planning of dozens of State of the Union Addresses. Crucially, he has worked to keep visitors, staff, and Members of the People's House safe. That includes historic figures who have visited our Capitol, such as the Dalai Lama, Pope Francis, Mother Teresa, and Queen Elizabeth II. From anthrax and ricin attacks to murders of U.S. Capitol Police officers and bombings of the Capitol Building, Don has also helped our brave Capitol Police navigate many challenges over the years. Recently, he supported them during the deadly insurrection that gripped our Capitol on January 6, 2021. Everyone who was here that infamous day owes a debt to Don and the others who worked to reestablish order and security on Capitol Hill, as do the American people whose democracy came under attack that day. Mr. Speaker, Don is truly a guardian of the House of Representatives. We could not fulfill our duty to the American people without Don and numerous other staffers like him who work behind the scenes to make this institution function. He ought to be proud of all he's done for Congress and the country, and I hope he knows how much we appreciate him and his work. I ask that all my colleagues join me in wishing Don, his wife Antoinette, his children Amanda Walker and Anthony Kellaher, and his grandchildren Rhett Walker and Rosalie and Ainsley Kellaher happiness as he begins his well-earned retirement

Mr. HOYER

Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I lament that the 2 minutes are no longer magic. Mr. Speaker, these rules are largely the rules that we have had for some period of time over the years, but they have important changes. Unfortunately, I view those changes as not facilitating our work but seeking to impede our work. I think that is unfortunate. They are also designed to target Federal employees if Members of Congress don't like what they do. There, of course, is a process to do that, but as the leader on the other side did at one point in time, he just cut out the salary for an employee he didn't like or thought was acting improperly. That was not appropriate, and of course, that did not prevail. I regret that we don't have an opportunity to look at these rules in the way that so many on this floor talked about doing. First of all, of course, they are not single issues. There are a lot of issues. It is the rules. Secondly, there are ways and means to provide for consideration in a transparent, open fashion in which I could offer an amendment to a rule that I thought was not in the benefit of this House or the American people. Unfortunately, this is the process, which is the very first process under which we have considered a piece of business, not necessarily legislation, and that is ironic. It is what it is, but it will, as such a process does, force us to vote against a piece of organizational rules because we don't agree with some of those rules. That is what I will do.

Mr. HOYER

Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding and adopt all the remarks he made in his opening statement. This debate about IRS lends itself to being the most dishonest and demagogic rhetoric that I have seen in the Congress at any point in time. I rise as the former chairman of the Treasury-Postal Committee, now the Financial Services and General Government Committee to which I will return having left the majority leader's spot. This bill is a bad bill. Every small American taxpayer ought to be for this bill because this bill will make sure that others pay their fair share as they do. That is the issue. They are paying their fair share, as the chairman noted, because we take it out of their salary. But the people who get it through dividends and capital gains, et cetera, et cetera, aha, they have got the lawyers, the accountants, and the people who can tell them how not to pay their fair share. This is a bill against small business. This is a bill against the small taxpayer. This is against paying your fair share.