Cindy Hyde-Smith

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH. Mr. President, I come to the floor today to pay tribute to a very special man who was held dear by many Mississippians, Mississippi State University head coach Mike Leach, who passed away on December 12, 2022. Today, thousands of Mississippians and people from across the country will gather in Starkville to celebrate the life of Mike Leach, who began his coaching at Mississippi State in 2020. Coach Leach's quirkiness, youthful spirit, and dynamic coaching style immediately endeared him to football fans across my State. His likeable and unique personality broke barriers among schools. Whether you were cheering for Mississippi State, Jackson State, Ole Miss, Southern, or any other school, you couldn't help but chuckle at the entertaining sideline interviews or admire how his ``Air Raid'' offense was changing the game. Coach Leach was an attorney. He started his coaching career shortly after graduating from law school. Mike Leach made a lasting impact on the game of football, to be sure, but, more importantly, his extraordinary leadership and passion for the game made a lasting impact on his players, his colleagues, and his loved ones. These remarks can't fully encompass Mike Leach's life as a husband, father, grandfather, scholar, mentor, and charitable man. Still, Mississippi is blessed to have been able to call Mike Leach one of our own these past years. While our State mourns, we remain grateful for the memories and the stories his legacy leaves. My heart goes out to his family and the entire Bulldog family. Hail State, and rest in peace, Coach. I yield the floor.

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH. Madam President, I object.

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH. Mr. President, I am pleased to commend Mr. Bill Cotter for his service and contributions to the State of Mississippi in his 23 years of service with the Hancock County Port and Harbor Commission. Bill is retiring as CEO, but his record of leadership with the commission extends well beyond his latest role. In addition to CEO, Bill has served as the director of Stennis International Airport, as well as the chief operations officer for the facility as a whole, which includes the airport, its surrounding commercial property, and the Port Bienville Industrial Park, located on the Pearl River in southwest Mississippi. While advancing into greater positions of responsibility, Bill's guidance helped the Hancock Port and Harbor Commission meet challenges head-on and achieve enormous success. As airport director, Bill led Stennis Airport's recovery from Hurricane Katrina, and he coordinated the tasks necessary for transitioning the airfield into a disaster response staging area during the BP Deepwater Horizon crisis. Bill's contributions to the agency are also felt through his project management undertakings. Since 2005, Bill has overseen nearly $40 million in capital improvements at Stennis International Airport, which have proved invaluable in enabling the facility to serve as a resource in meeting the aviation needs of both the military, businesses, and industry. The Port and Harbor Commission's maritime business has also thrived under Bill's leadership. During his tenure as chief operating officer, existing docks at Port Bienville were refurbished and improved, and construction is underway on a new 600-foot dock. The Hancock Port and Harbor Commission has consistently fulfilled its economic development mission, and Bill is a big reason why. Through his efforts, numerous companies have located on commission properties, including the U.S. Department of Defense contractor Tyonek Service Group, which performs a wide range of aircraft service operations and has been a vital catalyst in the success of the Stennis International Airport in attracting and serving military customers. In conclusion, the value provided by Hancock Port and Harbor Commission has been made more appealing through Bill's leadership and hard work. The resulting economic growth and development is felt on multiple layers throughout Hancock County and has brought about a quality of life revered by residents and visitors alike. With his retirement from the Hancock County Port and Harbor Commission, I thank Bill Cotter for his long and dedicated service to Hancock County, my State, and our Nation. I wish him a retirement filled with opportunities for him and his wife to spend time with their children and grandchildren.

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH. Mr. President, over the past week, Americans were hit once again with a grave inflation report. Worse, the American people got more evidence of just how out of touch the White House and congressional Democrats are with the damage inflation is doing to families across the country. We were all hoping President Biden's crushing inflation might show signs of easing and give folks a chance to catch their breath after months and months of watching their paychecks shrink. That is not what happened at all. Inflation is up 8.3 percent from a year ago--a disastrous number. We are feeling the inflation in every aspect of our lives, from paying utility bills to gassing up cars, to rent and insurance, and, especially, to the basics like food. Grocery prices are up 13.5 percent from this time last year, which is a crushing blow to most Americans who visit their local store once a week, like I do. Milk is up 17 percent. Bread and chicken are up 16 percent. Eggs are up an outrageous 40 percent. And the list goes on and on. I do my own shopping for my family, and I see this weekly, and it is incredible. This is a reality, but President Biden appears to be living in a very, very different reality. When the latest bad inflation numbers were released last week, the President and Washington Democrats threw a party on the White House lawn. That is right, a party--a lawn party. The President and Democrats celebrated as the rest of us watched the Dow plummet and received an inflation report confirming that this is the worst year for food and electricity inflation since the fallout from President Jimmy Carter. What exactly did they celebrate? Their latest reckless, Big Government spending bill. I don't have to remind you that, just over a year ago, the Democrats rammed through their $2 trillion spending spree despite economists warning that it would be a catalyst for rampant inflation. Economists warned us then, and they are warning us now, about the misnamed Inflation Reduction Act; namely, that it won't do anything to ease inflation, but it will certainly add to the deficit. Apparently, hosting a big party is preferable than heeding these nonpartisan warnings and getting to work to get our Nation back on the right track. When the ``Inflation Act'' was on the floor, Republicans tried countless times to adopt solutions to tackle inflation, crime, and secure our border. But our efforts were consistently shut down because not one Senate Democrat could spare a penny from the Green New Deal. No, they have their own priorities, and they are awfully out of touch with the priorities of American families. On Sunday, we were given more evidence that the President is living in a completely different world than the rest of us. The President appeared on ``60 Minutes,'' where he discussed several challenges currently facing our Nation, only, according to him, our Nation is doing swell. And indeed, the President seemed to paint a rosy picture of little to no inflation and suggested we should be relieved by the new inflation numbers. When asked what he could do better and faster to help Americans get some relief at the grocery store checkout line, he claimed inflation was up ``hardly at all.'' ``Hardly at all''? Say that to parents paying 40 percent more for a dozen of eggs just to feed their children breakfast. Say that to workers who are watching their savings dwindle month after month because their paychecks can't keep up with these prices. Say that to the Americans who are just barely getting by in this economy. President Biden, you may not have to visit the grocery store or pay an electricity bill, but my constituents do. Time and time again, the President and his allies in Congress have proven he is out of touch with American priorities and in denial about the real suffering and fears of the American people. They are right to question whether they can still afford the leadership they are getting out of the White House and the Democrat-led Congress. It is high time for the President and Democrats to align their priorities with those of the people, allow real solutions to be considered on the Senate floor, and get out our economy back on its feet. I yield the floor.

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded.

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH. Mr. President, I rise to express deep appreciation for Mississippi State Health Officer Dr. Thomas Dobbs, a friend and leader to all of the frontline healthcare workers in my State. Dr. Dobbs joined the Mississippi State Department of Health as the State health officer in December 2018. After 3\1/2\ years and a global pandemic that none of us saw coming, he will soon step down from his role and return to the clinical side of medicine. Mississippi's State health officer is responsible for directing public health activities related to the State's many health challenges, which included my State's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Dobbs' experience and his expertise made him the perfect professional to lead Mississippi through this pandemic. With a belief that each person in Mississippi was his patient, Dr. Dobbs worked tirelessly throughout his tenure to care for our nearly 3 million residents. From the start, Dr. Dobbs was steadfast in informing and advising citizens, policymakers, and healthcare providers on the best practices to combat the deadly coronavirus. He never wavered despite evolving challenges and so many tragic COVID-related deaths. He is one of the country's most respected public health officers, having earned a stellar reputation for his clinical work in the field of infectious diseases. Dr. Thomas Dobbs proved himself to be the leader Mississippi needed during a very difficult time. I am saddened to see Dr. Dobbs leave the Mississippi State Department of Health, but I am confident he will continue to do great things. There are not enough thanks in the world that could cover all that Dr. Dobbs has done for Mississippi, but I say from the bottom of my heart, thank you, Dr. Dobbs. Your service and sacrifice on behalf of Mississippi reflects well on you and your profession. I am also grateful for his wife, Dr. Kim Dobbs, and their two sons, Wyn and Max, for sharing so much of their husband and father during this time. As Dr. Dobbs departs the State department of health, I look forward to continuing to work with him and the new State health officer, Dr. Dan Edney, in making Mississippi healthier and happier. Thank you again so much, Dr. Dobbs. I yield the floor.

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the following interns in my office be granted floor privileges until August 5, 2022: Emma Bozeman, Jake Tipton, Cameron Hall, Olivia Hardwick, Preston Dubberly, and Anna Pittman.

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the following interns in my office be granted floor privileges until August 31, 2022: Cameron Hall, Jacob Tipton, AnnAdair Blackledge, Preston Dibberly, and Olivia Hardwick.

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH. Mr. President, I also am very pleased to congratulate the University of Mississippi baseball team on its recent 2022 NCAA World Series championship. If there is anything an Ole Miss fan is sure of it is that the Rebels love to keep you on the edge of your seat. Some fans were nervous when the Rebels hit a midseason slump, but, boy, this talented team hit its stride right at the perfect time. The players knew all along they had it in them to take it all the way. They even issued a warning in early May: Don't let the Rebels get hot. Well, the Rebels did get hot, and they were able to be there to be the team that no one saw coming and the team that no one could stop. Their impressive and exciting run through this year's College World Series speaks volumes to the Ole Miss baseball program, its leadership, its players, and, of course, its fan base. Mississippi's energy has been electric following the win, especially at Ole Miss's first-ever national baseball championship this year occurred after Pearl River Community College clinched the NJCAA Division II baseball championship in June and after Mississippi State University's win just last year. Mississippi's sports culture is strong and it is not to be underestimated. We take great pride in the legacy and inspiring example of these young athletes and their coaches. To the entire Rebel baseball family, thank you for your hard work and dedication to the sport. To Ole Miss and to our great State, congratulations and Hotty Toddy. I yield the floor.

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded.

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH. Mr. President, I suggest the absence of a quorum.

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH. Mr. President, it is an honor to pay tribute today to Ms. Karen Goode, who has retired after 47 years of dedicated public service with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Regional Office in Jackson, MS. Since becoming a U.S. Senator in 2018, I have come to appreciate Ms. Goode who has earned consistent high praise from my State office staff responsible for assisting veterans with their VA claims. Karen's knowledge, responsiveness, reliability, and trustworthiness have enabled me to serve Mississippi's veterans better and more effectively, and I am very thankful to her for that. Karen began her career with the VA in 1975 in a clerical position with the finance department. A GS-3 at the time she was hired, Karen is retiring as a GS-13 supervisory veterans service representative, which is evidence of her meritorious work leading to continual promotions throughout her Federal civil service career. In the process, she acquired the knowledge and skill sets for processing all claims for compensation, pension, education, vocational, and rehabilitation. Ms. Goode's thorough understanding of the claims review process, along with her excellent management skills, propelled her into key senior leadership roles that led her to supervising seven different employee teams over her VA career. Ms. Goode's high degree of professionalism earned her multiple special recognitions. At the recommendation of the veterans service center manager, Karen in 2006 served as the representative for the southern area on a quality assurance detail HELP team in Washington, DC. In 2012, at the completion of a designated special project as quality team coach, Karen obtained Lean Six Sigma Green Belt designation. Even though Congress writes the laws regarding veterans' benefits, it is up to teams set up within the VA to review veterans' claims and determine if they are eligible for benefits. It can be a complex and lengthy process, which I highly respect. Covering a broad range of benefit categories, I understand the effectiveness in which VA team member groups review and process claims can differ greatly. Despite exercising most of her leadership away from the public eye, Mississippi's veterans are fortunate to have been served by Ms. Karen Goode for so many years working in this capacity. She has been unwavering in her commitment to ensuring that Mississippi's veterans receive the benefits to which they are entitled under the law. In conclusion, I am incredibly grateful to Ms. Karen Goode for dedicating her career to serving those who have served our country. I commend her for her many accomplishments, and I send her my best wishes for an enjoyable retirement.

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH. Madam President, I am pleased to commend Mr. Patrick Johnson, Jr., of Tunica, MS, for his service and contributions to the State of Mississippi while serving as the 86th president of Delta Council. Organized in 1935, Delta Council plays an important role in uniting agricultural, business, and economic development leadership to solve problems and promote greater opportunities in the Mississippi Delta region, which encompasses 19 counties in northwest Mississippi. Mr. Johnson has worked tirelessly this year to advance the priorities of Delta Council, including farm policy, economic development, flood control, and education. As a partner in Cypress Brake Planting Company, Tunica Air, Inc., and Buck Island Seed Company, he knows all too well the challenges producers currently face with increased costs and volatility in the agricultural industry. As a member of the Mississippi Commission on Environmental Quality, he is dedicated to helping find solutions to the Delta's groundwater and alluvial aquifer issues so that future generations can continue to produce crops and enjoy the recreation that is such a large part of the rich history of the Mississippi Delta. Mr. Johnson also understands the importance of economic development to the viability of the Delta and that, through efforts like Delta Strong, the region will continue to successfully attract new opportunities. Mr. Johnson assumed the role of Delta Council president during a time characterized by difficulties, such as the ongoing and disruptive pandemic, rising inflation, and many other challenges. Patrick Johnson has been a steady and calm leader over the past year and has contributed his vast knowledge and service to many critical issues during his tenure as president. Outside of his time spent working on his farm and serving Delta Council, Mr. Johnson contributes his time as a leader to many valuable organizations. He serves as a Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality commissioner, National Cotton Council Environmental Task Force member, American Cotton Producers Farm Bill Task Force chairman, and Tunica County Chamber of Commerce member. In addition to serving as a member of Delta F.A.R.M., Mr. Johnson has also served on the Tunica County Farm Service Agency Committee and is a past director of the Tunica County Farm Bureau. Mr. Johnson and his wife, Emily, are members of Tunica Presbyterian Church where he sings in the choir. It is my pleasure to join the citizens throughout the Mississippi Delta and the great State of Mississippi in offering congratulations to Mr. Patrick Johnson, Jr., and sharing our appreciation with his wife Emily Purifoy Johnson. His input over his year of service has undoubtedly contributed to the overall continued success and influence of this highly respected 87-year-old organization, Delta Council.

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH. Mr. President, every single day, law enforcement officers across the Nation put on a badge and leave for work to protect and serve our families and communities, not knowing if they will return to their own. Whether it be by ensuring safety on our roadways or responding to life-or-death crises, these brave men and women consistently honor their solemn oath in safeguarding the people of this blessed Nation. As we commemorate 2022 National Law Enforcement Week, we offer special honors for the 619 officers our Nation lost last year in the line of duty, sadly including officers from Mississippi. This week is dedicated to remembering their ultimate sacrifice, which is dearly felt by loved ones, friends, and entire communities. Law enforcement officers have remained steadfast in their commitment to serve, even when faced with harsh, unfair criticism, scrutiny, and limited resources. Their ability to carry out their already stressful duties in such a challenging and sometimes hostile environment is remarkable. I want to make it known to all the law enforcement officers across the State of Mississippi and around the country that I greatly admire you for your rock solid tenacity and loyalty throughout such challenges. I will continue to work to ensure you have what you need to do your job. These officers, who are truly hometown heroes, are strongholds in our communities, and the loss of any officer is deeply felt by all. This Police Week, we honor and mourn five heroes from Mississippi, officers who died in the line of duty in 2021. Mississippi Highway Safety Patrol Trooper John Martin Harris, 44, died on May 28, 2021, after a vehicle struck him during a traffic stop. Harris' childhood dream was to be a policeman and serve his community. Having earned two Purple Hearts throughout his 24-year law enforcement career is a testament to his dedication, bravery, and selflessness. He leaves behind his wife and his two children. Jefferson Davis County Deputy Sheriff Thomas Patrick ``Pat'' Barnes, 50, lost his life on April 10, 2021, after he sustained injuries in a single vehicle car crash while responding to a call for assistance from another agency. Barnes' passion for law enforcement began while working in security. He joined and graduated from the police academy in 2017 and began his career with Jefferson Davis County Sheriff's department shortly thereafter. He leaves behind his wife, four children, and his grandchildren. Hancock County Lieutenant Michael Anthony Boutte, Sr., was tragically shot and killed after responding to an emergency situation involving a suicidal man who turned his weapon onto arriving deputies. He died on February 1, 2021, at the age of 57. Before his law enforcement career, Boutte served in the U.S. Air Force, where he was deployed during Operation Desert Storm. Boutte is survived by his wife, his child, his step-children, and his grandchildren. Deputy Sheriff Bobby Daffin of George County Sheriff's Office passed away August 12, 2021, following a battle with COVID-19. He was 37 years old. Daffin served his community for 14 years and had recently served as a narcotics agent for the Southeast Mississippi Narcotics Task Force. He leaves behind a young daughter. Hinds County Sheriff Lee D. Vance, 63, lost his life from cardiorespiratory failure as a result of COVID-19 on August 3, 2021. Vance, who has always had a love for the city of Jackson, served as Jackson police chief from 2014-2017 and was later elected Hinds County Sheriff in 2019. He leaves behind four daughters, a son, and numerous grandchildren. We also honor the lives of many officers, whose stories of sacrifice had been lost to history until now. In addition to these recent losses, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial will include the name of Deputy Town Marshal Walker Cobb of Saucier, MS. At the age of 41, Cobb was fatally shot on December 25, 1903, while attempting to arrest an impaired suspect for disorderly conduct. More than a century later, his loss and sacrifice will be remembered. Throughout our Nation's history, our men and women in blue have often risked personal peril to safeguard their fellow citizens, and we owe them our staunch support. As we mark National Police Week, let us acknowledge our debt to these fallen officers and recommit ourselves to support them and their families, especially when tragedy strikes. I will continue to be an advocate for law enforcement professionals and do all I can to honor the legacy of those lost in the line of duty. To the families and loved ones of our fallen Mississippi law enforcement officers, I know you have faced enormous loss. It is said, ``The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.'' Please know that it is my prayer that the Lord stays near you during your time of grief. God bless you, and God bless our men and women in blue.

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH. Madam President, Americans across the country, led by Concerned Women for America, the Nation's largest public policy organization for women, and other faith-based organizations are celebrating April as Faith Month. I commend this noble effort calling all people of faith to join in prayer, thanksgiving, and celebration of their faith. The United States of America was born of the unanimous declaration that we are ``endowed by [our] Creator with certain unalienable Rights,'' based on ``the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God,'' ``appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world,'' and acknowledging our ``reliance on the protection of divine Providence.'' We are a people of faith, which is why religious freedom is known as America's first freedom, as laid out in the Establishment and the Free Exercise clauses of the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. The freedom of speech is guaranteed by the First Amendment and also supports America's unique focus on freedom of expression, including in matters of faith. America's Judeo-Christian founding promotes religious diversity and tolerance. Our motto, ``In God We Trust,'' further emphasizes the importance of faith in our Nation's founding. From our first President to the last, we have always acknowledged America's faith. President George Washington recognized ``it is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor.'' More recently, President Joe Biden acknowledged Thanksgiving as a ``time to reflect on our many blessings--from God, this Nation, and each other.'' Religious liberty serves to strengthen our country's appreciation of all peoples, regardless of faith. But eternal diligence is needed to preserve religious freedom. Attacks on religious liberty and people of faith continue to plague our Nation with some religious charities even being forced to betray the tenets of their faith in order to participate in certain government programs. We must actively reject all efforts to criminalize or cancel religious beliefs as somehow incompatible with our democracy. Religious organizations in America have a rich history of charitable engagement by helping the sick, poor, and afflicted. They should be celebrated, not maligned for their contributions to improving our way of life. According to the Pew Research Center, more than 75 percent of Americans practice some type of religious faith. This rich, diverse religious heritage is to our credit and should be encouraged. Therefore, I join millions of Americans during this Faith Month in celebrating their personal faiths freely and openly, with public displays and celebrations, including prayer and expressions of thanksgiving. In this manner, we can strongly reaffirm our commitment to the religious liberty principles of our founding.

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH. Mr. President, I join my colleagues today highlighting the momentous occasion for not only my home State of Mississippi but for our entire Nation. Senator Roger Wicker and I could not be prouder of our State. Tomorrow, the U.S. Supreme Court will hear oral arguments in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, a challenge to a Mississippi law banning most abortions after 15 weeks. This law, the Gestational Age Act, was introduced by my friend, Mississippi State Representative Becky Currie, and was signed into law by Mississippi Governor Phil Bryant in 2018. This case presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity for the Court to reconsider decades of misguided abortion law that began with Roe v. Wade and has continued under Planned Parenthood v. Casey. There is no doubt that this case is the most significant pro-life legal opening in half a century and, certainly, in my lifetime. I am very proud that my State of Mississippi is in the center of this. In the 48 years since the decision in Roe v. Wade, 62 million unborn babies have lost their lives. This is a terrible moral stain on our Nation that we have a chance to reverse at long last. There are many reasons for the Supreme Court to reconsider its course. For one, medical technology has made significant advances-- especially with ultrasound technology--making clear what those of us in the pro-life movement already knew: that unborn children are human beings. Thanks in large part to the ultrasound technology, we now know that, by 15 weeks, an unborn baby has a fully developed heart with a strong heartbeat, responds to touch, and can make facial expressions, yawn, hiccup, and suck their thumbs. For another, the United States is a real outlier in the world when it comes to the abortion issue. We are one of only seven countries that allow abortions on demand up until the moment of birth, along with the likes of China and North Korea. The Supreme Court should uphold Mississippi's law, bringing our Nation closer to the international consensus on human rights for the unborn. As a legislator, I am confident in saying it is time for our laws to reflect what the rest of the world has already figured out: that life exists before birth and it needs to be protected. The only difference between a fetus and a first grader is 6 years. Since the Supreme Court announced it would take up the Dobbs case, I have been earnestly praying for this case. I pray for the Members of the Supreme Court to be open to the legal and moral arguments against Roe v. Wade. May God grant them the wisdom for the task and grace for the unborn. I have also been praying for my friend Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch, our State's solicitor general, Scott Stuart, and the many others in the AG's office who have worked tirelessly to represent our State so well in this case. With the oral arguments scheduled for tomorrow morning, I pray that God would grant them all confidence and courage, as well as the right words to say in the Court. Most of all, I have been praying for all the unborn children whose right to life hangs in the balance of this case. Throughout this time, I have kept the words of I Samuel 1:27 close to my heart: ``For this child I have prayed, and the Lord hath given me my petition, which I asked of him.'' So today, tonight, and tomorrow morning, I will be praying without ceasing. I hope each of you will join me in prayer for this historic court decision that started in Mississippi. May the Dobbs case restore the sanctity of life and reverse the moral stain of Roe v. Wade. Thank you, Mr. President.

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH. Madam President, the U.S. Supreme Court is set to hear the most anticipated abortion case in nearly 30 years when it considers Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization in oral argument on December 1, 2021. This development allows us to consider the many people whose dedication to the pro-life cause has led us to this point. One of those people is former President Donald J. Trump. The pro-life movement would not be where it is today absent his advocacy for pro- life policies and for conservative judges. In January 2016, Presidential candidate Trump said, ``America, when it is at its best, follows a set of rules that have worked since our Founding. One of those rules is that we, as Americans, revere life and have done so since our Founders made it the first, and most important, of our `unalienable' rights.'' He continued, ``Over time, our culture of life in this country has started sliding toward a culture of death. Perhaps the most significant piece of evidence to support this assertion is that since Roe v. Wade was decided by the Supreme Count 43 years ago, over 50 million Americans never had the chance to enjoy the opportunities offered by this country. They never had the chance to become doctors, musicians, farmers, teachers, husbands, fathers, sons or daughters. They never had the chance to enrich the culture of this nation or to bring their skills, lives, loves or passions into the fabric of this country. They are missing, and they are missed.'' These words helped guide President Trump's actions in office as he advocated for pro-life policies both domestically and abroad. Domestically, President Trump fought to defund Planned Parenthood and other abortion providers from receiving Federal funding. He prohibited such entities from receiving title X funding and permitted States to prohibit them from participating in Medicaid as well. In 2018, President Trump issued a rule requiring health insurers to specify whether plans cover abortion. He also issued rules to protect religious objectors and moral objectors from the Department of Health and Human Services contraceptive mandate. In addition, the President established a new Conscience and Religious Freedom division of the Office for Civil Rights to protect healthcare providers who object to participating in abortions. President Trump's commitment to the unborn was just as strong abroad. Just days after his inauguration, President Trump ended Federal funding of abortion overseas by reinstating the Mexico City Policy, which prohibits nongovernment organizations receiving U.S. aid grants from performing and promoting abortions overseas. He directed the Secretary of State to implement the ban on taxpayer funds for overseas abortions across most U.S. global health programs through his Protecting Life in Global Health Assistance policy. In addition, President Trump also defunded the United Nations Population Fund, a program long tied to China's forced abortion one- child policy. To further underline this, the Trump administration in 2020 declared to the United Nations that abortion is not a human right and signed the Geneva Consensus Declaration, where 33 nations joined together to reaffirm the value of unborn life. Finally, in January 2021, the Trump administration and called for the Chinese Communist Party to immediately end its system of forced abortions. In addition to his work within the executive branch, President Trump also showed his commitment to the pro-life cause by nominating constitutional conservative and originalist judges to the Federal judiciary. He nominated three originalist Justices to the U.S. Supreme Court: Justice Neil Gorsuch in 2017, Justice Brett Kavanaugh in 2018, and Justice Amy Coney Barrett in 2020. More broadly, President Trump nominated 234 new article III judges who share this commitment to upholding our Constitution as written. As the pro-life movement advances, it is important for us to recognize how we got here. Former President Trump deserves praise for all his administration did over the past 4 years to advance the cause of the unborn. I am gratitude for that work and recognize the tireless advocacy of the Trump administration to protect both women and their babies.

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH. Madam President, it is an honor to pay tribute to my fellow public servant Sam Brownback of Kansas. During his service both as Governor of Kansas and as a U.S. Senator, he advocated tirelessly for the right to life. More recently, during the last administration, he served as the U.S. Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom, fighting for the free exercise of religion abroad. After a couple years in the House of Representatives, Ambassador Brown- back represented Kansas in the Senate from 1996 to 2011. He came to the Capitol with a background similar to mine. I served as the Mississippi Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce prior to coming to the Senate, and Ambassador Brownback served as Kansas's Secretary of Agriculture before coming to DC. Upon joining the Senate, Ambassador Brownback consistently supported pro-life legislation and voted in defense of the sanctity of life. Through his 15 years in the Senate, he supported pro-life legislation including the Unborn Child Pain Awareness Act, the Born Alive Infants Protection Act, the Unborn Victims of Violence Act, the Partial Birth Abortion Ban Act, and the Hyde amendment. This support for unborn life continued when the people of Kansas elected Sam Brownback to be their Governor, a position in which he served from 2011 to 2018. As Governor, he signed numerous laws protecting unborn human life, including a measure that made Kansas the first State to ban dismemberment abortions. Furthermore, during his tenure, Kansas passed laws restricting funding to abortion providers and banning sex-selective abortions, among many others. Sam Brownback's steadfast efforts paid off. By the time he became an Ambassador in 2018, Kansas had become the second most pro-life State in the Nation, as ranked by the Americans United for Life. In fact, the number of abortions in Kansas dropped by nearly 30 percent, a testimony to the success of his policies promoting a culture of life. But his efforts did not stop there. Upon his confirmation in 2018 as the U.S. Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom, he continued the fight to protect life and stand up against injustice abroad. He worked hand-in-hand with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in condemning the Chinese Communist Party for its regime of forced abortions and sterilizations. Throughout his long and commendable career in public service, Ambassador Brownback has shown a remarkable commitment to the sanctity of life. As the Supreme Court prepares to hear the Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization case, I am pleased to rise to recognize leaders in the pro-life movement who have advanced the cause to this point. Ambassador Brownback is definitely among those leaders for his many years as a champion for life.

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH. Madam President, as the U.S. Supreme Court prepares to hear oral arguments in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization case, I am taking time to recognize leaders in the pro-life movement who have helped bring us to this point. Today, I pay tribute to former Congressman Sean Duffy, who represented the pro-life values of the Seventh District of Wisconsin for five terms from 2011-2019. Throughout his time in the House, Representative Duffy remained unwavering in his commitment to the sanctity of life. Whatever pro-life issue arose, Representative Duffy was there to defend the unborn and the value of all life. As religious liberty issues entered in the debate over the Affordable Care Act--ACA--Representative Duffy fought to keep taxpayer funding from covering abortions in ACA health plans. His opposition was part of his larger effort to oppose taxpayer funding for abortion in any arena, a fight embodied in his support of the No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act. As our Nation a few years later learned of the horrors perpetrated by notorious abortionist Kermit Gosnell, Representative Duffy took to the House floor to highlight the evil of abortion as shown in Gosnell's case. When videos revealed that Planned Parenthood was illegally selling fetal tissue from aborted babies, Representative Duffy joined his colleagues in calling for an investigation into this travesty. His pro- life leadership role led to an appointment to the House Energy and Commerce Committee's Select Investigative Panel on Planned Parenthood that investigated that organization's illegal fetal tissue sales. A true pro-life hero, Representative Duffy leads by example in living out his pro-life values. On August 2019, Representative Duffy announced his resignation to focus on his ninth child who was born with heart defects and Down's syndrome. Representative Duffy, along with his wife Rachel Campos-Duffy, stands as an inspirational example of how to champion pro-life and pro-family values in both public roles and in private lives.

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH. Madam President, for many years, thousands of members of the Intercessors for America--IFA--have been devoted to prayer and fasting in the name of protecting the unborn and of ending abortion. The IFA was founded in 1973 in an era when our Nation experienced turmoil within the political, moral, and traditional values that are the cornerstone of our Nation. In 1973, the U.S. Supreme Court issued its divisive landmark decision in Roe v. Wade, legalizing abortion and shocking the majority of Americans. IFA has worked since then to mobilize our Nation to pray for the protection of innocent life and to find unity among the cultural conflicts in our country. Today, IFA is a national organization of millions of like-minded people who are steadfast in praying for God's support and guidance for our Nation's executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government. I thank the members of IFA for their dedication, prayers, and fasting in support of the sanctity of life. Their work has helped increase awareness for the pro-life movement and its overarching goal to defend the unborn. It is the decades of prayer and hard work of so many pro- life advocates that has led us to this moment in history in which the Supreme Court will be hearing oral arguments in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization. This case, which focuses on the constitutionality of a Mississippi law that bars abortion after 15 weeks, could reset the abortion issue and return it to elected leaders, who are more directly accountable to the people than Federal judges. Today, I recognize and pay tribute to the role of the IFA in the nearly 50-year fight to protect innocent life in the womb. I also join with the IFA in praying for the members of our Supreme Court, who are now preparing to hear the Dobbs case. May God grant each Justice wisdom for the task and mercy for the unborn.

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH. Madam President, I rise to pay tribute to former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. During Mr. Pompeo's time at the State Department, he worked tirelessly to defend unborn children around the world. Under then-Secretary Pompeo's leadership, the United States stood as a nation that values all human rights, including the right to life. His bold leadership encouraged other world leaders to join the United States in standing against efforts by some within the United Nations to make abortion on demand an international right. Mr. Pompeo established his pro-life bona fides during his four terms in the U.S. House of Representatives. During that time, he supported numerous pieces of pro-life legislation, such as the No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act and the Pain Capable Unborn Child Protection Act. His commitment to the pro-life cause continued in his role as our Nation's top diplomat. A few particular successes stand out. First, Secretary Pompeo initiated a new compliance mechanism to ensure enforcement of the Mexico City Policy, which prohibits taxpayer dollars from being used for abortion overseas. Under the Protecting Life in Global Health Assistance policy, the State Department would refuse to partner with any foreign organizations involved in supporting abortions. Additionally, these nongovernment organizations will also have to provide certification to the State Department that they are not involved with abortions. This highly successful policy closed an overwhelming proportion of the loopholes that had previously allowed organizations to skirt compliance with the Mexico City Policy. Second, Secretary Pompeo ensured full enforcement of the Siljander amendment, an annual rider in the State and foreign operations appropriations bill to prohibit the use of U.S. funds, including foreign assistance, to lobby for or against abortion abroad. Third, the Department of State led the United States to sign the Geneva Consensus Declaration in 2020, which reaffirmed ``that there is no international right to abortion.'' Thirty-three other nations, representing more than 1.6 billion people, also signed the declaration, an achievement that would not have been possible without American leadership on the issue. Finally, Pompeo's Department of State in 2020 also sanctioned China for its many human rights abuses, including forced abortions and forced sterilizations. These accomplishments make clear that former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made true strides in vigorously defending the right to life of the unborn babies around the globe. His endeavors deserve our applause and gratitude.

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH. Madam President, I rise to pay tribute to Morse Tan, former Ambassador at Large for Global Criminal Justice, whose dedication to the legal defense of human rights and the rights of the unborn is commendable. Morse Tan's work to promote these values has spanned the globe. As an expert on North Korea, he has written extensively about the human rights abuses occurring in that country and how those responsible can be held accountable. In his book, ``North Korea, International Law and the Dual Crises: Narrative and Constructive Engagement,'' Tan sheds light on the genocide of Christians in North Korea, focusing specifically on the forced abortions imposed on many North Korean women. As Ambassador at Large for Global Criminal Justice during the last administration, Ambassador Tan worked to gather evidence of China's repressive treatment of the Uyghurs and other ethnic minorities, including forced abortions and forced sterilizations. Based in part on the Ambassador's work, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in July 2020 imposed sanctions on Chinese officials because of human rights abuses. Furthermore, Secretary Pompeo determined that China had committed crimes against humanity and genocide against the Uyghurs and other ethnic minority groups, based on the findings of an internal review led by Ambassador Tan. Ambassador Tan has also undertaken significant work on behalf of the sanctity of life in the United States as well. He has filed amicus briefs in two Supreme Court cases regarding pro-life issues. In McCorvey v. Hill, Ambassador Tan coordinated, researched, and edited some 24 amicus briefs on behalf of Norma McCorvey, who was the plaintiff ``Jane Roe'' in Roe v. Wade. In Cano v. Baker, he coordinated, researched, and edited 22 amicus briefs on behalf of Sandra Cano, who was the plaintiff ``Mary Doe'' in Doe v. Bolton. Finally, I hope that Ambassador Tan's work as a law professor in courses such as bioethics, international human rights, and constitutional law will inspire a new generation to take up the legal fight to protect the sanctity of life. It is an honor to recognize Ambassador Morse Tan for his uncompromising work to defend the right of the unborn babies in courts and to bring justice and accountability for perpetrators of forced abortions around the world.

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH. Madam President, I rise to recognize Bethany Kozma, former Deputy Chief of Staff at the United States Agency for International Development--USAID. She deserves to be honored for her tireless work during the last administration to execute pro-life, pro- family, and pro-religious freedom policies across USAID. While her efforts in this regard garnered criticism, Mrs. Kozma remained resolute in advancing the Agency's firm pro-life positions. Her courage is an example to us all to cling tightly to our strongly held values, even in face of criticism. Standing strong, Mrs. Kozma played an integral role in helping the U.S. Department of State, USAID, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services better synchronize their efforts in countless multilateral negotiations. This synergy helped ensure that the agreements formed by those negotiations did not promote or permit abortion. In my own work here in the Senate, I know staff members toiling behind the scenes do important work that allows me to do my job successfully. No doubt, that is also true in the executive branch. The work of dedicated agency staff like Mrs. Kozma was integral to the many pro-life successes of the past administration. Her tireless work helped ensure the United States could lead in pro-life policies abroad. Mrs. Kozma and others like her deserve recognition and our gratitude.

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH. Madam President, I rise to recognize Congresswoman Ann Wagner, who represents the Second Congressional District of Missouri in the U.S. House of Representatives. Throughout her tenure in the House; Representative Wagner has remained an outspoken champion for life. Representative Wagner has worked to protect unborn life, through her vocal support of the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act and so many other pieces of pro-life legisltaion. Additionally, she has helped lead the charge to prevent taxpayer funding of abortion on- demand. This public servant's efforts to protect vulnerable children from sexual exploitation and trafficking are particularly inspirational. She has fought hard for legislation that would increase the penalties for criminals who profit from sexual exploitation of innocent children. Representative Wagner's commitment to children both inside and outside the womb is commendable. I know I take inspiration from her years of work on behalf of vulnerable children. Therefore, I offer my praise and gratitude for that work as the U.S. Supreme Court takes up Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, a case that could significantly change the landscape in terms of protecting young lives.

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH

Mrs. HYDE-SMITH. Madam President, with the U.S. Supreme Court set to consider Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization in oral arguments on December 1, 2021, I am taking time to recognize individuals whose dedication to the pro-life cause has led us to this point. In this case, I pay tribute to Mr. John D. Beckett from Elyria, OH. His activities have been intertwined with championing pro-life and religious freedom. Mr. Beckett graduated from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1960, after which he initially worked as an engineer in the aerospace industry. In 1963, he joined his father's small manufacturing business, R.W. Beckett Corporation, and 2 years later became president following his father's death. Under Mr. Beckett's leadership, this small company grew over time to become a worldwide leader in producing engineered components for residential and commercial heating. With its affiliates, the company employs nearly 1,000 people. In addition to his business endeavors, Mr. Beckett has long been active in both church and community-related activities. This is where he has established himself as a champion of the pro-life movement. In 1973, Mr. Beckett became a founding member of the Intercessors for America, a national prayer organization, and he continues to serve on the board today. The Intercessors for America has helped lead grassroots efforts for people of faith to unite in prayer for the pro- life movement and for the unborn. In addition, he also became a founding board member of King's College in New York City, a Christian university, and he also serves on the board of Cru--Campus Crusade for Christ International. Alongside these community activities, Mr. Beckett also found time to become a published author, writing two books about faith in the workplace. For these business and community activities, Mr. Beckett has received numerous accolades. He received an honorary doctor of law degree from both Spring Arbor University in 2002 and also from King's College in 2008. He was also named Christian Businessman of the Year by the Christian Broadcasting Network in 1999 and the Entrepreneur of the Year by Ernst & Young in 2003. Today, he resides in Elyria, OH, with his wife, Wendy, to whom he has been married since 1961. I am thankful to John D. Beckett for his support of many nonprofit organizations that defend the rights of the unborn and religious freedom. His work in helping establish the Intercessors for America has led to untold numbers of prayers being raised for the pro-life movement. I am pleased to honor his work through that organization as well as his lifetime of service to so many worthy causes.