Lisa McClain

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I yield an additional 1 minute to the gentleman from New York.

Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, although your district may appreciate all of those accomplishments, are we supposed to just forget about the crime that you committed? Perhaps, in education, maybe we should have studied a little harder. If you commit a crime, there is a penalty to that crime. You don't get to say: I committed a crime, but I did all these good things. All these good things erase this crime over here. It doesn't work that way. Again, I will say that it is not profoundly stupid to hold up the Constitution. The left may believe holding up the rights of the Constitution is profoundly stupid. I don't believe we do. I will again say that this hearing and this censure is not profoundly stupid. It is actually a hearing of where we followed the law. Mr. Speaker, the other fact that I may want to correct--I will correct the truth with maybe the other half of the truth--is ``immediately'' means right away. So when you say, ``I immediately'' took action, ``I immediately''--well, the incident occurred on September 30. October 26 was when you pled guilty. I think that is a little bit longer than immediately. Again, maybe math wasn't my best subject either.

Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Missouri (Mr. Alford).

Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, may I inquire how much time is remaining on each side.

Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Lawler).

Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I agree. I wish we didn't have to be here. We should, as most sports teams do, clean up our own locker room. That would be the best-case scenario, as we actually did with a member of our Conference. We cleaned up our own locker room. It would be nice if the other side would clean up theirs. So, I agree with you, Ms. Ocasio-Cortez. I loved your ``My Cousin Vinny'' analogy. That was funny, but this isn't a funny thing. It was good, but this isn't funny. You committed a crime to try to disrupt a proceeding. This is serious. I think it is a little more serious than jaywalking when you try to disrupt the business of the House. Again, I wish we weren't here because I wish you all would clean up your own locker room so we could really get on to the people's business. We can do both. Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the gentlewoman from Georgia (Ms. Greene).

Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I would just remind you that we talk about baseless claims. If I am not mistaken, Capitol Police did an investigation, referred it to the District of Columbia that did an investigation, and Representative Bowman pled guilty to a crime. I don't think that is baseless. In fact, I think that is basis for crime and that is basis for this censure. Because baseless means you have no cause, Mr. Speaker, and I think the mere fact that Mr. Bowman pled guilty isn't baseless. It is basis for a crime. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, therein lies the problem. I am one of the so-called MAGA Republicans which, again, I don't apologize for. Under MAGA Republican leadership, I might remind everybody, crime was down--or excuse me, crime was up--crime was down under the last administration. Clearly, crime was down. The economy was up. All of these problems that we are dealing with in this Congress today, Mr. Speaker, have been created by the Biden administration and created by my friends on the left. That is the truth. Those are the facts. Under the MAGA Republicans, how many wars were we fighting overseas? Zero. What was the crime rate? Down. Again, we have some serious problems since the Democrats, this administration, took office, and therein lies the problem. You want to talk about law and order. You want to talk about Cagney & Lacey and Ace Ventura, that is cute. That is cute. Mr. Speaker, you want to talk about a disgrace to this body? Doing investigative work and actually following due process, that is what we are supposed to do. That is what I thought we did. I will not apologize for following law and order, but under the Democrats' law and order, you shouldn't go through any investigation. You should just on a whim do some impeachment. That is what the other side of the aisle does. We clean up our locker room, but when you commit a crime, it is unfortunate that we have to bring this to the table. As much as they want to compare us and call us names, they can continue to do that, but the facts speak for themselves. We waited until an investigation was completed before we brought this censure resolution. We didn't do it on a whim. That is law and order. If that is Cagney & Lacey, following due process, perhaps, Mr. Speaker, my friends on the other side of the aisle could use a little investigative reporting and some detective work themselves. Mr. Speaker, may I inquire how much time is remaining.

Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time for closing.

Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, we need to be accountable to this body. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, in case my colleagues on the other side of the aisle need clarification, I want to make it clear, the American people know that they are not better off than they were 4 years ago, and they know it is Democrats in this Congress and the White House that have put them in this anguish as we see today, just to clear things up. All we have heard from congressional Democrats is excuse after excuse for Representative Bowman's criminal behavior. I daresay, Mr. Speaker, that if a Republican did what Mr. Bowman did, that every single Member on the Democratic side would be down here calling for censure, if not expulsion. Mr. Bowman himself, despite pleading guilty, said it was an accident. How? Someone looks at a sign that says ``Fire'' and thinks, hmm, I wonder what this will do? Mr. Chairman, I urge everyone to vote ``yes,'' and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that the clerk be authorized to make technical corrections in the engrossment of H.R. 5933, to include corrections in spelling, punctuation, section numbering and cross-referencing, and the insertion of appropriate headings.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that when the House adjourns today, it adjourn to meet at 9 a.m. tomorrow.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, by the direction of the House Republican Conference, I send to the desk a privileged resolution and ask for its immediate consideration.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, pursuant to clause 2(a)(1) of rule IX, I seek recognition to give notice of my intent to raise a question of the privileges of the House. The form of the resolution is as follows: Resolution Censuring Representative Jamaal Bowman. Whereas, on September 30, 2023, as the House of Representatives was considering legislation to avoid a lapse of appropriations for Federal agencies and departments, which would result in a shutdown of those agencies and departments, Jamaal Bowman, the Representative from the 16th Congressional District of New York, pulled a fire alarm; Whereas, section 22-1319 of the District of Columbia Criminal Code makes knowingly causing a false alarm of fire a misdemeanor punishable by fine or imprisonment up to 6 months, or both; Whereas, section 22-1319 of the District of Columbia Criminal Code states: ``It shall be unlawful for any person or persons to willfully or knowingly give a false alarm of fire within the District of Columbia, and any person or persons violating the provisions of this subsection shall, upon conviction, be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and be punished by a fine not more than the amount set forth in section 22-3571.01 [of this code] or by imprisonment for not more than 6 months, or by both such fine and imprisonment;'' Whereas, on October 26, 2023, Representative Bowman pled guilty to violating section 22-1319 of the District of Columbia Criminal Code and was required to pay a $1,000 fine and write an apology letter to the United States Capitol Police and was placed on probation; and Whereas, the actions of Representative Bowman forced the evacuation of the Cannon House Office Building and disrupted the work of Congress as a vote was underway on the floor of the House: Now, therefore, be it resolved that the House of Representatives censures Jamaal Bowman, Representative from the 16th Congressional District of New York; Representative Jamaal Bowman will forthwith present himself in the well of the House of Representatives for the pronouncement of censure; and Jamaal Bowman will be censured with the public reading of this resolution by the Speaker.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the Ubly High School varsity football team for winning the Michigan Division 8 State championship. The Bearcats from Ubly High School took home their first-ever State championship in football, winning 21-6 and capping off their undefeated season as champions. I congratulate Coach Sweeney and all the young men on the varsity team for their remarkable accomplishment. They have made Michigan's Ninth District proud, and I hope they cherish this memory for the rest of their lives. Again, I congratulate Ubly High School. Go Bearcats.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I thank our newly-elected vice chair. Congratulations. I look forward to working with him. Mr. Speaker, I rise today because accountability is finally here. For years, Joe Biden has used his name and influence for personal gain, all while serving in office and receiving a salary funded by taxpayer dollars. He has deceived the Nation by posing as a trustworthy family man, only to be bought and paid for by foreign nationals. The Biden family has embedded themselves in a web of lies, spreading deceit to the Nation to cover up their shady dealings. We are not fools and we cannot be fooled. For months, House Republicans have followed the facts, and more importantly, followed the money. It has all led right back to President Biden. Despite stonewalling attempts at every turn, we have persisted. From the DOJ to the FBI and the White House, cohorts of the Biden family have done everything they can to stop the truth from coming to light. These lies cannot stay hidden forever. House Republicans in the Oversight Committee have unearthed over $240,000 in direct payments to the President and his family. What about that money? That money has direct ties to foreign nationals and our adversaries. These same adversaries President Biden swore to defend America against are actually lining his pockets and influencing his decisions. It is past time that the American public know the truth. It is time for the Biden family to be held accountable for their corruption. Mr. Speaker, I thank the House Republicans that accountability is finally here.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize James Arthur Parkhurst, a former U.S. Army Ranger and proud veteran of the Korean War. Since before 1968, Jim has been a committed and selfless member of the Oxford American Legion. In 1990, he began its Veterans' Museum. In its early beginnings, older veterans donated their uniforms for display-- but as time passed, its collection was built into a full- blown museum with a plethora of military memorabilia. For many years, Jim has helped his community with parades, always making sure to include his fellow veterans. Year after year, Jim ensures that families are aware of both Veteran's Day and Memorial Day. From placing flags to cleaning headstones, Jim is well known throughout eastern Michigan for his support and commitment to veterans' causes. Jim also helps many families throughout the community throw birthday parties for children, delivering toys, food, and other gifts. Even through the personal tragedies in his life, Jim is always there to serve others. Jim gave his youth in service to our country: he has served with honor, distinction, and pride. To many, Jim is a profound inspiration. Above all else, Jim has selflessly donated his time to make sure others are safe, our veterans are taken care of, and everyone can get the help they need. In the words of the Legion's Auxiliary Department Americanism Chairman Darlene Jones, ``Jim just keeps going--he has no quit.'' On November 11th, as part of their Veteran's Day observation, the American Legion will dedicate the Veterans' Museum in his honor. On behalf of Michigan's 9th Congressional District, I am proud to celebrate this wonderful occasion. Mr. Speaker, it is a great pleasure to recognize James Arthur Parkhurst for his lifetime of service, both in and out of uniform. It is my sincere hope that the James Arthur Parkhurst Veterans' Museum of Oxford, Michigan, will prosper for many years to come.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the birthday of Rita Josephine Lynch, who on October 27th reached the incredible milestone of her 95th birthday. Rita Josephine was born one of seven children to Behia and James Thomas, who emigrated from Lebanon in the early 1920s to pursue the American Dream. Rita graduated from Olean High School, attended Canisius College, and is a proud graduate of Mercy School of Nursing in Buffalo, New York. Before meeting the love of her life, Thomas ``Tom'' Meecham Lynch, she worked at hospitals in Olean and Buffalo, New York. Rita and Tom married in 1955 and later moved to Dunkirk, New York, where Rita worked as a nurse and Tom as a pharmacist. Rita and Tom grew their family to six children, even as Rita continued to pursue her career in nursing for local families and friends. Throughout her life, Rita has always been a committed volunteer for many selfless causes. Rita has volunteered with the Red Cross, providing blood pressures appointments at local drugstores, she has served on the Altar Rosary Society at her local Catholic church, and the Brooks Hospital Auxiliary Board. Rita has always helped others; from caring for her mother and mother- in-law to her youngest brother, Rev. Donald N. Thomas, after his retirement and her late husband until his passing. Today, friends, family, and her faith continue to be focal points in her life as she stays in contact with old friends from nursing school along with her six children and their families, which includes 18 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren. While at home, if she isn't watching EWTN, she is watching Fox News, TMC, or her favorite sports--football, hockey, or golf. In her free time, she loves to go for drives around the Point and Dunkirk Pier-- sometimes, she looks for bargains at T.J. Maxx. She loves to see her great grandchildren and watch them compete in baseball, football, volleyball, and dance performances every opportunity she has. Every week, when she is able, you can find her in a pew at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Fredonia, New York. Mr. Speaker, please join me and my colleagues in celebrating the wonderful occasion of Rita Josephine Lynch's 95th birthday. I cannot wait to wish her a happy 100th.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor exceptional female leaders throughout our Nation who have recently been recognized as ``Christian Women of Distinction'' by She Leads America. While I strive to lead by example for my constituents back home in Michigan, I understand that not everyone looks to Washington politics for role models. Thankfully, we do not need to look far to be inspired by individuals led by their strong faith, moral values, and unwavering dedication to their communities. Today, I am proud to honor some of the women who through their hard work and tireless dedication have brought great inspiration to many throughout the world. As a United States Representative, it is both my sacred and constitutional obligation to remain steadfast in my commitment to the defense of religious freedom. Now more than ever, we must safeguard religious liberty to ensure that each of these women and those I serve never have to compromise their religious beliefs. One of the women honored by She Leads America, Hannah Castillo, has dedicated much of her career to promoting Christian causes nationally. In the world of politics, Hannah is one of the youngest to have served a senior role on a presidential campaign. In 2016, she was named Campaign Manager of the Year by the San Diego County Republican Party and has contributed valuable advice to many. Today, Hannah is with Prayer House DC, a ministry dedicated to worship and community. Mr. Speaker, these women, including Hannah, have left an indelible mark on countless lives. They are pioneers whose examples have--and will continue to--inspire many. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of them for their unwavering dedication. This honor is truly well- deserved.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor exceptional female leaders throughout our Nation who have recently been recognized as ``Christian Women of Distinction'' by She Leads America. While I strive to lead by example for my constituents back home in Michigan, I understand that not everyone looks to Washington politics for role models. Thankfully, we do not need to look far to be inspired by individuals led by their strong faith, moral values, and unwavering dedication to their communities. Today, I am proud to honor some of the women who through their hard work and tireless dedication have brought great inspiration to many throughout the world. As a United States Representative, it is both my sacred and constitutional obligation to remain steadfast in my commitment to the defense of religious freedom. Now more than ever, we must safeguard religious liberty to ensure that each of these women and those I serve never have to compromise their religious beliefs. One of the women honored by She Leads America, Charmaine Hedding, is a global development manager in the non-profit sector. In this role, she focuses on the protection of Christians and other minorities in the Middle East and Africa. A fierce proponent of religious freedom, she has also assisted in many humanitarian projects, including the evacuation of over 9,000 people from Afghanistan. Today, she also consults for government agencies, authorities, and faith-based organizations. Mr. Speaker, these women, including Charmaine, have left an indelible mark on countless lives. They are pioneers whose examples have--and will continue to--inspire many. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of them for their unwavering dedication. This honor is truly well- deserved.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor exceptional female leaders throughout our Nation who have recently been recognized as ``Christian Women of Distinction'' by She Leads America. While I strive to lead by example for my constituents back home in Michigan, I understand that not everyone looks to Washington politics for role models. Thankfully, we do not need to look far to be inspired by individuals led by their strong faith, moral values, and unwavering dedication to their communities. Today, I am proud to honor some of the women who through their hard work and tireless dedication have brought great inspiration to many throughout the world. As a United States Representative, it is both my sacred and constitutional obligation to remain steadfast in my commitment to the defense of religious freedom. Now more than ever, we must safeguard religious liberty to ensure that each of these women and those I serve never have to compromise their religious beliefs. One of the women honored by She Leads America, Riley Gaines, is a brave spokeswoman for fairness in women's sports. Riley is no stranger to me or my team--a recent graduate from the University of Kentucky and 12-time NCAA All-American swimmer, she gained recognition after tying against Lia Thomas at the NCAA championships. She began the Riley Gaines Center, which has since led a movement to protect and support women's sports. To many athletes, her work is an inspiration to many. Mr. Speaker, these women, including Riley, have left an indelible mark on countless lives. They are pioneers whose examples have--and will continue to--inspire many. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of them for their unwavering dedication. This honor is truly well- deserved.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Elizabeth Doyle, an exceptional leader in faith and in her community. For over 50 years, Elizabeth Doyle has been a tremendous inspiration to many. In 1972, Elizabeth began her speaking career in Belfast, Ireland, at the height of the Troubles conflict. It was there that she met her husband, Syd, who joined her in pioneering and leading three churches throughout Southeast England. After 25 years in Southeast England, Elizabeth and her husband moved to the United States and started Nations Light Ministries, an organization dedicated to training leaders across the world. Elizabeth also founded Releasing Daughters of the Last Days, which has led her to over 50 countries across 6 continents. This organization inspired tens of thousands, oftentimes divided by terrorism or civil war, to find their faith. Today, Elizabeth continues to inspire many throughout the nation by serving as Executive Director of She Leads America. Alongside Michigan State Representative Nancy DeBoer and Sylvia Williams, Elizabeth honors Christian women of distinction for their accomplishments across every professional sector. Mr. Speaker, Elizabeth's remarkable journey is an inspiration to us all. In times of anguish, her spirit and devotion to the Lord has lifted me up. We are all deeply grateful for the wonderful work of Liz and her team as they continue to honor impactful women of faith everywhere.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor exceptional female leaders throughout our Nation who have recently been recognized as ``Christian Women of Distinction'' by She Leads America. While I strive to lead by example for my constituents back home in Michigan, I understand that not everyone looks to Washington politics for role models. Thankfully, we do not need to look far to be inspired by individuals led by their strong faith, moral values, and unwavering dedication to their communities. Today, I am proud to honor some of the women who through their hard work and tireless dedication have brought great inspiration to many throughout the world. As a United States Representative, it is both my sacred and constitutional obligation to remain steadfast in my commitment to the defense of religious freedom. Now more than ever, we must safeguard religious liberty to ensure that each of these women and those I serve never have to compromise their religious beliefs. One of the women honored by She Leads America, Mary Faus, is a Anishinaabekwe of the Ojibway Cree. In her community, Mary is a spiritual leader and proud advocate for her native people. Mary is a founder and active member of All Tribes DC, which is a Christian-based nonprofit organization formed by Native Americans that encourages spiritual empowerment. Mary has ministered in several countries and throughout North America, bringing inspiration to many. Mr. Speaker, these women, including Mary, have left an indelible mark on countless lives. They are pioneers whose examples have--and will continue to--inspire many. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of them for their unwavering dedication. This honor is truly well- deserved.