Lisa McClain

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Chairman, I stand here today enraged that we are debating a bill to protect women and girls in sports. I am enraged not because I disagree with the legislation, in fact, I fully support the legislation. I am enraged by the fact that we have reached a point in this country where we have to talk about a bill to protect women and women's sports is even necessary. When Congress passed Title IX in this very Chamber a half a century ago, I thought it was supposed to be a victory for women across the United States. At what point did we throw it away and make it meaningless? Do we not care about women? Did we forget about the women and the young girls? Listen, as a wife, as a mother, as a female athlete, and as a coach of female athletes, I take offense to this, because now 50 years later, we are in the same Chamber, debating the merits of protecting women's sports, once again. The left's hypocrisy on this issue has resulted in women being demolished in competitions, physically brutalized going up against stronger opponents. They are losing individual games, State championships, and NCAA's championships to biological males that have decided to become a woman. That is their right, but what about the women's rights? What about the rights of the young girls? Do they not have any rights anymore? Let's be clear about something: My Democratic colleagues can see what is going on and what is happening, and I believe they know that this is wrong, as well. That is why they hide behind it and don't deal with the real issue. Because of that reason, I am enraged today that we are debating a bill that should not require any debate at all.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Tyler Jamison, Michigan's 2023 Mr. Basketball award recipient. Tyler is from Michigan's Ninth District, playing basketball for the Huskies of Port Huron Northern. Let's just say Tyler is really good. This season, Tyler averaged over 26 points, 11 rebounds, and 4 assists per game. He led his team to the district semifinals just a couple of weeks ago. Tyler is not only an impressive athlete. He is an impressive student, too. This year, while playing basketball at an extremely high level, Tyler has maintained a 4.7 GPA--quite an impressive and incredible number. This showcases his hard work and dedication to important things in life, such as education. I congratulate Tyler on becoming our State's Mr. Basketball, and I wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors. I can't wait to see what the future holds for Tyler.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of the life and service of my friend, Virginia native, and United States Army Lieutenant Colonel Carlton ``Shady'' Schelhorn. Colonel Schelhorn, who for 23 years dedicated his life to protecting our country's freedom, is being interred today at Arlington National Cemetery. The late grandfather of a member of my staff and teammate, Ryland Bennett, Colonel Schelhorn was a loving parent, friend, and inspiration to many. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee and proud advocate of those willing to sacrifice everything for the sanctity of our nation, I am deeply honored to include in the Record this hero's obituary. [From the Richmond Times-Dispatch] Carlton ``Shady'' Schelhorn, LTC., 1931-2022 LTC Carlton ``Shady'' Schelhorn of Mechanicsville, formerly of Alexandria, passed away on December 14, 2022. He is survived by his devoted wife of 68 years, Pat; children, Chip Schelhorn (Julie), Lynn Michaux (Jody), Cathy D'Antuono (Steve) and Nancy Bennett (Mark); nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Shady was a 1955 University of Virginia graduate, where he played football and was a member of Phi Delta Theta. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army for 23 years, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. Known for his incredible sense of humor and charm, Shady never met a stranger. He was always the loudest voice in the room, an excellent dancer and fond of martinis. His family was his greatest pride and joy; ``G-Dad'' was adored in return. Some of his favorite pastimes included golfing, especially with the Over-The-Hill Hoos, spending winters in Marco Island, Florida and lately watching ``Grit'' TV.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the month of March as Women's History Month. This is a time dedicated to recognizing and honoring the women throughout American history who have helped shape our Nation. Let me be clear: I do mean Women's History Month. Women have been fighting for over a century for our right to vote, our right to be heard, and our right to have a seat at the table. Now, the woke left is claiming that instead of celebrating women this month, we should be celebrating birthing people. Well, last I checked, the only person who could actually give birth was a woman, but let's not let the facts get in the way of a good story. They claim the phrase ``woman'' is offensive to trans women, and because of that, we should choose a more inclusive phrase. Well, let me just say: I will be celebrating Women's History Month. I will not celebrate the woke left forcing the rest of America to call a man a woman, especially when these men are actively threatening women's rights by demanding to be allowed to compete in sports against biological women like Riley Gaines. So congratulations to all the women.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today for the unborn; for the protection and the defense of the most vulnerable among us. I stand here today because this week the Republican majority is doing what the previous Congress refused to do, and that is uphold the right to life. For far too long we have seen pro-life facilities vandalized and broken into. For far too long we have watched as Democrats refuse to protect born alive babies. Think about that for a moment. These babies are born alive, breathing outside the womb, and the Democrats want to kill them. They do not protect them. This week, we right those wrongs and we defend life in America. It is well past time for the United States Congress, for this body, to uphold the guarantees laid out in the Declaration of Independence that we are endowed by our creator with the unalienable right to life.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Richard Charles Tarte who passed away on November 1, 2022, at the age of 86. Richard was born on September 14, 1936, to Charles and Eva Tarte, and grew up in Garden City, Michigan. On August 28, 1959, Richard joined the Army and was a part of Company D, 3rd Engineer Battalion in Germany. During his service, he made the rank of Specialist 4th class before being honorably discharged on July 31, 1965. Richard learned the carpentry trade from his father and after finishing his career in the service started his own roofing and siding company. He also married Sally and made Jackson, Michigan a home. He was a resident of Jackson until his passing. Madam Speaker, it is my pleasure to recognize the life of this great American. I send my most heartfelt condolences to Richard's many loved ones, and I hope they find comfort during this difficult time in the knowledge that Richard lived a full, enriching life. There is nothing more one can ask for. We thank Richard for his service to our country and to his community.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 154. It has come to my attention that this chapter has been graciously hosting monthly luncheons at Oakmont Sterling Senior Community in my district. The love and appreciation they show to the veteran residents of this senior community, and the surrounding area, is so valuable to enriching the lives of our senior veterans. This chapter of heroes selflessly honors and cherishes those who have served our country. I am so proud of their patriotism and continued service to our veteran commnunity. I thank them for the joy they bring to senior veterans.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Lapeer County Search and Rescue, a team of dedicated and extensively trained volunteers. Lapeer County Search and Rescue, known as LCSAR is a non-profit sub- division of the Lapeer County Sheriff's Department. The group of dedicated and highly skilled volunteers train and plan year-round to execute searches to locate lost or missing persons, both in urban and wilderness environments. The division uses a wide variety of technical skills to meet the needs of each unique and time critical scenario. The team has expertise in ground searchers, mounted resources, trackers, ATV's, radio communications, and certified K9 teams. This team of selfless volunteers is a beacon of community strength. They give families hope in the toughest times, and answers when they are needed most. I commend the Lapeer County Search and Rescue Team for their heroism and constant preparation to keep our community safe.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor and highlight the work of some extraordinary female leaders in our country who are being honored by She Leads America as ``Christian Women of Distinction.'' For my constituents back in Michigan, I try and lead by example through my faith and commitment to public service. But many times, people don't look to Washington for their role models. Fortunately, it does not take long to find others guided by their strong moral compass, faith, and commitment to selfless public service. Today, I honor some of these women, who through their tireless dedication, have shattered glass ceilings and touched the lives of countless individuals around the world. For my part, I remain committed to defending religious freedom here in Congress to ensure each of these women, and all of my constituents, never have to compromise their religious beliefs in order to conform to whatever the trending culture is at the moment. One of these women, Nancy ``Honeytree'' Miller, is a global ambassador for Christian Music. Raised in a family of classical musicians, she recorded her first album in 1973. Known as the ``First Lady of Jesus Music,'' she was one of the pioneers of Christian contemporary music. Over her 49-year career, she has recorded 17 albums in 3 different languages. After her ``Jesus Music'' era, Nancy became an ordained minister and developed a specialized ministry to singles, while continuing to write and record. She ministered in prisons for a time alongside Prison Fellowship. After marriage and family, she developed an international focus, ministering in several countries and recording albums in Spanish and Urdu. Not only has she been an enduring presence to her generation, but she continues to inspire young Christian artists in Pakistan and Latin America. Madam Speaker, I hope these women, such as Nancy, know full well the impact they have had on countless lives. These women are trailblazers, and the example they have set will be followed by people of my district, and many other Americans, for years to come. I thank each of them for their passion and commitment. This honor is well-deserved.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor and highlight the work of some extraordinary female leaders in our country who are being honored by She Leads America as ``Christian Women of Distinction.'' For my constituents back in Michigan, I try and lead by example through my faith and commitment to public service. But many times, people don't look to Washington for their role models. Fortunately, it does not take long to find others guided by their strong moral compass, faith, and commitment to selfless public service. Today, I honor some of these women, who through their tireless dedication, have shattered glass ceilings and touched the lives of countless individuals around the world. For my part, I remain committed to defending religious freedom here in Congress to ensure each of these women, and all of my constituents, never have to compromise their religious beliefs in order to conform to whatever the trending culture is at the moment. One of these women, Lynn Fitch, is the 40th and current Attorney General for the state of Mississippi. At the age of 23, she began her legal career as a Special Assistant Attorney General at the Mississippi Attorney General's Office. She continued her career accumulating more than 35 years of legal experience both in private practice and public service as State Treasurer, Vice President for the National Association of Treasurers, and Chair of the State Financial Officers Foundation. She served on the Executive Committee of the National Association of Attorneys General and is currently serving as Co-Chair of the National Association of Attorneys General Human Trafficking Conunittee. She was named in TIME's list of the 100 most influential people in the world in 2022 and has also been active in her community, serving as a board member of several charitable organizations. Madam Speaker, I hope these women, such as Attorney General Fitch, know full well the impact they have had on countless lives. These women are trailblazers, and the example they have set will be followed by people of my district, and many other Americans, for years to come. I thank each of them for their passion and commitment. This honor is well-deserved.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor and highlight the work of some extraordinary female leaders in our country who are being honored by She Leads America as ``Christian Women of Distinction.'' For my constituents back in Michigan, I try and lead by example through my faith and commitment to public service. But many times, people don't look to Washington for their role models. Fortunately, it does not take long to find others guided by their strong moral compass, faith, and commitment to selfless public service. Today, I honor some of these women, who through their tireless dedication, have shattered glass ceilings and touched the lives of countless individuals around the world. For my part, I remain committed to defending religious freedom here in Congress to ensure each of these women, and all of my constituents, never have to compromise their religious beliefs in order to conform to whatever the trending culture is at the moment. One of these women, Dr. Madeline Manning Mims, is an author, international speaker, contemporary gospel recording artist, and a member of many Halls of Fame. Madeline is a gold and silver Olympic medalist in track. She pioneered the 800-meter run for the United States by being the first (and until Tokyo 2021, a 53-year span) only American woman to bring back a gold medal in this event, along with the Olympic Record, World Record and American Record. She has been a member of four Olympic teams for the United States and was the first American woman to break the 2-minute barrier in the 800-meter. She is a leader among world athletes and the founder and president of the United States Council for Sports Chaplaincy, serving as a chaplain since 1988 for the Olympic games. Madam Speaker I hope these women, such as Madeline, know full well the impact they have had on countless lives. These women are trailblazers, and the example they have set will be followed by people of my district, and many other Americans, for years to come. I thank each of them for their passion and commitment. This honor is well- deserved.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor and highlight the work of some extraordinary female leaders in our country who are being honored by She Leads America as ``Christian Women of Distinction.'' For my constituents back in Michigan, I try and lead by example through my faith and commitment to public service. But many times, people don't look to Washington for their role models. Fortunately, it does not take long to find others guided by their strong moral compass, faith, and commitment to selfless public service. Today, I honor some of these women, who through their tireless dedication, have shattered glass ceilings and touched the lives of countless individuals around the world. For my part, I remain committed to defending religious freedom here in Congress to ensure each of these women, and all of my constituents, never have to compromise their religious beliefs in order to conform to whatever the trending culture is at the moment. One of these women, Winsome Sears, is the Lieutenant Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia. She is the first woman in this role, and the first black woman elected to statewide office. A native of Kingston, Jamaica, Winsome immigrated at the age of six to the United States. Since coming to the U.S., Winsome has served our country honorably in the Marine Corps, and as Vice President of the Virginia State Board of Education. A trained electrician and successful businesswoman, her most proud community work is leading a men's prison ministry and directing a women's homeless shelter. Madam Speaker, I hope these women, such as Lieutenant Governor Sears, know full well the impact they have had on countless lives. These women are trailblazers, and the example they have set will be followed by people of my district, and many other Americans, for years to come. I thank each of them for their passion and commitment. This honor is well-deserved.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor and highlight the work of some extraordinary female leaders in our country who are being honored by She Leads America as ``Christian Women of Distinction.'' For my constituents back in Michigan, I try and lead by example through my faith and commitment to public service. But many times, people don't look to Washington for their role models. Fortunately, it does not take long to find others guided by their strong moral compass, faith, and commitment to selfless public service. Today, I honor some of these women, who through their tireless dedication, have shattered glass ceilings and touched the lives of countless individuals around the world. For my part, I remain committed to defending religious freedom here in Congress to ensure each of these women, and all of my constituents, never have to compromise their religious beliefs in order to conform to whatever the trending culture is at the moment. One of these women, Dr. Carol Swain, has risen from adversity to become an award-winning political scientist, former tenured professor at Princeton and Vanderbilt Universities, public intellectual, speaker, entrepreneur, commentator, and author or editor of eleven books. She is passionate about empowering others to confidently raise their voices in the public square and so founded the Be the People Project (BTPP). Her clarion call is for ``We the People to stand up and Be the People'' who change our nation and world. Dr. Swain served on the Tennessee Advisory Committee to the U.S. Civil Rights Commission, the National Endowment for the Humanities, and the 1776 Commission. Her research has won national awards and has been cited in three U.S. Supreme Court cases. Madam Speaker, I hope these women, such as Dr. Swain, know full well the impact they have had on countless lives. These women are trailblazers, and the example they have set will be followed by people of my district, and many other Americans, for years to come. I thank each of them for their passion and commitment. This honor is well- deserved.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor and highlight the work of some extraordinary female leaders in our country who are being honored by She Leads America as ``Christian Women of Distinction.'' For my constituents back in Michigan, I try and lead by example through my faith and commitment to public service. But many times, people don't look to Washington for their role models. Fortunately, it does not take long to find others guided by their strong moral compass, faith, and commitment to selfless public service. Today, I honor some of these women, who through their tireless dedication, have shattered glass ceilings and touched the lives of countless individuals around the world. For my part, I remain committed to defending religious freedom here in Congress to ensure each of these women, and all of my constituents, never have to compromise their religious beliefs in order to conform to whatever the trending culture is at the moment. One of these women, Sharon Weston Broome, is the first female Mayor- President of the City of Baton Rouge and East Baton Rouge Parish. Prior to this role, she served as a Baton Rouge Metro City Council member, a Louisiana State Representative, and a Louisiana State Senator. As Mayor her focus has been on improving the quality of life for citizens, while building resiliency through infrastructure improvements. Another major priority in her life is her faith and her family. Madam Speaker, I hope these women, such as Mayor Broome, know full well the impact they have had on countless lives. These women are trailblazers, and the example they have set will be followed by people of my district, and many other Americans, for years to come. I thank each of them for their passion and commitment. This honor is well- deserved.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor and highlight the work of some extraordinary female leaders in our country who are being honored by She Leads America as ``Christian Women of Distinction.'' For my constituents back in Michigan, I try and lead by example through my faith and commitment to public service. But many times, people don't look to Washington for their role models. Fortunately, it does not take long to find others guided by their strong moral compass, faith, and commitment to selfless public service. Today, I honor some of these women, who through their tireless dedication, have shattered glass ceilings and touched the lives of countless individuals around the world. For my part, I remain committed to defending religious freedom here in Congress to ensure each of these women, and all of my constituents, never have to compromise their religious beliefs in order to conform to whatever the trending culture is at the moment. One of these women, Libia Duran, was born in Columbia, South America, and is a community leader concerned with the education of children, youth, and their families at the local and national level. Her dream is to see all minority families across the nation fully engaged and invested in their children's education. This dream was born as a result of the experience she had as an immigrant mother in the public school system in the United States. She became an advocate through serving the community in leadership roles, volunteering at the elementary school level. For this work, she received the Maryland Governor's ``Volunteer of the Year'' award. Libia also founded Pastors Wives of America, an organization that focuses on empowering women with leadership potential by equipping families to become engaged in the education of their children. Madam Speaker, I hope these women, such as Libia, know full well the impact they have had on countless lives. These women are trailblazers, and the example they have set will be followed by people of my district, and many other Americans, for years to come. I thank each of them for their passion and commitment. This honor is well-deserved.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor and highlight the work of some extraordinary female leaders in our country who are being honored by She Leads America as ``Christian Women of Distinction.'' For my constituents back in Michigan, I try and lead by example through my faith and commitment to public service. But many times, people don't look to Washington for their role models. Fortunately, it does not take long to find others guided by their strong moral compass, faith, and commitment to selfless public service. Today, I honor some of these women, who through their tireless dedication, have shattered glass ceilings and touched the lives of countless individuals around the world: For my part, I remain committed to defending religious freedom here in Congress to ensure each of these women, and all of my constituents, never have to compromise their religious beliefs in order to conform to whatever the trending culture is at the moment. One of these women, Kristi Noem, is the current, and the first, female Governor of South Dakota. Governor Noem is a small business owner, a rancher, a farmer, and former member of the South Dakota state legislature and United States House of Representatives. As a believer that government should serve the people, she works night and day to ensure her constituents have ample opportunities given to them for a chance at a brighter future. Madam Speaker, I hope these women, such as Governor Noem, know full well the impact they have had on countless lives. These women are trailblazers, and the example they have set will be followed by people of my district, and many other Americans, for years to come. I thank each of them for their passion and commitment. This honor is well- deserved.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor and highlight the work of some extraordinary female leaders in our country who are being honored by She Leads America as ``Christian Women of Distinction.'' For my constituents back in Michigan, I try and lead by example through my faith and commitment to public service. But many times, people don't look to Washington for their role models. Fortunately, it does not take long to find others guided by their strong moral compass, faith, and commitment to selfless public service. Today, I honor some of these women, who through their tireless dedication, have shattered glass ceilings and touched the lives of countless individuals around the world. For my part, I remain committed to defending religious freedom here in Congress to ensure each of these women, and all of my constituents, never have to compromise their religious beliefs in order to conform to whatever the trending culture is at the moment. One of these women, Elsa Prince Broekhuizen, has inspired many with her time, talent, and treasure. Elsa was born in Holland, Michigan, the beloved daughter of hard-working greenhouse owners. Elsa, along with her late husband, Ed, started Prince Corporation. With their giving spirit, they branched into community responsibility, investing deeply of their time and resources to create partnerships and revitalize their own downtown Holland. Their principled investment continued to grow nationally and globally. Elsa's unwavering convictions and deeply loving heart have helped many successful people and organizations grow at home, across the nation, and around the world. Madam Speaker, I hope these women, such as Elsa, know full well the impact they have had on countless lives. These women are trailblazers, and the example they have set will be followed by people of my district, and many other Americans, for years to come. I thank each of them for their passion and commitment, This honor is well-deserved.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor and highlight the work of some extraordinary female leaders in our country who are being honored by She Leads America as ``Christian Women of Distinction.'' For my constituents back in Michigan, I try and lead by example through my faith and commitment to public service. But many times, people don't look to Washington for their role models. Fortunately, it does not take long to find others guided by their strong moral compass, faith, and commitment to selfless public service. Today, I honor some of these women, who through their tireless dedication, have shattered glass ceilings and touched the lives of countless individuals around the world. For my part, I remain committed to defending religious freedom here in Congress to ensure each of these women, and all of my constituents, never have to compromise their religious beliefs in order to conform to whatever the trending culture is at the moment. One of these women, Kathleen Cooke, is a leading figure in the entertainment industry, who along with her husband Phil, co-founded the Cooke Media Group where she oversees casting and creative development. They also founded the Influence Lab, a nonprofit that internationally mentors leaders on the use of media. Among her other endeavors, Kathleen is an actress and member of the Screen Actors Guild, adjunct professor at Biola University, founder of the Christian Women in Media Association's Hollywood chapter, and national advisory board member for the Salvation Army. Madam Speaker, I hope these women, such as Kathleen, know full well the impact they have had on countless lives. These women are trailblazers, and the example they have set will be followed by people of my district, and many other Americans, for years to come. I thank each of them for their passion and commitment. This honor is well- deserved.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 2022 St. Clair County Veteran of the Year, Kevin L. Jones of the Marine Corps League, Belcher-Lane-Williams Detachment 146. Kevin enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1974 and was commissioned a Second Lieutenant infantry officer in 1978. He served in many roles as a commanding officer and has been deployed around the world. After his distinguished military career, Kevin dedicated his life to serving the veterans in his community. He has been instrumental in establishing and forming a General Motors salaried veterans' group and was recognized by USA Today for his role in hiring veterans. Kevin is a member of several veteran advocacy organizations and has been vital in promoting the health and advancement of fellow veterans in his community. He is the Vice Chairman of the Saint Clair County Veterans Affairs Board of Commissioners. He also holds several leadership roles within his detachment of the Marine Corps League. Additionally, he is a member of the American Legion and AMVETS. I congratulate and thank Kevin for his selfless dedication to our veterans and community. It is vital that we continue to support and honor those who have risked their lives and given so much to our country. I applaud and recognize Kevin Jones for all he has done for our country and his fellow veterans.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I have a motion to recommit at the desk.

Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Chair, my amendment to H.R. 7780 would establish that parents have the right to be informed of any mental health-related issues with their children. In other words, schools may not hide critical information from parents. Before my colleagues say this isn't necessary or this isn't needed, just open social media. You will find examples of teachers and school personnel bragging about how they covertly discuss transgender issues with their students, regardless of their accordance with schools or State laws. I think it is disappointing that it has come to this, that on the House floor, we have to make an affirmative case for parents' rights. Yet, here we are. School officials and personnel are not the parents. School officials and personnel have no right to ignore a parent's decision on what they think is best for their child. This amendment protects both parents and students. It would ensure that parents are never excluded from their children's health conversations and that teachers and administrators can't make these decisions unilaterally. If you want to protect children, believe in families and support hardworking parents, then you must agree with us and support our motion to recommit. Every mother and father in this Chamber should want to know what is happening with their children. Every one of us has the right to know what a person is telling our child. If we adopt the motion to recommit, we will instruct the Committee on Education and Labor to consider my amendment, H.R. 7780, to protect parents' rights. I include in the Record the text of the amendment. Add at the end the following:

Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Chair, I urge my colleagues to pass this amendment so we can provide the assurance to parents that they have the right to protect their children.

Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to reiterate an important statement made by our President: The pandemic is over. This weekend on ``60 Minutes,'' President Biden finally said what most Americans have known for months: We are no longer in the COVID-19 pandemic. So if the President just admitted it, that means the national emergency is over, correct? If that is the case, then why did the President just tell the country that the pandemic is so bad that we should forgive billions of dollars of student debt, or that it is because of the ongoing pandemic that we must continue to enforce a vaccine mandate on our Nation's military? I will tell you why--it is because it was never about the pandemic. It was about the President bypassing Congress and the Constitution to push his radical socialist agenda. Mr. Speaker, President Biden himself has said the pandemic is over. It is past time that we strip him of his emergency powers and end the vaccine mandates and reject all COVID-related funding requests.

Mrs. McCLAIN

Mrs. McCLAIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Thelma Castillo and The Blue Water Area Chamber in Port Huron, Michigan for supporting, celebrating, and growing small businesses in Michigan. The Blue Water Area Chamber is hosting a MI New Favorite Snack competition this fall. The competition gives businesses with 10 or fewer employees a chance at a generous cash prize. This opportunity allows up and coming businesses the chance to show off their products and promote them in an exciting new way. Participants look forward to the marketing benefits as well as a chance at winning the cash prize to invest in the growth of their business. Small businesses are a critical part of our economy and community. We must continue to help them grow by supporting them in any way we can. I applaud the work of Thelma Castillo and The Blue Water Area Chamber for recognizing small businesses in Michigan.