Thad McCotter

Mr. McCOTTER

Mr. McCOTTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and honor the career of a gentleman I have known for almost 20 years, Mr. Dan Piercecchi, who will be receiving a lifetime achievement award. Dan has dedicated his life to public service throughout Michigan, having served on the Inkster Parks and Recreation Commission and then being elected to the Inkster City Council. He has also served on the Livonia Planning Commission and is currently a proponent and a champion of municipal government throughout America. He is also a very dedicated activist to our own Grand Old Party, and he was one of the first people I ever met when I became involved in politics. He has the wisdom, sagacity, and tenacity of an old bull, and this young bull would like to thank him very much for the example he set of what one of man of integrity can do to move mountains.

Mr. McCOTTER

Mr. McCOTTER. Mr. Speaker, I thank you; and before I steer on to that path, I would refer the distinguished gentleman to Pope Benedict XVI's encyclical because it shows where the government is involved in taxation for the purposes of, quote, unquote, leveling, which is trying to discern what is the proper level of material equality in a free society, that the compulsory act of government of taking that money from people and then expending it on someone's behalf vicariously is certainly not tantamount to the moral good in a virtuous society that is achieved by the individual donating that money directly to charity and engaging in the life of their community to help their fellow citizens who are less fortunate. But I am sorry, I will not continue to go down that path. It is also interesting, the gentleman talks about not wanting to have class warfare or class envy at the very time he engages in it. I find that disingenuous, and I will not do the same. At the end of the day, what I would like, I think, to help frame my debate is, what level of taxation is enough? What level is enough? What is optimum for your particular, I assume hypothetical, level of material equality in this country that would be dictated by the government's confiscatory tax policies and arbitrary policies in appropriation? I want to know what that level is. I want to know the level then would be attained. If I am going to ask people to give their private property to government, I have to show them the end of the line. I have to show them how high it is going to and I have to show them what the concomitant benefit to this country is going to be. I never seem to hear that. For purposes of clarity, I would be interested, what is your ultimate goal? I also would like to add, just as personal disclaimer, as someone who is middle class, as someone who pays the AMT, who gets notes from their accountant asking if there is anyone who he knows, i.e., me, what can they do about the AMT, I would like to see it gone, and I would also like to see the taxpayers not pitted against each other if we do not have our choice. I suppose the final analysis, and I will close on this, is that the Republican Party believes that a free people, a free, virtuous people, which we are in this country, will take care of those who are less fortunate and will also ensure that the civil society we live in endures. I believe that the minority party believes that they can best determine how to control your life, conduct your affairs, and reach some hypothetical abstraction of equality which does not exist.

Mr. McCOTTER. Mr. Speaker, I assure you I will not use the balance of that time. Just to point out something that is a continual pet peeve of mine, I am not on Ways and Means and I am not on Appropriations but it seems to me that if you are going to give money to someone it comes through the appropriations process, not through taxation. Government spends what it takes while people spend what they make. In the final analysis, to provide tax relief to the American people is not an act of giving them anything from the government's largess. What it results in is an act on the part of the government to refrain from taking people's hard-earned money in the first place. Now, as to the rhetorical question that was asked, if I may turn it into an actual query that was put to us, I would prefer to live in an America where I know that if I work very hard and I follow the law and I want to work and improve my quality of life for myself, my children, and my community and country, is that the fruits of my labor will not be taken from me by the government. And that attempts to make sure that the fruits of my labor are left in my pocket are not considered a giveaway by the Federal Government. Because the fact is it is the confiscation of private property, the act of taxation. The only thing that does to render it criminal is the fact that we have the consent of the governed. In a duly elected country, if the consent of the governed is through their elected representatives not to take that money in the first place, it is not a giveaway.

Mr. McCOTTER

Mr. McCOTTER. Mr. Chairman, I come from a Midwest State, from Michigan, home of the auto industry. And while my district is relatively doing well, according to the unemployment figures that have been released, I can assure you that Michigan as a State is not doing well. There are several reasons for this, which the place here is not to debate. But the thing that I ask as a Member from Michigan is that we do not make it more difficult for the people of Michigan to right the ship and to begin our path to an economic renaissance. Struggling pockets of poverty and struggling pockets in the manufacturing base in Michigan and the Midwest and other parts of this country can never be revitalized or returned to their prominence if we deviate from the economic path we are on today, because if the American economy goes back to a higher system of taxation, a system that then crushes entrepreneurial initiative and the individual genius of the American worker, States like Michigan will never recover. We need to continue the economic expansion in this country. We need to continue to follow pro-growth policies, especially in the area of taxation. We do not give anything to anyone. We merely allow them to keep what they have earned so that they can then directly invest in the future of their children, of their community, and of the life of this country. So, Mr. Chairman, I welcome this debate on the budget. I welcome the debate about the priorities. But I would encourage us to continue the path because of the several fundamental assumptions that the current policies that we, as the Republican majority, have adopted. I think they must continue because they are very prescient. The first, and I reiterate, is that tax relief does not give anything to anyone. It allows people to keep the fruits of their hard work. That is not a gift. It is a recognition by government that people who generate wealth should be able to invest it for the betterment of themselves and their family and their community. Secondly, history has proven to us that as the taxation rate continues to escalate, what happens then is money that is more productively invested into the life of the American community is then less productively spent when it is vicariously handled and invested, or spent, by the United States Government. Thirdly, I would like to point out that when we talk about government, there are objections about Republican fiscal policies that government has to pay for things. The third root assumption, I think, that our economic policies follow, which must be continued, is that government pays for nothing; working people pay for everything. So I would encourage us to remember that we live in a sovereign democracy, a democratic Republic where your private property is your private property until the government gets it through the consent of you, the governed. Government then holds your money in a pool, collectively in trust, to be expended on behalf of you and your fellow citizens. So let us not forget that, as we discuss taxation policy, because when we are essentially asking to deviate from the tax policies of pro- growth that we have today where people keep what they earn, we are beginning to forget the fact that the United States Government does not create wealth, the United States Government does not pay, the United States Government is not the repository of property to be dispensed back to people. The American people have private property rights, and they have the unalienable right to keep the fruits of their labor. Our policies reflect that, and I believe that the American economy, this entrepreneurial energy, has been unleashed because of these policies. And I conclude by again reiterating my commitment and my hope that this collective Congress continue the path we are on so that States like mine can continue the path to recovery.

Mr. McCOTTER

Mr. McCOTTER. Mr. Speaker, over the weekend a momentous date passed which merits our observance. Greek Independence Day commemorates and celebrates the 185th anniversary of the Greek people's declaration of independence from the Ottoman Empire on March 25, 1821. From this day, until the Treaty of Constantinople officially recognized Greek independence, the Greek people waged a valiant and victorious struggle for their freedom. The Ottoman Empire's oppression and occupation of Greece evolved over the course of the 14th and 15th centuries. Yet during these centuries, Greek patriots arose to oppose and overthrow the Ottomans' dominion, and in 1814 emerged the secretly formed Friendly Society, which proved a herald of Hellenic liberty. Then 7 years later, on March 25, 1821, the Orthodox Metropolitan Germanos of Patras proclaimed a national uprising, and simultaneous uprisings arose throughout Greece. Initially this courageous movement liberated many areas of Greece, but the Ottoman Empire rapidly and ruthlessly responded with innumerable acts of brutality, including the massacre of entire Greek communities. Such Ottoman barbarism contrasted ill with Greek heroism and inspired many nations and citizens to rally to the Greek cause. Thus, in 1827, the British and French fleets delivered a crushing blow to the Ottoman fleet at Navarino, and in 1828, 10,000 French soldiers landed in the Peloponnese to end the Ottoman scourge of Greece. It was then, and after the horror of war had ebbed and ended, the Convention of May 11, 1832, recognized Greece as a sovereign state, and, again, the Treaty of Constantinople recognized Greek independence from Ottoman rule in July of 1832. Thus, Mr. Speaker, it is both fitting and fair for we Americans as a free people to commemorate and celebrate the date of March 25, the date Greece, the Cradle of Democracy, was once again made free. So, too, Mr. Speaker, let us reflect upon the reality that no treaty, no mere scrap of paper, could ever accomplish more than to simply state the obviousness of Greek freedom, which has always endured for time immemorial, despite whatever oppression encountered. Indeed, did not the pen of the British poet and doomed martyr to the cause of Greek independence and freedom, Lord Byron, write a testament to the Greek people's inherent love of liberty when he wrote: The Sword, the Banner, and the Field, Glory and Greece, around me see! The Spartan, borne upon his shield, Was never more free. And may Greece, Mr. Speaker, ever be free.

Mr. McCOTTER

Mr. McCOTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the achievements of Dr. Subir Chowdhury, as he releases his twelfth book, ``The Ice Cream Maker: An Inspiring Tale About Making Quality the Key Ingredient in Everything You Do.'' Since his first published book in 1996, Dr. Chowdhury has revolutionized international management strategy and philosophy. His award-winning book, ``The Power of Six Sigma,'' has sold more than 1 million copies worldwide in over 20 languages. Dr. Chowdhury has been inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame, and the Society of Automotive Engineers has presented him with the Henry Ford II Distinguished Award for Excellence in Automotive Engineering. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Dr. Chowdhury on the release of his latest book and ask my colleagues to join me in honoring his contribution to our community and our country.

Mr. McCOTTER

Mr. McCOTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and honor Joan Carr, who is the recipient of the ATHENA award, which honors outstanding women for their leadership. Since her retirement from the nursing profession, Joan has selflessly served as a volunteer for WWCSD Health & Welfare Advisory for the Wayne Westland School District Family Resource Center. She has led numerous community projects, including the Red Wagon Literacy Project, Kindergarten Backpack Project and Literacy Family Fun Night. Dedicated to her community, she has tirelessly worked to identify the needs of families within the Wayne Westland School District, and is considered a mentor and role model to women in her community. Mr. Speaker, Joan Carr has forged a legacy of commitment and dedication to helping families in the Cities of Wayne and Westland. I ask my colleagues to join me today in honoring Joan, and I congratulate her upon receiving this honor.

Mr. McCOTTER

Mr. McCOTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and honor George Weeks, who is retiring from his position as political columnist for the Detroit News. In 1954, Mr. Weeks commenced his career with the Detroit News as a campus stringer at Michigan State University. After honorably serving 18 months in the United States Army, he worked for the United Press International bureaus in Lansing and Detroit; subsequently, in 1967 he became UPI's diplomatic correspondent in Washington D.C. Then, in 1969, he left journalism to serve as the press secretary and then chief of staff to Gov. William G. Milliken. After a stellar stint in public service, Mr. Weeks returned to journalism with the Detroit News as the paper's political columnist. Mr. Weeks earned many honors and awards for his fair and balanced coverage of Michigan politics and, in 1996, he was inducted into the Michigan Journalism Hall of Fame. Mr. Speaker, I offer my congratulations and appreciation for the excellence and integrity Mr. Weeks has displayed throughout his distinguished career, and ask my colleagues to join in honoring him.

Mr. McCOTTER

Mr. McCOTTER. Mr. Speaker, first, I wish to make it clear on my part that it is impossible to impugn the character of the gentleman from Pennsylvania because we could not do it if we so intended. Like so many of our citizen soldiers, their service did not end with their military career, and they continue to serve our country. But I would hope that this rule would be adopted because this is a question that we have all had to answer. My constituents have asked it. It is incumbent upon me to respond, and I would think it would be no different today. But I would hope the consequence of this rule being passed and this resolution being debated with free vote of conscience on either side of the aisle is that should it fail, is that we then strive to find a bipartisan plan for victory in Iraq, and an articulation of our war aims that can motivate the American people to galvanize behind it. For if we do not, whatever happens to this resolution, our resolution to prevail in this cause will be gone, and our cause will be nil, and the sacrifice will be in vain. Vote for adoption of the rule.

Mr. McCOTTER

Mr. McCOTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and honor the Felician Sisters of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Province, as they celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the Foundation of the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Felix of Cantalice. On November 21, 1855, in Warsaw, Poland, Blessed Mary Angela, who was formerly Sophia Truszkowska, and her cousin Clothilde Ciechanoqska, solemnly dedicated themselves to do the will of Jesus Christ in all things. Hereafter, the Felician Sisters were dedicated to a ministry of healing and service, based on Mary Angela's mission of ``responding to the needs of the times.'' Currently, the Felician Sisters number 1,966 members who share the charism of their foundress, Blessed Mary Angela, in 11 countries on the continents of Africa, Europe, North and South America. In my hometown of Livonia, alone, the Felician Sisters have founded St. Mary-Mercy Hospital, Madonna University, Ladywood High School, and Angela Hospice. St. Mary-Mercy Hospital was founded by the Felician Sisters in 1959. The Hospital has grown in its commitment to the community and in excellence in clinical care and services. This year St. Mary-Mercy Hospital placed in the top five percent nationally for clinical excellence, and in the top two percent nationally for patient safety. These awards are well deserved recognition for the Felician Sisters, physicians, nurses and support staff of the hospital. Madonna University was founded by the Felician Sisters in 1937 and is one of the largest Catholic Franciscan independent universities in the country. Through undergraduate, graduate, and continuing professional study, Madonna University provides men and women with the opportunities for intellectual, spiritual and personal growth. Ladywood High School is sponsored by the Felician Sisters and also follows the Franciscan tradition. The school aims to educate young women in the attainment of Catholic values, human potential, and the ability to put faith and knowledge into fruitful action. Angela Hospice, founded in 1985, has been providing care for those of every age and stage of life that may need it. Angela provides care to individuals at home or in a care facility in Livonia, as well as support and counseling for family members. Recently, Angela Hospice launched the ``Angela House Call'' program to provide home physician visits for the elderly--another example of the commitment by the Felician Sisters to our community. Mr. Speaker, in the spirit of Mary Angela I ask my colleagues to join me in commending and applauding the 150th Anniversary of the founding of the Felician Sisters and praise their ministry of healing and service, and their efforts to maintain the utmost respect for every human life.

Mr. McCOTTER

Mr. McCOTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and honor Jerry Brown, as he retires from his position Governmental Relations Director, Michigan Region for Ford Motor Company. Jerry joined Ford Motor Company as a Research Technician in 1962 with the General Parts Division and spent the next several years in various engineering positions in Body and Product Engineering. In 1978, Jerry joined the Governmental Relations Staff as a Municipal Affairs manager. In 1994, he was appointed Director, Michigan Region in Lansing and has represented the Ford Motor Co. before the Michigan Legislature, the Governor and executive offices, government agencies and industry associations. Jerry also worked with the Local Government affairs activity on issues of importance to Michigan and Ford Motor Co. Additionally, Jerry has been very active in the community as a former member of Livonia City Council. Mr. Speaker, Jerry Brown has made a significant impact on Ford Motor Co., and his community over the past four decades. I ask my colleagues to join me today in honoring Jerry as he prepares for his retirement, and I offer my congratulations and appreciation for his accomplishments.

Mr. McCOTTER

Mr. McCOTTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to offer my condolences to the loved ones of those who were lost in the Lake George, New York, boating accident and offer my heartfelt sympathy to those who survived. Seven of the individuals who perished were from my hometown of Livonia: Caryl and William Gilson, Louise and Charles Greenwald, Margaret and William Nadvornik, and Marge Perry. Avid members of the Livonia Travel Club, these fine people had contributed to their community and their country as mothers, fathers, grandmothers, grandfathers, veterans, volunteers, and friends and neighbors. Truly, they will all be missed. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in expressing our sorrow and offering our assistance to all involved in and affected by this tragedy.

Mr. McCOTTER

Mr. McCOTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in tribute to the City of Belleville, Michigan, which is celebrating the 100th anniversary of its incorporation. Located on the southwestern fringe of the Detroit metropolitan area, in VanBuren Township, the City of Belleville was originally founded in 1820. The area was a small industry-trade center in the early 1800s when farming and lumbering were the main occupations. Today, Belleville and Van Buren Township make up a diverse community of approximately 40,000 residents and is home to Wayne County's largest inland lake. The area is enhanced by its homes, schools, churches, shopping centers, and industrial parks. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the people of Belleville as they celebrate their historic past. It is my hope this fine community will enjoy a long and prosperous future.

Mr. McCOTTER

Mr. McCOTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the efforts of the dedicated volunteers of the Southeastern Michigan Veterans Stand Down organization in helping homeless veterans. Stand Down assists homeless veterans, by working with area service providers, in securing housing, suitable employment and training, helping them return to the mainstream of life's day-to-day activities. On October 19-20, Southeastern Michigan Stand Down will host a community event geared towards giving homeless veterans the opportunity to begin the process of regaining their self-esteem and their hope. Organized Stand Down events across the country have helped thousands of homeless veterans since 1988. In conclusion, Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join with me today to extend our sincere appreciation and gratitude, and to recognize the outstanding and selfless volunteers who organize the Stand Down events each year because they are guided by the Stand Down motto: ``For Honor, Duty and Country . . . We Leave No Veteran Behind.''

Mr. McCOTTER

Mr. McCOTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Huron River Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4434, whose members have valiantly defended our Nation against all enemies and, often, all odds. As they transitioned back to their loved ones and civilian life, the Huron River Veterans of Foreign Wars continued their distinguished service to our country through their dedicated community service projects, including the support of local veteran's services and the propagation of patriotism education for local youth. Truly, the members of the Huron River Veterans of Foreign Wars have provided a stellar example of service above self, and have championed the cause of liberty and equality within our Nation and our world. May their heroism and altruism ever be remembered as an inspiration to every generation of Americans. In conclusion, then, Mr. Speaker, let us all extend our enduring gratitude to the Huron River Veterans of Foreign War Post 4434. It is the least we can do for those who have done so much for us.

Mr. McCOTTER

Mr. McCOTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and honor a good friend and public servant, Ron Fowkes, as he retires from his position as Council President for the Village of Milford, Michigan. As a public servant Ron has demonstrated a deeply rooted commitment to the values of family, faith, democracy, and hard work. Before serving on the Village Council, Ron served on the Milford Parks and Recreation Commission, which included terms as vice-chair and chairman. He also served on the board of directors for the Huron Valley Chamber of Commerce; the American Eagles Flying Club; River Bend Playscape steering committee; and founding board member of the Village Tree Board. Mr. Speaker, Ron Fowkes has made a significant impact on his community over the past decade--from securing funds to plant more than 200 trees in the Milford community to leading the effort to renovate playgrounds and park facilities. His commitment to God, family and country has been a source of inspiration to the many lives he has touched. I hope my colleagues will join me in honoring Ron Fowkes. His wife Barbara and daughters Aimee and Victoria, and his many friends today can feel a rightful sense of pride and appreciation for Ron, and I offer my congratulations and appreciation for all he has done for his community and his country.

Mr. McCOTTER

Mr. McCOTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in tribute to the City of Northville, MI, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Located on the western fringe of the Detroit metropolitan area, the city of Northville was incorporated as a village in 1867 and as a city in 1955. The area was a small industry-trade center in the early 1800s when farming and lumbering were the main occupations. Today, Northville is home for approximately 6,500 residents and supports one of the finest school districts in the State of Michigan. Known for its rolling hills and attractive countryside, Northville has retained its small-town appeal with stately Victorian-era architecture in its Historic District and a ``walk to'' downtown area, which boasts of old-fashioned street lamps, galleries, and specialty shops and includes the historic Marquis Theater, which has served the families of the community for more than 80 years. The theater's marquee has been in operation since 1925, and at one time it was one of only 26 working marquees in the United States. Today's performers sing, dance, and act on the same stage as legendary stars Woody Herman, The Harmonicats, The Four Freshmen, and Count Basie. The city has grown and prospered since the first city council meeting on December 19, 1955. Citizens of Northville are fortunate to have had strong leadership from its first Mayor; Claude Ely, to the current Mayor, Christopher Johnson. Citizen involvement insures Northville continues to be a vibrant community in which to live, work, and raise a family. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the people of Northville as they celebrate their historic past. It is my hope this fine community will enjoy a long and prosperous future.

Mr. McCOTTER

Mr. McCOTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and honor the White Lake Township Library, which is celebrating 30 years of service to the White Lake, MI, community. On April 5, 1975, a resolution was adopted at the Annual Meeting of the Electors of White Lake Township, establishing ``a free public library in accordance with Act 164, P.A. 1877.'' The six-member Provisional Library Board was appointed on May 20, 1975 and the first permanent board was named shortly after. The Library Board is composed of non-partisan elected officials who serve 4-year terms. Library service was originally provided through a contract with the Waterford Township library. In 1980, White Lake Township's voters provided permanent support for the library by approving a perpetual operating millage of 0.3 mils in property taxes. In 1998, voters approved 0.5 mils for 8 years to add, maintain and improve library service. The library has been housed in several locations around the township including the White Lake Community Hall and Brooks School. The core of the current building was built in 1984-1985, using local funds and a Library Services and Construction Act grant. The library was extensively remodeled and expanded in 2001 and now contains approximately 10,000 square feet and over 50,000 library items. Use figures have doubled in 5 years as the number of registered borrowers has grown to over 10,000 individuals. Long-range plans call for additional library space and expanded print, electronic and staff resources to meet the information and cultural needs of a rapidly growing township. Mr. Speaker, for over 30 years the citizens of White Lake Township, MI, have continued to support the White Lake Township Library. I hope my colleagues will join me in thanking the citizens of White Lake Township, Library Board members and employees of the library for their outstanding service to the people of Michigan, and wish them well in the next 30 years.

Mr. McCOTTER

Mr. McCOTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and honor the Arc of Western Wayne County, MI, which is celebrating 50 years of commitment to reducing the incidence, and limiting the consequences of, mental retardation and other developmental disabilities. In the 1950's there were very few educational, employment or recreational opportunities available for people with mental retardation living in southwestern Wayne County, and families were commonly encouraged to institutionalize their children. Small groups of parents chose to seek alternative solutions for their children and began to band together with a common goal and commitment to promote the general welfare of people with mental retardation and other developmental disabilities. In 1954 this group of parents founded the Arc of Western Wayne County. Today, with a membership of 140 families, the Arc of Western Wayne County works to create opportunities for people with disabilities to gain assertiveness and community living skills. The organization and its members help to shape public policy and advocate for people who have traditionally been excluded from society by monitoring, supporting and creating progressive community programs. Mr. Speaker, for 50 years the Arc of Western Wayne County has been committed to guaranteeing, for all people with developmental disabilities, the opportunity to choose where they live, learn, work and play. I hope my colleagues will join me in honoring the Arc of Western Wayne County, and the many men and women who contribute their time and energy and make a positive impact on our communities.

Mr. McCOTTER

Mr. McCOTTER. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that the Committee on International Relations be discharged from further consideration of the concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res. 128) expressing the sense of Congress that the Government of the Russian Federation should issue a clear and unambiguous statement of admission and condemnation of the illegal occupation and annexation by the Soviet Union from 1940 to 1991 of the Baltic countries of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, and ask for its immediate consideration in the House.

Mr. McCOTTER. Mr. Speaker, I offer an amendment to the preamble.

Mr. McCOTTER

Mr. McCOTTER. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Well, at least the gentleman will get half a loaf, I suppose. I do want to point out, in fairness to the United Nations, that they have sent their second verification team into Lebanon in the wake of the assassination of a popular journalist to again ensure that foreign forces and the intelligence network has been removed. For too long the people of Lebanon have wept for decades over their dead, and now they see the dawn of freedom at the end of the dark days. It is critical that the United States and United Nations and every nation of the world do everything within its power to ensure that the peaceful seeds of revolution continue and perhaps light the way for other nations suffering from an oppressive yoke to break free of their dictators and tyrants and enter the world's democracies. Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. McCOTTER. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Chairman, this amendment calls upon the President of the United States to ask our permanent representative to the United Nations to use his voice, his vote, and every means that he possibly can to enforce Security Council Resolution 1559. Security Council Resolution 1559 calls upon a full Syrian withdrawal of intelligence forces and their troops; it calls upon for free and fair elections within Lebanon; and, in the end, it guarantees and ensures the sovereignty of Lebanon. I do not expect there will be much opposition to this. I would like to thank the gentleman from New York (Mr. Engel) for all of his support in championing the cause of Lebanese freedom. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. McCOTTER. Mr. Chairman, I offer an amendment.

Mr. McCOTTER

Mr. McCOTTER. I yield to the gentleman from California.