Stephanie Murphy

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. Madam Speaker, although Women's History Month recently concluded, it is never too late to honor Florida women who have made outstanding contributions to their community and to our country. Today I rise to honor Nikki Fried. Nikki was born and raised in Miami. She is a proud Gator, having received her bachelor's degree, her master's degree, and her law degree from the University of Florida. While attending UF, Nikki served as student body president and was a member of Florida Blue Key, the prestigious student leadership honor society. Upon her graduation from law school, Nikki worked in the Alachua County Public Defender's Office, in private practice in South Florida, and then as a government consultant. In 2017, Nikki began her own government consulting firm to advocate for children and medical patients before the Florida Legislature. In 2018, Nikki broke an important barrier. She was elected as the state's Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services, a cabinet position, becoming the first Jewish woman ever elected to statewide office in Florida. As Commissioner, Nikki has been an effective advocate for conserving Florida's lands, fighting hunger, combating climate change, supporting farmers, and reducing gun violence. Commissioner Fried is an exceptional public servant devoted to the cause of improving quality of life for all for Floridians. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring and celebrating Nikki Fried.

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. Madam Speaker, although Women's History Month recently concluded, it is never too late to honor Florida women who have made outstanding contributions to their community and to our country. Today I rise to honor Daniella Levine Cava. Daniella, who is originally from New York City, moved to Miami in 1980 after graduating from Yale University and Columbia Law School. She spent a decade working for the Legal Services of Greater Miami and for the Guardian Ad Litem program, which gives a voice to young children in our legal system. In 1996, Daniella founded the innovative Catalyst Miami. Since its inception, Catalyst has created paths to economic prosperity for approximately 5,000 people each year. In 2014, Daniella was elected to the Miami-Dade County Commission, and she was re-elected in 2018. In November 2020, Daniella made history when she was elected as Miami-Dade County's first-ever woman Mayor. As Mayor, she has been a fierce advocate for her three million constituents--advocating for young children, increased affordable housing, opportunities for small businesses, and improved public transportation. As an attorney, as an activist, and now as an elected official, Daniella Levine Cava has never stopped fighting for South Florida families. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring and celebrating Mayor Daniella Levine Cava.

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of my amendment in the en bloc package. If it is approved, I will vote for the bill. The PRO Act aims to protect the right of workers to decide whether to form a union that can negotiate with their employer over working conditions. It proceeds from the principle that America is stronger when the middle class is stronger, and the middle class is stronger when unions are stronger. This principle is personal to me. I grew up in Virginia, and my dad worked at a power plant and he was in a union. He was a refugee from Vietnam. He had an incredible work ethic, but he struggled with English and relied on the union to fight for him to have a living wage and good healthcare. This allowed our family to have opportunities we otherwise wouldn't have had. There are many provisions in the PRO Act I support. There are also provisions that give me pause, especially the changes made to the definitions of employee and joint employer in the National Labor Relations Act. Madam Speaker, I thank the Education and Labor Committee and Democratic leadership for working with me to craft an amendment that addresses my concerns enough for me to support the PRO Act passage. My amendment requires GAO to prepare a report on the impact of these two changes on workers in businesses. The President is required to consider the report, and he can recommend that Congress modify one or both of these definitions. My amendment also expresses the sense of the House that Congress shall consider whether to accept, reject, or modify any recommendations received from the President. This is called evidence-based policymaking, and we should do more of it. Madam Speaker, I urge support for my amendment.

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. Madam Speaker, as part of our national celebration of Black History Month, I am paying tribute to African- American leaders from Florida who have made outstanding contributions to our community and our country. These accomplished men and women have not always received the recognition they have earned. Today I rise to honor Fentrice Driskell. Originally from Lakeland, Fentrice graduated as valedictorian of Lake Gibson High School and was the governor of Florida's 50th session of Girls State. Fentrice earned her bachelor's degree from Harvard University and her law degree from Georgetown University. As an undergraduate, she was the first Black woman ever elected as Harvard's student government president. After returning to Florida, Fentrice clerked for the Honorable Anne C. Conway of the U.S. District Court of the Middle District of Florida. She served as a leader in The Florida Bar, and is currently of counsel at the Tampa-based law firm, Carlton Fields. Fentrice is a past president of the George Edgecomb Bar Association, Tampa Bay's largest predominately African-American voluntary bar association. In 2018, Fentrice was elected to the Florida House of Representatives, where she serves as policy chair for the Democratic Caucus. Representative Driskell is a trailblazer, a fierce and effective advocate for her Tampa constituents, and a source of tremendous pride for her fellow Floridians. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring and celebrating Fentrice Driskell.

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. Madam Speaker, as part of our national celebration of Black History Month, I am paying tribute to African- American leaders from Florida who have made outstanding contributions to our community and our country. These accomplished men and women have not always received the recognition they have earned. Today I rise to honor Joshua Simmons. Joshua was born in St. Louis, Missouri, and attended high school in Virginia. He moved to Coral Springs in 2011 to raise his younger sister while their mother was deployed overseas with the U.S. Navy. Joshua was an active member of the city's Martin Luther King Jr. Multi-Cultural Advisory and Customer Involved Government committees. Joshua earned his bachelor's degree in political science from Florida Atlantic University and his master's degree in psychology from Kaplan University, after which he worked in the mental health and subsequently as a teacher in the Broward County Public School system. Currently, he works in the private sector as an Account Manager at Hotwire Communications, an internet and cable service provider. In 2018, Joshua was elected to Coral Springs' City Commission, becoming the first Black elected official in the city's history. In 2020, Joshua became the first African-American man to serve as the city's Vice Mayor. As both an educator and a public servant, Vice Mayor Simmons has brought new perspectives to the City of Coral Springs. He is a strong advocate for his community, working tirelessly to improve the lives of his constituents. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring and celebrating Joshua Simmons.

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. Madam Speaker, as part of our national celebration of Black History Month, I am paying tribute to African- American leaders from Florida who have made outstanding contributions to our community and our country. These accomplished men and women have not always received the recognition they have earned. Today I rise to honor Linda Hill Anderson. Linda is a fourth- generation Hollywood, Florida native. She graduated from Hollywood Hills High School and Sheridan Vocational School and served in the Broward County Public School system for over 40 years. Linda has been an active member of her community, serving as president of the Liberia Civic Association and on the African-American Advisory Council. Linda was elected to Hollywood's city commission in 2020. She is the first Black woman ever to serve on the commission in Hollywood's 95- year history. Commissioner Anderson is a trailblazer and an extraordinary public servant. She has dedicated her life to making her Hollywood community stronger and fairer. Every day, she works tirelessly to improve the lives of her fellow Floridians. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring and celebrating Linda Hill Anderson.

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. Madam Speaker, as part of our national celebration of Black History Month, I am paying tribute to African- American leaders from Florida who have made outstanding contributions to our community and our country. These accomplished men and women have not always received the recognition they have earned. Today I rise to honor Judy Mount. Judy, a longtime resident of Jackson County, made history in 1995 when she became the first African- American woman elected official in the county and served as president of the Malone City Council. She continues to serve as Chairperson of the Jackson County Democratic Executive Committee. Judy has faithfully and effectively served the Democratic Office in the Florida House of Representatives for 18 years. She is a member of the Democratic National Committee and has been a leader within the Florida Democratic Party in many different capacities. In a series of firsts, Judy was the first African-American to be elected Vice-Chair of the Florida Democratic Party and, in 2017, she became the first African-American elected as the interim Chair of the Florida Democratic Party. Throughout her life, Judy has worked tirelessly to make Florida--and our country--better, stronger, and more just. She is the epitome of civic engagement and public service. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring and celebrating Judy Mount.

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. Madam Speaker, as part of our national celebration of Black History Month, I am paying tribute to African- American leaders from Florida who have made outstanding contributions to our community and our country. These accomplished men and women have not always received the recognition they have earned. Today I rise to honor Arthenia Joyner. Born in Lakeland and raised in Tampa, Ms. Joyner has been a champion for justice and equality from a young age, participating in her first civil rights demonstration as a high school junior in 1960. She studied political science at Florida A&M University, where she also earned her law degree. Ms. Joyner served as a legal assistant to State Representative Joe Lang Kershaw, the first African-American state legislator in Florida since the Reconstruction era. After law firms refused to hire her, Ms. Joyner opened her own law practice in 1991. She was the first Black lawyer to practice in Polk County and the first Black woman to practice law in Hillsborough County. Throughout her career, Ms. Joyner has worked to combat racial and gender inequality. In recognition of her efforts, she received multiple presidential appointments by President Bill Clinton, serving as a member of the U.S. delegation to the 1994 World Population Development Conference in Cairo and to the 1995 U.N. Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing. Ms. Joyner proudly participated in the ``Lawyers Against Apartheid Day'' at the South African Embassy in Washington, DC on January 8, 1985, where she was arrested alongside former U.S. Attorney General Ramsey Clark and others. Ms. Joyner was elected to the Florida House of Representatives, where she served from 2000 to 2006. She was then elected to the Florida Senate, serving until 2016. In 2014, she became the first Black woman chosen as Senate Majority Leader. Throughout her career as a legislator, Ms. Joyner distinguished herself for her skill, leadership, and commitment to her constituents. Arthenia Joyner has spent a lifetime overcoming adversity, breaking barriers, and fighting for justice and equality. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring and celebrating Arthenia Joyner.

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. Madam Speaker, as part of our national celebration of Black History Month, I am paying tribute to African- American leaders from Florida who have made outstanding contributions to our community and our country. These accomplished men and women have not always received the recognition they have earned. Today I rise to honor Shevrin Jones. Shevrin grew up in Carol City. He earned his bachelor's degree in biochemistry and molecular biology from Florida A&M University and his master's degree in educational leadership from Florida Atlantic University. Jones went on to found L.E.A.D. Nation, a South Florida non-profit organization committed to youth leadership development and social entrepreneurship training. He is now pursuing his Ph.D. in Educational Leadership at Florida Atlantic University. Shevrin was elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 2012, where he served honorably for eight years. In 2020, he was elected to the Florida Senate, becoming the first openly LGBTQ member of any race to serve in that chamber. Senator Jones is continuing his family's proud legacy of public service. His father, Eric Jones, served as Mayor of West Park for over 15 years. Senator Jones has always had a passion for education. He taught A.P. Chemistry in the Broward County Public School district, serves as the Executive Director of Florida Reading Corps, and founded South Florida Youth Summit, the largest gathering of young people in South Florida. Every day, Senator Jones is making a positive difference in his community and for our country. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring and celebrating Shevrin Jones.

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the Equality Act, a long overdue measure I cosponsored to expand important civil rights protections to every American. This is personal for me and my district. Central Florida is an area that prides itself on its diversity, compassion, and inclusiveness. But tragedy struck in June 2016, when a gunman walked into the Pulse nightclub and took the lives of 49 innocent individuals. Our community relied on those same values--diversity, compassion, and inclusiveness-- to overcome hate and move forward together with love. But despite tremendous progress our Nation has made toward equality, too many LGBTQ Americans still live in fear. That is because LGBTQ people across the country remain vulnerable to discrimination on a daily basis. The Equality Act ensures protections that already exist for other protected classes are equally available to all Americans. It is past time we pass this bill so that no American faces discrimination because of who they are or whom they love. Honoring David King

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor David King, a constituent of mine who passed away recently. David was born and raised in Tennessee. He attended Tennessee Technical College and Vanderbilt Law School, where he was an editor of the law review. David then served honorably in the Marine Corps, deploying to Vietnam. Following his military service, David relocated to Orlando with his college sweetheart, Marilyn, by his side. Together, they made central Florida home. David was a trial attorney of skill and integrity, earning the esteem of fellow lawyers and judges. David fought vigorously for his clients but always treated his courtroom opponents and the justice system itself with respect. David served as lead attorney for the Fair District Coalition, which worked to end partisan gerrymandering in Florida. David was dedicated to the cause of free and fair elections and to the principle that every vote matters in our democracy. David was deeply committed to his central Florida community, generously giving his time, energy, and financial support to many local nonprofit organizations. David's proudest accomplishment was his family, especially his 56- year marriage to Marilyn and the sons and grandchildren their happy union produced. May God bless the memory of this wonderful man, and may God bless his family, his friends, and all those who loved him.

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise to discuss the political status of Puerto Rico, which is home to more than three million American citizens. In my home State of Florida, there are now 1.2 million people who were born in Puerto Rico or who have Puerto Rican roots. That is more than any other State. Every month, many Puerto Ricans move to Florida and other States in search of a brighter future. The island has been through so much--from the economic crisis, to Hurricane Maria, to the earthquakes, to COVID- 19. In Florida, we will always welcome these families with open arms, but I want them to have more opportunities in Puerto Rico. I don't want them to feel like they have no alternative but to leave their beloved home. In my Orlando district, most of my Puerto Rican constituents have family members and friends still living on the island. Because they care deeply about Puerto Rico, I care deeply about Puerto Rico. But every Member of Congress should care about Puerto Rico because Puerto Ricans are our fellow American citizens. We are part of the same American family, even though the hard truth is that the United States hasn't always treated Puerto Rico very well. Our country now has the chance to do right by Puerto Rico. That is because on November 3, Puerto Rico held a vote on its political status. In a referendum, the people of Puerto Rico were asked the following question: ``Should Puerto Rico be admitted immediately into the Union as a State?'' Yes or no? Even though Puerto Rico has been a U.S. territory since 1898, and the island residents have been American citizens since 1917, this was the first time the people of Puerto Rico were asked this simple and direct question. According to the results, over 52 percent of voters, more than 623,000 people, answered ``yes,'' while nearly 48 percent of voters answered ``no.'' The vote was fair, and the results were clear. At this point, it is beyond dispute that a majority of the American citizens living in Puerto Rico want the territory to become a State. Now, are there people in Puerto Rico who would prefer for the island to remain a territory or to become a sovereign nation? Absolutely. And that is completely valid and legitimate. But when it comes to the political destiny of a place, the views of the minority cannot trump or take precedence over the views of the majority. That would turn the concept of democracy on its head. Votes matter. And now that the people of Puerto Rico have spoken, the Federal Government must listen. Whether it is the White House or Congress, whether it is Democrats or Republicans, we must respect and respond to this result. To do otherwise would be immoral or undemocratic, beneath the dignity of our great Nation. Let me be crystal clear on two points so there is no misunderstanding. First, it is well known that I personally support statehood because I think it will provide the people of Puerto Rico with democracy and equality and political power and a better quality of life. They do not have these things right now and they deserve to have them. By the way, I am an immigrant and a refugee. I grew up in Virginia speaking Vietnamese with my parents. One of the main reasons I love America is because it is a mix of people from different cultures with different traditions who speak different languages. I reject the notion that statehood would weaken Puerto Rico's beautiful culture or its proud traditions or affect the island's use of the Spanish language. Having said all this, even though I personally favor statehood, it is not my place to substitute my views for the views of the people of Puerto Rico. If they wished to remain a territory or become a nation, I would honor that wish. However, the majority of voters have chosen statehood, and so I intend to respect that choice. Finally, let me say this: I am a Democrat, but my support for statehood has nothing to do with any prediction about whether Puerto Rico would be a blue State or a red State. History teaches us that such predictions tend to be wrong, and I personally think Puerto Rico would be a swing State that elects both Democrats and Republicans. However, I would support statehood for Puerto Rico if it were as Republican as Wyoming or as Democratic as Vermont. To oppose statehood because you fear the people will not vote the way you want them to vote violates the most basic principles of justice and democracy, and I have zero patience for that. In the coming weeks, I will work with Puerto Rico's governor-elect, resident commissioner, and legislative assembly, with the incoming Biden administration, and with my congressional colleagues on both sides of the aisle to determine the best path forward. I cannot promise a particular result, but I can promise I will never stop fighting for equality for the American citizens of Puerto Rico.

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor an American patriot, a great and good man, and a hero of mine, Brent Scowcroft, who passed away recently. From humble roots, Brent rose to become an Air Force general, the National Security Advisor to two Presidents, and a statesman whose counsel was sought by policymakers of all political stripes. After his passing, Brent's family and friends held a ceremony to celebrate his life. They described Brent as an exceptional public servant who left an indelible stamp on U.S. foreign policy and on the National Security Council as an institution. Brent's contributions as National Security Advisor may be his primary legacy, but what I find most striking about the tributes to Brent are not what they say about him as a professional, but what they say about him as a person. As Stephen Hadley put it: ``There are few people in Washington who were as respected and revered as Brent Scowcroft. It was not just because of what he did. . . . It was because of who he was. A true gentleman . . . much loved by all who had the privilege of working with him.'' Bob Gates noted that Brent was ``tough as nails on matters he cared about,'' but also ``the most decent, kindest, and humble person I have ever known.'' These words resonate with me because I was one of the many people who had the honor to call Brent a role model and a friend. Brent served as a mentor to multiple generations of men and women who valued his wisdom and sought to emulate his example. I met Brent between my sophomore and junior year of college when I interned at The Scowcroft Group, a firm Brent founded after leaving government. I was assigned to write a piece on the prospect of Russia selling missiles to Cyprus. I remember gingerly asking Brent for guidance in the way a young nobody approaches a distinguished somebody, expecting to be brushed off. He couldn't have been kinder, patiently walking me through the intricacies of the issue, telling me stories about his experience negotiating with the Soviets, and making me feel at ease. It was these small acts of grace, repeated so many times, for so many people, when nobody else was watching, that made Brent so special. Our first meeting was the start of a lifelong friendship that I cherished. Brent took more joy in the success of others than in his own success, and he genuinely cared about me, my family, and my career. I know how happy he was when his former intern became the first Vietnamese-American woman ever elected to Congress. It made me proud to make him proud. In fact, it was Brent Scowcroft who is partially responsible for my decision to enter public service. As luck would have it, Brent gave the commencement speech at my college graduation. His message was about the importance of a strong but humble American leadership around the world. It was also about the value of public service, especially government service. Brent's words stirred something in me. I was a refugee from Vietnam whose family's life had been saved by the U.S. Navy. Brent's speech made me realize that public service might be the best way for me to chisel away at the debt of gratitude I owed this country. I recalled that speech after 9/11, when I left my private-sector job, went to grad school, and on to work at the Department of Defense. I also recalled that speech a decade later when I made what some might call a foolhardy decision to run for Congress. After Brent's passing, I tracked down that speech. It wasn't easy because Brent often wrote things by himself and then tended to throw them away, which was consistent with his unpretentious character. Reading it again made me emotional, and it made me miss Brent. It still inspires me all these years later. In the speech, Brent asked me and my young classmates, our futures before us, to reflect on what we would like our epitaph to say after we drew our last breath. Then he offered this gentle advice: ``I would hope that many of you would consider turning to public service. There is something enormously fulfilling about being engaged in something bigger than you yourself. It imparts a satisfying sense of purpose which, in my experience, is not attained in any other way. And there is a desperate need in this country for good people to man our government structures. I know it is getting more and more difficult to be a public servant. We have driven many of our best people away. But I ask you to consider public service, not because it is easy, but because it is hard, rewarding, and oh-so- necessary. How well the wonderful things this great Nation stands for will be preserved and projected will depend on the quality of people whose hands are on the helm of state.'' This Nation was blessed to have Brent's steady hands on the helm of state. Ginny Mulberger, one of Brent's closest friends and colleagues, said the word that best described Brent was ``devotion.'' He was devoted to his country, his family, and his friends. His legacy will be carried forward by men and women he taught, mentored, and inspired to pursue public service. What better epitaph could there be? Rest in peace, General.

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor my constituent, Bishop Hezekiah Ross, who passed away on July 29, 2020, at the age of 91. Dr. Ross was a man of faith and a man of action. His life was defined by service to others. Dr. Ross served in the Army, deploying to Korea in 1950. After returning home to Central Florida, he became assistant pastor and then senior pastor at the West Sanford Freewill Holiness Church, serving there for over six decades. When I took office, I asked Dr. Ross--and he generously agreed--to serve on my faith leaders' advisory board. Despite his advanced age, he never missed a session. In his quiet, dignified way, he helped me better understand, and address, the needs of the Sanford community. Throughout his life, Dr. Ross ministered to his congregation, but he also led a street ministry and a prison ministry, counseling and mentoring men and women on the margins of society, those forgotten or forsaken by others. He was the epitome of grace and compassion in a world that needs more of both. Dr. Ross was also a trailblazer. In 1969, he became the first black firefighter in the city of Sanford. For 22 years, he was firefighter and a pastor, a rare and wonderful combination, saving lives while saving souls. Of course, it could not have been easy to integrate this institution. But Hezekiah Ross was never interested in doing easy things. He was a determined man. He wanted to serve his community, and he wouldn't be deterred or discouraged. At that time, in that place, the idea of a black firefighter could be hard to fathom--and Hezekiah faced his share of prejudice. But, over time, Hezekiah came to be accepted, admired, and--ultimately--beloved by his fellow firefighters. A few asked him to forgive them for the way they had initially treated him, which of course he did. Being a firefighter under any. circumstances takes courage. Being a firefighter under these conditions takes courage and character, and Dr. Ross possessed both. In 2004, more than a decade after he had retired from the force, Dr. Ross was invited to become the Sanford Fire Department's first chaplain, ministering to firefighters and their families. The man who was once tolerated was now treasured. Bishop Ross is survived by his wife Lelia, who was kind enough to speak to my office about her late husband. ``We were married for 68 years,'' she told us. ``We did everything together.'' If Bishop Ross was the rock of Goldsboro, Leila was his rock. The Bishop's funeral service was a sight to behold. The streets of Sanford were basically shut down for the procession. A soldier played ``Taps'' to honor his military service. His casket was transported on the back of a firetruck. Everybody was there. Black, white, young, and not-so-young, bound together by their affection for this extraordinary man. He will be greatly missed, but he is now home. May God bless this trailblazer and may God continue to bless his beloved community of family and friends.

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. Madam Speaker, every American should have affordable access to doctor care, hospital care, and prescription drugs. This is important in normal times and vital during a pandemic. Before COVID, Florida had one of the worst uninsured rates in the country. That is because State leaders refused to expand Medicaid, placing politics over public health. It is also because many Floridians chose not to buy a marketplace plan because they couldn't find an affordable option. COVID has made a bad situation worse. In Florida, cases, hospitalizations, and deaths are rising sharply. Millions of workers have lost their jobs and their employer-sponsored health coverage. Passage of this bill would make an immediate difference in the lives of my constituents who are really struggling. The bill would encourage Florida and other holdout States to expand Medicaid by having the Federal Government pay nearly the full cost. It would make exchange coverage more affordable, reducing premiums and deductibles. It would lower the cost of prescription drugs, which are far too high. Finally, it would guarantee that no American can be denied coverage because of a preexisting condition. This protection is even more important than ever since there is a risk that insurers could classify a COVID-19 diagnosis as a preexisting condition. I strongly support this bill and urge its passage.

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. Madam Speaker, I thank my colleague for yielding to me. Four long years have passed since a gunman walked into my community and took the lives of 49 innocent people at the Pulse nightclub. At that time, the events marked the largest mass shooting in this country, and to this day, it remains one of the largest incidents of a hate crime in our history. Most of the victims were members of our LGBTQ community in Orlando, a community that created Pulse to be a safe place to be themselves, a place where hate and violence could not reach them. It took one lone gunman to shatter that reality. But it is up to us on this day, 4 years later, to take it back. We owe it to those we lost to honor their memories by dedicating a national memorial at Pulse, a memorial that reflects the same love, acceptance, and spirit of community that embodied the victims and that embodies the LGBTQ community at large, a place of healing for the survivors and all those affected, a welcoming place for all those seeking inspiration to act, to create a better, safer, and more inclusive Nation. By taking this important step, America is telling the world that we will never let hate win, that we won't forget the victims, and that we will fight to ensure no community will ever go through something like this again. God bless the Pulse victims and their families.

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. Madam Speaker, today's bill is a positive step and has my full support, but it took too long. Next time let's skip the partisan games and just do our jobs. We must be aggressive and smart. We should spare no expense when it comes to testing, treatments, and vaccines. And we must support workers and business owners who bear no blame for this crisis. We should keep workers tethered to their jobs and to their healthcare. And aid should be swift and direct rather than through complicated and time-consuming programs. For workers who do lose their jobs, Congress has provided billions to support them. Sadly, this support has been delayed in States like Florida, whose unemployment system is marred by incompetence and indifference. Congress must demand better. Our country confronts a deadly, serious crisis. As leaders, we must unite to combat COVID-19. My fellow Blue Dog colleagues and I will continue pushing for more bipartisan cooperation to get the job done for the American people.

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 25th anniversary of the Blue Dog Coalition, a caucus of pragmatic Democrats I have the honor to help lead this Congress. Since February 1995, the Blue Dog Coalition has been working to bridge partisan divide and deliver bipartisan results. While the makeup and size of our coalition has changed over the years, our focus on fiscal responsibility and a strong national security has never wavered. Blue Dogs recognize that our constituents expect us to be good stewards of their hard-earned taxpayer dollars and that a skyrocketing national debt is a threat to our national security. Over the last 25 years, Blue Dogs have helped deliver balanced budgets, end government shutdowns, grow the middle class, and pass commonsense laws, such as pay-as-you-go. This Congress we are leading the fight on election security, infrastructure, and job creation, and we are pushing Congress to be better by ending partisan gerrymandering and proposing No Budget, No Pay. Most importantly, Blue Dogs remain focused on our founding principles of fiscal responsibility and a strong national security. Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing the Blue Dog Coalition's 25th anniversary this month.

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise to express my hope and expectation that the Trump administration and Congress will resolve the few outstanding issues so that Congress can take a strong bipartisan vote to modernize NAFTA, our outdated trade agreement with Canada and Mexico, and replace it with USMCA, a better agreement that will benefit America's workers, farmers, businesses, and families, while also fortifying our relationship with our two closest neighbors. As a member of the Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee, I believe well- negotiated trade agreements can improve our economy and our security, but I also know poorly negotiated trade pacts can hurt America's workers and make it harder to maintain broad-based support for the concept of freer and fairer trade. USMCA fixes flaws in some NAFTA chapters based on the lessons we have learned since NAFTA was enacted in 1994. It also adds new chapters to reflect the reality that the world has undergone major changes in the last 25 years. I support the deliberative and productive negotiations taking place between the administration and House Democrats. I think both sides are working in good faith with the shared goal of getting the best possible agreement over the finish line. Each side realizes inaction is not an option because NAFTA must be revised. I also support bipartisan and bicameral efforts by the Florida delegation to protect our farmers who grow seasonal produce from unfair competition. When it comes to USMCA, it is important we move swiftly and with a sense of urgency, but it is just as important that we get this right.

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Thaddeus Seymour, Sr., who passed away recently at the age of 91. In the obituary that appeared in our local, hometown paper, the Orlando Sentinel, Thad was described by one of his many admirers as a community treasure, and I think that sums up his life and legacy perfectly. Thad moved with his beloved wife, Polly, and their children to the Orlando area over 40 years ago when Thad was named the 12th president of Rollins College, where I had the privilege to teach before being elected to Congress. Thad served for a dozen years as the president of Rollins, from 1978 to 1990, and although he had long left by the time I arrived, his name was spoken on campus with respect and affection. Thad was recognized as a popular and effective leader of the institution, helping make this gem of a school shine even brighter. One decision Thad made during his tenure may seem modest, but it was meaningful to people who know Rollins best. In the 1950s, one of Thad's predecessors established Fox Day. Each spring, as finals loomed and on a day considered too beautiful to sit in a classroom, the school's president would cancel classes and provide students with a surprise day off. The tradition was ended during the Vietnam war, but Thad brought it back. As Thad would recall years later: ``The world had grown so grim, I thought we needed to cheer ourselves up.'' It is a choice that underscores both Thad's love of life and his belief that, at core, a college should be a close-knit community where young men and women live together; learn together; and, in many cases, become lifelong friends. Because Fox Day helped foster a sense of community and shared experience, Thad believed it mattered. Thad left Rollins in 1990, but he never left central Florida, and he never stopped caring about our community. In fact, he literally helped build it, co-founding a chapter of Habitat for Humanity in Winter Park and in Maitland. There is a wonderful picture of Thad in the Orlando Sentinel obituary. He is helping construct a home for someone less fortunate. He is perched on a ladder. His shirt is splattered with paint. He has a broad smile on his face. That is how I will always remember Thad: happily helping, happily building. May President Seymour rest in peace.

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor former Congressman Lou Frey, who represented the Orlando area in this Chamber for a decade, from 1969 to 1979. He passed away recently but leaves behind an enduring legacy. Congressman Frey was many things, but above all, he was a loving husband, a wonderful father and grandfather, and an extraordinary public servant who cared deeply about central Florida and about this country. He was a man with strongly held views, but also one willing to make principled compromises in the interest of bipartisan progress. His accomplishments before, during, and after his tenure in Congress are too long to list, but their impact can be summarized like this: Because of him, Orlando is a better city; Florida is a better State; and America is a better Nation. As the chair of Future Forum, a group dedicated to empowering young people, I regard Lou Frey as a role model. One of his most passionate causes was helping younger Americans learn about this country, about how our government works, and about how choosing a career in public service can bring you a sense of inner joy and enable you to improve the lives of others. Lou, working with former Senator Bob Graham, was instrumental in getting Florida to pass legislation requiring all students in the State to complete civics education. When I saw how young Floridians responded in the wake of the Pulse and Parkland shootings, turning those tragedies into a resolute call for government action, I thought of and silently thanked Lou Frey. Rest in peace, Congressman. Protect America from Foreign Interference in Elections

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. I rise in strong support of the SHIELD Act. I helped introduce this legislation, and the House will consider it on the floor later today. This bill will protect our country from foreign interference in our elections. Russia's assault on our democracy in 2016 exposed gaps in our Nation's defenses. It used to be that the primary threat from adversary nations was their potential use of traditional weapons of war. But our society is rapidly changing and so is the nature of conflict. Today, our enemies are far more likely to use computer malware than cruise missiles to do us harm, and they don't think twice about exploiting loopholes in our laws in order to influence our elections. That is why passing the SHIELD Act is so critical to maintaining the foundation of our democracy, our system of free and fair elections. We know Russia and possibly other foreign powers will likely use similar tactics in 2020. And why wouldn't they? Russia has suffered almost no consequences for their actions in 2016. While Russia assisted a Republican on that occasion, it could aid a Democrat in the future. That is because Moscow's loyalty is to itself, not to any U.S. political party. My colleagues on the other side of the aisle should never forget that fact. To defend our democracy, we need to act now to protect our elections. We need to pass the SHIELD Act. I commend Chairwoman Lofgren for her leadership in drafting this critical piece of legislation, and I urge all of my colleagues to support it.

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of Richard Swann, a great man and a good man, who recently passed away. Richard's life wasn't just full, it was overflowing. Overflowing with action and accomplishment, trial and triumph, and--above all--family and friendship. Richard lost his childhood sweetheart and beloved wife Doris too young, but he poured his energy into his work, into his four children and 12 grandchildren, and into his large and loyal network of friends. Richard packed so much into his 79 years on earth. He was a wise lawyer, a far-sighted businessman and real estate developer, and an influential player at the highest level of American and Florida politics. Richard was a proud Orlando native, and foresaw the city's potential before nearly anybody else. Without fanfare, Richard did as much as any man to transform Orlando into the unique and wonderful place it is today. Richard was best known as a champion of the political causes and candidates he cared about. He was committed to the concept of responsible and engaged citizenship. At the service celebrating Richard's life, his granddaughter Caroline read an excerpt from Teddy Roosevelt's speech ``The Man in the Arena.'' Richard never sat on the sidelines. He was always in the arena, striving valiantly. Like any man who dares greatly, he also suffered setbacks along the way. In the end, despite a lifetime marked by achievement, perhaps Richard's most admirable quality was his fortitude and resilience in the face of adversity. Richard was a pillar of our central Florida community. He will be deeply missed by all of us who had the honor to call him a friend.

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida

Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of Richard Swann, a constituent of mine who recently passed away. Richard's life was overflowing with action and accomplishment, trial and triumph, and above all, family and friendship. Richard lost his childhood sweetheart and beloved wife, Doris, too young, but he poured his energy into his work, into his 4 children and 12 grandchildren, and into his large and loyal network of friends. Richard was a wise lawyer, a farsighted businessman, a real estate developer, and an influential player at the highest levels of American and Florida politics. Richard was a proud Orlando native and foresaw the city's potential before nearly anybody else. Richard did as much as any man to transform Orlando into the wonderful place it is today. Richard was best known as a champion of the political causes and candidates he cared about. He was committed to the concept of responsible and engaged citizenship. At the service celebrating Richard's life, his granddaughter Caroline read an excerpt from Teddy Roosevelt's speech, ``The Man in the Arena.'' Richard never sat on the sidelines. He was always in the arena, striving valiantly and daring greatly. Richard was a pillar of our central Florida community. He will be deeply missed by all of us who had the honor to call him a friend.

Mrs. MURPHY

Mrs. MURPHY. Madam Speaker, Congress has a terrible reputation for being too partisan, but there is one issue that has strong bipartisan agreement in this Congress and across this country, and that is: Fraudulent robocalls must be stopped. I hear these concerns from my constituents in central Florida on a regular basis. It is one of the top issues that constituents routinely write my office about. Americans received over 48 billion robocalls last year. Nearly half of the calls that Americans receive are robocalls, many trying to scam people out of their hard-earned money. Floridians have received over 2.2 billion robocalls so far this year alone. My hometown of Orlando is among the most targeted cities in the country, having received nearly 350 million robocalls. Robocalls are more than a nuisance. They pose a direct threat to consumers. Often disguised using fake caller IDs, like hospitals and government agencies, robocallers attempt to trick people into providing personal information, preying especially on our seniors. The American people have had enough, and they are demanding swift action from this body. Madam Speaker, I am proud to help introduce this bill, which is a great first step to protect Americans from robocall harassment. I urge my colleagues to support it.