Joseph Morelle

Mr. MORELLE

Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, I yield an additional 30 seconds to the gentlewoman.

Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the passion of the distinguished gentleman from Texas, who is the sponsor of the bill, but I have not heard anyone dispute what I said in going through the incredibly burdensome path that citizens, American citizens, will now have to take in order to register to vote. Your ID from your driver's license will not be sufficient if it doesn't have your place of citizenship. Mr. Speaker, 95 percent or more of REAL IDs, which will have replaced driver's licenses in many States, do not list citizenship. Birth certificates will be okay unless your name has been changed because you have gotten married. A military voter, particularly one overseas who has no way to go physically to an election office to register, will be unable to register to vote. The military IDs will be insignificant, particularly if their military ID and their service record don't show them as being born in the United States. Frankly, to be a citizen of the United States, you don't have to be born on the continent or in Texas or Alaska or Hawaii. You have to be born somewhere, but you can become a U.S. citizen after you are born. So all I am saying is it is incredibly burdensome. I would further say since there is no evidence that this happened, all they talk about are scare tactics, the demonizing of people, and saying that there is this effort, it sounds like there is a suggestion that there is an organized effort to have noncitizens vote in Federal elections. There is absolutely no evidence that that is the case, and we have had so many meetings of the standing committee and Subcommittee of the House Administration on Elections, that I would think if there were evidence of that, then it would have been presented to us. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the distinguished gentlewoman from Illinois (Mrs. Ramirez).

Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, I yield an additional 30 seconds to the gentlewoman from Virginia.

Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Jeffries), our distinguished leader.

Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, I do agree with my distinguished colleague and friend from New York. I don't know why we are having this bill on the floor either. Yes, we can all agree that only U.S. citizens vote in Federal elections. I know that we agree because it is the law of the land. You can't register if you are not an American citizen to vote in a Federal election. It is against the law. It is also against the law to vote. I agree with him. There is no reason to be here. There is nothing to be gained. There is no problem to be solved. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman from Virginia (Ms. McClellan).

Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the gentlewoman from Alabama (Ms. Sewell), my friend.

Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, may I inquire as to the time remaining.

Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I think it bears repeating. We are suggesting that every American, if this bill were to become law, would face enormous burdens with registering to vote. You can't vote, you can't cast a ballot if you can't register. Let's take again the situation as it will relate to military personnel of the United States. The SAVE Act will prohibit any servicemember deployed overseas from registering to vote at all. That is what the bill says. Check it out. You have to be in person. You may not register online, and there is no exception in the bill for a servicemember to do that. It requires Americans registering to vote by mail or online to present their proof of citizenship in person. Good luck doing that if you are on a naval vessel in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. That applies to military personnel. It means that any servicemember deployed overseas will have to travel back to the United States and physically visit an election office to register to vote. You don't think that is burdensome? You don't think most Americans, if they were watching this debate, would say that can't be right? It can't be right, but it is right. That is what the bill says. Republicans are supporting a bill that would prohibit members of the military serving overseas from registering to vote while they are deployed. It is unpatriotic. It is outrageous. Also, they won't even allow any amendments to this bill, which we asked for. We asked for amendments which would make this better, although, frankly, it is hard to imagine that we could make this any better, but still no amendments were allowed. I asked for a structured rule on this and was denied the ability to do that. The Freedom to Vote Act by Congress would expand the ability of every American, including our servicemembers, to register to vote online. We want members of the military to vote. Frankly, we want every American to vote. If we have a problem in America, it is that too few Americans are voting, not that people who aren't registered or who aren't American citizens are voting. That is not the problem. This committee and this House and this body ought to be working on ways to expand the franchise to every American because every right that we possess in the Bill of Rights in the Constitution is dependent upon our right to self-governance, and our ability to have self-governance flows from the ability for every American to vote. This bill puts enormous burdens and barriers to making that the reality. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I do note that my friends and colleagues on the other side have turned this into a discussion about immigration and the border, which is not the bill before the House. The reason I know that is because they were too embarrassed, perhaps, or perhaps were influenced by folks outside this Chamber to bring a bipartisan border deal that would have dealt with challenges at the border. They didn't want to do that, so what are they doing? They are making this burdensome bill now a question of the border. They had their chance to do that. We would love them to do that. What they will do instead is demonize people and talk about a problem that doesn't exist. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time to close. The SAVE Act is the most severe voter suppression bill ever considered at the Federal level. It would make it burdensome for Americans to register to vote and to cast a ballot. It has been brought before this body not to solve any problem, since Republicans have admitted they have no evidence of noncitizen voting in Federal elections. The bill before us is for Republicans to lay the groundwork to undermine the outcome of the Presidential election, just as they did 4 years ago, just as they will again and again until they realize either the futility of this exercise or the Republic crumbles. I pray for the former. Democrats, on the other hand, want a stronger and more equitable democracy, one that respects the rule of law and ensures that every voice is heard. That is why Democrats champion bills like the Freedom to Vote Act, the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, and the Native American Voting Rights Act, not the SAVE Act. I fiercely oppose this anti-American bill. I urge every one of my colleagues, Republicans and Democrats alike, to support the motion to recommit and defeat this extremist SAVE Act. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. MORELLE

Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Robert ``Al'' Persichitti, a World War II veteran and beloved member of my community who recently passed away while en route to Normandy for the 80th anniversary of D- Day. I had the honor of meeting Al several years ago, and we became fast friends. I loved hearing him talk about his time in the United States Navy where he served in Guadalcanal, the Battle of Okinawa, and the fight at Iwo Jima, landmark moments in our country's history. At the spry young age of 102, Al's dedication to his country never wavered. Al embodied the very meaning of the word ``patriot,'' and his commitment to service over self should inspire us all. May we follow the famous advice of General George Patton by not mourning the death of Al Persichitti, but instead thanking God that such a remarkable man lived. Mr. Speaker, may Al rest in peace. He certainly earned it.

Mr. MORELLE

Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the distinguished career of John Moore, Associate Vice President of Facilities Management at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), who will retire at the end of June after twelve years of dedicated service to the university. Mr. Moore oversees the management and maintenance of every building, and open space, on the RIT campus and he works tirelessly to ensure they meet the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and sustainability. Over his tenure, Mr. Moore managed many notable projects that aided in the steady growth and rapid expansion of RIT's campus. These projects included the construction of the 4,150 seat Gene Polisseni Center, the RIT Media, Arts, Games, Interaction and Creativity (MAGIC) Center, MAGIC Spell Studios, and, most recently, the completion of the one-of-a-kind Student Hall for Exploration and Development. Mr. Moore has truly embodied the spirit of dedication to RIT's students, teachers, and community. It is my pleasure to congratulate John Moore on his retirement and join the entire RIT community in wishing him the best of luck in all future endeavors.

Mr. MORELLE

Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Jewish American Heritage Month and to recognize an extraordinary individual from Rochester, NY, who is making a profound impact on our Jewish community: Ellie Rosenbloom. Ellie Rosenbloom is the President of the National Council of Jewish Women chapter and an active member of the Jewish Federation. She is a key leader in the partnership with Modi'in, connecting Jewish cities around the world with partner communities in Israel. Through that work, she spends a great deal of time with the young emissaries who come and spend the year here. Her leadership has profoundly enriched our region, fostering growth, unity, and a spirit of camaraderie that continues to benefit us all. During Jewish American Heritage Month, it is my privilege to recognize Ellie Rosenbloom for her kindness, compassion, and commitment to serving others. We in Rochester are deeply grateful for her many contributions and look forward to seeing the outstanding work she will continue to do.

Mr. MORELLE

Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Jewish American Heritage Month and to recognize an extraordinary individual from Rochester, NY, whose accomplishments and contributions have left a lasting impact on our region: Howard Konar. Howard Konar has a longstanding history of leadership in Rochester and has done extensive philanthropic work locally and across the country. He serves as a trustee for the William & Sheila Konar Foundation supporting Jewish life and culture and as a member of the Board of Governors for the Jewish Federation of Greater Rochester. In 2008, then-President George W. Bush named Howard to the council of the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington. His positive influence can be felt across every facet of our Jewish community. During Jewish American Heritage Month, it is my privilege to recognize Howard Konar. He has dedicated himself to honoring the history of the Jewish people and has worked tirelessly to strengthen the future of our local Jewish neighbors.

Mr. MORELLE

Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Jewish American Heritage Month and to recognize an outstanding individual from Rochester, NY, whose contributions have made a lasting impact on our local Jewish community: Isobel Goldman Isobel Goldman served for 18 years as Director of Community Relations at the Jewish Federation. In that capacity, she created and directed the Rochester Jewish Coalition for Literacy, which started with six volunteers and under her leadership, grew to over 200 people who went once a week to Rochester City Schools to assist with students in K-6 with literacy skills. She also served as the Director of Grants at the Max and Marian Farash Charitable Foundation where she started the First in Family College Tuition-free program, led Jewish Education programming, and started an initiative to help fund scholarships for teens hoping to travel to Israel. She has truly embodied the spirit of service to others. This Jewish American Heritage Month, it is my honor and privilege to recognize Isobel Goldman. Her extraordinary legacy has uplifted the lives of everyone who calls Rochester home and will continue to inspire us all for decades to come.

Mr. MORELLE

Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Jewish American Heritage Month and to recognize an extraordinary individual from Rochester, NY, who is making a profound impact on our Jewish community: Thomas Fink. Tom Fink is the embodiment of service in my hometown. Tom is a past president of Temple B'rith Kodesh and a former National Board Member of the Union of Reform Jewish Congregations. He has been active in volunteer work and social activism for decades, particularly on the issue of homelessness and affordable housing. He has dedicated himself time and time again to bettering our region, going above and beyond to serve his neighbors in ways both big and small. During Jewish American Heritage Month, it is my privilege to recognize Thomas Fink for his selflessness, generosity, and dedication to uplifting our Jewish community. Rochester is a better and brighter place because of his leadership. His legacy will leave a lasting mark on all those whose lives he has touched.

Mr. MORELLE

Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Jewish American Heritage Month and to recognize an exemplary individual from Rochester, NY, who is making a profound impact on our Jewish community: Joy Getnick. Joy Getnick serves as the Executive Director of the University of Rochester Hillel. She has quietly but powerfully done vital work over these last several months guiding our young students, particularly with the rise of antisemitism on campus and throughout society. She is an educator and leader not just on campus, but across all of Rochester. Joy is also the founding director of Camp Seneca Lake in Israel, a summer Israel program for teens. Her commitment to uplifting and mentoring students is helping to shape the next generation of leaders, and her legacy will live on through each of the lives she has touched. Jewish American History Month is the perfect opportunity to recognize and honor our local Jewish neighbors who are working diligently to make our community a better place. I can think of no better example than Joy Getnick, and I commend her for her many accomplishments.

Mr. MORELLE

Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jewish American Heritage Month. Our Nation benefits from the historical achievements and diversity of Jewish people every day, and I am proud to join many of my colleagues in celebrating May as Jewish American Heritage Month. Since first immigrating to the United States in 1654, Jewish Americans have accomplished countless achievements. Great minds, such as Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Elie Wiesel, have made irrevocable impacts on both our culture and society. The Jewish American people continue to make our Nation proud by serving in the highest ranks of our military, achieving groundbreaking advancements in science, revolutionizing music and art, and much more. My community of Rochester, NY, is steeped in Jewish culture. Since the mid-1800's, Jewish families have settled in the region, making Rochester their home for generations to come. Over more than 175 years, Rochester's Jewish community has played an integral role in the growth and development of our city and surrounding towns. Today, key Jewish community institutions work to enrich the lives of Rochester's Jewish and non-Jewish citizens. It is an honor to recognize this vibrant community for their devotion to Rochester's success and stability. Throughout history, the Jewish people have proven to be resilient in their fight against persecution. It is inspiring that they continue to persevere regardless of the difficulties they face. To ensure their heritage remains preserved, we must continue to educate our youth on the extensive history of the Jewish people and their diverse cultural achievements. While we are celebrating the contributions of the Jewish American people, we must also acknowledge the challenging times they face. Many of our Jewish brothers and sisters are impacted by the dramatic increase in antisemitism nationwide. As allies of our Jewish neighbors, we must condemn this discriminatory behavior in every instance and demand justice for those affected. The Jewish people are all too aware of the dangers that occur if hate goes unchecked. We must not and will not allow history to repeat itself. As a devoted friend of the Jewish community, I am proud to raise my voice in recognition of Jewish American Heritage month, and I look forward to many more years of celebrating the accomplishments and legacies of Jewish Americans.

Mr. MORELLE

Mr. MORELLE. Madam Speaker, I rise to highlight my resolution recognizing today, May 16, as the National Day of Light. Madam Speaker, 64 years ago Theodore Maiman, an American physicist, invented the first light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation, or LASER. Since then, light-based technologies have grown to play a critical role in innovation. My community of Rochester, New York, is the proud home of one of the largest optics and photonics clusters in the Nation, companies employing thousands of individuals. As co-chair of the Congressional Optics and Photonics Caucus, I am working to make certain that America capitalizes on the potential of light-based technologies, from photonic integrated circuits to quantum computing and communications which strengthens our economy and our national security. I hope my colleagues will join me in supporting these important efforts. Madam Speaker, I thank you for allowing me to shed some light on this under-illuminated celebration.

Mr. MORELLE

Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, first of all, I thank my good friend, the gentlewoman from New Mexico, who is also playful but serious, for yielding. I thank the gentlewoman from Wyoming for her support of the bill. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to voice my strong support for H.R. 3250, the National Museum of Play Recognition Act. This bipartisan bill will designate the Margaret Woodbury Strong Museum in Rochester, New York, where I am grateful and privileged to represent, as the National Museum of Play. As has been described by my colleagues, the museum was founded by Margaret Woodbury Strong in 1968. It is the only museum of its kind that exists for the exclusive purpose of exploring the ways in which play encourages learning, creativity, and discovery, and how it illuminates cultural history. Children are the hope of each and every community across this country. We must continue to inspire future generations to learn, grow, and innovate, and we know the best way to do that is through play. In 2023, the Strong Museum completed its most recent 90,000-square foot expansion of new exhibit space, bringing the museum total square footage to 282,000 square feet of areas of play. The museum also features the Toy Hall of Fame. Each year, the Hall of Fame selects inductees like the Fisher-Price Corn Popper, the American Girl dolls, the board game Monopoly, the Atari 2600 game system, Slinky, and last year's new inductee, Cabbage Patch Kids. I am incredibly proud to have such a noteworthy institution in my district, working to serve the children and families from upstate New York and the entire country. Mr. Speaker, I extend an invitation to all of my colleagues to come to Rochester and spend time at the National Museum of Play. I also thank Representative Langworthy for his partnership with this legislation, as well as Chairman Westerman, Ranking Member Grijalva, and the House Committee on Natural Resources for advancing this bill on a bipartisan and unanimous basis. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 3250.