Gregory Murphy

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of my friend, Dr. Donald H. Tucker of Greenville, North Carolina. An altruistic and humble husband, father, and friend, Dr. Tucker was considered by many to be the gateway to healthcare in eastern North Carolina. Dr. Tucker completed his undergraduate and medical studies at Duke University, and following completion of his residency in internal medicine at Cornell, he then returned to Duke for a cardiology fellowship. Dr. Tucker then would serve as the director of the cardiopulmonary catheterization lab at the Portsmouth, Virginia, naval hospital, earning the rank of lieutenant commander. Dr. Tucker then returned home to Greenville and eventually opened up a multispecialty physician clinic called Quadrangle Physicians, which eventually turned into Physicians East, the largest multispecialty private group in eastern North Carolina. Dr. Tucker was a pillar of our community, a leader in his church and multiple charitable organizations, and a leader who helped bring a medical school to rural eastern North Carolina. Dr. Tucker advocated for all those around him and unfailingly strived to advance the well- being of our State and community. Madam Speaker, I was honored to know Dr. Tucker as a friend and physician colleague. I ask that everyone today please join me in honoring the incredible life of Dr. Donald Tucker.

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina. Madam Speaker, this so-called competition bill proves just how feckless Democrats are about confronting our biggest adversary, the Chinese Communist Party. Why is this President so afraid to call out China? They are our greatest generational threat to democracy, human rights, and the American way of life. China will stop at nothing until they have world domination. Confronting Communist China should be a clear bipartisan priority. As Secretary Pompeo recently said, the Chinese have infiltrated our schools, businesses, and politics, and will stop at nothing until they have world domination. We should be coming together on a strong consensus framework that holds China accountable and strengthens our national security. Instead, Speaker Pelosi offers more poison pills that will be dead on arrival in the Senate. Let us stop the nonsensical leftist Progressive messaging and be serious about our jobs. Democrats have steamrolled Congress with yet another multi-billion dollar package, thousands of pages long, without proper analysis. Our Nation now hits a $30 trillion debt mark this week. Madam Speaker, I refuse to support another package that sends hard- earned taxpayer dollars to the Chinese Communist Party. Please, I urge my colleagues to vote ``no'' on the America concedes to China act.

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina. Madam Speaker, I rise today in great sorrow. On January 19, 2022, Lance Corporal (LCpl.) Jonathan E. Gierke, from Lawrenceville, Georgia, tragically passed away as a result of a tactical vehicular rollover in Onslow County, North Carolina. LCpl. Gierke was stationed in my Congressional district at Camp Lejeune and was a Landing Support Specialist with Combat Logistics Battalion 24, Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group. LCpl. Gierke was the son of a Navy veteran and a member of the Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) at Collins Hill High School, Georgia. He began his active duty in March of 2021. Since then, LCpl. Gierke's assignments include being stationed at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, South Carolina; School of Infantry-East in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina; and Marine Corps Combat Service Support Schools in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. LCpl. Gierke's service to our country can best be shown by his attainment of the National Defense and Global War on Terrorism Service Medals. His duty and commitment to our country will never be forgotten and I am forever grateful for all that he accomplished and for his service to our beloved country. Madam Speaker, please join me today in remembering this patriot and recognizing all the sacrifices that he made for our beloved country.

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina. Madam Speaker, I rise today in great sorrow. On January 19, 2022, Private First Class (PFC) Zachary W. Riffle, from Kingwood, West Virginia, tragically passed away as a result of a tactical vehicular rollover in Onslow County, North Carolina. PFC Riffle was stationed in my Congressional district at Camp Lejeune and was a Landing Support Specialist with Combat Logistics Battalion 24, Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group. PFC Riffle began his active duty in March of 2021. Since then, PFC Riftle's assignments include being stationed at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina; School of Infantry-East at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina; and Marine Corps Combat Service Support Schools. PFC Riffle graduated from Preston High School, West Virginia where he played football and wrestled. His service to our country can best be shown by his decision to forgo his senior wrestling season to graduate early and become a Marine as soon as possible. In addition, PFC Riffle's selfless commitment to our nation can be shown by his attainment of the National Defense and Global War on Terrorism Service Medals. His duty and commitment to our country will never be forgotten and I am forever grateful for all that he accomplished and for his service to our beloved country. Madam Speaker, please join me today in remembering this patriot and recognizing all the sacrifices that he made for our beloved country.

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the valiant and brave actions of Deputy Zachary Bellingham of the Craven County Sheriff's Office. On October 1, 2021, Deputy Bellingham sustained life-threatening injuries while serving in the line of duty. Following his injuries, Deputy Bellingham was taken to Carolina East Medical Center and then airlifted to Vidant Medical Center in Greenville to receive emergency surgery. Deputy Bellingham has continued his rehabilitation at Shepherd Medical Center in Atlanta, where he has shown strong perseverance in his recovery. I am hopeful that as a man of deep valor and courage he will quickly recover. The conduct and actions of Deputy Bellingham embodies the values of a true American hero. His brave actions on that fateful day highlight the very best of our law enforcement and all that they do to protect their communities. I am also grateful for the immense support offered by those in the community as Deputy Bellingham continues with his recovery. Madam Speaker, please join me in expressing my sincere gratitude and appreciation to Deputy Bellingham for his commitment to protecting those in his community and wishing him a full and speedy recovery.

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina. Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of a devoted public servant in our community who will retire at the end of this year, Mayor Wilson ``Eddie'' Barber of Emerald Isle, North Carolina. A selfless and dedicated minister and town Mayor, Mr. Barber has been in the service of others for the past 40 years. Beginning in 1969, Mayor Barber commenced his service as a minister performing services throughout eastern North Carolina until 2015. Nearing the end of his ministerial years, Mayor Barber soon devoted his career to public service, where he served as a member on the Emerald Isle Land Use Steering Committee and Emerald Isle Planning Board from 2004 until 2013. Concurrently, from 2009 until 2013, he served as Vice- Chair of the Planning Board. During this time, Mayor Barber was a tenured and established public servant with many accomplishments under his belt and a name recognized by everyone in Emerald Isle. After years of civil service on municipal boards and committees, Mayor Barber was elected Mayor of Emerald Isle in 2013 and re-elected in 2017. Currently, Mayor Barber is a member of the Carteret County Tourism Development Authority, and was the past Chair of the Down East RPO, and past Chair Person of the Crystal Coast Mayors Association. He has also been involved with the Emerald Isle Business Association, Hope for the Warriors, and served on the Board of Directors of Methodist University. As a tenured mayor, Mayor Barber was able to allocate $37 Million towards beach re-nourishment initiatives at no expense to tax payers. He and the board also made sure to work closely and diligently to keep Emerald Isle's reputation as a welcoming and family friendly beach town. This was all accomplished through several hardships that struck the community such as Hurricane Florence, Hurricane Dorian, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring the retirement of this incredible and noble man and wishing Mayor Eddie Barber a happy retirement from his life of public service.

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay a heartfelt tribute to Pastor James D. Corbett of Greenville, North Carolina, to honor his long and illustrious service to God and to his country. In his younger years, Pastor Corbett served this great Nation of ours in the United States Army. He then left military service to begin his ministry. In 1984, Pastor Corbett and the late Pastor Delores Corbett founded Greenville Community Christian Church. God gave him a vision to minister to the whole man: spirit, soul and body. Pastor Corbett also currently serves as the Eastern Regional Director and Trustee for the International Convention of Faith Ministries. Their vision includes reaching communities with the Gospel and taking the message of Jesus Christ around the whole world. Lives are saved, healed, and delivered by the power of God through his ministry. I have personally been blessed by his wonderful services and sermons for many years now. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring the accomplishments of a wonderful man, a caring father, grandfather, and leader of his flock, Pastor James D. Corbett, and recognizing all that he has done for his community.

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay a heartfelt tribute to Pastor James D. Corbett of Greenville, North Carolina, to honor his long and illustrious life in service to his God and country. In 1977, Pastor James D. Corbett became a born-again believer and received the baptism of the Holy Spirit while serving in the United States Army. After eight years of active duty in the military, God called Pastor Corbett into the ministry. He returned to Greenville, NC, where he attended Pitt Community College. Pastor Corbett later received a BSA degree in Accounting from East Carolina University where he was a two-time honor graduate. Pastor Corbett went on to earn his Doctoral degree in Biblical Studies and Divinity from the World Christian College Council in Fresno, California in December 1994. He also received an Honorary Degree from Covenant Theological Seminary in Creve Coeur, Missouri. Pastor Corbett currently serves as the Eastern Regional Director and Trustee for the International Convention of Faith Ministries. In 1984, Pastor Corbett and the late Pastor Delores Corbett founded Greenville Community Christian Church. God gave him a vision to minister to the whole man: spirit, soul and body. The vision includes reaching communities with the gospel and taking the message of Jesus Christ around the world. It includes mass media presentation, training sessions, schools for ministry, programs for the disadvantaged and a Christian K-12 school. His practical teaching is done through individualized group fellowships, seminars, crusades, the Word in Season devotional, CDs, books, radio, internet and television broadcasts. His messages are widely distributed throughout the world. Lives are being saved, healed and delivered by the power of God through his ministry. He is also an author of three books: Men of Honor, Tithing the Tithe and Honoring Your Husband-Honoring Your Wife. Pastor James D. Corbett and Lady Sarah were united in marriage in February 2013. They have five children, fourteen grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Together, they help meet the needs of people by reaching the lost for Christ. Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring the accomplishments of Pastor James D. Corbett and recognizing all that he has done for his community.

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay a heartfelt tribute to a distinguished Marine, Master Sergeant (MSgt) Fernando Schiefelbein of the United States Marine Corps, to honor his long and illustrious career in public service on active duty and as a civil servant. MSgt. Schiefelbein started his service in 1980 as a private nominated to attend Sea School and has been serving our great Nation with dedication and honor ever since. His retirement after 38 plus years of commitment to the United States Marine Corps and to the United States is extraordinary. In May 2001, Master Sergeant Schiefelbein retired from active duty after 21 plus years of outstanding service. Master Sergeant Schiefelbein's personal awards and decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal (2nd Award), Navy/Marine Corps Commendation Medal (2nd Award), Combat Action Ribbon, Navy Unit Commendation Medal (2nd Award), Meritorious Unit Commendation (4th Award), Navy ``E'' Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal (6th Award), Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (2nd Award), Southwest Asia Service Medal (3rd Award), Armed Forces Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (8th Award), Navy Arctic Service Ribbon, Marine Corps Recruiting Service Ribbon, Kuwait Liberation Medal (Saudi Arabia), and the Kuwait Liberation Medal (Kuwait). Fernando Schiefelbein now serves as an Operations Specialist for Marine Corps Installations East and Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. He has served in this capacity since October 2005. During this period, Mr. Schiefelbein has successfully assisted in the planning and management of numerous VIP visits including U.S. Presidential and First Lady, U.S. Congressional Members and staff, U.S. Pentagon officials and staff, state and local politicians, foreign political dignitaries. military general officers and staff from all branches of service, veterans, and their families. Mr. Schiefelbein serves also as an Emergency Operations Center (EOC) operator. An active participant and statistician reporter during this current COVID-19 Pandemic, he helps ensure officers are apprised of needed information for troop readiness. His responsibilities include assisting in plans and procedures for responding to natural disasters and other emergencies and preparing the cumulative reports for all installations included under the Marine Corps Installations East umbrella. Mr. Schiefelbein is a member of the Beirut Memorial Advisory Board being appointed by the Mayor of Jacksonville, North Carolina. In 2010 Mr. Schiefelbein was appointed Administrator to the Lejeune Memorial Gardens Steering Committee, presiding over these quarterly meetings to the Base's Chief of Staff as well as the City of Jacksonville City Manager's Office. As Administrator he proudly supports requests to fly United States or Branch of Service flags at any of the memorials. He also schedules reservations for ceremonial use at any of the memorials including professional military education classes, retirements and reenlistments, graduations, funerals, weddings, and formal ceremonies such as the Vietnam Veterans Recognition Day Ceremony, POW/MIA Recognition Ceremony, and the Montfort Point Marine Day Ceremony, and the 9/11 Patriot Day Ceremony. He enjoys acting as docent at the Lejeune Memorial Gardens to visiting dignitaries, veteran reunion groups and public/private school groups as they learn about veteran appreciation and community service. Mr. Schiefelbein serves as the Camp Lejeune Base's liaison to the annual Jacksonville/Onslow County Veteran's Day Parade Committee and Jacksonville/Onslow County Christmas Parade Committee. Mr. Schiefelbein works with veteran organizations in the community both in his work capacity and as a concerned veteran himself. He is a member and past chairman of the MCB Camp Lejeune Military Retiree Council as well as the MCB Camp Lejeune liaison for the Onslow County Council of Veteran Organizations. He holds memberships in Non-Commissioned Officer Association, Disabled American Veterans, and Veterans of Foreign Wars. Madam Speaker, and all congressional members of the 117th U.S. Congress, please join me in honoring the retirement of this incredible and noble Marine and wishing Master Sergeant Fernando Schiefelbein and his devoted wife Betty, a happy retirement from his life of outstanding public service.

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of my bipartisan bill, H.R. 4233, the Student Veterans Counseling Centers Eligibility Act. The issue to which I will speak is exceedingly personal to me and my district, as I represent close to 90,000 veterans, most of whom are or will be receiving benefits via the Post-9/11 GI Bill or the Montgomery GI Bill. The transition from Active Duty to civilian life can be challenging for some of our servicemembers. It can be tremendously difficult for many of our servicemembers to return to education after sacrificing so much for our Nation abroad. This is especially true for older and nontraditional student veterans. A few months ago, alongside Ranking Member Bost, I had the privilege of introducing the Student Veterans Counseling Centers Eligibility Act. It passed out of the Veterans' Affairs Committee with a unanimous vote. Our Nation's veterans represent the very best among us here in the United States, but many serve at great personal cost. A recent RAND study reported that 20 percent of veterans on the GI Bill experience feelings of depression or PTSD. That 20 percent amounts to over 170,000 veterans, which is almost double the number I mentioned previously of the veterans I represent in my district. As one can imagine, serving as a member of our Armed Forces can be extremely stressful. Too often, we see the tragedy of our veterans losing their battle with mental health issues when returning from service. A very tragic and somber fact is that the VA currently estimates 18 veterans a day commit suicide. In fact, 46 percent of our military students report suicidal thoughts compared to only 6 percent of their nonmilitary peers. If we can provide mental health services to assist just a single veteran who is struggling, then I believe it is our sworn duty to do so. We have the opportunity now with the Student Veterans Counseling Centers Eligibility Act. Education poses one of the most beneficial yet stressful areas of transition for our veterans. The intention of this bill is to aid more of our veterans who are readjusting to civilian lives while providing overdue access to vital mental health resources. Helping veterans succeed in their education and civilian lives is one of the most important ways we can thank them for their service. I have spoken with some of these student veterans. I have heard their stories. These student veterans have had to wait weeks to even months for a mental health appointment if their mental health crisis was not deemed urgent. Unfortunately, many of our veterans do not have the luxury of weeks or months to wait to see a mental health provider. Furthermore, private mental health can be inaccessible for those not utilizing the benefits of the GI Bill. An average therapy session could cost between $60 to $120, with the higher end reaching over $250 per session. Even with health insurance, premiums often can be $50 per session. The Student Veterans Counseling Centers Eligibility Act would provide expanded counseling and mental health services to those student veterans through the VA's Readjustment Counseling Centers, known as vet centers.

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I am extremely honored and proud to sponsor this bill, and I am grateful to Ranking Member Bost for his support as an original cosponsor and to all of my Republican and Democratic colleagues who have come together to support this very critical bipartisan legislation. I am also thankful to the Student Veterans of America for their support. I ask all Members for bipartisan support.

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on an urgent matter confronting our country. The American people are experiencing the worst series of self- inflicted crises in a generation. Inflation is at a 40-year high. Gas is up 42 percent. Utilities are up 20 percent. Either President Biden doesn't care or is being insulated from reality. We saw the worst jobs report of the Presidency this last month. Self- induced labor shortages are plaguing businesses. Shelves are bare. Container ships are stacking up. We have the worst Biden-created border crisis in 30 years, yet the President has time to go to Delaware every weekend but not the border? Hundreds of Americans are still in Afghanistan, meanwhile President Biden and Democrats are trying to ram through trillions in new tax hikes. So what is the administration working on? What are their priorities? A national gender strategy. Are you kidding me? This administration cares more about which pronoun you use than countering the Chinese threat or the threat at our southern border. Mr. Speaker, the American people deserve better than this. My constituents deserve better than this. Our Nation deserves better than this.

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of American families and small businesses in North Carolina who are having to confront not only the pandemic but President Biden's truly disastrous and shortsighted economic policies. Inflation is at a 30-year high. Gas prices are up 42 percent. Hell, even the cost of bacon has gone through the roof. We are hurtling backwards under liberal control, and the fact that Democrats are trying to sell a free $5.5 trillion package as the solution is an embarrassment and a snake oil lie to the American people. Let's be clear. Most liberal elites and progressives in Washington have never run a business. They have never signed both sides of a paycheck, and they have never had to make the heartbreaking decision between feeding their families and keeping their businesses open. At a small business roundtable, one local bakery owner said that crippling inflation, the self-induced labor shortage, and supply chain disruptions have created such a fragile environment that he is one worker away from bankruptcy. This bakery owner even raised his own employee pay by $4 an hour and took a second job to make ends meet, and he still cannot fill job vacancies.

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina. Madam Speaker, unfortunately, I was unable to be physicially present for the following vote series that took place on October 12, 2021. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call No. 315.

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina. Madam Speaker, for the last 9 months, Washington Democrats have been steamrolling Congress and the American people with a series of socialist, Big Government takeovers. With such fragile control of the White House, Senate, and House, Democrats have authorized trillions in unchecked spending, plunging our Nation into further crippling debt. The American people are suffering the economic consequences of Biden's unhinged spending in the form of staggering inflation and decreased purchasing power, which I fear could lead us to double-digit inflation by the end of this year. I refuse to stand by as House Democrats attempt to bankrupt our children and grandchildren. To correct this behavior and increase financial transparency, I have introduced the INFORM Act, the companion bill to Senator Mike Braun from Indiana. The INFORM Act brings much-needed accountability to government spending by requiring two new government-wide reporting standards on the national debt and deficits and studies net fiscal burdens on different populations. With the debt growing bigger every day and Democrats showing no sign of restraint in their plans to try to bankrupt America, my bill is an essential part of ensuring that we create a responsible financial future for generations to come.

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, last week, in her attempt to deflect from the Biden administration's complete and utter devastation at our southern border, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said: ``There are a lot of Republicans out there giving speeches about how outraged they are about the situation at the border, not many are putting forward solutions or steps that we could take.'' Well, she got one thing right: We are outraged. We are outraged because, every single day, we hear from constituents who are dismayed, angry about this administration's complete lack of concern for the safety and well-being of our Nation at the southern border. They resent the fact that, on his first day in office, the unity President gave up on border security and hung a welcome sign in our border communities. Biden sent a very clear message to the world that our rule of law would not be enforced under his administration. Jen Psaki now has the audacity to complain about Republicans highlighting a crisis that they themselves created and claims she hasn't heard solutions. Jen, if you haven't heard solutions, circle back and listen. To start, the biggest thing the Biden administration needed to do to protect our country was nothing at all. The former administration had laid out a clear and effective border security measure that safeguarded our communities, protected public health, and incentivized legal pathways to citizenship. Yet, Biden has systematically unraveled all of the former administration's effective policies in the name of lawlessness just to score political points with the radical and progressive left. I cannot fathom how anyone in a position of authority--Jen Psaki, President Biden, Vice President Harris, Secretary Mayorkas--would spend more time ignoring our laws than correcting the crisis that they created. So, Biden administration, now that we have gotten your attention, please listen to how you fix this crisis. Number one, enforce the laws that are written. Don't undermine our national security with political pandering. Two, complete border construction. Right now, there are millions of dollars' worth of building material rusting in the desert because Biden put a halt to the Congress-approved and paid for border construction. This is a disastrous waste of taxpayer dollars and a tragedy for our border security. Number three, reinstate the remain in Mexico policy so that those seeking asylum can be processed orderly, without putting our borders at risk. We had the buy-in and cooperation of all the Central American countries. Biden threw that cooperation out the window. Number four, require a negative COVID test before entering into the southern United States to actually protect public health. The Biden administration's current COVID policy is hypocrisy. Right now, international travelers who fly into the United States must show proof of vaccination or a negative test, while illegal immigrants can walk across the border without any public health requirements. I mean, hell, in the midst of the fourth worst COVID surge, Secretary Mayorkas himself confirmed that none of the 15,000 Haitians brought into this country from under the bridge were tested for COVID. The absence of accountability and urgency in this matter is shameful. The hypocrisy is disastrous. Number five, quit encouraging people to make the disastrous trek to America. Just last week, we saw thousands of Haitians and their families make the treacherous journey to our border, many suffering from heat-related injuries and other diseases. Then, Mayorkas finally admitted that over 10,000 Haitians were brought into this country without being vetted. Number six, promising amnesty, tax remittance, healthcare, and sanctuary cities to illegals, stop it. Again, these liberal policies are enticing people to break our laws. So next time, before Jen Psaki or anyone in the Biden administration criticizes House Republicans for talking openly about how to combat a national security crisis of their own making, I suggest she circle back and revisit all that we have said in the preceding months. The great hidden provisions in the new reconciliation package present the most disastrous immigration policies in our Nation's history. I don't envy Jen Psaki's job of having to defend the destruction of this country. Mr. Speaker, we are a country of laws. Our laws need to be enforced. I continue to fight for the security of this Nation and our southern border.

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina. Madam Speaker, I rise today with great remorse. Two weeks ago, U.S. Sergeant Nicole Gee, a marine from Roseville, California, was tragically killed in action during the August 26 bombing at the Kabul International Airport in Afghanistan. As a physician of 30 years, I have written hundreds of letters to families whose loved ones have passed away. The letters that I wrote to Sergeant Gee's family were amongst the hardest I have ever written. She gave her life in service and sacrifice to our Nation alongside 12 other marines and beloved U.S. servicemembers, all of whom we remember fondly with admiration, appreciation, and a deep and humble respect. Just a few days prior, Sergeant Gee commented upon her life as a marine, and she said: ``I love my job.'' Prior to her mission in Afghanistan, Sergeant Gee had been a maintenance technician assigned to Combat Logistics Battalion 24 of the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit. Her unit was based out of the Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, in my district. I know I can speak for everyone in eastern North Carolina and the Camp Lejeune community in offering our most sincere condolences to Sergeant Gee's husband, fellow marine Jarod Gee, as well as her family and loved ones during this extremely difficult time. Sergeant Gee's bravery, empathy, patriotism, and unwavering commitment to others will never be forgotten. Her willingness to put herself in harm's way to protect her country and the cause of freedom is the most selfless act one can commit, and words are not enough to convey our district's sadness and our gratitude. As a female marine, Sergeant Gee represented one of the fewer, one of the prouder. Women make up less than 10 percent of the Marine Corps, but these women carry the same flag, fight the same fight, and bleed the same red blood as their brothers on the battlefield. Sergeant Nicole Gee's selflessness reminds us of the many sacrifices our women in uniform make for our country every day. We will never forget her sacrifice or the sacrifices of her brothers and sisters in arms. Importantly, she will always be remembered for her compassion and grace. Most Americans have seen this iconic photo of Sergeant Gee cradling and comforting an Afghan child at the Kabul Airport. This image is just a snapshot of her outstanding commitment to others as her loved ones and fellow marines remember Nicole as an outstanding person who always had a positive attitude and never failed to put a smile on everyone's face. Her dear friend, Marine Sergeant Mallory Harrison, recently took to social media to say: ``I find peace knowing that she left this world doing what she loved. She was a marine's marine. She cared about people. She loved fiercely, and she was a light in this very dark world.'' One infantry marine who served in Afghanistan with her, Rowdy Woods, wrote: ``Nicole loved what she was doing out here and she knew the risks. She did it anyway because she is and forever will be one badass marine.'' For 2 weeks, residents and visitors in Onslow County have been paying their respects to Sergeant Gee and her 12 fallen comrades outside of Camp Lejeune. Thank you to all the military families and other community members for adorning the gates of Camp Lejeune with flowers, meaningful signs, and combat boots. The outpouring of love and support that I have seen in the Third District is a true testament to the epic legacy that Sergeant Gee and all of our other lost U.S. servicemen now leave behind. It is an honor to represent the marines in my district. They represent the very best amongst our steadfast patriots, risking everything to preserve life and liberty for our great Nation. Their commitment is unmatched. I, again, extend my sincere condolences to Sergeant Gee's family, her friends, her fellow marines, and others who were touched by her wonderful life and valiant service. There is a true void in her absence. Sergeant Gee will be missed, but her sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina. Madam Speaker, President Biden and his fellow Democrats have said that they want to fundamentally change this country. If this country is so bad, why do we lead the world in technological advances? If this country is so bad, why have millions of immigrants risked life and limb to get into this country? If this country is so bad, why are we the international example of religious tolerance? If this country is so bad, why is the dollar the standard currency throughout the world? If this country is so bad, why do we lead the world in aiding the impoverished countries around the globe? If this country is so bad, how could American scientists have developed a vaccine in record time that has saved millions of lives around the globe? If this country is so bad, how could someone like Dr. Ben Carson overcome the most insurmountable of odds to become one of the great neurosurgeons in the world? If this country is so bad, how is it possible that Americans of every background can uniquely succeed here if they are determined to do so? If this country is so bad, why do so many think it is so good? If this country is so good, why are so many Democrats so hellbent on tearing it apart?

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Staff Sergeant Nicholas J. Jones, United States Marine Corps, for his honorable and devoted service to our great nation. Staff Sergeant Nicholas J. Jones will be presented the Navy Cross by Marine Corps Commandant General David H. Berger during an August 26, 2021 ceremony at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. The Navy Cross is our nation's second highest military decoration for valor awarded to a member of the U.S. Armed Forces who exhibits extraordinary heroism during combat. Staff Sergeant Nicholas J. Jones, of the 2nd Marine Raider Battalion, is an American hero who risked life and limb on March 8, 2020 conducting a counterattack against an ISIS stronghold in the Makhmur Mountains of Iraq. His fearless leadership and daring attitude saved countless lives that day. Our service members and our nation are safer because of his selflessness and decisiveness. Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring the sacrifice and service given by Staff Sergeant Nicholas J. Jones. On behalf of the United States Congress, we thank Staff Sergeant Jones, and his family for his unwavering commitment to our nation. God bless our Marines and God bless the United States of America. Semper Fidelis.

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to speak on the tragedy that is facing our Nation in the opioid epidemic. As a physician for over 30 years, there is nothing more important to me than the health and safety of our communities. Unfortunately, it is no secret that communities across this great Nation are suffering from an opioid crisis that is sweeping the country once again. As a member of the North Carolina General Assembly, I worked tirelessly on legislation to help curb the number of overdose deaths that were occurring in our State. After three decades of climbing statistics of young people dying from overdoses, we effected a change, and that number started to decrease. We did this by decreasing the number of prescribed opioids. However, tragically enough, that number has started to rise again. That is because the illicit fentanyls have now taken over the death market. Last year alone, more than 93,000 Americans died of drug overdoses, which demonstrates a 30 percent increase from 2019. Of the 93,000 drug- related overdoses last year, 69 percent were opioid-related. According to the CDC, last year, the tragic surge in these deaths is attributed largely to the illicit fentanyls. People know that, medically speaking, fentanyl is one of the most lethal substances on the planet. In fact, 2 milligrams can be considered a lethal dose. Since Biden and Harris flung open our southern border, illicit drugs have poured into this country in record numbers. We no longer control our southern border; the Mexican drug cartels do. They love the fact the border has now been opened, and they have free rein to bring their death and destruction into this country. Fentanyl has quickly become the drug of choice for these cartels. It is cheap, easy to manufacture, and highly profitable. Fentanyl is easy to smuggle in small amounts, and it is easier for drug mules to bring it across our porous southern border. Its toxicity means that those purchasing this deadly opioid need only a small amount to cause death or serious harm. There is a strong correlation between border crossings and high drug encounters, with no help coming from the White House. Last month, Customs and Border Protection seized a record 1,060 pounds of fentanyl. That represents a higher total than the last three Junes combined. That 1-month seizure alone was enough drugs to kill 240 million people. Think about it. Those are only the drugs that we catch. It is obvious from what is happening on the American streets that much more gets across the southern border. The Biden-Harris administration denies this is a crisis. How can they do this to the American people? How do they not understand that this recklessness is leading to death and destruction in their own country. At the same time, the Border Patrol encountered 188,000 illegal immigrants, so the hypocrisy continues. Thousands of people are coming into our country illegally, either not vaccinated or COVID-positive. Is anyone checking their status? But know if you come from Canada or another country, you have to prove you have been vaccinated--hypocrisy at the highest level coming from the White House, further death and destruction coming from the Biden-Harris administration. President Biden knows he has botched our border security. Vice President Harris only got shamed into going to the border when former President Trump was going. She finally did go to a sterile area for a good photo shoot and not to the real area of crisis. They decided that no action is better than acknowledging their role in creating this public health, humanitarian, and national security crisis. I am sorry, Mr. President and Mrs. Vice President, this is totally unacceptable. You are causing irreparable harm to this Nation. In 2021, every community in this country is a border community. Making our Nation safer starts at our borders, and we have a responsibility to ensure that we are doing everything we can to preserve our rule of law. Mr. Speaker, I implore this administration to reinstate President Trump's effective and commonsense border policies to get the Biden border crisis under control.

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina. Madam Speaker, we could talk about so many things today on how the Democrats are tearing this Nation apart: the immigration crisis, the attack on the American family, the destruction of race relations, skyrocketing crime because of the defund the police movement. Madam Speaker, I could go on and on. But today, we will talk about the financial disaster that the Biden administration is causing. There is no doubt that the Democrats' outrageous, reckless, and out- of-control spending is putting our Nation in financial jeopardy. However, I cannot help but notice that Democrats in this Chamber systematically fail to address the deeply personal and palpable impact of this administration's financial irresponsibility. To my colleagues across the aisle, please understand that inflation is severely hurting American families and their ability to create and sustain financial security. Over the weekend, I spoke to a restaurant owner who told me that due to soaring costs of goods and services, he will have to raise prices to make ends meet. I have many constituents on fixed incomes who tell me that they are having to eliminate food off their grocery lists in order to afford family meals. Skyrocketing costs present a serious problem for American families and workers, and under this administration, costs do not seem to be going down anytime soon. In fact, inflation has increased every single month since Joe Biden took office. Gas prices are at their highest level since 2014. Thirteen million individuals are still on some type of unemployment, while over 9 million jobs remain unfilled. This type of scenario is essentially unheard of and totally artificially created by the Biden administration. They failed to get the $15 minimum wage, so now they have artificially cut the American workforce in an attempt to force wages upward. Such a forced, quick increase in wages will undoubtedly be inflationary as small businesses, and even large fast food chains, will have to raise their prices just to maintain viability. Do they think the American people are that stupid? Endless borrowing has consequences. Republican lawmakers see this every day as ordinary Americans are having to bear the cost of excessive Democrat spending. At the gas pump, in the grocery store, at the mall, and at the car dealership, my constituents are having to spend more of their hard- earned dollars just to get to work, feed their children, and care for loved ones. The numbers don't lie. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, gas prices are up 45 percent from last year; used car prices are up 45 percent; airfare is up 24 percent; and hotel prices are up 16 percent. At the grocery store, bacon is up 8 percent; fruit prices are up 7 percent; fish prices are up 6 percent; and milk is up 5 percent. Even to pour a cup of coffee, Americans are feeling the cost of the Democrats' reckless spending spree. Unfortunately, under Biden's leadership, the situation looks bleak. House Democrats are well accustomed to spending beyond their means, but they routinely ignore its negative impact on the American people. What is worse is that experts agree the Democrats' far-left proposals will undoubtedly lead to higher taxes on the vast majority of middle- class American families. Here is what we know. A recent report from the Tax Policy Center found that Biden's tax plan will increase taxes on an astounding 75 percent of middle-class Americans and raise taxes on 95 percent of Americans by 2031. This broken policy work has real consequences that are completely unsustainable. Another study by the Wharton School of Business shows that Biden's $6 trillion budget would slow economic growth, shrink the American economy, and cut workers' hours and wages. In fact, annualized real wages are already down by 3.95 percent since 2020. Madam Speaker, I implore my colleagues across the aisle to listen to their constituents and sympathize with what they are going through. More than that, I urge them to recognize that we, as lawmakers, have a responsibility to care for our citizens and ensure that Big Government policies do not squander American families and small businesses. Look, this should be simple. All Americans understand that to stay financially viable and intact, they must stick to a budget and spend within their means. I encourage the Biden administration and its Democratic cohorts in the House to balance their own checkbooks immediately for the sake of the American people and to stop this reckless spending spree.

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, freedom-loving Cubans have taken to the streets to protest the socialist, Marxist Castro regime that has held a deadly grip over Cuba for 60 years. Cubans are protesting to secure the blessings of liberty that now so many in this country are showing disdain for. The socialist Castro regime embraces a backward economy that prides itself on taking everything it can from the people until there is nothing left. There are no means for justice, no opportunities for success outside the bounds of tyranny, and no consideration for the God-given rights of their people. Let this be a lesson to the world and to my socialist colleagues across the aisle. Communism does not work. There is no example in history of any modern society benefiting from Marxist rule, and any attempt to paint socialist and communist dictatorships as anything but cruel is peddling lies and fiction. The pro-democracy demonstrations in Cuba are sending a powerful message: Communism is oppressive and denies people their basic freedom. Cubans deserve our strong, unwavering support, and I will always stand up for freedom fighters around the world.

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina. Madam Speaker, when you pull into a gas station or visit a grocery store this week, you will notice something different. Consumer prices are up across the board. Make no mistake, this financial strain is a direct result of the Biden administration's out-of-control spending. It is hurting millions of Americans across the Nation. In fact, nearly 9 in 10 Americans have reported a serious concern about the rise in prices. The reality is inflation, perhaps more accurately called Biden-flation, which is climbing at the highest rate in 13 years. Gas prices are up 45 percent; used car prices up 45 percent; and the cost of breakfast, lunch, and dinner has gone up for every single family. These staples are necessities for every family in this country and their prices are rising because of the Democrats' reckless spending agenda. There is no doubt that the Democrats' nonstop Big Government spending is placing tremendous financial stress on the American family. What is worse, Democrats have failed to acknowledge that their outrageous spending has the most devastating impact on low-income Americans, many of whom have to spend beyond their means to afford the basic cost of goods and services. Let me make this very clear. Inflation is a regressive tax that disproportionately affects the poor. Democrats are completely out of touch with the American people. To them, inflation is transitory; nothing to worry about. To the North Carolinians that I represent and speak with every day, inflation is now a real and present problem. What is the Democrats' solution to soaring prices and high prices? Borrowing more money, another $3.5 trillion of taxpayer money to put toward new spending and tax hikes. There is a life lesson here. If you are in a hole, stop digging. Republicans understand that in most households, every dollar counts. But in Biden's economy, all Americans are having to pay more now to get less. We must reverse these disastrous policy decisions to save jobs, protect long-term investments, sustain economic progress, and most importantly, keep more money in taxpayers' pockets. Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina. Madam Speaker, today, I rise in opposition to H.R. 3684. American infrastructure is in dire need of repair, but this is just not the way to do it. One provision lifts a longtime ban against spending Federal money on art and nonfunctional landscaping. It is sad when tax dollars are diverted to afford art projects rather than fixing crumbling bridges, buildings, and roads. That is why I introduced H.R. 3208, which would amend the U.S. Code to explicitly define what the term ``infrastructure'' means so we can better allocate taxpayer dollars. In my bill, the term ``infrastructure'' is defined as being specific to bridges, dams, wharves, roads, highways, ports, buildings, and public utilities, including broadband, airports, and train stations, not childcare. This messaging bill prioritizes Pelosi's party and its green agenda over the needs of this great Nation. I urge my colleagues to vigorously oppose passage of this misguided bill.

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina

Mr. MURPHY of North Carolina. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Lieutenant General Brian David Beaudreault, United States Marine Corps, for his service to our great Nation and his family's faithful service as well. The theme of his distinguished career has been one of achievement with highest honors throughout his 38 years of unconditional service to the United States of America. Lieutenant General Beaudreault is a second-generation Marine--his father, Rene, served in the Marine Corps in World War II. He was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in 1983 after graduating from the University of Massachusetts-Amherst. In his 38 years as a Marine Infantry Officer, he has commanded at every level from the platoon to the Marine Expeditionary Force. Over the course of his career, Lieutenant General Beaudreault has deployed in support of military operations in Somalia, East Timer, Iraq, and Pakistan. Notably, while in command of 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit in Iraq, his masterful leadership in combat helped change the balance of power in Al Anbar Province and accelerate the multi-national force's successful counterinsurgency fight. In various higher headquarters staff positions, including his time as the Marine Corps' Deputy Commandant for Plans, Policies, and Operations, Lieutenant General Beaudreault significantly impacted the Nation's military readiness to face challenges around the globe. We are all safer due to his selflessness and dedication. Lieutenant General Beaudreault's final tour in the Marine Corps is as the Commanding General, II Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF), based at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. It is no easy task to command and care for over 40,000 Marines, Sailors, and their families, but Lieutenant General and Mrs. Beaudreault have excelled at it. During his time in command, II MEF has deployed forces in support of every Geographic Combatant Commander, achieved greater naval integration, and improved the MEF's readiness as a warfighting headquarters. Much of this occurred while II MEF was simultaneously dealing with the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Lieutenant General Beaudreault's leadership during these challenging times is just one more example of the type of Marine that he is--one of the very best. Over his years of faithful service, Lieutenant General Beaudreault has earned the Defense Superior Service Medal, the Legion of Merit, and the Bronze Star, among other awards. Lieutenant General Beaudreault has served 38 outstanding years in support of our beloved Nation and will retire on 8 July 2021. I am delighted to have this opportunity to recognize not only Lieutenant General Beaudreault, but his entire family for their undeniably incredible service to the U.S. Marine Corps and our great nation. Their sacrifice and dedication to our nation is truly remarkable. I wish him and his beloved wife, Karen, well as they embark on a new chapter in their lives. God bless the Beaudreaults, God bless the United States of America, and Semper Fidelis.