Ralph Norman

Mr. NORMAN

Mr. NORMAN. Mr. Speaker, I thank Congressman Cloud for organizing this Special Order on this topic that the country is dealing with today. The Trump administration established strong laws against illegal immigration. President Biden has decided to disregard any success achieved by his predecessor and, instead, announced open borders to the world. This problem was not created due to conditions abroad but by decisions made at home, and they were political decisions, unfortunately. Since President Biden was elected, illegal border crossings have skyrocketed. In February 2020, the CBP announced that over 35,000 migrants tried to cross the border illegally. To put this in context, this past February, that number far surpassed 100,000. Despite having the statistics to prove it, President Biden refuses to call this situation a crisis, which it is. Aside from halting construction on the border wall as performed by President Trump, the Biden administration has reimplemented a system of catch and release and implemented selective enforcement of our immigration laws. They have suspended the removal of most people with active deportation orders and even released COVID-positive detainees into our country. Really? If you go out of the country as an American and come in, you have to be tested. This administration has no policies in place to test or provide masks and definitely not to know what is coming into the country for other viruses. The problems we are experiencing are more than politically motivated. They are counterproductive and put the safety of the American people in jeopardy. Our social systems and border officials don't have the capacity or the resources to handle an overwhelming surge in illegal border crossings. Let me be clear, our immigration system needs judicial review and legislative reform. Americans want a secure southern border. Disregarding any form of success on our border is not the answer that we need. As I said before, legal immigration has countless benefits to this great Nation. We have a right and a responsibility to know who and what comes into our great country.

Mr. NORMAN

Mr. NORMAN. Mr. Speaker, the right of the people to keep and bear arms in the United States is a fundamental principle expressed in our Bill of Rights. Let me be clear: I will never do anything to infringe upon this right clearly laid out in our Second Amendment, but this bill, H.R. 8, will do just that. H.R. 8 is a sweeping piece of legislation that imposes burdens on the constitutional rights of law-abiding citizens. It is plain and simple. This bill is another attempt by Democrats to limit the rights of the American people. This legislation would make it a crime, subject to limited exceptions, to simply hand a firearm to another person. This bill could trigger penalties of up to a year in prison and a $100,000 fine. This bill would make it illegal to transfer a firearm to another person during a life-threatening emergency. That could be considered a crime punishable by a fine of monetary dollars. Also, just so we are on the same page, universal background checks do not stop criminals from possessing firearms. As my colleagues on the other side of the aisle have said: In the United States less than one percent of criminals who had possessed a firearm during their offense got firearms through legal channels--less than one percent. That means that these criminals obtained their firearms outside of the setting that would require a background check to begin with. What makes you believe that this legislation would change that, Mr. Speaker? Our solution should be focused on improving access to mental healthcare services, addressing the root causes of violence, and carrying out our existing laws through investments in our law enforcement and community programs--not walking all over law-abiding citizens for protecting their loved ones. We all swore to uphold the Constitution, and it should be our goal in this Congress to work against legislation like this that would clearly infringe on our Second Amendment rights of American citizens. Mr. Speaker, I will be a resounding ``no'' when it is time to vote.

Mr. NORMAN

Mr. NORMAN. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to call up H.R. 682, the Reopen Schools Act, to get our kids out from behind screens and back in the classroom.

Mr. NORMAN

Mr. NORMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of Sergeant Tommy W. Cudd, a faithful American hero from Union County who passed away on January 28, 2021. Born on March 10, 1960, Tommy was raised by two lovely parents, the late H.C. and Myrtle Smith Cudd. As a child, he assisted his family on their cattle farm where he learned to work with animals and bail hay. Tommy's natural comfort outdoors gave rise to his love for hunting, fishing, camping, and riding tractors. He graduated as a charter student from Union Academy--the very school in which he built alongside his father and lifelong friend, Robert Brown. Tommy spent 37 honorable years in law enforcement. He served as a Reserve Officer, Fireman, and Public Safety Officer with the City of Union before joining the Union County Sheriff's Office. Despite his lengthy and challenging battle with leukemia, Tommy persevered through all facets of his job and was awarded ``Officer of the Year'' on three separate occasions. A true veteran of his field, former colleagues assert that his enduring work ethic was rare to come by and will certainly be missed. Gary was happily married to Beth Cudd and had two sons, Caleb and Tommy. His two beautiful granddaughters, Ella and Abby, were his utmost pride and joy. He wanted nothing more than to make them proud. In the words of Sheriff Jeff Bailey, ``Tommy was a person who always put everyone first.'' He was a remarkable husband, father, and friend who chose to dedicate his life to serving a special community. There is no doubt in my mind that he has left an everlasting mark on Union County.

Mr. NORMAN

Mr. NORMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Diana Bramble on her selection as the new superintendent of South Carolina's Cowpens National Battlefield, located in Gaffney, South Carolina, and Kings Mountain National Military Park, located in Blacksburg, South Carolina. In her new role, Diana will also oversee the management of Overmountain Victory National historic Trail and Ninety Six National Historic Trail which she has managed on a temporary basis since September. Diana has a tremendous reverence for the history of these sites and their place in the history of our Nation's founding. They form the National Park Service's Southern Campaign of the American Revolution Parks Group and are also part of the Liberty Trail, a path of preservation and interpretation across South Carolina telling the remarkable story of American victory in the Revolutionary War. Many historians believe the Revolutionary War to have been decided in the swamps, fields, woods, and mountains of the South, won by the grit of Continental soldiers and Patriot militia. It is because of the important work of men and women like Diana that the history tied to this land will not only be preserved, but also interpreted and brought to life for the public. Diana has served the National Park Service for the last decade. She began her career with the National Park Service in 2011 as the supervisory horticulturist for Rock Creek Park in Washington, D.C. Four years later, she became the chief of maintenance at the National Capital Parks-East. In 2019, Diana was awarded the honor of being the National Park Service National Capital Area Manager of the Year. Diana is also a graduate of the National Park Service Facility Manager Leaders Program and now serves as a program mentor to others. Diana is both a team player and a tremendous leader. She is passionate about leadership and strives to mentor others to bring out their best attributes and support their aspirations. Throughout her tenure with the National Park Service, Diana has been able to combine her educational background in natural resources with her appreciation for storytelling into a successful career in public service. I am grateful for the work of Diana and the National Park Service and all they do to care for our national parks and preserve our legacy. I am excited to welcome Diana to South Carolina's 5th District, and I wish her luck in her new role.

Mr. NORMAN

Mr. NORMAN. Madam Speaker, I have a unanimous consent request at the desk. My request is to allow a 30-second moment of silence for the passing of Rush Limbaugh, one of the greatest radio hosts ever, and I make that as a formal request.

Mr. NORMAN. Madam Speaker, may I request a point of personal privilege.

Mr. NORMAN

Mr. NORMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of Major General Thomas Lee Sinclair who passed away on February 17, 2021. Born to the late John Albert Sinclair and Gladys Lee Sinclair on September 22, 1947, Thomas was raised in Union and graduated from Union High School. He pursued a Bachelor of Science at Clemson University and received both a Master's in Education and EdS degree at Winthrop University. Furthering his studies, Thomas attended the United States Army War College where he received a Master's in Strategic Studies. Thomas served his country as a decorated United States Army veteran of 38 years, retiring after earning the rank of Brigadier General for the South Carolina Army National Guard. While on active-duty, he amassed notable honors including the Legion of Merit, the Army Achievement and National Defense Service Medals, and the South Carolina Palmetto Cross for his dedicated efforts during Operation Hugo. Thomas spent half of his military career in command roles, leading his surrounding staff through significant assignments. For 27 years, Thomas found a fulfilling career in the Union County School System as a high school teacher, junior high school principal, and assistant superintendent. He enjoyed mentoring students and retired as a Union County supervisor. A member of Grace United Methodist Church, Thomas remained faithful and humble through all facets of his life. Former Chairman of the Union Community Foundation and President of the Union Civitan Club, he was determined to leave a lasting mark on his hometown. Thomas was happily married to Kathryn Bowers Sinclair with three adult children, Libby, Kelly, and Tommy, and ten beautiful grandchildren. His presence will certainly be missed by those who knew him, but his legacy will shine on for years to come.

Mr. NORMAN

Mr. NORMAN. Mr. Speaker, here we sit on this fourth day of February and, here we go, we have a pandemic that is shutting down businesses all across this country. We have schools shut down, causing havoc with our children. We have a national debt of over $30 trillion. We have seniors wondering if their Social Security payment will be suspended due to anticipated bankruptcy. We have a Democratic Party focusing today and yesterday on bypassing the legislative process and issuing executive orders defunding our police departments, destroying our energy independence by shutting off our production of oil and gas, allowing men to identify as women and going to any bathroom of choice. And what is the majority, who are spending the hard-earned tax dollars, doing today? Attempting to throw a member of our party, who was duly elected, because of something purportedly to have been said before she got into Congress. Here is what I ask: Throw us all off the committees. Throw all of us off. God, I hope the American people see what you are doing and that this is nothing more than an abuse of power by a party drunk with power.

Mr. NORMAN

Mr. NORMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the accomplishments and life of a true family man and public servant, Maxy Hugh Hammond. Maxy was born in Lancaster, South Carolina, on October 19, 1956. Maxy was from a family that was heavily involved in every facet of service. His father, Maxy Sr., was very active in serving in the Lancaster community, having served on the Lancaster School Board and Lancaster City Council for years and ``whetted the appetite'' for his son to serve the public, which he did for many years, including serving on the Lancaster County Council, United Way, Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club, Economic Development Board, Boy Scout Council, school improvement councils, and many more boards and commissions. Maxy began his work career 45 years ago, including 7 years with the Catawba nuclear plant; Springs Industries for 12 years, where he worked in the engineering department; Kanawha Insurance in sales for 15 years; and vice president of Founders Federal Credit Union for 10 years, retiring on December 31, 2020. Maxy has been married for 42 years to Jennifer Starnes Hammond and has two children, his son, Garrett, and his wife, Elizabeth; and his daughter, Holly, who is married to Matthew Whitley. The joys of Maxy and Jennifer's life are their two granddaughters, Avery Oak, who will be 2 years old in June, and Maryn Reese, who will be 1 year old in April. I had the privilege of viewing and listening to a series of testimonials posted on Facebook about Maxy and what he and his family have meant to the greater Lancaster community, which included heartfelt comments by his family, his friends, and his coworkers from all walks of life. Those who knew him the best had this to say: ``Our office is like a six-pack, and Maxy is the plastic ring that holds our office together.'' ``He never puts himself first. It is about everyone else.'' ``If this building was burning down, he would circle the building two to three times before worrying about himself.'' ``Maxy doesn't care about titles, accolades, or recognition. It is all about others.'' ``If Maxy can make everyone else happy, that is all he wants.'' Maxy Hammond is a true public servant who has lived his life for his God, his family, and his country. On behalf of the Members of the 117th United States Congress, I wish you Godspeed in your retirement years as you spend time with your family and your many friends on the heavenly beaches of the Carolinas.

Mr. NORMAN

Mr. NORMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today for two reasons: One, to voice my strong opposition for the impeachment of this President with 7 days left. Two, to also voice my support for the strong police department many of you want to defund. Where were your cries to defund when you were leaving this office, this very room, on January 6? Height of hypocrisy.

Mr. NORMAN

Mr. NORMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to support the foundation of our democracy, the Constitution of the United States of America. This document is the fabric and the solid foundation of a nation we call America, which has been a beacon of hope and a shining city on the hill for over 230 years. The words of our Constitution, as spelled out in Article II, Section 1, are very clear when it comes to our elections: mandating, not suggesting, not implying, but mandating that State legislatures, not secretaries of State, not State commissions, not county officials, not Governors, but State legislators prescribe the time, place, and manner of holding elections. This mandate was not followed in the great State of Pennsylvania. If we allow this fraud to go on--in a football analogy, the moving of the goalpost after the ball has been kicked and in the air--the preview of coming attractions will be future elections that do not adhere to honest and open voting by ``We the People'' and the loss of our great Republic. As a lady told me not long ago, don't spit in my face and tell me it is raining. This is exactly what has happened to the American people in this election. In the words of Winston Churchill, when Great Britain was under siege by Germany, he said: There will be a time when doing your best is not good enough. We must do what is required. And we must do what is required to save this great Republic.

Mr. NORMAN

Mr. NORMAN. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to come before you today to celebrate National Bible Week. What better time to celebrate Bible Week in what is called the people's House, but what is ultimately God's house. In 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued a national proclamation to celebrate the impact of the Bible on our Nation, a light for so many and a source of hope in the darkest of times. The boundless influence of the Holy Bible on this Nation is unmistakable. In this Chamber, Moses, the messenger of the Ten Commandments, a witness of God in all of his glory upon the mountaintop, watches over this body from above the gallery doors each time we gather to conduct business. However, it is not merely the multitudes of honorary monuments and portraits of Biblical figures and passages that exemplify the importance of the Scriptures to all Americans, but it is the impression on our social fabric that is so evident in our actions, which speaks volumes. This Nation was founded upon Judeo-Christian principles. A stroll past any of the extraordinary monuments here in the Capitol makes that abundantly evident. Our commitment to the fundamentals of the Word of the Lord Jesus has sustained us throughout our rich history, during the highest of times and during the lowest of times. The profound impact of the Bible, and particularly the Gospels, led me to serve in this great body. It is the words of the Son of God, to ``love each other as I have loved you,'' which guides me. And I believe that if we continue to turn to the Lord in all that we do, our best is yet to come. Despite our fierce philosophical differences and the imperfect nature of legislation, God never fails us. An annual celebration of His infallible Word and never-ending love, though not near enough, is the perfect reminder for us to unite as a body with the shared goal of humbly serving our creator faithfully and encouraging this Nation to do the same. God bless each and every one of you.

Mr. NORMAN

Mr. NORMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the release of First Sergeant John E. Hatley from Fort Leavenworth. First Sergeant Hatley is an American hero who, throughout his twenty years of service, risked his life for his country time and time again. His outstanding military career as a soldier and leader in the U.S. Army is recognized by two Bronze Stars and an Army Commendation Medal for Valor--a true testament of his commitment to his country and his fellow soldiers. First Sergeant Hatley was sentenced for the premeditated murder of four Shi'ite fighters in Iraq despite the complete absence of evidence. Not a single scrap of physical or forensic evidence was found in a thorough investigation conducted by the Army Criminal Investigation Division. Notwithstanding this paucity of evidence, First Sergeant Hatley has been imprisoned for nearly a decade. Throughout his time at Fort Leavenworth, First Sergeant Hatley has availed himself of programs available within the barracks for self- improvement, and he has nearly completed a Master of Business Administration degree. He also consistently maintained a positive attitude, led other inmates by example, and even saved a fellow inmate's life. First Sergeant Hatley is a man with strong family support, a stellar military record, a phenomenal moral compass, and an essentially perfect record while incarcerated. His career was characterized by honor, sacrifice, and valor. Now that he will return to his rightful place in life as a contributing member of society, First Sergeant Hatley is planning to build a home for his disabled mother and father. He also plans to marry his girlfriend, Pamela Miller. John, I hope that you may continue to serve as an example to other soldiers and the American people. Thank you for your outstanding service to this country. I wish you the best of luck as you return to your proper place in society, and I wish you a lifetime of happiness in your future marriage and life.

Mr. NORMAN

Mr. NORMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Children's Attention Home in Rock Hill, South Carolina. The Children's Attention Home provides nurturing care and life changing services for youth in need. The Home's noble objective is to provide a temporary care shelter where a child can experience a loving, secure family life until their own home conditions improve or a permanent home can be found. The need for a children's home in Rock Hill became evident 50 years ago when children were being placed in jail due to the lack of emergency shelters and foster homes. To meet this need, individuals, churches, and businesses throughout the community donated their time, energy, and money to rent and renovate a house near Winthrop University. In the fall of 1970, the Children's Attention Home opened its doors to provide shelter for children who had been victims of child abuse. Throughout the last 50 years, the Home has provided the love and care over 8,000 children desperately craved. 8,000 young lives have been improved through initiatives like the Palmetto School, which provides individualized educational opportunities for children, and the Crossroads program, which helps older youth pursue a path to successful independence. The lifechanging work of the Children's Attention Home is a shining example of the sense of community felt across Rock Hill. It is for that reason I congratulate them on a successful 50 years of helping the most vulnerable members of our community, and I look forward to hearing how they continue to serve over the next 50 years.

Mr. NORMAN

Mr. NORMAN. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to call up H.R. 8265 to extend the Paycheck Protection Program to keep millions of employees on the payroll of America's small businesses.

Mr. NORMAN

Mr. NORMAN. Mr. Speaker, today is a special day in which we pause to cherish the bedrock of our union that is the Constitution. The great experiment that is this Nation rests upon the spirit that Madison enshrined in this document. It is the unwavering commitment to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, the American ethos that sustains us to this day. The essence of our democratic republic lies in the words, ``We the People.'' This creed is the glue that holds our United States together, and it ought to be revered. When held close, our Nation will continue to prosper through generations to come. As Henry Clay once said, ``The Constitution of the United States was made not merely for the generation that then existed, but for posterity-unlimited, undefined, endless, perpetual posterity.'' Unique to the world is our tireless belief in a better tomorrow. If we are to sustain this hope, we must maintain an enduring commitment to the ideals of the Constitution. Mr. Speaker, I encourage every American, young and old alike, to study the framework and celebrate the greatest Nation that this world has ever known. Let this day serve as a reminder of everything that was and everything that can be so long as we remain united under the articles of the Constitution.

Mr. NORMAN

Mr. NORMAN. Mr. Speaker, I want every American to look at this picture of what, sadly, has become ``the new normal'' in many cities across our great Nation. The one common thread for all of these cities is that they are run by liberal Democrats who tolerate these criminal activities: buildings deliberately being set on fire, department stores being looted of merchandise, police cars, as you see here, being bashed and torched, and our brave law enforcement officers being executed in broad daylight. Imagine, if you are an owner of these businesses who invested a lifetime of savings, waking up to their places of work being destroyed through no fault of their own. Here is my question: Why have Democrats remained silent on condemning these acts of violence? Is it any coincidence that there is not one Democrat standing with us tonight? Where are they? They are not here. I would submit that this is a preview of coming attractions to cities and towns all across our great country if this lawlessness is allowed to continue. Now is the time to support law enforcement, not defund law enforcement. Now is the time to enforce our laws and put those criminals behind bars if they destroy private property. Now is the time to get back to we, the people, not we, the criminals, not we, the government, not we, the politician. In closing, you do not build up America by tearing down America.

Mr. NORMAN

Mr. NORMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the grand opening of the Cherokee Charter Academy of Gaffney, South Carolina. The Cherokee Charter Academy offers a quality, well-rounded education to students of South Carolina cost-free. Their mission is simple: to be the best educational institution in the Upstate developing the next generation of American citizens. A core belief of the Cherokee Charter Academy is that a good education is not one-size-fits-all. Their commitment to a holistic approach to learning is rooted in the belief that education is best when individual growth is of higher priority than judging a student by the performance of their peers. The academy recognizes the importance of a diverse, rigorous education for young minds which is why in addition to core subjects, students have physical education and are exposed to either music or art class every single day. The Cherokee Charter Academy is where kids get to be kids. Gaffney will not only be the peach capital of South Carolina, but also home to some of the brightest students the state has to offer. I congratulate the town of Gaffney and Cherokee County on their beautiful new elementary school and the students on the bright future ahead of them as the next generation of leaders. Go Patriots.

Mr. NORMAN

Mr. NORMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to apologize to the American taxpayers for this total sham of a process that the Democrats and this leadership are trying to spread. They continue to have Trump derangement syndrome. Here are the questions I would ask my Democrat colleagues: If the Democrats are so concerned, then why have we not had a hearing about the Postal Service issues since June 15 of 2019? If the Democrats are so concerned, why have we not had round-the- clock meetings to discuss the bill that we intend to fund at $25 billion which is being proposed? We have been out of session for 17 percent of the time since March 15. Why haven't we been called back in to discuss this? If you do the math, on $25 billion, and we have got 70 days left, that is roughly $325 million per day. You tell the American taxpayer where you are spending that money. You tell the American taxpayer how we are going to come up with it. You tell the American taxpayer this is like dropping money from a helicopter. If the Democrats are so concerned about the post office, why are we having to vote today when the Postmaster General is appearing at the hearing on Monday? This is just like determining the score of a football game and then playing the game on Monday. It makes no sense. The Democrats have no interest in hearing the testimony of Mr. DeJoy. The only thing they want to do is berate and not give the Postmaster General the opportunity to answer, just like they did Attorney General Barr, which was a disgrace to this country. The taxpayers deserve better. The Democrats will have no discussion on the spying of the President since 2016. The Democrats have no explanation of a failed Mueller Report. The Democrats have no explanation for the impeachment of the President. The post office will fail as well.

Mr. NORMAN

Mr. NORMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in celebration of the 100th Anniversary of Women's Right to Vote. The Nineteenth Amendment, enshrined in our constitution, lifted millions of women closer to equality in all aspects of American life. The right to vote raised women across the nation to an equal footing in the laws and politics that govern them. In my hometown of Rock Hill, South Carolina, The Woman's Club of Rock Hill will be celebrating that hard-earned right. The Woman's Club of Rock Hill was organized in 1939 and is affiliated with some of the largest and oldest women's volunteer service organizations in the world. The Woman's Club of Rock Hill serves our community with distinction. In the very best tradition of civil society, the Club strives to further the cultural, educational and social interest of its members, to promote action in civic development, social welfare, and to preserve its historic property. Much work remains until the equality between man and woman is fully realized, but we should never forget the example set by the historic Suffragette movement, enabled by organizations like the Woman's Club of Rock Hill, that did so much to advance the rights of women. I am proud to honor the 19th Amendment that elevated more than 26 million women from subjects to citizens, thereby bestowing them the means to empower themselves, their families, and all communities. The importance of this amendment to our society cannot be overstated. Today, I want to thank the Woman's Club of Rock Hill for organizing such a special event and take the time to honor all women.

Mr. NORMAN

Mr. NORMAN. Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor one of the greatest heroes our country has ever seen in combat--my constituent, and Lee County's very own, Major James Capers, Jr. Many may not know who Major Capers Jr. is, but he became the first black Marine officer nominated for the Medal of Honor and ultimately received the Silver Star. He is not only a hero in the Marine Corps, but also for his unwavering service in the Special Operations community, as well. Born in Bishopville, South Carolina, in the era of Jim Crow, Major Capers willingly enlisted in the military to serve a nation that did not have his interest at heart. That, in itself, is heroism. Regardless, after finding a home in the Marine Corps, he became the first African American to get a battlefield commission in the Marine Corps Force Recon and was promoted from Staff Sergeant to Second Lieutenant, giving him control over the unit. During the Vietnam War, Capers' team, who called themselves ``Team Broadminded'' conducted covert missions many of which nearly took his life to save his men. Soon after, Major Capers, a trailblazer for African Americans in the Marine Corps, became the face of their recruiting campaign called ``Ask a Marine.'' Capers lost his wife and son to cancer, both of whom are buried in Arlington National Cemetery, but he still regularly receives visits from his fellow soldiers and other young Marines. However, he finally got the recognition he rightfully deserved. In 2010, Major James Capers Jr. was one of only 14 members inducted into the inaugural class of U.S. Special Operations Command's Commando Hall of Honor at a ceremony in front of USSOCOM headquarters at MacDill Air Force Base. Between the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart, and countless other medals, Major James Capers, Jr. exemplifies what it truly means to be a hero--it is not the medals, but someone who stands face to face with adversity and is willing to sacrifice his own life for those of his brothers in Christ. It is my hope that every person of future generations can see and hear of his story, and be willing to do what he has done, and that is to be a hero. With that Madam Speaker, it is my honor and privilege to recognize Major James Capers, Jr.

Mr. NORMAN

Mr. NORMAN. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the gentleman for having this Special Order. It couldn't come at a more unique time. The history, defining America's values, our culture, and our heritage, now more than ever, need to be spotlighted. The gentleman summed it up well. It boils down to three things, faith, family, and country; faith, family, and country. America finds herself in an hour of peril. In the recent weeks and months, we have seen the unhinging of civil order and the near collapse of the rule of law in certain cities. This Chamber should serve as the shining example for the rest of our great country. Sadly, we are failing to live up to that expectation. Instead of open and honest debate, we are allowing the ``cancel culture'' to creep inside these hallowed Halls that have stood for centuries. We hear calls for a ``national conversion,'' a ``wider debate,'' or a ``public reckoning,'' and every day, we are denied it. A new regime of liberal gatekeepers is intent on enforcing this new dogma, even in institutions previously sworn to uphold the importance of the free exchange of ideas. Instead of opportunities for many in America to grow and evolve through discourse, Americans are now losing their livelihood and loved ones over newly invented apostasies. I invite my colleagues on the other side of the aisle to join me in denouncing this uncivil and, to be honest with you, un-American way of disagreeing. We must remind the American people of our beautiful land what it looks like to agreeably disagree. From the exchange of ideas, we can achieve the negotiations and compromises that make up the foundation and the fabric of this great Nation and are the stepping-stones to a more perfect Union. The Federal Government has an obligation to make sure that any institution it supports upholds the Bill of Rights, including the right of freedom of speech. It does not give you, however, the right to tear down this great Nation. It does not give you the right to tear down people's dreams, money that was put in, dollars that were put in to building a lifelong business, to destroy. You do not build America up by tearing down America. We cannot do this in the current state of cancelation. Until we can once again welcome disagreement, debate, and a healthy exchange of ideas, I fear for our future; I fear for our children; and I fear for our grandchildren. In the words of Winston Churchill, who had the fantastic quote when Great Britain was under siege by Germany, he said: There will be a time when doing your best is not good enough. We must do what is required. And I will call on all Americans and, really, on both sides of the aisle, to do what is required to keep America great; to make it even greater; and to go for what made this country great, to uphold our Constitution, our Bill of Rights, and our God-given freedoms that can only come from God. Mr. Speaker, I thank Congressman Arrington for having this Special Order.

Mr. NORMAN

Mr. NORMAN. Mr. Speaker, I will quote from the great Alexander Fraser, who wrote about the decline of democracy. The nations have progressed through this sequence. Very few have existed past 200 years, but they all come to an end. They go ``from bondage to spiritual faith; from spiritual faith to great courage; from courage to liberty; from liberty to abundance; from abundance to selfishness; from selfishness to . . . apathy; from apathy to dependence; from dependence back into bondage.'' I think now we are at a point in time in history where we have got to fight for our freedom, we have got to fight for our country. Mr. Speaker, I ask that people now get involved who have never been involved before.

Mr. NORMAN

Mr. NORMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of my amendment on the Department of Energy Veterans' Health Initiative. This amendment authorizes the Department of Energy (DOE) to conduct collaborative research with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to solve complex, big data challenges in order to improve veterans' health care and further basic research in advanced computing and data analytics. The VA hosts one of the world's largest and most valuable health data sets. Through the Million Veterans program (MVP), the VA has collected detailed health information and genomic data volunteered by over 600,000 veterans. For this data to enable better health care for our veterans, the VA needs more advanced computing capabilities, infrastructure, and expertise than it has in-house. As a world leader in high performance computing, the Department of Energy is well suited to meet this need. Through its national laboratory system, it possesses a unique set of cutting-edge research capabilities and funds robust research in data analytics, which can be used to solve complex questions in the physical sciences. The interagency partnership authorized in my amendment combines the VA's clinical and population science expertise with DOE's advanced computing to solve critical health challenges for our veterans, while creating another path forward for the advancement of data science tools for American researchers in support of key mission goals for the Department of Energy. Our veterans should have access to better health care services, and our scientists should remain leaders in advanced computing. My amendment promises to deliver on both fronts. I encourage my colleagues to support this amendment.