Wiley Nickel

Mr. NICKEL

Mr. NICKEL. Mr. Speaker, on February 24, 2022, the world watched with alarm as Russia invaded Ukraine. Since the start of the invasion, over 100,000 Ukrainians have died fighting to defend Ukraine's sovereignty and the broader principles of freedom and democracy. Now, it has been 2 years since Putin's unprovoked assault on Ukraine. We can't abandon them in their fight for freedom; not today, not tomorrow, never. With Ukraine running out of bullets and Russia advancing in Ukraine, the eyes of the world are on the United States Congress. Authoritarian regimes around the world like Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea are looking closely to see if we will honor our commitments and stand with our democratic ally or if we will hand over Ukraine to Vladimir Putin. If Ukraine falls, Putin will not stop until all of Eastern Europe is within his grasp. If Congress fails to act, it will go down as one of the greatest foreign policy failures in our Nation's history. Let's be clear about where history will place the blame. If Congress fails to act, history won't be kind in the judgment that House Republicans surrendered Ukraine to Russia. In the past, House Democrats and Republicans in the U.S. Congress have united and come together in opposition to Vladimir Putin's unprovoked invasion of Ukraine. We have just seen 22 Republicans in the Senate willing to vote country over party on this issue. I believe there are Republicans in the House willing to do the same. As we look ahead, House Republicans have a choice. Are they prodemocracy or are they pro-Putin? House Republicans can choose country over party or Russia over the United States. House Republicans can stand with our allies, or they can stand with Donald Trump and the pro-Putin wing of the Republican Conference. House Republicans can either stand with democratic nations like Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, or they can bend the knee to authoritarian regimes like Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea. The longer we delay sending aid to Ukraine, the more powerful Putin and other authoritarian regimes become. We can't abandon them in their fight for freedom. That is why I am calling on the Speaker of the House, Mike Johnson, to bring the bipartisan, Senate-passed security package to the floor of the House for an immediate vote. Now, many of my constituents rightly question the high cost of this aid package. Support for Ukraine and our allies is in our national interest. It is a national security issue for the American people. While the costs are high, we will spend a hundred times more money containing an aggressive Russia around the globe if we do nothing. We must stand with our allies. This will be a vote where Members will be forced to choose between democracy and authoritarianism. As I have voted now for Speaker of the House 19 times, I have learned how incredibly fragile our democracy is. We must act now to pass a supplemental aid package and stand with Ukraine. We can either stand with democracies like Israel and Ukraine, or we can bend the knee to Putin and other authoritarian regimes around the globe. Democracy should never be taken for granted. We must be vigilant and proactive to protect it here and around the world. History is watching what happens next. Let's come together, not as Democrats or Republicans, but as Americans, and stand with our ally Ukraine.

Mr. NICKEL

Mr. NICKEL. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the supplemental aid package for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. This morning, the Senate passed the aid package with nearly all Senate Democrats voting in favor of the bill. I thank Senate Democrats for their tireless leadership on this issue and their commitment to democracy around the world. Madam Speaker, 22 Republicans also voted with nearly all Senate Democrats to move this bill to the House; 22 Senate Republicans voted to put country over party; 22 Senate Republicans voted to put democracy over Donald Trump. This bill includes funding to stand with our allies in Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. It also includes $9.2 billion in humanitarian assistance that is desperately needed to provide food, water, shelter, and medical care for the civilians in Gaza and the West Bank, Ukraine, and other war zones around the world. Now, Madam Speaker, the eyes of the world are watching the House of Representatives. Russia is watching. China is watching. Iran is watching. North Korea is watching. Authoritarian regimes around the world are watching the House. They are watching the people's House to see if we will honor our commitments and stand with democracies around the globe. We must stand with Ukraine and our allies. Madam Speaker, the world is watching the United States House of Representatives. Just last night, Speaker Mike Johnson said that the bill was dead on arrival in the House, saying: ``[In] the absence of having received any single border policy change from the Senate, the House will have to continue to work its own will on these important matters.'' He is reading straight out of the Vladimir Putin playbook. Inaction would be a gift to Russia and Vladimir Putin. By doing nothing, we would hand over Ukraine to Russia and Putin. Madam Speaker, Russia would not stop at Ukraine. As soon as Ukraine falls, they would move directly to another NATO ally. Now many of my constituents rightly question the high cost of this aid package. Support for Ukraine and our allies is in our national interest. It is a national security issue. If we hand over Ukraine to Russia, then Putin will win. Our alliances will crumble. While the costs are high, we will spend 100 times more containing an aggressive Russia around the globe if we do nothing. We must stand with our allies. This will be a vote where Members will be forced to choose between democracy and authoritarianism. That is the great challenge of our time, and we cannot fail. If Speaker Johnson fails to bring this bill to the floor, I believe the House will work its own will on this issue. Our Speaker has made it clear that he is totally beholden to far- right MAGA extremists--like we just heard from on the floor. It is the tail wagging the dog. However, I believe that a majority of the Republican Conference would vote for the Senate aid package if they were allowed to work their own will on the bill and this issue. However, if Speaker Johnson brings the bill to the floor, I believe he will be sacked by MAGA extremists in the Republican Conference. Let's be clear, it is the far right that is running the show in the House Republican Conference today. Far too much attention has been given to far-right extremists in this Congress. Much more attention should be given to the members of the Republican Conference who are retiring. Madam Speaker, any one Member can come down to the floor to offer a motion to vacate the chair. Only four House Republicans are needed to elect a new Speaker. If Mike Johnson fails to act, I believe there are many Republicans in the House who agree with the 22 Republicans in the Senate on this issue. I don't think we would have a Democratic Speaker. I believe, though, there is support for a temporary Speaker, a moderate to move bills that can get 60 votes in the Senate and move those through the House. Maybe a temporary Speaker for 2 or 3 weeks? That is what the Nation wants: Members of Congress willing to work together to get things done and to solve our Nation's toughest problems. We have just seen 22 Republicans in the Senate willing to vote country over party on this issue, and I believe there are Republicans in the House willing to do the same. That is the way we get bipartisan immigration reform and border security. It is the way we pass this supplemental appropriations bill to stand with our allies in Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. House Republicans have a choice, Madam Speaker. Are they prodemocracy, or are they pro-Putin? House Republicans can choose country over party or Russia over the United States. House Republicans can stand with our allies, or they can stand with Donald Trump. Will House Republicans stand with democratic nations like Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, or will they stand with authoritarian regimes like Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea? I have hope for the retiring Members of the Republican Conference, and I believe there are Members willing to stand with democracy over Donald Trump. Madam Speaker, you have heard House Democrats come to the floor and talk about voting to put people over politics. This is an issue that is people over politics, and we must not fail.

Mr. NICKEL

Mr. NICKEL. Mr. Speaker, on October 7, Alex Danzig was brutally kidnapped by Hamas terrorists from his kibbutz in Nir Oz. I rise today to share Alex's story. Alex is a 75-year-old father, historian, and beloved grandfather. Alex was born in Poland and spent his life dedicated to Holocaust education. For the past 30 years, he has worked at Yad Vashem--The World Holocaust Remembrance Center. Over the past 30 years, Alex has traveled between Israel and Poland, working to facilitate dialogue between the people of both countries. He has been called ``a great communicator who knows how to speak to young people and can break down barriers.'' It has been more than 100 days since his kidnapping. Alex spent International Holocaust Remembrance Day in unthinkable and inhumane conditions. According to reports about the first wave of hostages, even while in captivity, Alex was still giving history lectures. For those who know him, it should come as no surprise. His lifelong dedication to Holocaust education is inspiring, and it is heartbreaking that such a prolific human rights defender is now being held hostage by Hamas terrorists. He has dedicated his life to understanding how and why the Holocaust happened, only to have his life irrevocably changed by the same strain of hatred and violence that is anti-Semitism. It is so incredibly important to make sure that the hostages are not forgotten and that their stories continue to be told until they are safely returned home. That is why I stand here today to demand that Hamas release Alex immediately, along with all the remaining hostages. Let's be clear. Kidnapping innocent civilians like Alex is not a form of resistance. It is a cowardly, shameful act of terrorism. Likewise, October 7 was not an act of resistance but a brutal, barbaric, and calculated attack against the Jewish people and the State of Israel. Hamas is not a resistance movement; it is a terrorist group whose mission is the destruction of Israel and the death of every single Jewish person. If Hamas and its leaders truly cared about its people as they claim, they wouldn't continually disregard humanitarian law and the rules of war, including intentionally targeting civilians, taking hostages, using human shields, and embedding their fighters in civilian communities with utter disregard for their safety and welfare. The United States of America remains resolute in its position. Terrorism can never be justified. Violence against civilians, particularly children and the elderly, is never acceptable. We must dismantle Hamas and free the Israeli citizens wrongfully held hostage. Israel has proven its willingness to pause the fighting for hostages to be returned to their loved ones. Hamas broke the first hostage deal, just as it broke the cease-fire that was in place before October 7. Unfortunately, a cease-fire today would leave Hamas with control of the Gaza Strip and allow the terrorist organization to re-arm and continue its attack against innocent civilians, including innocent children and the elderly. I call on Qatar and other nations with ties to Hamas to increase the pressure on the terrorist group to free all Israeli hostages immediately. I stand with Alex and his family, friends, and loved ones, and I pray for his safe return. It is time to bring Alex home. It is time to bring all of the hostages home.

Mr. NICKEL

Mr. NICKEL. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to honor and celebrate an icon of North Carolina's cultural landscape. Mr. Ira David Wood, III, as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of his legendary portrayal of Ebenezer Scrooge in Ira David Wood, III's ``A Christmas Carol.'' Mr. Wood's unique and comedic adaptation of this Christmas classic has become a beloved holiday tradition for the Raleigh community. As the first Eagle Scout in Enfield, North Carolina, and one of the first students to graduate from the North Carolina School of Arts. Mr. Wood has always been a trailblazer and his passion for the arts has been unwavering. His visionaly leadership in theater, coupled with his remarkable talents as an actor, author, singer, and playwright, has left a profound impact on the arts in North Carolina. As the founder and Executive Director of Theatre in the Park in Raleigh, Mr. Wood has been instrumental in making theater more accessible and engaging for our community. Mr. Wood wrote and directed the Opening Ceremonies for the U.S. Olympic Festival in 1987, served as a guest artist with the North Carolina Symphony and the National Symphony Orchestra, and has written numerous original plays and three books. His success in elevating North Carolina's vibrant all scene has earned him prestigious recognitions, including two Medal of Arts awards, the North Carolina Award in Fine Arts, and The Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the highest civilian honor in North Carolina. It's with great admiration and gratitude that we celebrate Ira David Wood, III's 50 years of artistic excellence, particularly his innovative and humorous rendition of ``A Christmas Carol.'' As we celebrate this milestone, let's applaud Mr. Wood's extraordinary contributions not only to the arts but to the heart and soul of North Carolina. Please join me in congratulating Mr. Wood on this remarkable achievement and wishing him continued success.

Mr. NICKEL

Mr. NICKEL. Mr. Speaker, Harry Truman famously labeled the 80th United States Congress the ``do-nothing Congress.'' Back then, Republicans controlled the House and Senate for the first time in a while, while Truman was in the White House. Congress opposed all of Truman's Fair Deal bills but still saw some work on both the Truman Doctrine and the Marshall Plan. They also passed the Taft-Hartley Act over Truman's veto but generally did very little for the American people. After that do-nothing Congress, Democrats were able to take back the House, take back the Senate, and reelect President Truman. I, of course, think of the famous photo of Truman standing with the newspaper that says: ``Dewey Defeats Truman.'' It turns out the American people like having a Congress working to solve problems. This is a job about results, and that Congress did very little. That is a big reason why voters chose to send the Republican majority in the House and Senate packing back then. Now, we are in the 118th Congress, and we are on track to be one of the least productive Congresses in our Nation's history. Mr. Speaker, 22 bills have been signed into law. At about this point in the last Congress, 81 bills had been signed into law. At this point in the 116th Congress, the Congress just before that, 107 bills had been signed into law. Mr. Speaker, what have we accomplished for the American people? I will tell you what: Virtually nothing. We have just 4 legislative days left this year, and we have very little to show for it. We have passed two CRs and raised the debt ceiling, but that is really about it. To this date, we have been defined by the chaos and confusion in the Republican Congress and the 19 votes for the Speaker of the House so far this year. We are truly the do-nothing Congress. We haven't passed funding for Israel or Ukraine. We haven't passed a farm bill or reauthorized the FAA. Border security and immigration reform are top-of-mind issues that need to be resolved. Yet, we will be facing another government shutdown when we come back in January. Mr. Speaker, the clock is ticking, and the American people are counting on us to do what we were sent here to do--to vote, to get things done. The world is at a critical juncture, and our inaction speaks volumes. In Ukraine, we have heard from our diplomatic and defense leaders about the precarious situation in Ukraine and in Israel. Right now, we risk Ukraine literally running out of bullets. If we do nothing by the end of the year, Vladimir Putin will win. The silence in this Chamber is easily mistaken around the world as support for Moscow, and we cannot let that happen. The majority of the Republican Conference, I believe, supports standing with Ukraine, but the vocal minority in the Republican Conference has been able to block all action so far this year. It is the tail wagging the dog, and it is disgraceful. Let's talk about the cost. If we gift wrap Ukraine for Vladimir Putin this holiday season, we will spend 100 times more money down the road containing an aggressive Russia all over the world. This is a national security issue for the American people. Support for Ukraine is in our national interest. Let's talk about Israel. Like Russia, Hamas poses an existential threat to democracy. It is our duty to firmly stand with our democratic allies. The majority of the Members of this Chamber support a clean security and humanitarian aid package to Israel, yet nothing has happened. It is shameful that our new Speaker has chosen to play partisan political games with support for Israel. Listen, Mr. Speaker. Something has got to give in this Congress. Democrats have a narrow majority in the Senate; Republicans have a very narrow--soon to be even more narrow--majority in the House; and Democrats have the White House. We have to work together if we are going to get anything done. Until the Republican Conference begins to understand that, we will continue to accomplish nothing for the American people. I believe we can work together. I believe we can pass a bill to support Israel and Ukraine, strengthen our southern border, and pass immigration reform, but only if we do it together. That is the challenge we have, Mr. Speaker. There is still time to act. There is still time to vote. There is still time to come back next week to pass support for Israel and Ukraine. We need to do it. We need to get things done. We do not want to be defined as the do-nothing Congress. I am here to get to work, and I encourage all of my colleagues to join me in reaching across the aisle and working together to get these things done.

Mr. NICKEL

Mr. NICKEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise to speak on the urgent need to stand up for democracy at home and abroad. Yesterday, Members of Congress heard from our Secretary of State, our Secretary of Defense, and other senior leaders from the administration on the dire situation in Ukraine and Israel. While they said the right things, the sense of urgency, the sense of passion is missing from all of this right now. It is missing from this debate, Mr. Speaker. If we leave next week for the holidays with inaction, Russian will win, and we will begin to hand over Ukraine to Russia and Vladimir Putin. Mr. Speaker, the world is watching the actions of this Chamber right now in the next 10 days, and the silence is deafening. Let's be clear: Both Russia and Hamas seek to destroy democracy, and we must stand with our allies and pass a supplemental aid package now. Mr. Speaker, I want to talk about Ukraine. Right now, we risk Ukraine literally running out of bullets if we go 10 days with inaction here in Congress. If we do nothing by the end of the month, Russia will begin to win in Ukraine. If we abandon Ukraine, Russia will win. We need to be clear: The silence and inaction we are seeing play out here on the floor of the House means strong support for Russia and their invasion of Ukraine. That is the choice we are making by doing nothing. Mr. Speaker, Ronald Reagan is rolling over in his grave right now as he watches far-right extremist Republicans standing with Russia and Vladimir Putin. How has the Republican Party become the party of Vladimir Putin? Mr. Speaker, this place is broken. I want to be clear in what I am saying. We are witnessing a minority of the Republican Conference calling the shots in this Chamber. A majority of the Republican Conference supports standing with Ukraine, but they have been cowed by the minority in their party, and we continue to see the tail wagging the dog. To my Republican colleagues who remain silent, the time for action is now. Allow a clean vote on the supplemental funding package for Ukraine and for Israel. We must stand strong with Ukraine today. Let's talk about the cost because that has been brought up over and over. If we gift wrap Ukraine for Vladimir Putin over this holiday season, we will spend 100 times more money around the globe containing an aggressive Russia. Moldova and Georgia are next. This is a national security issue for the American people, and support for Ukraine is in our national interest. Mr. Speaker, I want to talk about Israel as well. We must stand with Israel and support its right to defend itself. We must immediately pass humanitarian aid and security aid for Israel so that we can disarm and dismantle Hamas. Mr. Speaker, 400 Members of this Chamber would easily support a clean security and humanitarian assistance package for Israel. It is shameful that our new Speaker chose to play partisan political games with support for Israel. For the American people watching, the bill that passed out of this Chamber says we will stand with Israel, absolutely, only if we defund the police for billionaires and wealthy tax cheats. That is the choice that this body had, and it is shameful. When someone's house is on fire, we don't say, hey, we will put out the fire as long as you let us not pay for a bunch of IRS agents to go after billionaires and wealthy tax cheats. You help them when their house is burning down. Right now, that is what we are watching in Israel with Israel security assistance and humanitarian aid that we need to provide to the Palestinian people in Gaza. An overwhelming majority of Members support standing with Ukraine and standing with Israel. If we could get a clean vote on this bill on the floor, it would pass, but it is time for action. Let me say that House Democrats, Senate Democrats, and Senate Republicans all agree on the need to support Israel and Ukraine, and I would even say a majority of the Republican Conference agrees. However, we can't get a vote on this as long as the far-right extremists of the Republican Conference continue to wag the tail of the dog in this House. Mr. Speaker, this is about the future of democracy for the world. The defining question for our great experiment in self-governance is whether we can defend democracy at home and abroad. We will face that question about defending democracy at home in November, but right now, we need to stand and be counted. Authoritarianism is on the rise around the globe. We can either stand with democracies like Israel and Ukraine or we can bend the knee to Putin, terrorists, and other authoritarian regimes around the world. As I voted for Speaker 19 times now, I have learned how incredibly fragile our democracy is. We must act now to pass a supplemental aid package and stand with Ukraine and Israel. The world is watching, Mr. Speaker. Bring a clean bill to the floor now. The time for action is now.

Mr. NICKEL

Mr. NICKEL. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Dr. James West, a revered Wake County commissioner and a true champion for the people of North Carolina. It is with deep sorrow that we mark his passing but with immense gratitude that we celebrate his legacy. His journey, from protesting segregation in the sixties along with Jesse Jackson to serving as a Raleigh City councilman and Wake County commissioner, was marked by a relentless commitment to justice and equality. Dr. West's legacy is not just in the numerous programs he initiated or the pivotal policies he championed but in the countless lives that he touched, mine included, the community leaders he inspired, and the unquantifiable impact of his vision and compassion. We remember Dr. West for his Dr. West-isms, his wisdom, and his unwavering faith in the power of community. As we mourn Dr. James West's passing, we also celebrate his extraordinary life, a life dedicated to service, equality, and the betterment of Wake County and its people. Celebrating Mr. Ira David Wood III

Mr. NICKEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor and celebrate an icon of North Carolina's cultural landscape, Mr. Ira David Wood III, as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of his legendary portrayal of Ebenezer Scrooge in Ira David Wood's ``A Christmas Carol.'' Mr. Wood's unique and comedic adaptation of this Christmas classic has become a beloved holiday tradition for the Raleigh community. His visionary leadership in theater, coupled with his remarkable talents as an actor, author, singer, and playwright, has left a profound impact on the arts in North Carolina. As the founder and executive director of Theatre in the Park in Raleigh, Mr. Wood has been a cornerstone of Raleigh's vibrant art scene since 1972. His leadership and vision have earned him prestigious recognitions, including two Medal of Arts awards and The Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the highest civilian honor in North Carolina. As we celebrate this milestone, let's applaud Mr. Wood's extraordinary contributions not only to the arts but to the heart and soul of North Carolina. Please join me in congratulating Mr. Wood on this remarkable achievement and wishing him continued success. School Safety

Mr. NICKEL. Mr. Speaker, last week I visited the site of the 2018 Marjory Stoneman Douglas school shooting in Parkland, Florida. Meeting the victims' families was a heartbreaking experience that I will never forget. There is no way to describe what it felt like to see the bullet- riddled, bloodstained classrooms and hallways that remain frozen in time. We owe it to each victim and family impacted by this tragedy to stop the epidemic of gun violence plaguing our Nation. Just this week, another act of senseless violence rocked my district when a student was tragically killed and another seriously injured at Southeast Raleigh Magnet High School. My thoughts are with the victims' families and loved ones affected by this unspeakable tragedy. I am sure a lot more details will be released in the coming days, but for now our mission remains clear: We can and must do more to keep our kids safe in school. I remain committed to working with anyone on solutions to protect our kids. Standing with Israel

Mr. NICKEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the No Funds for Iranian Terrorism Act. For years, the Iranian regime has aided and abetted terrorist organizations, including Hamas. On October 7, we saw Iranian-backed Hamas terrorists carry out a brutal and barbaric assault against the Jewish people and the State of Israel. Both Iran and Hamas seek to destroy democracy, and we must hold them accountable for their actions. I am proud to support this bill coming to the floor today that will ensure that not a single dollar of this funding, whether directly or indirectly, goes to support Hamas or its efforts to destroy Israel. We must continue to stand with Israel and ensure they have the funding and resources to disarm and dismantle Hamas and every Iranian- backed terrorist threat.

Mr. NICKEL

Mr. NICKEL. Mr. Speaker, today I rise with a heavy heart to honor the life and legacy of a true champion of the people, Dr. James West, a revered Wake County Commissioner and a beacon of hope for many in our community. It's with deep sorrow that we mark his passing, but with immense gratitude that we celebrate his legacy. Dr. James West dedicated his life to public service, always striving to uplift those in need. From his early days as a college student in the 1960s, peacefully protesting segregation in Greensboro alongside Jesse Jackson, to his extensive service as a Raleigh City Councilman and Wake County Commissioner, his journey was marked by a relentless commitment to justice and equality. His academic achievements, including a doctorate in education, and a three-decade-long career at the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service at NC State University laid the foundation for his deep understanding of the issues facing our community. Dr. West was proud to be the first black person in the U.S. to become Director of County Operations for the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service, with the responsibility of supervising over 1,000 faculty and staff members. Dr. West's tenure on the Raleigh City Council, including his time as Mayor Pro Tem, was characterized by his visionary leadership and his ability to forge meaningful partnerships. His work with the Southeast Raleigh Alliance, which he co-founded, exemplified his commitment to economic empowerment and community development. In his role as a County Commissioner, Dr. West was instrumental in the creation of the Live Well Wake initiative, aimed at enhancing the health and wellbeing of the community. His efforts to expand affordable housing and his leadership in the Health and Human Services Committee highlight his holistic approach to public service and his belief that every individual deserves dignity and stability. Dr. West's legacy is not just in the programs he initiated or the policies he championed, but in the countless lives he touched, the community leaders he inspired, and the unquantifiable impact of his compassion and leadership. We remember Dr. West for his ``Dr. West-isms,'' his wisdom, and his unwavering faith in the power of community. He taught us the importance of strengthening our ``spiritual infrastructure,'' and he believed deeply in the potential of every individual. As we mourn Dr. James West's passing, we also celebrate his extraordinary life--a life dedicated to service, equality, and the betterment of Wake County and its people. My thoughts are with his family, friends, and all those who were fortunate enough to know him.

Mr. NICKEL

Mr. NICKEL. Madam Speaker, last week Moody's changed its rating outlook on the United States Government from stable to negative. This was a direct consequence of partisan gridlock, continued political polarization, and the chaos and confusion that we see playing out here on the House floor with 19 votes for Speaker already. That is why it was so important that we passed a short-term government funding bill to keep the Federal Government open through January. Avoiding a government shutdown will help restore trust in the United States economy and ensure that working families aren't affected by the chaos and confusion that we, again, see playing out here in Washington. As we look ahead, we must continue to put people over politics and deliver a real budget that funds critical services, secures our border, and supports our allies in Israel and Ukraine. I remain ready to work in a bipartisan way to deliver results for the American people.

Mr. NICKEL

Mr. NICKEL. Mr. Speaker, we need to make it easier, not harder, for eligible voters to make their voices heard in our elections. We need to make sure that voting is accessible to everyone, whether they want to go to the polls, vote early, or vote by mail. In Congress, there is so much we can do to make it easier for people to vote and participate in our democracy. It starts with passing the John Lewis Voting Rights Act and the Freedom to Vote Act. These commonsense bills would end partisan gerrymandering, expand voting by mail, protect early voting, help get big money out of our elections, combat dark money, support election integrity, and make additional reforms to improve ballot access. It is time to put politics aside and get these commonsense bills across the finish line. I will continue to do everything I can to protect the right to vote and work to make it easier for people to vote and to participate in our democracy. Congratulating Mayor Ken Marshburn on His Retirement

Mr. NICKEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor and celebrate the exemplary service of Mayor Ken Marshburn, a distinguished leader and devoted public servant to the town of Garner. During his time in office, Mayor Marshburn has worked tirelessly alongside council members, town staff, and community leaders to enhance the quality of life in Garner. He has an unwavering belief in Garner's potential and has always worked to make Garner a place where people can not only live but also thrive. Mayor Marshburn's leadership is coming to an end today with our elections in Garner. He has steered Garner toward a positive and prosperous future. His commitment to fiscal responsibility has laid a solid foundation for the town's growth, attracting new businesses that enrich our economic diversity. His legacy is one of leadership, service, and unwavering dedication to our community. I ask my colleagues to join me in applauding Mayor Ken Marshburn for his unwavering commitment and invaluable contributions to the town of Garner and extending our best wishes to him and his family as they embark on this well-deserved retirement. Our community is richer and brighter due to his leadership and service. I again thank Mayor Marshburn for his service. Fighting Hatred in All Forms

Mr. NICKEL. Mr. Speaker, in North Carolina last year, anti-Semitic incidents increased by 30 percent. The ongoing conflict in Israel has led to even more anti-Semitic attacks both in the U.S. and around the world. Just this week, the ADL's Center on Extremism reported a nearly 400 percent increase in anti-Semitic incidents compared to the same period last year. The situation has been even worse since Hamas launched a brutal and calculated attack against Jewish people and the State of Israel on October 7. In New York, Jewish students at Cooper Union College were forced to shelter inside the school library on Wednesday for their own safety during a campus protest. In Indianapolis, a woman deliberately crashed her car into the building of what she believed was a pro-Jewish organization. Mr. Speaker, we have an obligation to remain vigilant against anti- Semitism, discrimination, and prejudice. Let's work to fight hatred in all forms and ensure that the scourge of anti-Semitism does not rear its ugly head both at home and abroad. Avoiding a Government Shutdown

Mr. NICKEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise to discuss our core job here in Congress, funding the Federal Government. We have 10 days until a government shutdown. Mr. Speaker, I will say that again, 10 days, just over a week until the government runs out of money. A government shutdown would hurt the economy, risk our national security, and would be a disaster for North Carolina. Hundreds of thousands of people would be put on temporary leave without pay or be forced to work without pay. Essential staff--like our TSA agents, air traffic controllers, and many others--would be required to work without pay through the duration of any shutdown. Mr. Speaker, there is only one path forward, and that is bipartisanship. Republicans have a very narrow majority in the House. Democrats have a very narrow majority in the Senate. We have the White House, but we have to work together. Right now there is no plan to fund our government, and we have to do it next week. This needs to be a priority for this body, for this institution, and we have to do our job. The American people expect us to fund the government, and right now there is no plan to do that. A shutdown will cost taxpayers money. It will hit our economy hard. My constituents are hit hard right now with the rising cost of inflation, the high cost of mortgages, and the continuing costs that hit hard, whether it is childcare or healthcare. A shutdown would be an incredible unforced error at this time. Mr. Speaker, we need to fund the government.

Mr. NICKEL

Mr. NICKEL. Mr. Speaker, yesterday, I cast a ``no'' vote for a highly partisan supplemental appropriations bill providing security aid to Israel. Let me be clear: I stand with Israel. Israel isn't just any ally. It is a cornerstone of democracy in one of the most volatile regions in the world. Security assistance should never be tethered to a hyperpartisan, domestic financial concession. The offset in this bill, slashing IRS staff, actually adds to the deficit and would allow billionaires to get away with cheating on their taxes. In matters of foreign policy, especially with crucial allies like Israel, we must rise above partisan politics. When a bipartisan supplemental appropriations bill containing aid for Israel comes back from the Senate without poison pills, I will wholeheartedly support it. That is the clear path forward here and the best way to support our friend and ally, Israel.

Mr. NICKEL

Mr. NICKEL. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to honor and celebrate the exemplary service of Mayor Ken Marshburn, a distinguished leader, and devoted public servant to the Town of Garner. I'm privileged to recognize his remarkable contributions to our community and express our collective gratitude. Before Ken Marshburn was elected as Garner's mayor in 2019, he served on the Town Council for twelve years. He was also on the board of the Garner Economic Development Corporation, which led the redevelopment of the former ConAgra site into a bustling Amazon fulfillment center, further solidifying Garner's role in the economic prosperity of our region. Beyond his civic leadership, Mayor Marshburn has exhibited a life of dedication to public service, retiring as the Chief of U.S. Pretrial Services for the Eastern District of North Carolina, after a laudable 26-year career. He and his wife, the equally esteemed Ms. Faye Marshburn, who served the Wake County Public School System, have been pillars of the Garner community for over three decades. It's impossible to miss the philanthropic spirit of the Marshburns. Both Mayor Marshburn and Mrs. Marshburn have been steadfast volunteers with Meals on Wheels of Wake County as well as active members of Garner First Baptist Church. Furthermore, Mayor Marshburn's passion for education and youth empowerment is evident from his fourteen-year service as guardian ad litem for Wake County, his fifteen-year tenure as a reading tutor in Garner schools, and his unwavering commitment to the Garner Morning Rotary Club for nearly two decades. Mayor Marshburn's leadership has steered Garner towards a positive and prosperous future. His commitment to fiscal responsibility has laid a solid foundation for the town's growth, attractIng new businesses that enrich our economic diversity. His legacy is one of leadership, service, and unwavering dedication to our community. I ask my colleagues to join me in applauding Mayor Ken Marshburn for his unwavering commitment and invaluable contributions to Garner and extending our best wishes to him and his family as they embark on this well-deserved retirement. Our community is undeniably richer and brighter due to his leadership and service.

Mr. NICKEL

Mr. NICKEL. Mr. Speaker, yesterday, the North Carolina General Assembly voted to pass an extreme, partisan gerrymander of our State's congressional map. To be clear, this is Republican legislators trying to handpick their own voters and predetermine the outcome of elections before they ever happen. This is not a new practice. In nearly every State, partisan gerrymandering has been used as a tool by politicians to manipulate electoral outcomes with surgical precision. It doesn't matter who is doing it--Democrats or Republicans-- gerrymandering is bad for democracy. It is time to end gerrymandering and implement a nonpartisan, independent redistricting commission in every State. We need to pass the Freedom to Vote Act now. By taking politicians out of the redistricting process, we can restore fairness and ensure that voters are the ones choosing their politicians, not the other way around. No matter what happens, I am going to keep fighting for North Carolina. It is time to restore faith in our government, end gerrymandering, and protect the right to vote for every single North Carolinian.

Mr. NICKEL

Mr. NICKEL. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, it's with great reverence that I rise today to celebrate the life and legacy of Mayor Koka Booth, Jr., a cherished leader who dedicated his life to the town of Cary, North Carolina. Koka Booth's enduring impact on our community is immeasurable, and I'm honored to pay tribute to his memory. Koka Booth was born on August 12, 1932, in Kenova, West Virginia. His journey through life was filled with remarkable achievements and selfless service to others. After graduating from Kenova High School in 1950, Koka's path led him to Rocky Mount where he met his beloved wife, Blanche W. Booth. The two were wed in 1954, embarking on a lifelong journey together. Koka later made his home in Cary, North Carolina, and rejoined Aeroglide Corporation before he devoted his talents to the SAS Institute, until his retirement in 2007. Koka Booth held an unwavering love for the town of Cary, often saying that he may not have been from Cary, but he got there as swiftly as he could. This love for his community led him to serve on the Cary town council from 1977 to 1987, followed by a distinguished tenure as the town's Mayor until 1999. Koka's visionary leadership played a pivotal role in shaping Cary from a town of 18,000 residents to a thriving, family- friendly community of 94,000 by the 1990's. His groundwork paved the way for Cary to become North Carolina's seventh largest city. In addition to his political and business accomplishments, Koka Booth was a man of exceptional character and a dedicated mentor. He shared his wealth of experience with the youth of his community as a Scoutmaster for the Boy Scouts. In 2001, Cary honored Koka Booth's dedication and passion by naming the iconic Koka Booth Amphitheater in his honor. This gesture encapsulates the town's profound gratitude for his unwavering commitment to its betterment and his profound love for music. Koka Booth saw his life's mission as one of community service, and he fulfilled that mission with an unwavering dedication to the town of Cary and its cherished residents. As we mourn the loss of a true Cary luminary, we also celebrate a life well-lived and a legacy that will endure for generations to come. Koka Booth's impact on our community is undeniable, and we are fortunate to have been touched by his enthusiastic efforts and innovative leadership. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I ask my esteemed colleagues to join me in honoring the life and legacy of Mr. Koka Booth, Jr. and to extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the entire community of Cary, North Carolina. May his memory inspire us to continue his work in building and nurturing the wonderful town he loved so dearly.

Mr. NICKEL

Mr. NICKEL. Mr. Speaker, it is Monday morning, and the Federal Government is open for business. We came just hours away from a shutdown this weekend, with 209 House Democrats and 125 House Republicans voting to put people over politics. A government shutdown would have been a disaster for the American people, and I am glad Democrats and reasonable Republicans were able to come together to get a short-term funding package through the House, the Senate, and onto the President's desk with just hours to spare. This short-term funding package includes an extension of FAA authorization, funding for flood insurance programs, and $16 billion for disaster relief. Most importantly, it will keep the lights on for the over 6,500 Federal employees in North Carolina's 13th District. Looking ahead, this short-term funding package gives us more time to come together, find common ground, and pass bipartisan spending bills for the full year. For Democrats, that means funding for Ukraine. Our support for Ukraine cannot waver. I wish we didn't have to spend any money in Ukraine, but if Vladimir Putin wins, we will have to spend a thousand times more trying to contain an aggressive and emboldened Russia around the globe. If we abandon Ukraine, Russia will win. Putin will win. Support for Ukraine is in our national interest, Mr. Speaker. For Republicans, that means securing the border and taking up immigration reform. As a member of the Problem Solvers Caucus and a member of the New Democrat Coalition's Immigration and Border Security Task Force, I remain focused and committed to working across the aisle to secure our border and advance comprehensive immigration reform. I believe that the best path forward is through the Bipartisan Keep America Open Act that I have cosponsored and is being led by the Problem Solvers Caucus. This legislation upholds the top-line numbers agreed to in the bipartisan budget agreement. It includes funding for Ukraine, which is desperately needed. It includes title 42 reform legislation that I helped introduce with a bipartisan group of Members earlier this year that will help secure the southern border while giving us more time to enact meaningful, long-term reforms to our overburdened immigration system. It also includes bipartisan reforms to increase transparency and address long-term spending, an area where I agree with my Republican colleagues. The path to 218 votes on the budget won't come from the far left or the far right. It comes from the center, with proposals just like this one. The reality is that we have only 44 days to get this done, or we are right back to where we started over the weekend. We never should have been in this situation in the first place. A short-term CR is a Band-Aid on a long-term problem. That is why I have introduced the bipartisan No Budget, No Pay Act. My bill would withhold Members' pay if both Houses don't agree to a concurrent budget resolution by April 15 for the fiscal year starting October 1, or if both Houses haven't passed all the regular appropriations bills by September 30 for the fiscal year starting October 1. We could have been in a situation this morning where our entire Federal Government workforce was getting no pay, but Members of Congress still would have been getting their paychecks, and that is wrong. This bill will incentivize Congress to get it done and prevent future government shutdowns. This brinkmanship is no good for our economy. I came to Congress to get things done. I will continue to set aside the noise, find common ground wherever it exists, and deliver for the people of North Carolina's 13th District.

Mr. NICKEL

Mr. NICKEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the remarkable life and contributions of Mr. Ted B. Silver, who marked his centennial milestone on September 23, 2023. It's a profound honor to recognize a man whose legacy embodies the very essence of service, dedication, and community spirit. Ted Silver's journey began in Mitchell County, and from there, he embarked on a lifetime of service to his country, community, and fellow citizens. Mr. Silver honorably served in the U.S. Merchant Marine, demonstrating his commitment to safeguarding our nation's interests during a pivotal period in history. Following his military service, he spent over four decades working for Standard Oil, where he ascended to the role of district manager for the LP gas division before retiring in 1988. However, it's Mr. Silver's unwavering dedication to the Garner community that truly sets him apart. He served as the first president of the Garner Civitan Club, an organization of volunteer service clubs dedicated to helping people in their communities. Throughout his years as a Civitan, Ted Silver has been a tireless advocate for the youth of Garner. He championed initiatives supporting organizations such as the Boys and Girls Homes, the Tammy Lynn Center, and the Caswell Center. Ted Silver's involvement extended to the Civitan Club's Pop Warner Football program, where he volunteered his time and expertise. Additionally, he administered the Civitan scholarship program for students at Garner Senior High, embodying the spirit of giving back to the next generation. He worked hand in hand with the Junior Civitan Club at the high school, imparting wisdom and instilling the values of community service. Mr. Silver's dedication and selflessness have not gone unnoticed within the Civitan community. He received numerous accolades, including the Garner Civitan of the Year Award in 1977, the Latt Wall Memorial Award in 1986, the Club Honor Key Award in 1991, and the esteemed Life Membership, Civitan's highest honor, in 1998. Beyond the Civitan Club, Ted Silver has made a meaningful impact on Garner and its residents. He's participated in programs aimed at assisting people with mental and physical disabilities. He also dedicated himself to working with children with developmental disabilities in Garner schools. Mr. Speaker, I ask my esteemed colleagues to join me in extending our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Mr. Ted B. Silver as he celebrates his remarkable 100th birthday. His lifetime of service, dedication, and tireless advocacy for the betterment of Garner and its youth exemplify the very essence of what it means to be a true community leader. May his legacy continue to inspire us all for generations to come. Happy 100th birthday to Mr. Silver.

Mr. NICKEL

Mr. NICKEL. Mr. Speaker, right now, we are on the path to a government shutdown caused by extremist Members who are unwilling to put politics aside, to do what is right for the country. A government shutdown would be a disaster for North Carolina. It would leave 6,574 Federal workers in my district without a paycheck, it would jeopardize benefits for over 49,000 veterans in my district, and it would hurt our economy. The last shutdown permanently cost our country $3 billion. That was only a partial shutdown. We can't afford to do that again. That is why I have introduced the No Budget, No Pay Act. This bill has a simple idea: Members of Congress shouldn't get paid if we don't do our jobs. I am proud to say this bill now has bipartisan support in the House. I came to Congress to get things done, and I will continue to work in a bipartisan way to avoid a government shutdown and do what is right for North Carolina.

Mr. NICKEL

Mr. NICKEL. Mr. Speaker, it's my honor to pay tribute to the distinguished career of Wake County Public School System Superintendent Catty Moore. It's my privilege to recognize her invaluable contributions to the families and students of Wake County and to wish her a happy and well-deserved retirement. Superintendent Moore received her bachelor's degree at North Carolina State University before earning her master's degree at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She's currently pursuing a doctoral degree at East Carolina University. She began her career as a high school French teacher in the Nash- Rocky Mount Public School system, before moving to teach in Wake County at Enloe High School. She then became the assistant principal of Enloe before moving to Apex High School and finally working as the principal of Sanderson High School. During her time at Sanderson High School, she was awarded Principal of the Year by the Wake County Public Schools and was awarded Regional Principal of the Year by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. She became Wake County Public School System's Superintendent in 2018 and is the first woman and first Latina to serve in the role. She was awarded the Superintendent of the Year by the North Carolina PTA in 2021 for her ``steady and focused leadership'' throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and was awarded National Superintendent of the Year by Magnet Schools of America in 2022. Under Superintendent Moore's leadership, Wake County has made significant strides toward ensuring the safety and well-being of its students by conducting a comprehensive school-by-school safety audit, writing the district's first equity policy, and pioneering covid safety protocols in a time of great uncertainty. I'd like to extend my sincerest gratitude to Wake County Public School System's Superintendent Catty Moore for her years of service to North Carolina and wish her all the best in her retirement from the Wake County Public School System. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring and celebrating Superintendent Catty Moore.

Mr. NICKEL

Mr. NICKEL. Mr. Speaker, I recently had the chance to travel with a bipartisan group of Members of the House of Representatives to Brazil, Colombia, and Panama. During our trip, we discussed important issues like immigration, counterterrorism, trade, and national security. In Brazil, I learned about the increasing presence of the Chinese Communist Party from local law enforcement officials. In Colombia, we discussed efforts to combat illegal drug trafficking. We met with leading officials on the longstanding, bilateral relationship between the United States and Colombia. In Panama, I saw firsthand the challenging conditions faced by migrants attempting to travel to the United States and live their American Dream here. I have empathy for the people I met, and this experience reinforced the importance of addressing immigration with compassion and respect. Mr. Speaker, the United States is a shining beacon of democracy, and I am not surprised that people from all over the world want to come here. We need to ensure that our borders are secure, that the American people are safe, and migrants are treated with dignity and fairness. This was an eye-opening experience that affirmed the need for strong, smart, and strategic policies that advance our national interests, our values abroad, and protect our homeland and democracy. We also must diligently combat the Chinese Communist Party's increasing presence in the region. I will continue to closely monitor developments in this area and work toward a pragmatic approach to foreign policy that puts America's security first. Finally, we must take up and pass comprehensive immigration reform. I am eternally optimistic that we can get something done in this Congress. At the end of the day, addressing the situation at the border and taking up comprehensive immigration reform should not be a Democrat or Republican issue. The American people deserve more than politics as usual, and the time for action is now. Let's work together, not as Democrats or Republicans, but as Americans to secure our border and advance comprehensive immigration reform.