James Risch

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, section 36(b) of the Arms Export Control Act requires that Congress receive prior notification of certain proposed arms sales as defined by that statute. Upon such notification, the Congress has 30 calendar days during which the sale may be reviewed. The provision stipulates that, in the Senate, the notification of proposed sales shall be sent to the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, section 36(b) of the Arms Export Control Act requires that Congress receive prior notification of certain proposed arms sales as defined by that statute. Upon such notification, the Congress has 30 calendar days during which the sale may be reviewed. The provision stipulates that, in the Senate, the notification of proposed sales shall be sent to the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, section 36(b) of the Arms Export Control Act requires that Congress receive prior notification of certain proposed arms sales as defined by that statute. Upon such notification, the Congress has 30 calendar days during which the sale may be reviewed. The provision stipulates that, in the Senate, the notification of proposed sales shall be sent to the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, section 36(b) of the Arms Export Control Act requires that Congress receive prior notification of certain proposed arms sales as defined by that statute. Upon such notification, the Congress has 30 calendar days during which the sale may be reviewed. The provision stipulates that, in the Senate, the notification of proposed sales shall be sent to the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, section 36(b) of the Arms Export Control Act requires that Congress receive prior notification of certain proposed arms sales as defined by that statute. Upon such notification, the Congress has 30 calendar days during which the sale may be reviewed. The provision stipulates that, in the Senate, the notification of proposed sales shall be sent to the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that we immediately proceed to the rollcall vote.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, I have come here today in support of President Trump's nominee for U.S. Ambassador to Israel, Gov. Mike Huckabee, who was reported out of our Foreign Relations Committee recently. For years, the previous administration wrung its hands and withheld American support for Israel in the wake of the horrendous, awful October 7 terror attack by Hamas. Despite this, Israel had the courage to confront Iran, Hamas, and its other proxies, and it has decimated them. Now, thanks to President Trump's negotiations and Israel's courage, Iran is at its weakest point in decades and hostages are returning home. Israel is one of America's greatest allies, a bastion of freedom in the Middle East, and our closest partner in countering Iran's destabilizing efforts in the region. To execute on President Trump's ironclad support of Israel, we urgently need a qualified ambassador in the region. I have no doubt Governor Huckabee is that person, and he will work alongside President Trump and Secretary Rubio and our friends in Israel to bring peace to a turbulent region and ensure both American and Israeli hostages are brought home from the clutches of Hamas. The other countries in the region, our Arab allies, our Arab friends, are desperate to see peace in the region. They want it as badly as anyone else does. I urge all of my colleagues to support Governor Huckabee and to fill this important national security position.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, today, I rise, with my colleagues Senator Mike Crapo and Representatives Mike Simpson and Russ Fulcher, to celebrate a significant milestone in the history of Idaho's capital city: the 100th anniversary of the Boise Depot. For a century, this iconic structure, which faces our State capitol building, has stood as a prominent landmark of the Boise skyline and become a cherished symbol of our community's past and present. Built in 1925 by the Union Pacific Railroad, the Boise Depot brought people from all over the nation to witness the wonders of Idaho. Once hailed as ``the most beautiful structure of its kind in the west,'' the depot overlooks a panoramic view of our great city and surrounding foothills. Its iconic 96-foot bell tower can be seen throughout Boise and remains as a beacon of our community. It is a favorite site enjoyed by many, and it continues to be a place where memories are made. As we celebrate its centennial anniversary, we join many Idahoans in reflecting on the depot's rich history. Since its opening day, when thousands gathered to witness the arrival of the first transcontinental steam engine, the depot has served as a testament to the Treasure Valley's growth and resilience. The depot, now operated by the city of Boise, provides a unique and historic setting for community celebrations. Over the decades, it has served as a hub for transportation and community gatherings, welcoming countless Idahoans and Americans. In addition to the depot's beautiful gardens and koi pond, the site is home to the steam locomotive Big Mike, donated by the Union Pacific Railroad in 1956. Big Mike represents the spirit of innovation and progress that has defined our Nation's economy, infrastructure, and heritage for generations. It is an honor to recognize the 100th anniversary of the Boise Depot and the people who have contributed to its legacy--from the passengers who rode its rails, to the Idahoans who celebrated their milestones, and the families who made memories that will last a lifetime. I invite my colleagues and all Idaho residents to join us in celebrating the Boise Depot, a historic treasure that has enriched our lives for 100 years and hopefully many more.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, first of all, I agree with one and only one thing that my friend from Vermont said, and that is that we do live--at least think--in an alternate, parallel universe. I am on the Intelligence Committee. I am the most senior Republican on the Intelligence Committee. I have seen the film from what Hamas did on October 7. These were animals. They killed hundreds and hundreds of people. They took hostages. They cut babies out of their mothers. They killed children in front of their parents. They killed parents in front of their children. They tortured people. They knew exactly what they were doing, and that was that they were going to get a response from Israel that would be what it is today. All of this talk that my friends have laid out in front of us--no one in the world is coming to the support of Hamas--no one--with the exception of some misguided people in this organization. The Middle East has an opportunity to free itself from Iran's grip, and America will be safer for it. To promote stability in the region and protect our national security, we need to continue to support Israel's successful efforts. President Trump, Secretary Rubio, and soon-to-be Ambassador Huckabee will work day in and day out to make sure that American interests are protected in Israel, and Congress must do its part. We really must provide Israel with the force they need to resist and eliminate Hamas. Just before I walked in here, I was handed an official written position of the President of the United States, who urges us to defeat these two resolutions. In December, this body overwhelmingly opposed similar resolutions in a bipartisan fashion. I hope we can do that again today. As such, I ask my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to vote no on these two resolutions.

Mr. RISCH. Has all time expired except for the time I have left?

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, I rise today and come here to strongly oppose the two resolutions before the Senate at this moment. These misguided resolutions, if adopted, would reinstate the failed policies of the Biden administration. Worse, they would abandon Israel, our closest ally in the Middle East, during a pivotal moment for global security. For years, President Biden wrung his hands and withheld American support for Israel in its time of need. This inaction only prolonged suffering for all sides and put America's commitment in doubt. Despite this, Israel had the courage to confront Iran and its proxies, and it decimated them. Through President Trump's tough negotiations and Israel's courage, Iran is at its weakest point in decades, and hostages are returning home. At the same time, Israel is contending with its operations against Hamas, efforts to maintain a fragile cease-fire in Lebanon, and the ongoing threats to Iran. Now is not the time to deprive our ally of the tools it needs to protect American interests. I yield to Senator Sanders.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Madam President, section 36(b) of the Arms Export Control Act requires that Congress receive prior notification of certain proposed arms sales as defined by that statute. Upon such notification, the Congress has 30 calendar days during which the sale may be reviewed. The provision stipulates that, in the Senate, the notification of proposed sales shall be sent to the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Madam President, section 36(b) of the Arms Export Control Act requires that Congress receive prior notification of certain proposed arms sales as defined by that statute. Upon such notification, the Congress has 30 calendar days during which the sale may be reviewed. The provision stipulates that, in the Senate, the notification of proposed sales shall be sent to the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. I ask for the yeas and nays.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Madam President, I rise today in support of President Trump's nominee to be Ambassador to NATO, Mr. Matthew Whitaker. First, the good news. NATO remains more than ever relevant to the security of the United States and to Europe. NATO is stronger today than it has ever, ever been. Putin made a horrible mistake when he attacked Ukraine thinking he would split NATO. He did not split NATO. He made it stronger. Indeed, we added two additional nations to NATO, and Putin has picked up another 800 miles of border with NATO. Now the concern: Unfortunately, some NATO members have taken the alliance and America's support of it for granted. Our European allies have let the heavy financial lifting to us, and by many of their own admissions, have not pulled their weight in defense spending. Dramatic investment from NATO members in our collective defense is absolutely necessary. Mr. Whitaker, as our next Ambassador to NATO, will help President Trump preserve the fidelity, commitment, and integrity of NATO. He will encourage our allies to rise to meet the challenges of an increasingly dangerous world, and he will help our allies understand that this must be a true partnership. It is a tough job. I urge my colleagues to support Mr. Whitaker as he takes on this challenge as our next U.S. Ambassador to NATO. Madam President, I ask the Senate execute the order of March 27 with respect to the Whitaker nomination.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. I yield the floor to the Senator from Iowa.

Mr. RISCH. Madam President, I ask unanimous consent that myself and the Senator from Iowa be permitted to speak each 3 minutes, and immediately upon conclusion of that, we proceed to the vote on the confirmation.

Mr. RISCH. Madam President, is the next regular order of business the confirmation of Mr. Matthew Whitaker to be NATO? Is that next order of business up?

Mr. RISCH. Madam President, is the next regular order of business the confirmation of Mr. Matthew Whitaker?

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Port of Lewiston, Idaho's only seaport and an economic cornerstone of north Idaho and the broader Pacific Northwest. In 1975, the Port of Lewiston opened, marked by the launch of the first barge to sail westward down the Columbia-Snake River System. Nez Perce County voters approved its creation in 1958, but it took the completion of the Lower Granite Dam in 1975 to make Idaho's seaport fully operational. As the furthest inland seaport in the western United States, the Port plays a vital role in connecting Idaho's businesses to global markets. Over the past five decades, the Port of Lewiston has been instrumental to boosting regional trade, promoting economic development, and generating new jobs in surrounding communities. The establishment of the Port of Lewiston provided farmers and businesses with a cost-effective alternative to rail and truck transport. Today, approximately 24 million bushels of wheat are transported out of the Port of Lewiston's Lewis Clark Terminal each year. The Columbia-Snake River System continues to serve 11 western States and is the largest pathway for wheat exports in the country. The influence of the Port of Lewiston extends far beyond trade, serving as a driver for business and real estate development and public infrastructure investments. The Port has been a catalyst for modernization in the region, notably through the expansion of fiber broadband access in Lewiston and the development of a broadband network from Moscow to Star. These investments ensure Idaho businesses remain competitive in the ever-evolving global economy. While manufacturing jobs have declined in many areas nationwide, north central Idaho has defied this trend. Thanks in large part to the port, manufacturing jobs in the Lewiston area have surged by 70 percent, adding over 3,000 positions since 1975. This remarkable growth has made north central Idaho's workforce incredibly resilient and distinctive. Recently, the Port of Lewiston partnered with American Cruise Lines to create Idaho's first cruise ship dock, further diversifying its economic impact and attracting tourism to the region. The port, along with its investments in Idaho, have attracted new manufacturing, transportation, and tourism employers, inspiring greater opportunities for the people of north central Idaho. As we look to the next 50 years, the Port of Lewiston will undoubtedly remain a key driver in shaping Idaho's economic future and that of the greater Pacific Northwest. Congratulations to the port, its outstanding leadership, and the entire north central Idaho community on this significant milestone.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, section 36(b) of the Arms Export Control Act requires that Congress receive prior notification of certain proposed arms sales as defined by that statute. Upon such notification, the Congress has 30 calendar days during which the sale may be reviewed. The provision stipulates that, in the Senate, the notification of proposed sales shall be sent to the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, section 36(b) of the Arms Export Control Act requires that Congress receive prior notification of certain proposed arms sales as defined by that statute. Upon such notification, the Congress has 30 calendar days during which the sale may be reviewed. The provision stipulates that, in the Senate, the notification of proposed sales shall be sent to the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, section 36(b) of the Arms Export Control Act requires that Congress receive prior notification of certain proposed arms sales as defined by that statute. Upon such notification, the Congress has 30 calendar days during which the sale may be reviewed. The provision stipulates that, in the Senate, the notification of proposed sales shall be sent to the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, section 36(b) of the Arms Export Control Act requires that Congress receive prior notification of certain proposed arms sales as defined by that statute. Upon such notification, the Congress has 30 calendar days during which the sale may be reviewed. The provision stipulates that, in the Senate, the notification of proposed sales shall be sent to the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, section 36(b) of the Arms Export Control Act requires that Congress receive prior notification of certain proposed arms sales as defined by that statute. Upon such notification, the Congress has 30 calendar days during which the sale may be reviewed. The provision stipulates that, in the Senate, the notification of proposed sales shall be sent to the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.