Bennie Thompson

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Hoyer), the distinguished majority leader of the House.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, by direction of the Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol, I call up the report (H. Rept. 117-216) and accompanying resolution recommending that the House of Representatives find Mark Randall Meadows in contempt of Congress for refusal to comply with a subpoena duly issued by the Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I am prepared to close after the gentlewoman from Wyoming (Ms. Cheney) and the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Banks). Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, it is regrettable that we are back on the floor considering another criminal contempt referral, but our former colleague, Mr. Meadows, has left us no choice. The select committee is investigating an attack on our democracy, and it is essential that witnesses cooperate with our investigation to get answers. The law requires them to do so. And when a witness defies the law, that amounts to more than obstructing our investigation, it is an attack on the rule of law. In September, the select committee subpoenaed Mr. Meadows for records and testimony because we believed he had information relevant to our investigation. For weeks, we went back and forth with Mr. Meadows, through his lawyer, to try to get cooperation. We extended his initial deposition date to November 12. When the date came, he hadn't produced any documents, and he didn't show up. Throughout this time, Mr. Meadows and his representatives made a lot of noise about executive privilege and so-called absolute immunity; the idea that people who serve or served in certain senior roles are completely exempt from testifying before Congress. Now, let's be clear. Courts have rejected absolute immunity at every opportunity, and the Justice Department has never authored an opinion that would support the sort of claim Mr. Meadows had made about his unofficial conduct. And we have lots of questions for Mr. Meadows about the unofficial conduct. And as for executive privilege, President Biden has chosen not to invoke it as far as Mr. Meadows is concerned. So Mr. Meadows was obligated to comply with our subpoena and appear at a deposition. When he didn't, we were prepared at that point to move ahead with contempt proceedings. But at the same time, Madam Speaker, out of an abundance of fairness, we gave Mr. Meadows a final chance to cooperate. When he faced the possibility of contempt a few weeks ago, he finally decided, in part, to do the right thing and start providing information. He turned over roughly 9,000 pages of records that he himself said couldn't be covered by any claim of privilege. He also said he would appear at a deposition with the select committee, which we scheduled for December 8. This is key. In an investigation like ours, when you produce records, you are expected to come in and answer questions about those records. And because not even Mr. Meadows was asserting any privilege claim over these records, there is no possible justification for wholesale refusing to answer questions about them. But that is what he did. He told us the day before his deposition-- the same day his book was published--that he would no longer cooperate with our investigation, and that he wasn't coming in to be interviewed. Put all the other arguments aside. This isn't about any sort of privilege or immunity. This is about Mr. Meadows refusing to comply with a subpoena to discuss the records he himself turned over. Now he is hiding behind excuses. And at the end of the day, it is a simple proposition: If you are making excuses to avoid cooperating with our investigations, you are making excuses to hide the truth from the American people about what happened on January 6. You are making excuses as part of a coverup. And if you echo these excuses, if you base your arguments on these excuses, if you adopt these excuses as your own to explain why you will not take action, then you are part of that coverup, too. I want my colleagues to think long and hard about that; because as the select committee has made clear in the last day and will continue to make clear, there was a steady stream of communication between certain Members of Congress and Mr. Meadows about matters central to our investigation. We have questions about those communications. We will pursue those questions. And we won't let the facts be buried by a coverup. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. I thank my colleague from Wyoming for supporting this effort of the committee. She has been a wonderful member of the committee, and I look forward to continuing the relationship. I thank my colleagues who presented on the majority side today who made a clear case of why Mr. Meadows' defiance is unacceptable. I take no joy in having to ask this House to make this referral. Mr. Meadows served here with us for 7 years, but that doesn't excuse his conduct. If anything, he should know better. It is disappointing that he put himself in this category with a small handful of uncooperative witnesses who are drawing out a lot of attention hiding behind every privilege you can think of trying to slow down and slow-walk this process. We want to hear from them all. But we have heard from more than 300 witnesses. Just this week, three significant individuals have already come in and spoken with us on the record. As you have heard, last night and today, we have made some significant findings. This investigation is moving ahead swiftly, but even with all that cooperation, we need to send a clear message that this sort of defiance of the rule of law cannot stand. We need to hear from Mr. Meadows, and his refusal to appear is plain and simple contempt. I ask all Members to support this resolution, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 5314, the ``Protecting Our Democracy Act,'' spearheaded by my friend and colleague on the Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol, Adam Schiff. This bill bolsters congressional oversight authority and the important powers vested in Congress by Article I of the Constitution. It also includes a host of other good-government measures to make our entire government more ethical and more accountable to the people we serve. As chairman of both the Committee on Homeland Security and the Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol, I know firsthand how important congressional oversight is to our legislative process. And I have seen how dedicated the forces aligned against representative democracy are. Protecting our democracy is protecting our homeland, and protecting our homeland means protecting our democracy. I am particularly supportive of title IV of this bill, which amends the United States Code to reaffirm the House's right to enforce its subpoenas through civil suits in Federal court. The title would also expedite consideration of those suits in the courts and enhance penalties for noncompliance with congressional subpoenas. While I firmly believe the House already possesses the ability to seek civil enforcement of its subpoenas, some recent court decisions have questioned it. This bill leaves no room for such doubt. Almost a century ago, the U.S. Supreme Court said that Congress needs information to govern wisely and effectively, and it must often seek out others--often by compulsion--to obtain it. To effectively exercise our legislative duties, the Constitution implicitly grants enforcing processes. Madam Speaker, this bill furthers our ability as legislators to do our job wisely and effectively. I encourage my colleagues to join me in voting for the ``Protecting Our Democracy Act.''

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable public servant, Adeola ``Abraham'' Olagbegi from Jackson, Mississippi. After a successful bone marrow transplant in November 2020, Adeola Olagbegi was given a chance to Make-A-Wish. Instead of wanting something a typical 13-year-old fighting cancer may ask for, he used his wish to start something bigger than himself Mr. Olagbegi chose to use his wish to feed the homeless for a year in his hometown, Jackson, MS. Before being diagnosed with Aplastic Anemia, a rare and life-threatening blood disorder, Mr. Olagbegi and his family looked forward to feeding the homeless every third Saturday in every month. This service to the community is known as ``Abraham's Table.'' ``It was always a good thing to do, and that's what I grew up doing that, so I go back to my roots to do what I was taught to do.'' ``I am a person of hope, so when you come against a big mountain, you have to remember you have a big God.'' Mr. Olagbegi is a living testimony that if you pour out good unto God's people, God will turn around and bless you beyond measure. After 10 months of ``Abraham's Table'', Mr. Olagbegi hopes to turn his wish into a nonprofit organization that will continue to impact the City of Jackson for the better. Since the beginning of Abraham's Table, Mr. Olagbegi has fed over hundreds of homeless citizens. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Adeola ``Abraham'' Olagbegi for his dedication to serve the homeless for years to come.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable community servant, Mr. Leroy Ware. Leroy Ware is the youngest of eleven children, born April 14, 1954 to Mr. Granville and Mrs. Myrtle Ware in the Browning Community. Leroy attended and graduated from Amanda Elzy High School. He was an honor student while still participating in the football program at school and helping the family cultivate and harvest crops. After graduating from high school, Leroy attended Mississippi Valley State University in Itta Bena, Mississippi, and studied Business Administration. He participated in the Co-Op Program at Mississippi Valley State University and was assigned to Warner Robins Air Force Base in Warner Robins, Georgia. There, he trained to be a systems analyst. Leroy was later employed by the first African American Tax Assessor/Collector of Leflore County. Leroy worked as a deputy assessor from 1985 until 1999. He then, successfully vied for and won the elected title of Tax Assessor in 1999. He still competently holds that position. Leroy is married to Mrs. Earlean Davidson Ware. They have three children, Stephanie Davidson, Stephen Davidson, and Krystal Austin. Leroy has lived by the lessons taught to him by his father: ``Family is everything; You don't fight family; and, Always be there to lend a helping hand.'' Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Leroy Ware for his dedication and tenacity to serving his community and desire to be an example for all.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a tenacious and ambitious young lady, Sydney Noel Burks. Sydney is a Sophomore at Hinds Community College-Utica Campus majoring in Chemistry/Pre-Pharmacy. She was a May 2020 graduate of Park Place Christian Academy (PPCA), where she graduated as a Highest Honor graduate with a 4.0 GPA. During her time at PPCA, she was inducted into the National Honor Society and served as Secretary of the Beta Club. Sydney also believes in giving back to the community and helping those who are less fortunate. Her service and leadership have not only given her experiences she will cherish for a lifetime but has also enabled her to become an advocate for others and to promote issues that are of importance. Some of the community service events she was involved in during high school and continue to be involved includes the following: We Will Go--Organized community closet and assisted the neighbors with bagging groceries and clothing and picked up trash and debris around the city; Stewpot--Assisted with packing and serving lunches; Feed the Need--Worked as a team member to pack and bag food to later be shipped to those who are food insecure; Feed the Hungry--Talked to, prayed with, and assisted with serving lunch to those who were hungry in Poindexter Park; Operation Christmas Child (Shoebox Processing Center in Texas)-- Worked with a team to pack shoeboxes and ensure that the items in the shoeboxes met the safety requirements to be shipped to the children who needed them; and The Little Lighthouse--Worked with special needs children by assisting teachers with primary lessons, feeding the children lunch, and supervising recess. Also assisted with creating `Thank You' cards for their 5K race. During Sydney's tenure at Hinds Community College-Utica Campus, she has maintained a cumulative 4.0 grade point average, and has been named a President's Scholar. She is currently a member of the Yearbook and Robotics Clubs. Sydney is a STEM student and is a member of the Louis Stokes Mississippi Alliance for Minority Participation. In addition, Sydney is a Mississippi INBRE (Idea Network of Biomedical Research Excellence) Scholar. Mississippi IDeA Network of Biomedical Research Excellence (INBRE) is a network of colleges and universities, designed to build a biomedical research infrastructure in Mississippi. The mission is to reach out to Mississippians in order to improve health throughout the state and to engage talented researchers and students in biomedical research projects that will increase the state's research competitiveness as well as impact the health of citizens of Mississippi. As an INBRE scholar, she had the opportunity to be an intern with My Brother's Keeper. She presented the outcomes of her work entitled, ``Potential Mistrust of the COVID-19 Vaccine Among African-Americans in Mississippi,'' during the Mississippi Health Disparities Annual Conference 2021 in Biloxi, MS. Also, she is the Mississippi-Louisiana Vice-President of Phi Theta Kappa International College Honor Society. Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) recognizes the academic achievement of college students and provides opportunities for its members to grow as scholars and leaders. Recently, Sydney was named as one of the Historically Black College and University Scholars. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ms. Sydney Noel Burks for the outstanding work and accomplishments she has made thus far.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I thank Chairman Yarmuth for his steadfast commitment to shepherding this landmark legislation to the floor. I am honored to join with my colleagues, just days after President Biden signed a sorely needed and long-awaited infrastructure package that will rebuild the Nation's deteriorating roads and bridges to consider the ``Build Back Better Act.'' Madam Speaker, the magnitude of what we are doing here is really compelling. Twenty-eight years ago, I came to Congress to advocate for the interests of my friends and neighbors who, after decades of struggle, deserve a more fair and equitable economy that fuels prosperity and job growth in our communities well into the future. That is just what H.R. 5376 will do. I could not be prouder to be a part of this Democratic majority as we come together, with a sense of urgency, to deliver for the people while tackling climate change and other challenges that put our communities at risk. I am particularly appreciative that the bill invests $1.5 billion in the Department of Homeland Security to provide crucial resources to three challenges confronting the Nation: cybersecurity; domestic terrorism and other threats to houses of worship and non-profits; and reducing the Department of Homeland Security's carbon footprint. The homeland security title of this bill provides $100 million in new funding for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program, which helps DHS take necessary action to help secure churches, synagogues, mosques, and other nonprofits from domestic terrorism and other threats. It has been just 3 years since the deadliest attack on the Jewish community in U.S. history, when 11 lives were lost in a mass shooting at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The funding the House provides today can help prevent such a tragedy from happening again. Madam Speaker, I include in the Record a statement in support of this additional funding from the Jewish Federations of America. It also invests in the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency to help State and local governments develop secure and resilient critical infrastructure networks by, among other things, accelerating State and local governments' transition to the (dot) gov domain and increasing capacity to hire network defenders. Finally, the homeland security title provides $900 million in strategic investments to help the department reduce its carbon footprint and mitigate the ongoing effects of climate change that have a direct impact on our national security. Once again, I thank Chairman Yarmuth for his leadership along with Speaker Pelosi, Leader Hoyer, and my fellow committee chairs for their months of hard work to produce this once-in-a-generation legislation which includes so many important investments in our homeland security. For these reasons, I urge passage of H.R. 5376 and look forward to swift action on this package by the Senate so that it can be signed by President Biden and begin to improve the lives of my constituents in the Second District of Mississippi and beyond. [From The Jewish Federations of North America, Oct. 28, 2021] Jewish Federations Express Gratitude for Additional Security Funding Jewish Federations Express their gratitude to House Homeland Security Chair Bennie Thompson (D-MS) and Senate Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs Committee Chair Gary Peters (D-MI) for helping to secure an additional $100 million for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) in the Homeland Security portion of the reconciliation package. ``Communities can only flourish when their security needs are met. The inclusion of an additional $100 million for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program will save lives, help keep Jewish and other communities safe, and allow them to flourish'' said Eric Fingerhut, President and CEO of the Jewish Federations of North America. ``Just yesterday, we commemorated three years since the Tree of Life massacre in Pittsburgh, the worst violent anitsemitic attack in the nation's history. Additional funding to the Nonprofit Security Grant Program will not only help secure synagogues, but houses of worship and nonprofits of every stripe across the nation that face threats at a time of increased violent extremism,'' he added. The NSGP provides grants to nonprofits to help fund security measures such as inspection and screening systems, physical barriers, and development of emergency preparedness plans. This year, as hate crimes spiked and houses of worship were increasingly targeted, the NSGP was able to fund fewer than half of all applicants. Fingerhut advocated for increasing NSGP funds at a Senate HSGAC hearing on violent extremism this Summer. Homeland Security Appropriations bills in both chambers propose leaving NSGP funding flat at $180 million, as overall proposed funding levels remain unchanged. Federations' advocacy for further government investment in community safety measures is part of the public-private partnership envisioned in the historic LiveSecure campaign, which is raising $54 million in philanthropic dollars to spread the security umbrella to every Jewish community across the country and help fortify Jewish communal institutions. Jewish Federations also thank Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer (D-NY) for his leadership on this program, and the perennial champions Sens. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Rob Portman (R-OH), and Reps. Bill Pascrell (D-NJ) and John Katko (R-NY) for supporting NSGP funding. We look forward to continuing to work with them to increase annual funding for the program through the appropriations process.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I join with the Ranking Member of the House Homeland Security Committee, John Katko, and Transportation and Maritime Security Subcommittee Chairwoman Bonnie Watson Coleman and Ranking Member Carlos Gimenez, to mark tomorrow's 20th anniversary of the establishment of the Transportation Security Administration. Following the devastating attacks of September 11, 2001, Federal authorities undertook the massive effort to safeguard and defend our national transportation system. In the past two decades, TSA has implemented advanced security technologies, responded to new and ever- changing threats, and protected the lives of billions of passengers from around the country and across the globe. Today, even amid the dangers of the COVID-19 pandemic, Transportation Security Officers, Federal Air Marshals, Transportation Security Inspectors, and other TSA employees continue to serve on the front lines and protect the lives of passengers and the security of cargo traveling by air, sea, road, and rail. I include in the Record the text of a resolution recognizing the service and sacrifices of TSA's employees and officers on the 20th anniversary of TSA's establishment. Resolution Recognizing the service and sacrifices of the Transportation Security Administration's employees and officers on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the establishment of TSA and the role TSA's employees and officers play in keeping our Nation secure. Whereas November 19, 2021, marks the 20th anniversary of the enactment of the Aviation and Transportation Security Act (Public Law 107-71), which amended title 49, United States Code, to establish the Transportation Security Administration (TSA); Whereas the TSA was established following the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, with the mission to secure transportation systems and restore confidence in air travel; Whereas for 20 years TSA employees and officers have bravely served on the front lines keeping our skies and the traveling public safe, even in the face of targeted attacks such as that which took the life of Officer Gerardo Hernandez; Whereas the TSA has remained on the front lines at our Nation's airports throughout the COVID-19 pandemic; Whereas the TSA has had over 10,000 employees test positive for COVID-19, with 32 TSA employees having lost their lives from March 2020 through October 2021; Whereas since its establishment, TSA employees and officers have endeavored to improve security domestically and internationally, across all modes of transportation, against a wide range of evolving physical and cyber threats; and Whereas Americans will continue to look to TSA to be vigilant in the face of known and emerging threats: Now, therefore, be it Resolved, That the House of Representatives-- (1) recognizes-- (A) the service and sacrifices of the TSA's employees and officers on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the establishment of TSA; and (B) the role TSA's employees and officers play in keeping our Nation secure; and (2) encourages all Americans to observe TSA's 20th anniversary with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Massachusetts for yielding. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of the rule and the underlying legislation. President Biden has a bold vision for getting our country back on track after a devastating pandemic and years of policies that ignored the struggles of so many Americans. What we are doing here today is about making government work for working people. The Committee on Homeland Security, which I lead, has used this historic opportunity to make significant long-term investments in three areas: cybersecurity; the protection of houses of worship and nonprofits from domestic terrorism and other threats; and reducing the Department of Homeland Security's environmental footprint. These are three critical challenges confronting our Nation and my constituents in Mississippi today. Last week, we marked 3 years since the deadliest attack on a Jewish community in United States history when a mass shooting took 11 lives in a Pittsburgh synagogue. Today, through the homeland security title of this act, we will be able to give $100 million in new funding to help protect our houses of worship. This act also includes targeted funding to bolster the Nation's cybersecurity posture in significant ways. With the $500 million included there, we can do just that. Finally, we include $900 million in strategic investment to help DHS reduce its carbon footprint. Such investments have far-reaching and direct impacts on our national security. I thank Budget Committee Chairman John Yarmuth and Speaker Pelosi for their months of hard work and for prioritizing homeland security in this transformational legislation.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a resilient individual, Laketia Marshall-Thomas. Laketia Marshall-Thomas, a native from Bolton, Mississippi, is the Assistant Superintendent for High Schools with the Jackson Public School District. Mrs. Thomas has served in the field of education for 23 years, which includes her previously serving as Principal of Provine High School from 2011 to 2017, Curriculum and Instruction Assistant Principal at Lanier High School from August 2009 to May 2011, and Assistant Principal at Whitten Middle School from August 2008 to May 2009. She also served as a Mathematics Coach at Blackburn Middle School from August 2006 to May 2008. She established her career as an educator at Brinkley Middle School where she taught Algebra I and 8th grade mathematics from 1997 to 2006 and served as the Girls' Basketball Coach. Mrs. Thomas's strong commitment is confirmed as a scholar in her educational achievements, which include Hinds County Public School System and attended Hinds County Agricultural High School. Mrs. Thomas began her post-secondary education at Tougaloo College, where she received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Chemistry in 1994. She attended Clark Atlanta University, where she pursued a Master of Science degree in Polymer Chemistry and furthered her studies at Mississippi College receiving a Master of Science and an Educational Specialist in Educational Leadership in 2006 and 2008, respectively. She is currently in dissertation status at Mississippi College pursuing a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership. Superior academic performance is at the forefront of her instructional goals and has led to school, community, and district recognition. While serving in leadership capacities at Provine High School, Lanier High School, and Blackburn Middle School, Mrs. Thomas was recognized for moving each school from their underperforming status to a level of satisfactory progress. She has been selected as the High School Division's Administrator of the Year for two years. She led student participation in Jackson State University's statewide S.T.E.M. Team Competition with Lanier High School and Provine High School winning first place, both years of participation. Additionally, the Jackson City Council awarded her the Amos Wright Award for community involvement and superior academic performance in 2012 and 2020, and the Outstanding Leadership in Education Award in 2016. She has also received numerous accolades from faculty, staff, and student organizations in recognition of her leadership, loyalty, and service in public education. Mrs. Thomas prides herself on keeping her life in balance with a strong commitment to God and a loving family. She is married to Jonathan Thomas, Sr. and they have two sons, the late Jonathan, Jr. and Jonah Thomas. Mrs. Thomas strongly believes that schools are ``A Building With Four Walls and Tomorrow Inside''. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life, legacy, and service of Mrs. Laketia Marshall-Thomas.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a resilient individual, Mrs. Netty Seard. Netty Ransome Seard was born in the city of Greenville, Mississippi, along with her four sisters and one brother to Ralph and Martha Ransome. Netty graduated from O'Bannon High School in 1994 and went on to pursue a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Speech Communications, Masters of Criminal Justice, and Masters of Social Work all from Mississippi Valley State University. Netty spent fourteen years at the Mississippi Department of Employment Security where she helped thousands to secure employment and attend college through the Workforce Investment Act Program. In 2015, Netty became a Court Administrator in the Fourth Circuit District of Mississippi. Netty is no stranger to her community. She believes in Greenville. She has worked tirelessly throughout her adult life being involved in many projects that help women, men and children have a better quality of life. Netty's community service and affiliations include: President of the Greenville (MS) Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. 2016-2020; Past President Board of Directors Greenville Arts Council (also served as secretary and treasurer); Ambassador Greenville Area Chamber of Commerce; Past Sub-Chapter President for the International Association for Workforce Professionals; Past Chairperson United Way Housing Initiative Committee; Past Member of MS Alliance for State Employees-CWA Local 3570; Member of St. Matthew AME Church, Past YPD Director and Women's Missionary Society; Past President of the Parent-Teacher Association for Trigg Elementary School (2012-2014); Trigg Elementary School Parent of the Year 2012-13; Second Congressional District Parent of the Year 2012-13; Past Member of the Board of Directors for the Delta Children's Museum; Past Member of the Board of Directors for the Greenville/Washington Co. Historic Preservation Commission; 36th Mississippi Delta Blues and Heritage Festival-Volunteer of the Year Award 2013; and Greenville Girls Rock Community M.A.G.I.C. (Making A Great Impact in the Community) Award. Netty says when she is serving others or volunteering, she is never thinking if someone is watching or what others are thinking of her. She only focuses on the recipient of the service, and hopefully, the positive impact her help will make in that person's life. She thanks God for giving her the strength and tenacity to unselfishly serve others and become a change agent in the community. She also thanks her husband, Mr. Mark K. Seard for being so understanding, caring, and supportive of her ideas and aspirations. And, last but certainly not least she thanks her sweetheart, Madison Marie for sharing her mommy's time with others, so that Greenville may become a better place for her to live and grow. Her only hope is that she is watching and taking notes from Mommy. Netty's favorite quote is from Colin Powell, ``A dream doesn't become reality through magic; it takes sweat, determination, and hard work!'' Her daily prayer is that she can continue this path and leave a positive mark for years to come. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mrs. Netty Seard for her passion and desire to serve others.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a tenacious and ambitious gentleman, Mr. Anthony Tate. Anthony has shown what can be done through hard work, dedication, and a desire to achieve. Anthony Tate is a Chicago native, Yazoo City resident and graduate of Yazoo City High School. Tate has been employed at Mississippi State Hospital (MSH) for over 11 years and is a Mental Health Technician working in Forensic Services. Anthony has been named MSH August Employee of the Month for Direct Care. The MSH Employee of the Month award recognizes employees who have made outstanding contributions to the hospital through their work. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Anthony Tate for his passion and desire to serve others.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a resilient individual and breast cancer survivor, Ms. Latania Dodd. Ms. Latania Dodd, CEO of Dodd Consulting Co. in Itta Bena, MS, is a certified Community Health Worker with Cross Roads Clinic under the governance of Delta Regional Health Center in Greenville, MS. Her ongoing aspiration is evidenced in her passionate outreach work in supporting the health needs of people throughout the Delta communities. Ms. Dodd's career path of Community Health Worker aligns with her work experience in years past, as Director of Community Engagement with the University Medical Center/Patient Center Outreach Research Institute, SPOIV Regional Diabetes Coordinator with the Mississippi State Dept. of Health Office of Prevention, and worked as a volunteer with The Fannie Lou Hamer Cancer Foundation of Ruleville, MS under the leadership of CEO Freddie White. She has studied at Mississippi Valley State University, Jackson State University, Mississippi State University, South Eastern Career and Vocational School, and Lamar Medical Institute. Ms. Dodd has several certifications, including Clinical Medical Assistant, Direct Care Nurse, Phlebotomist, Certified Lifestyle Coach, Community Health Worker, and Community Health Advisor and Trainer. She is the mother of Dezmond A. Dodd, her teenage son, the daughter of the late Willie C. Dodd, her loving and supportive father, and her mother, Bertha L. Dodd. In 2020, with the onset of COVID-19, Ms. Dodd was faced with two of the most devastating challenges in her life--a diagnosis of Stage IIb In Situ Carcinoma Breast Cancer and the loss of her father at the same time. It was the toughest battle she has ever encountered, but her faith in God and her fighting spirit sustained her through the double mastectomy with reconstruction and chemotherapy treatments. Ms. Dodd is a cancer survivor, as of February 4, 2021. Her desire is to help support other young women in their battle with breast cancer by sharing her story and her belief: ``You Can Do This; We Can Do This Together!'' Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ms. Latania Dodd for her resilience and willpower despite obstacles such as breast cancer.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable community grocer, The Village Restaurant--TGS Community Quick Shop. The Village Restaurant originally opened in 1986 in Mound Bayou, Mississippi. A true family-owned business is now owned and operated by brothers and sisters--Dr. Marvel Turner (a CPA by trade), head cook Deloris Turner Daughrity and manager, Dorothy Turner Griffith. When the business was started in the mid-1980's, six Turners were involved along with three siblings--they included mother, Alla Fair Turner (now deceased), brother Allen Turner and Etta Turner Simpson, who just recently passed away in January. Deloris and Dorothy manage to take turns in the kitchen, and they currently have six employees on staff to help them prepare food. The front of their business is a grocery/ convenience store, and the back section is where the restaurant is located. They sell a variety of meats, fruits, vegetables and produce. Their store is really a ``full-service'' type of restaurant. Recalling the history of The Village Restaurant (which was first known by the initials T.G.S.), Deloris Daughrity said her mother, Alla Fair, lived across the street from its current location in the 80's. At that time, the building was vacant because the previous tenant had gone out of business. Their mother did not want the vacant building to become a nightclub or a loud bar in the community, so she and Marvel got together and bought the building. The Village Restaurant was started with the money she had saved up. Their journey began as a convenient store--cooking burgers, chicken, fish, french fries and other food items. Then it grew into a full-fledged restaurant. Eventually, Deloris left her job in Jackson where she worked at the old Hancock Fabric store to come and help in 1986. Additionally, Dorothy and Etta were schoolteachers and would come in to work after they finished their day jobs. After thirty-five (35) years, The Village Restaurant remains the archetype icon and central foundation of a family business that retains devotion, commitment, and encouragement for generations to come. It is with honor to commend the vision of such a remarkable and successful family business as The Village Restaurant ``TGS'', which still serves the community through service and commitment that has sustained Turner family throughout this journey, and whose venture is a testament to God's promise of success and longevity to those who diligently seek Him and obey His will. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing The Village Restaurant--TGS Community Quick Shop for their passion and desire to serve others.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I would like to associate myself with the remarks of all of my colleagues on the Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol, and particularly those of the Select Committee's Vice Chair, Liz Cheney of Wyoming. Their contributions to this debate have underscored our legislative purpose, the centrality of Steve Bannon's role in our investigation, and the importance of compliance with a duly issued congressional subpoena to the rule of law. I am proud to lead them in this investigation authorized by the House in H. Res. 503.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, Robert E. Juliano passed from this earth on October 18, 2021, at age 80. His passing is a great loss to our country and to the Union members he represented so loyally for so many years. It is a particular loss to the United States Congress, because he believed so passionately in our institution. It is no less a loss to so many of us in Congress who treasured Bob Juliano both professionally and personally. Bob was born May 20, 1941, to Emil and Mary Salvaria Juliano in his beloved hometown of Chicago. Bob was a true product of Taylor Street and the West Side of Chicago, and he never lost his roots there. As a young man Bob Juliano became a personnel manager at the Palmer House Hilton Hotel in downtown Chicago. There he met the late Edward T. Hanley, then the leader in Chicago of the Hotel Employees and Restaurant Employees Union (HERE), the Union now known as UNITE HERE, which represents the workers at the iconic Palmer House. One of President Hanley's first acts when he became International President of HERE in 1973 was to hire Bob Juliano as the Union's first full-time Legislative Representative. It was unorthodox to hire a management person to represent the Union's members, and equally unorthodox to send to Washington someone with no lobbying experience at all. President Hanley's unorthodox appointment was a response to Bob Juliana's passionate belief, founded in his Catholic faith and Jesuit education, in bringing people together. Over the years, he put that belief into practice by bringing together management and labor as well as people of all colors and faiths. In Congress, Bob brought together Republicans and Democrats, liberals and conservatives, Members from smaller states and big cities. His faith in all of us is so sorely missed today. He had no interest in labels like conservative, moderate, or progressive. His interest was always in finding the best in each of us and giving each of us the opportunity to do something good for everyday Americans. Bob had literally countless friends in Congress. They included, among many others, Senators as diverse as Senator Robert J. Dole, Senator Edward M. Kennedy, Senator Orrin Hatch, Senator Samuel Brownback, and Senators of both parties from his home state of Illinois, such as Everett Dirksen and Richard J. Durbin. He lived long enough to relish the ascension of his friend Joe Biden to the Presidency of the United States. In the House of Representatives, he likewise had strong relationships with Members across the spectrum, such as former Representatives Chris Cannon and Frank LoBiondo and his long-time close friend, House Appropriations Chair Rosa DeLauro, among many others. He regarded the late Speaker Tip O'Neill as an important mentor. Bob was particularly close to leaders of the Black Caucus, including the late Rep. John Lewis. He regarded the struggle for equality as the single most important issue of his lifetime. His belief in equality led him to work actively for civil rights and immigration reform, issues so important to the hospitality industry and to our nation. One key to Bob's success on Capitol Hill was his many relationships with the staff who serve us as Members. Bob knew most of our Chiefs of Staff. He cared about everyone, whether the shoe-shine person, the Capitol Police Officer, the receptionist in our offices, the staff in the Doorkeepers' offices, the custodian, the food service worker--he knew and genuinely cared about them all. They responded to Bob because they sensed that his interest in them was genuine, and not simply a means to an end. Because of that sincere interest in everyone, Bob had a network anyone else would envy. Bob Juliano was a product of the hospitality industry, and never was there a person more hospitable. He knew wine and food better than almost anyone, and he relished hosting so many people from so many walks of life. Bob never left behind his roots in Chicago and his roots in the hospitality industry. Rank and file hotel and restaurant workers in Chicago and nationwide knew him. Representing their best interests was his lodestone. He was a vigorous representative of UNITE HERE and its members. At the same time, he represented important employers such as American Express and NASCAR. Bob never saw that as a conflict, because he was so adept at finding common ground. The successive Presidents of the Union that he served never saw it as a conflict either, because he was so good at bringing people together. One important example was his long service on the US Travel and Tourism Advisory Board, where he advocated for workers and for the industry as a whole. The late Cardinal Joseph Bernardin of Chicago called Bob Juliano his lobbyist. Bob was very proud to have served as a pall bearer for Cardinal Bernardin and for Speaker O'Neill. Among his many honors, he was especially proud to have been an Honoree of the Sons of Italy Foundation. Robert E. Juliano is survived by his son, Robert E. Juliano, Jr., of Chicago. He was predeceased by his parents and his beloved sisters, Rosemary, Maryann, and Jeanette.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I include in the Record the cost estimate prepared by the Congressional Budget Office for H.R. 3263, the DHS Medical Countermeasures Act. The cost estimate was not available at the time of the Committee report filing. U.S. Congress, Congressional Budget Office, Washington, DC, October 22, 2021. Hon. Bennie G. Thompson, Chairman, Committee on Homeland Security, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear Mr. Chairman: The Congressional Budget Office has prepared the enclosed cost estimate for H.R. 3263, the DHS Medical Countermeasures Act. If you wish further details on this estimate, we will be pleased to provide them. The CBO staff contact is Lindsay Wylie. Sincerely, Phillip L. Swagel, Director. Enclosure.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, the importance of our investigation, and the recommendations we make for legislative and other policy changes that result from our investigation, require the participation of witnesses who have clear knowledge of the events leading up to and during the January 6th attack. Mr. Bannon's own actions in defiance of our lawful subpoena for a valid legislative purpose demand the consequences reflected in the House resolution citing him with contempt and referring his case to the Department of Justice.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, today the House has been deliberating on the criminal contempt of Congress citation of Steven K. Bannon reported from the Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol on Tuesday, October 19, 2021. This is a grave matter and not one the House takes lightly. As I have said on many occasions, the Select Committee would prefer not to be in this position. We expect--and the law (2 U.S.C. Sec. 192) demands--witnesses comply with duly issued, lawful subpoenas of Congress. We lay out the factual record of Mr. Bannon's willful defiance of the Select Committee's September 23, 2021, subpoena in House Report 117-152. There have been developments since the Report was written and adopted, and I memorialized some of those at the Select Committee's business meeting. To perfect the factual record in this case, I now include in the Congressional Record correspondence between myself and Mr. Bannon's attorney, Robert J. Costello, and further correspondence between the Office of White House Counsel and Mr. Costello, which states President Biden's position on issues relating to the subpoena to Mr. Bannon. First, on Friday, October 15, 2021, I wrote Mr. Costello to reiterate to him and his client that the Select Committee would view Mr. Bannon's decision not to appear for his deposition as willful defiance that would lead to a business meeting of the Select Committee to consider a contempt report. I include that letter in the Record. Select Committee To Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol, October 15, 2021. Mr. Robert J. Costello, Davidoff Hutcher & Citron LLP, * * * Dear Mr. Costello: The Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack (``Select Committee'') is in receipt of your October 13, 2021 letter (the ``October 13 letter''), in which you reassert that your client, Stephen Bannon, will not comply with the September 23, 2021 Subpoena to him for documents and deposition testimony (the ``Subpoena''). As you know, the Subpoena demanded that Mr. Bannon produce documents by October 7, 2021 and appear on October 14, 2021 before the Select Committee to provide deposition testimony on a wide range of issues relating to the January 6, 2021 attack on the United States Capitol, as well as plans to interfere with the count of the 2020 Electoral College results. Mr. Bannon has now willfully failed to both produce a single document and to appear for his scheduled deposition. The Select Committee believes that this willful refusal to comply with the Subpoena constitutes a violation of federal law. As justification for Mr. Bannon's complete failure to comply with any portion of the Subpoena, you continue to rely on ex-President Trump's stated intention to invoke executive privilege with respect to Mr. Bannon, and Mr. Trump's purported request that Mr. Bannon not produce documents to or testify before the Select Committee. As was explained in the Select Committee's October 8, 2021 letter (attached), the former President has not communicated any such assertion of privilege, whether formally or informally, to the Select Committee. Moreover, we believe that any such assertion of privilege--should it be made by the former President--will not prevent the Select Committee from lawfully obtaining the information it seeks. Further, your letter makes no attempt to justify Mr. Bannon's failure to comply with the Subpoena's demand for documents and testimony on a range of subjects that do not involve communications with the former President. As is clear from the Subpoena and accompanying letter, and as underscored in the Select Committee's October 8, 2021 response letter, the Select Committee seeks documents and testimony on numerous other matters, including Mr. Bannon's communications with Members of Congress, presidential campaign representatives, and other private parties concerning the events of January 6, 2021, that could not conceivably be barred by a privilege claim. Moreover, even if the Select Committee were inclined to accept the unsupported premise that executive privilege reaches communications that the Select Committee seeks to examine between President Trump and Mr. Bannon, Mr. Bannon does not enjoy any form of absolute immunity from testifying or producing documents in response to a Congressional subpoena. Your citation to Committee on Judiciary v. McGahn, 415 F. Supp. 3d 148 (D.D.C. 2019) actually supports the Select Committee, not your client. In McGahn, the district court unequivocally held that even senior White House aides are not entitled to absolute immunity from testifying in response to a Congressional subpoena. Id. at 214 (``To make the point as plain as possible, it is clear to this Court . . . that, with respect to senior-level presidential aides, absolute immunity from compelled congressional process simply does not exist.''). Indeed, the footnote in McGahn that you selectively quote makes clear that a President lacks legal authority to order an aide not to appear before Congress based on a claim of executive privilege. See Id. at 213, n. 34 (``But the invocation of the privilege by a testifying aide is an order of magnitude different than DOJ's current claim that the President essentially owns the entirety of a senior-level aide's testimony such that the White House can order the individual not to appear before Congress at all.'' (Emphasis in original)). Accordingly, the Select Committee views Mr. Bannon's failure to produce documents by the October 7, 2021 deadline as willful non-compliance with the Subpoena. Mr. Bannon has persisted in his refusal to produce any documents to the Select Committee, and he has failed to provide a privilege log identifying specific, asserted privileges. Mr. Bannon has now further compounded his non-compliance by refusing to appear on October 14, 2021 at the Select Committee deposition to which he was summoned to provide testimony. The Select Committee will therefore be meeting on Tuesday, October 19, 2021 to consider invoking the contempt of Congress procedures set forth in 2 U.S.C. Sec. Sec. 192, 194. If Mr. Bannon believes that there are any additional issues relating to his non-compliance with the Subpoena that have not been addressed, please submit them in writing to the Select Committee by 6:00 p.m. E.S.T. on Monday, October 18, 2021 for the Select Committee's consideration in its deliberations. Sincerely, Bennie G. Thompson, Chairman.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, at 6 p.m. on Monday, October 18, 2021, Mr. Costello replied to that letter and requested a 1-week ``adjournment'' to respond. Mr. Bannon's attorney said they needed time to ``assess'' the Select Committee's requests for documents and testimony in light of litigation filed by former President Trump in DC District Court. I include Mr. Costello's letter in the Record. Davidoff Hutcher & Citron LLP, Attorneys at Law, * * *, October 18, 2021. Re: The Subpoena for Stephen K. Bannon dated September 23, 2021. Hon. Bennie G. Thompson, Chairman, House Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack, Dear Congressman Thompson: We write on behalf of Stephen Bannon. We have just been advised of the filing of a lawsuit in federal court for the District of Columbia entitled Donald J. Trump v. Bennie Thompson, et al., 21-Civ-02769 (D.D.C. 2021). In light of this late filing, we respectfully request a one-week adjournment of our response to your latest letter so that we might thoughtfully assess the impact of this pending litigation. Very truly yours, Robert J. Costello.

Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Madam Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time to close. Over the last hour, we have heard a lot about what we are not debating today. The select committee is charged with investigating a deadly attack on the seat of our democracy and making recommendations to ensure it never happens again. I can't think of anything more serious, but many of our colleagues would rather talk about anything else. I think I know why. I think they are performing for an audience of one. I do, however, want to commend my colleagues on the select committee for laying out clearly why the House must cite Mr. Bannon for contempt. If our investigation is to succeed, if the House's constitutional authority to investigate and legislate is to remain robust, then we cannot let this man flout the laws with impunity. The select committee is made up of people of character, of profound commitment to public service and our Constitution. They all elevate the committee's work. I especially want to thank and acknowledge our vice chair, the gentlewoman from Wyoming (Ms. Cheney), for her leadership and partnership. There is no doubt in my mind that history will record her courage in stark relief. History will record all of what we do here today. We can be on the right side or the wrong side. I urge all my colleagues to remember that as we cast this vote. Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.