Joe Wilson

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, South Carolina cherishes the service of Joyce C. Hearn who was devoted to the citizens of South Carolina. She served as the Campaign Manager for the late Chairman Congressman Floyd Spence and was crucial in building the new Republican Party with no elected Republicans, which in 2020 established the largest Republican majorities at all levels of government in 140 years. Joyce C. Hearn [Jan. 20, 2021] Columbia, South Carolina.--A family only graveside service for Joyce C. Hearn will be held at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, January 31, 2021, at Elmwood Cemetery. There will also be a livestream of the service on Dunbar Funeral Home--Devine's Facebook page: www.facebook.com/DunbarDevine. The Honorable Joyce C. Hearn died Wednesday. January 20, 2021. Born in Cedartown, Georgia, she was the daughter of the late J.C. Camp and Carolyn Carter Camp. At age 16, she enrolled at West Georgia College, where she met her future husband, Thomas H. Hearn. She transferred to the University of Georgia and graduated with a Bachelors in Education from Ohio State University. After graduation, they moved to Columbia, South Carolina, where she taught at Eau Claire High School. She was most proud of her service to the people of South Carolina. She entered public life working with the 1970 Census, rising through the ranks to become both North and South Carolina's Director of the U.S. Census. She was active in the S. C. Republican Party until her retirement in 2015, working tirelessly to elect Republicans. She championed every Republican presidential candidate from Barry Goldwater to George W. Bush. She was involved in every aspect of elective life. She began as a party volunteer in Richland County; by 1972, she was Chair of the Richland County Republican Party. From there she went into elective office, representing District 76 in the South Carolina Legislature from 1975 to 1990. In her first race, she was described by The State newspaper as a ``housewife'' who was just running as a placeholder until a real candidate could be found. But she was never a placeholder. In subsequent elections, The State described her victories as ``landslides'' or once, when she had a 40% lead over a local attorney, an ``earthquake.'' For years, Representative Hearn was the only woman in the S. C. Legislature, but she was always a force that could not be overlooked. Well respected by her peers, she was named assistant minority leader from 1976 to 1978 and 1987-1989. From that position she worked tirelessly to protect the rights of crime victims. Her work to expand the prosecution of rape to include degrees of criminal sexual assault has changed the way the South Carolina public views rape, giving hope to all victims of domestic violence. In 1990, Gov. Carroll Campbell appointed Representative Hearn to be Chairman of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission. Afterwards, at a time when many of her colleagues were retiring, she began a second career in public relations with her own company Hearn & Associates, until her final retirement in 2014. She was a woman of many interests. She was a founder of the National Order of Women Legislators, which to this day provides a national forum for women's networking across all state legislatures. In 1979, Gov. Edwards awarded her the Order of the Palmetto for her many contributions to South Carolina. She was active in many diverse organizations, such as the Boards of the Columbia Urban League, the Federation of the Blind, Columbia College, and many others. She also served on the board of the Columbia Museum. Many associations named her Legislator of the Year; the Association of Alcohol and Drug Abuse, the S.C. Association of Disabled Citizens, and the S.C. Committee on Sexual Assault, to name a few. She received the 1985 Mothers Against Drunk Driving Distinguished Service Award for her work regarding Open Containers and raising the drinking age to 21. Representative Hearn served as chairman of the National Advisory Commission on Occupational Safety and Health. First and foremost, she loved her family; she was a devoted mother and grandmother, always there in time of need. She also loved golfing at Fripp Island (she was an avid fan of Tiger Woods) and playing Bridge with her friends. She was a jokester and highly competitive, making every game fun for all. She was a winner at everything she did. Representative Hearn was a member of Kathwood Baptist Church and a Sunday school regular. Surviving are her daughters, Terri Hearn Bailey (Joseph Stan), Kimberly H. Johnson of Columbia, and C. Lee Hearn Becker (Karl) of Manassas, VA. She has six grandchildren, Carter Reston Potts, Joyce Carolyn ``Josie'' Bailey (Sudesh Kalyanswamy), Ruth Elisabeth ``Lisa'' Bailey, and Sarah Hearn Bailey, as well as Jason Thomas Becker and Daniel Gustav Becker. She was so looking forward to Sarah's upcoming marriage to Christopher Michael Siercks on February 13. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Thomas Harry Hearn. Memorials may be made to Kathwood Baptist Church, 4900 Trenholm Rd., Columbia, SC 29206. Dunbar Funeral Home, Devine Street Chapel, is assisting the family. Memories may be shared at www.dunbarfunerals.com.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I missed votes due to having been diagnosed with COVID-19. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 245; YEA on Roll Call No. 246; NAY on Roll Call No. 247; NAY on Roll Call No. 248; NAY on Roll Call No. 249; NAY on Roll Call No. 250; and NAY on Roll Call No. 251.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, South Carolina has lost a Favorite Son with the tragic death of Richard Tyler Hook, age 25. His obituary clearly explains his extraordinary accomplishments and his beloved appreciation by all who knew him. The Wilson Family will always treasure his loyalty and devotion. Richard Tyler Hook [Jan. 20, 2021] Lexington, South Carolina.--Richard Tyler Hook, the son of Richard and Kristin (Wingard) Hook, passed away on January 20, 2021. Tyler was born and raised in Lexington, South Carolina and leaves a far-flung community of family and friends who will remember his rare talent to be both the ``life of the party'' as well as one of the most thoughtful and considerate people you could find. Upon graduating from Lexington High School. Tyler attended Newberry College, where he was a two-term President of his fraternity, Kappa Alpha Order. A well-loved figure on the campus. Tyler was also voted Kappa Delta sorority's ``Beau,'' and he fondly recalled his years at Newberry College as some of the best years in his life. He graduated from Newberry College in 2017 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Digital Marketing. After graduation, Tyler served as a staffer for various campaigns, including campaign staffer for the Republican Party of Virginia, the campaign to re-elect S.C. Attorney General Alan Wilson, and the campaign manager of the Christian Stegmaier S.C. Senate campaign. Tyler then served former Virginia House Delegate Ben Cline's successful congressional bid for the 6th Congressional District of Virginia, where he was instrumental in leading the campaign to a first term congressional victory. He went on to work on the staff of U.S. Representative Ben Cline of Virginia in Washington D.C. A budding politico, Tyler graduated from The George Washington University in 2020 with a Master of Arts in Media and Strategic Communication. When he was not out on the campaign trail or roaming the halls of the Capitol, one could find Tyler on the golf course, or with his family at Williams-Brice Stadium cheering on the Gamecocks. From a young age, Tyler's family encouraged his natural curiosity through travel. Tyler's family trips took him all over the country and to many sites, including many museums up and down the east coast and Europe. He had a love of music. When he was six-years old, he experienced his first concert with his parents attending a Madonna concert in Boston. After his high-school graduation, Tyler traveled throughout Europe with his aunt Gwyn Wingard, where he saw the Rolling Stones in concert and fell in love with Scotland and all things Scottish. His Aunt Gwyn has fond memories of Tyler charming the ladies on his tour across Great Britain. However far his travels and work took him, Tyler remained incredibly close to his family, from whom he learned how to make sweet tea and pork chops the ``right way'' like a true Southerner. Tyler's family and friends recall an uncommonly generous and kind young man whose gift of wit charmed all who knew him. He is survived by his parents, Richard and Kristin Hook; grandmother, Margie Hook; aunt, Gwyn Wingard; aunt, Myra (Karl) Kinard; uncle, Norman (Virginia) Hook; cousins, Ashley Chandler and Tradd Hook. He was preceded in death by grandparents, Phillip Kirton Wingard, Sr., Nancy Carroll Fox, Bethea Hook; uncle, Phillip ``Kirt'' Kirton Wingard, Jr.; great-grandmothers, Gladys Kirton Wingard, Lillie Virginia Fox, and grandfather, Sam Fox. A service in celebration of Tyler's life will be held Saturday, January 30, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. at St. Stephen's Lutheran Church followed by interment in the church cemetery. Social distancing protocols will be observed and masks are required at both the service and graveside. The service and interment may be viewed via livestreaming on Caughman-Harman Funeral Home, Lexington Chapel's Facebook page. Memorials may be made to St. Stephen's Church and Newberry College. The family wishes to thank all those who have offered their expressions of love, condolences, and prayers at www.caughmanlexington.com.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I would like to include in the Record the following obituary for Keith E. Freeland. With deep sorrow we pronounce the passing of Keith E. Freeland of Lewiston, NY on Friday, January 1, 2021. He passed away peacefully at the age of 67. Born in Niagara Falls, NY, he was the son of the late Edward C. and Norma E. (Klipfel) Freeland. He was raised along with his three sisters in Ransomville, NY. Keith married Christine A. (Covatta) Freeland in Lewiston, NY on October 18, 1975 and was a devoted and loving husband for 45 years. Keith attended Lewiston-Porter High School and graduated from Buffalo State College with a degree in business education. He ultimately pursued his life-long career in manufacturing and sales, founding Package Design and Supply in 1995. Viewed as a kind, selfless and devoted leader, he demonstrated unwavering loyalty and compassion to all of his beloved employees and colleagues. Keith not only excelled in his career but he was devoted to several hobbies. Boating was his ultimate passion and anytime the sun was shining in the summer you could find him at the boat docks in Lewiston or cruising along the Lower Niagara River. He was fervent about the community of friends who shared his desire for being on the water; often traveling and seeking new adventures each summer. Keith was a dedicated board member of the Youngstown Yacht Club aiding in annual fundraising events. He also enjoyed vintage car restoration, proudly displaying vehicles he worked so tirelessly on at various local shows. Keith found solace in meticulously maintaining his yard in Thornwood Forest and working diligently on various projects around the home he so cherished. He was an avid Buffalo sports fan and longtime season ticket holder for his beloved Bills and Sabres, for whom he shared in the joys and sorrows with his two sons. Above all, Keith cared about family and he would stop at nothing to be there for them. He instilled in them the value of hard work, honesty, loyalty and simply to be thankful and appreciative. In addition to his wife of 45 years, Keith is survived by his children, Dr. Erik Freeland, Jeffrey Freeland, and Julie Freeland; his siblings, Kathy (late Dr. F. Craig) Fisher of Chicago, IL and Jane (Greg) DiPietro of League City, TX. He was predeceased by his sister, Linda (James) Giardino of Scottsdale, AZ. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and countless friends

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I appreciate Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Robert Wilkie for his service to our country. Last Thursday, the VA shared a review by Secretary Wilkie, discussing recent accomplishments. Wilkie writes that, ``. . . over the last few years, VA was reborn. Today our approval rating stands at about 90 percent for health care, and among our fastest growing population--women--we have an 86 percent approval rating. ``Recent studies show VA measures up to the private sector on access and quality. Veterans liked what they saw and started voting with their feet. VA completed a record number of appointments in fiscal year 2019--59 million--the same year the MlSSION Act took effect. The more Veterans we served, the more Veterans trusted us. Trust in VA care hit a record high in April 2020. ``VA achieved what all the experts in Washington said was impossible by rolling out a modernized health record that will make it easier than ever for health professionals to access Veterans' medical history.''

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, American Families have been blessed the last four years with the service of First Lady Melania Trump. She is a native of Slovenia, a beautiful new nation liberated by the American Victory in the Cold War inspired by Ronald Reagan, Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, Pope John Paul II of Poland Madam Speaker, I include in the Record the Farewell Message of First Lady Melania Trump of January 18, 2021, which is to be treasured. My fellow Americans, it has been the greatest honor of my life to serve as First Lady of the United States. I have been inspired by incredible Americans across our country who lift up our communities through their kindness and courage, goodness and grace. The past four years have been unforgettable. As Donald and I conclude our time in the White House, I think of all the people I have taken home in my heart and their incredible stories of love, patriotism, and determination. I see the faces of brave young soldiers who have told me with pride in their eyes how much they love serving this country. To every service member and to our incredible military families: You are heroes, and you will always be in my thoughts and prayers. I think of all the members of law enforcement who greet us wherever we go. At every hour of every day, they stand guard to keep our communities safe, and we are forever in their debt. I have been moved by children I have visited in hospitals and foster care centers. Even as they fight difficult illnesses or face challenges, they bring such a joy to everyone they meet. I remember the mothers who have battled the disease of Opioid addiction, and have overcome incredible hardships for love of their children. I have been inspired by the devoted caregivers for babies born with Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome, and communities that give these children the support and care they need to grow. When I think about these meaningful experiences, I am humbled to have had the opportunity to represent a nation with such kind and generous people. As the world continues to confront the COVID-19 pandemic, I thank all the nurses, doctors, healthcare professionals, manufacturing workers, truck drivers, and so many others who are working to save lives. We grieve for the families who have lost a loved one due to the pandemic. Every life is precious, and I ask all Americans to use caution and common sense to protect the vulnerable as millions of vaccines are now being delivered. In the midst of this hardship, we have seen the best of America shine through. Students have made cards and delivered groceries to our Senior Citizens. Teachers have worked twice as hard to keep our children learning. Families have come together to provide meals, supplies, comfort and friendship to those in need. Be passionate in everything you do but always remember that violence is never the answer and will never be justified. When I came to the White House, I reflected on the responsibility I have always felt as a mother to encourage, give strength, and teach values of kindness. It is our duty as adults and parents to ensure that children have the best opportunities to lead fulfilling and healthy lives. The passion for helping children succeed would drive my policy initiative as First Lady. I launched Be Best to ensure that we as Americans are doing everything we can to take care of the next generation. Be Best has concentrated on three pillars: well-being, online safety, and opioid abuse. In a few short years, I have raised awareness of how to keep children safe online; we have made incredible progress on our nation's drug epidemic and how it impacts the lives of newborns and families, and we have given a voice to our most vulnerable children in the foster care system. Internationally, Be Best has evolved into a platform that encourages world leaders to discuss issues impacting the lives of children and allows them to share solutions. It has been an honor to represent the American people abroad. I treasure each of my experiences and the inspiring people I have met along the way. As I say farewell to my role as First Lady, it is my sincere hope that every American will do their part to teach our children what it means to Be Best. I ask parents to educate your children about the courageous and selfless heroes who worked and sacrificed to make this country the land of the free. And to lead by example and care for others in your community. The promise of this Nation belongs to all of us. Do not lose sight of your integrity and values. Use every opportunity to show consideration for another person and build good habits into your daily lives. In all circumstances, I ask every American to be an ambassador of Be Best. To focus on what unites us. To rise above what divides us. To always choose love over hatred, peace over violence, and others before yourself. Together, as one national family, we can continue to be the light of hope for future generations and carry on America's legacy of raising our nation to greater heights through our spirit of courage, goodness and faith. No words can express the depth of my gratitude for the privilege of having served as your First Lady. To all the people of this country: You will be in my heart forever. Thank you. God bless you, and God bless the United States of America.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, as President Donald Trump left office, he presented an address the evening before his departure correctly reviewing his achievements. I have had the opportunity to see his success firsthand. Last January, I was in a bi-partisan delegation to Poland and Israel. In Krakow citizens were grateful to President Trump placing American troops in Poland deterring Russian aggression. At the World Holocaust Forum in Jerusalem, citizens were so appreciative of President Trump. Previously, I led a House delegation for the historic opening in May 14, 2018, of the American Embassy in Jerusalem with President Trump fulfilling Promises Made Promises Kept. Last February, I accompanied Senator Tim Scott and his mother, Frances Scott, to his hometown of North Charleston on Air Force One with President Trump where he highlighted his heartfelt success for American families of the lowest unemployment seen ever for African Americans, Hispanics, and Asian Americans. The Address of January 19, 2021, can be cherished by the 62,984,828 Trump supporters in 2016 carrying 86 percent of the nation's counties, and by the 74,216,722 Trump supporters in 2020 resulting in South Carolina having the largest Republican majorities in 140 years. ``My fellow Americans, four years ago we launched a great national effort to rebuild our country, to renew its spirit, and to restore the allegiance of this government to its citizens. In short, we embarked on a mission to make America great again for all Americans. As I conclude my term as the 45th President of the United States, I stand before you truly proud of what we have achieved together. We did what we came here to do, and so much more. This week we inaugurate a new administration and pray for its success in keeping America safe and prosperous. We extend our best wishes, and we also want them to have luck, a very important word. ``I'd like to begin by thanking just a few of the amazing people who made our remarkable journey possible. First, let me express my overwhelming gratitude for the love and support of our spectacular First Lady Melania. Let me also share my deepest appreciation to my daughter, lvanka, my son-in-law Jared, and to Baron, Don, Eric, Tiffany, and Lara. You fill my world with light and with joy. I also want to thank Vice President Mike Pence, his wonderful wife, Karen, and the entire Pence family. Thank you as well to my chief of staff, Mark Meadows, the dedicated members of the White House staff, and the cabinet, and all of the incredible people across our administration who poured out their heart and soul to fight for America. ``I also want to take a moment to thank a truly exceptional group of people, the United States Secret Service. My family and I will forever be in your debt. My profound gratitude as well to everyone in the White House military office, the teams of Marine One and Air Force One, every member of the armed forces, and state and local law enforcement all across our country. Most of all, I want to thank the American people. To serve as your president has been an honor beyond description. Thank you for this extraordinary privilege. And that's what it is, a great privilege and a great honor. We must never forget that while Americans will always have our disagreements, we are a nation of incredible, decent, faithful, and peace-loving citizens who all want our country to thrive and flourish and be very, very successful and good. We are a truly magnificent nation. ``All Americans were horrified by the assault on our capital. Political violence is an attack on everything we cherish as Americans. It can never be tolerated. Now more than ever, we must unify around our shared values and rise above the partisan rancor and forge our common destiny. Four years ago, I came to Washington as the only true outsider ever to win the presidency. I had not spent my career as a politician, but as a builder looking at open skylines and imagining infinite possibilities. I ran for president because I knew there were towering new summits for America just waiting to be scaled. I knew the potential for our nation was boundless as long as we put America first. So I left behind my former life and stepped into a very difficult arena, but an arena, nevertheless, with all sorts of potential if properly done. ``America had given me so much and I wanted to give something back. Together with millions of hardworking Patriots across this land, we built the greatest political movement in the history of our country. We also built the greatest economy in the history of the world. It was about America first because we all wanted to make America great again. We restored the principle that a nation exists to serve its citizens. Our agenda was not about right or left. It wasn't about Republican or Democrat, but about the good of a nation, and that means the whole nation. With the support and prayers of the American people, we achieved more than anyone thought possible. Nobody thought we could even come close. We passed the largest package of tax cuts and reforms in American history. We slashed more job-killing regulations than any administration had ever done before. ``We fix our broken trade deals, withdrew from the horrible Trans-Pacific Partnership and the impossible Paris Climate Accord, renegotiated the one-sided South Korea deal. And we replaced NAFTA with the groundbreaking USMCA, that's Mexico and Canada, a deal that's worked out very, very well. Also and very importantly, we imposed historic and monumental tariffs on China, made a great new deal with China. But before the ink was even dry, we and the whole world got hit with the China virus. ``Our trade relationship was rapidly changing. Billions and billions of dollars were pouring into the US but the virus forced us to go in a different direction. The whole world suffered, but America outperformed other countries economically because of our incredible economy and the economy that we built. Without the foundations and footings, it wouldn't have worked out this way. We wouldn't have some of the best numbers we've ever had. We also unlocked our energy resources and became the world's number one producer of oil and natural gas by far. Powered by these policies, we built the greatest economy in the history of the world. We reignited America's job creation and achieved record-low unemployment for African Americans, Hispanic Americans, Asian Americans, women, almost everyone. Income soared, wages boomed. The American dream was restored and millions were lifted from poverty in just a few short years. It was a miracle. ``The stock market set one record after another, with 148 stock market highs during the short period of time, and boosted the retirements and pensions of hardworking citizens all across our nation. 401(k)s are at a level they've never been at before. We've never seen numbers like we've seen, and that's before the pandemic and after the pandemic. We rebuilt the American manufacturing base, opened up thousands of new factories, and brought back the beautiful phrase Made in the USA. To make life better for working families, we doubled the child tax credit and signed the largest-ever expansion of funding for childcare and development. We joined with the private sector to secure commitments to train more than 16 million American workers for the jobs of tomorrow. ``When our nation was hit with the terrible pandemic, we produced not one, but two vaccines with record-breaking speed and more will quickly follow. They said it couldn't be done, but we did it. They called it a medical miracle. And that's what they're calling it right now, a medical miracle. Another administration would have taken three, four, five, maybe even up to 10 years to develop a vaccine. We did it in nine months. We grieve for every life lost and we pledge in their memory to wipe out this horrible pandemic once and for all. ``When the virus took its brutal toll on the world's economy, we launched the fastest economic recovery our country has ever seen. We passed nearly $4 trillion in economic relief, saved or supported over 50 million jobs, and slashed the unemployment rate in half. These are numbers that our country has never seen before. We created choice and transparency in healthcare, stood up to big pharma in so many ways, but especially in our effort to get favored nations clauses added, which will give us the lowest prescription drug prices anywhere in the world. We passed VA Choice, VA Accountability, Right to Try, and landmark criminal justice reform. ``We confirmed three new justices of the United States Supreme Court. We appointed nearly 300 federal judges to interpret our Constitution as written. For years, the American people pleaded with Washington to finally secure the nation's borders. I am pleased to say, we answered that plea and achieved the most secure border in US history. We have given our brave border agents and heroic ICE officers the tools they need to do their jobs better than they have ever done before and to enforce our laws and keep America safe. We proudly leave the next administration with the strongest and most robust border security measures ever put into place. This includes historic agreements with Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador, along with more than 450 miles of powerful new wall. ``We restored American strength at home and American leadership abroad. The world respects us again. Please don't lose that respect. We reclaimed our sovereignty by standing up for America at the United Nations and withdrawing from the one-sided global deals that never served our interests. And NATO countries are now paying hundreds of billions of dollars more than when I arrived just a few years ago. It was very unfair. We were paying the cost for the world. Now the world is helping us. ``And perhaps most importantly of all, with nearly $3 trillion, we fully rebuilt the American military, all made in the USA. We launched the first new branch of the United States Armed Forces in 75 years, the Space Force. And last spring, I stood at Kennedy Space Center in Florida and watched as American astronauts returned to space on American rockets for the first time in many, many years. ``We revitalize our alliances and rallied the nations of the world to stand up to China like never before. We obliterated the ISIS caliphate and ended the wretched life of its founder and leader alBaghdadi. We stood up to the oppressive Iranian regime and killed the world's top terrorist, Iranian butcher, Qassem Soleimani. We recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and recognized Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights. As a result of our bold diplomacy and principled realism, we achieved a series of historic peace deals in the Middle East. Nobody believed it could happen. The Abraham Accords opened the doors to a future of peace and harmony, not violence and bloodshed. It is the dawn of a new Middle East, and we are bringing our soldiers home. I am especially proud to be the first president in decades who has started no new wars. ``Above all, we have reasserted the sacred idea that in America the government answers to the people. Our guiding light, our North star, our unwavering conviction has been that we are here to serve the noble everyday citizens of America. Our allegiance is not to the special interests corporations or global entities, it's to our children, our citizens, and to our nation itself. As president my top priority, my constant concern has always been the best interests of American workers and American families. I did not seek the easiest course. By far, it was actually the most difficult. I did not seek the path that would get the least criticism. I took on the tough battles, the hardest fights, the most difficult choices because that's what you elected me to do. Your needs were my first and last unyielding focus. This, I hope, will be our greatest legacy. ``Together, we put the American people back in charge of our country. We restored self-government. We restored the idea that in America no one is forgotten because everyone matters and everyone has a voice. We fought for the principle that every citizen is entitled to equal dignity, equal treatment, and equal rights because we are all made equal by God. Everyone is entitled to be treated with respect, to have their voice heard, and to have the government listen. You are loyal to your country and my administration was always loyal to you. ``We worked to build a country in which every citizen could find a great job and support their wonderful families. We fought for the communities where every American could be safe and schools where every child could learn. We promoted a culture where our laws would be upheld, our heroes honored, our history preserved, and law-abiding citizens are never taken for granted. Americans should take tremendous satisfaction in all that we have achieved together. It's incredible. ``Now, as I leave the white house, I have been reflecting on the dangers that threaten the priceless inheritance we all share. As the world's most powerful nation, America faces constant threats and challenges from abroad. But the greatest danger we face is a loss of confidence in ourselves, a loss of confidence in our national greatness. A nation is only as strong as its spirit. We are only as dynamic as our pride. We are only as vibrant as the faith that beats in the hearts of our people. No nation can long thrive that loses faith in its own values, history, and heroes for these are the very sources of our unity and our vitality. ``What has always allowed America to prevail and triumph over the great challenges of the past has been an unyielding and unashamed conviction in the nobility of our country and its unique purpose in history. We must never lose this conviction. We must never forsake our belief in America. The key to national greatness lies in sustaining and instilling our shared national identity. That means focusing on what we have in common, the heritage that we all share. At the center of this heritage is also a robust belief in free expression, free speech, and open debate. Only if we forget who we are and how we got here could we ever allow political censorship and blacklisting to take place in America. It's not even thinkable. Shutting down free and open debate violates our core values and most enduring traditions. ``In America, we don't insist on absolute conformity or enforce rigid orthodoxies and punitive speech codes. We just don't do that. America is not a timid nation of tame souls who need to be sheltered and protected from those with whom we disagree. That's not who we are. It will never be who we are. For nearly 250 years in the face of every challenge, Americans have always summoned our unmatched courage, confidence, and fierce independence. These are the miraculous traits that once led millions of everyday citizens to set out across a wild continent and carve out a new life in the great West. It was the same profound love of our God-given freedom that willed our soldiers into battle and our astronauts into space. ``As I think back on the past four years, one image rises in my mind above all others. Whenever I traveled all along the motorcade route, there were thousands and thousands of people. They came out with their families so that they could stand as we passed and proudly wave our great American flag. It never failed to deeply move me. I knew that they did not just come out to show their support of me. They came out to show me their support and love for our country. This is a republic of proud citizens who are united by our common conviction, that America is the greatest nation in all of history. ``We are and must always be a land of hope, of light, and of glory to all the world. This is the precious inheritance that we must safeguard at every single turn. For the past four years, I have worked to do just that. From a great hall of Muslim leaders in Riyadh to a great square of Polish people in Warsaw, from the floor of the Korean Assembly to the podium at the United Nations General Assembly, and from the forbidden city in Beijing to the shadow of Mount Rushmore, I fought for you. I fought for your family. I fought for our country. Above all, I fought for America and all it stands for, and that is safe, strong, proud, and free. ``Now, as I prepare to hand power over to a new administration at noon on Wednesday, I want you to know that the movement we started is only just beginning. There's never been anything like it. The belief that a nation must serve its citizens will not dwindle, but instead, only grows stronger by the day. As long as the American people hold in their hearts, deep and devoted love of country, then there is nothing that this nation can not achieve. Our communities will flourish. Our people will be prosperous. Our traditions will be cherished. Our faith will be strong and our future will be brighter than ever before. I go from this majestic place with a loyal and joyful heart, an optimistic spirit, and a supreme confidence that for our country and for our children, the best is yet to come. Thank you and farewell. God bless you. God bless the United States of America.''

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam speaker, I was grateful to represent South Carolina's Second Congressional District at yesterday's inauguration of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris and to join my colleagues to witness this historic event. I appreciate the Capitol Police, National Guard, Secret Service, and all law enforcement officers who worked to ensure our security and a peaceful transition of power. The South Carolina National Army National Guard was ably led by Colonel Edward Cloyd including Second District Congressional Office District Director 1Lt. Alex Morris. Moving forward, it's time to keep working toward what is best for the country. Americans still need a way out of this Wuhan pandemic, job growth, and continued support for our men and women in uniform. Having traveled with Senator Biden on delegations to Iraq and Belgium, I know firsthand he can seek unity. Best wishes Congresswoman-Elect Claudia Tenney, fighting for a fair election. In conclusion, God Bless our Troops, and we will never forget September 11th in the Global War on Terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, my wife Roxanne and I will always be appreciative of Sheldon and Miriam Adelson who hosted us on a visit to Israel with a boat ride on a first century replica fishing boat on the Sea of Galilee. I am grateful to serve as a co- chair of the Israel Caucus, Sheldon Adelson was a valued Friend of Israel. He is honored by Jonathan Garber of Fox Business with an obituary upon his death and our family extends our deepest sympathy to the Adelson Family. Sheldon Adelson, [Las Vegas Sands CEO] . . . has died following a battle with cancer. He was 87. Adelson was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in 2019 and recently stepped away from the company to resume his treatment, the company said on Jan 7. `Mr. Adelson was the first employee of Las Vegas Sands-- ``Team Member Number One'' he liked to say. Today, more than 50,000 Sands team members have Dr. Adelson and the entire Adelson family in their thoughts and prayers and are grateful to have had their lives touched by a true force of nature,' according to a statement from Las Vegas Sands. Adelson, who is survived by his wife Dr. Miriam Adelson and five children, had a net worth of $35.6 billion as of Jan. 11, according to Forbes. A funeral will be held in Israel, the birthplace of Miriam Adelson, with plans for a memorial service held in Las Vegas to be announced at a later date, according to the company. He entered the casino business in 1989 when he purchased the Sands Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas for $128 million and is credited with helping transform Las Vegas into the top U.S. destination for conventions and exhibitions. Adelson in 2007 opened Venetian Macao on the Cotai Strip, helping recreate the Las Vegas Strip in an autonomous region of the People's Republic of China. Three years later, he opened the $6 billion Marina Bay Sands resort in Singapore. In conclusion, God Bless our Troops and we will never forget September 11th in the Global War on Terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I rise to support the objection. People across the United States are rightfully concerned about the mishandling of their votes and irregularities in the 2020 federal election. I share this concern given the incredible irregularities, additionally because the Constitution provides that election laws are the sole jurisdiction of state legislators which must be maintained, and not to be changed by obscure unilateral and judicial abuse with unfounded defiance of state laws. As a nation of laws, violence must never be excused by any one for any reason. As a former Lexington County Election Commissioner, not just as a Member of Congress, I am disgusted at the irregularities in the 2020 presidential election. The failure to validate signatures, the omission of witnesses, the interruption of counting before completion, the denial of poll watchers for access to fully observe, the extension of ballots received beyond Election Day, and the registration of illegal aliens, allowing non-citizens to vote, are all an open invitation for fraud. I had counted on courts to fully consider lawsuits by 18 states and 126 members of Congress, but the Courts have declined to act. In four states, Georgia, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin, the authority of the state legislatures to enact election rules and procedures, which is delegated by Article II, Section 1, Clause 2 of the Constitution was unlawfully subverted. This is an unconstitutional act. For these reasons, I will object to certification of the Electoral College.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, The Wall Street Journal on Tuesday, December 29, Chun Han Wong reported that Wuhan Chronicler Zhang Zhan was convicted of ``picking quarrels and provoking trouble with her posts'' jailing her for four years. ``A Chinese court imposed a four-year prison term on a citizen journalist who documented how Covid-19 ravaged the city where the coronavirus was first detected . . . ``Zhang Zhan, 37 years old, was convicted of ``picking quarrels and provoking trouble'' after a roughly 2\1/2\-hour trial . . . where prosecutors accused her of spreading falsehoods about the pandemic through social-media posts . . . ``Her detention dovetails with Chinese leader Xi Jinping's campaign to recast the coronavirus pandemic . . . featuring extensive propaganda and censorship efforts aimed at mollifying public anger and suppressing criticism against missteps in the government's initial response. ``In Monday's trial, Ms. Zhang said she regarded the proceeding, against her as illegitimate . . .'' I especially regret the Communist Party repression of the Chinese people because my father, First Lieutenant Hugh Wilson, served in China during World War II in the Flying Tigers where I grew up with his affection for the Chinese people and their extraordinary culture. In conclusion, God Bless our Troops and we will never forget September 11th in the Global War on Terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, thousands of dedicated patriots will be in Washington tomorrow to Stop The Steal peacefully protesting the irregularities of the 2020 election. I will welcome the Stedmans of New Jersey, the Durhams of South Carolina, and the Carons of Florida. They are already winners with Republican gains in Congress with 19 additional Republican women, and all Republican House incumbents re-elected as 15 incumbent Democrats lost, and The Epoch Times, December 2nd by Pete Svab highlighted Republican gains in the state legislatures: ``Republicans expanded their control of state legislatures in the 2020 election, flipping both chambers in one state while gaining more than 160 seats overall.'' ``Their lead over Democrats thus increased to more than 700 seats (about 67 percent) from over 400.'' ``The 2020 gains bring the GOP to a total of more than 4,000 seats.'' ``The balance of power has major consequences. States decide much of the policy that affects people's daily lives, in areas such as education, law enforcement, health care, housing, and infrastructure.'' I especially appreciate in South Carolina the leadership of President Donald Trump has produced the largest Republican majorities in 140 years at all levels of government. In conclusion, God Bless our Troops and we will never forget September 11th in the Global War on Terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, an article today by Caitlyn Byrd titled, ``Republican Nancy Mace to be sworn in as South Carolina's newest member of Congress'' in The State newspaper of Columbia reports that: ``[Nancy Mace will be] South Carolina's newest member of Congress and the state's only female representative in Washington.'' (She is one of the 15 Congressional seats flipped in 2020 from Democrat to Republican). ``Mace, 43, joins a record-breaking number of Republican women elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. Mace, a Daniel Island Republican, will be one of 18 freshman GOP women in the 117th Congress. ``Mace's two children, Elli and Miles, were expected to watch their mom become a congresswoman . . .'' As a native of Charleston myself, I am grateful for the success of Congresswoman Mace. I also appreciate my mother, Wray Wilson, who campaigned in Charleston for President Eisenhower in 1952 before there were any elected Republicans in South Carolina, at any level. With the Trump landslide, now there are the largest Republican majorities in the state with more elected Republicans in 140 years. In conclusion, God Bless our Troops and we will never forget September 11th in the Global War on Terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, as a former Election Commissioner, not as a Member of Congress, I am disgusted of the irregularities of the 2020 election. The first duty of a commissioner is fairness and honesty, not facilitating fraud as has sadly so clearly occurred in 2020. The failure to verify signatures, the omission of witnesses, the interruption of counting before completion, the denial of poll watchers for access to fully observe, the extension of ballots received beyond Election Day, registration of illegal aliens, the mailing of mass ballots requested or not, with all irregularities being uncontrovented, this is an open invitation of fraud with financing of hundreds of millions of dollars by elitist tech billionaires to pay for ``get out the vote'' for Democrats to maintain tech monopolies. I was grateful to join my colleagues from South Carolina, Jeff Duncan of Laurens, Ralph Norman of Rock Hill, Tom Rice of Myrtle Beach, and William Timmons of Greenville, as ``friends of the court'' along with 121 additional Members of Congress to support the legal challenge to the election irregularities. In addition, Attorney General Alan Wilson of South Carolina courageously joined the suit with 16 additional states, but unfortunately the Supreme Court declined to accept the challenge. An excellent review of the Attorney General's actions was published December 15, 2020, in The Post and Courier of Charleston. Why I Joined the Lawsuit A number of critics have attacked South Carolina's involvement in the election lawsuit that went to the U.S. Supreme Court. Now that the court has decided not to hear the suit, I would like to address the attacks, but first I will explain my position with a simple analogy. Consider an example where two football teams are playing for the national championship, and in the final seconds of the game one team scores the game-winning touchdown. As the winning team celebrates, a camera angle of the touchdown shows that the player who ran the ball into the end zone might have stepped out of bounds before crossing the goal line. The coach of the presumptive losing team challenges the last play by asking the referee for a review. The reason for this challenge is because if it is determined that the player stepped out of bounds before scoring, then the rules were violated and the touchdown is not legitimate. The coach has a duty to exhaust all remedies available to him; otherwise, he is not doing his job. Just like football, elections have rules that must be followed to the letter before a winner can be declared. In this particular case, the rules for federal elections are given to us in the U.S. Constitution, and I interpret those rules to say basically that laws dictating the time, location and manner of elections should be determined by state legislatures and no one else. A number of state officials from other states--well- intentioned or not--unilaterally rewrote the laws through executive fiat, which is, arguably, a violation of the ``electors clause'' of the Constitution. For example, in one state the legislature passed a law that said ballots must be received postmarked by 8 p.m. on Election Day. The court in that state, which is a non-legislative body, extended the deadline by three days and waived the requirement for a postmark on the mail-in ballot. I believe the Constitution only grants the state legislature with the legal authority to change the deadline and postmark requirements, not another state official. This raises the question, in this particular example, of whether the ballots received days after the election with no postmark are in fact legal votes and, if they are not legal votes, should we still count them? Other examples can be cited, but either way, this is analogous to a player allegedly stepping out of bounds. Normally I would never intervene in another state's business, nor should I. However, presidential elections are national elections where oftentimes the outcome is determined by only a few states. If state officials were to unilaterally change their state law and those changes might have affected the outcome of the national election, then the voters of all the other states who voted for the other candidate would be disenfranchised. There is an appellate process in football that allows a coach to challenge the results of a play when that coach believes the other team may have violated the rules. The referee reviews the play and either agrees with the challenge or disagrees with the challenge. The losing team had the opportunity through that process to exercise its right to challenge. This process is what legitimizes the final results of the game. In this case, the Supreme Court was our referee, and there was an allegation that a constitutional violation had occurred. The process for choosing our president allows the states the opportunity to challenge a questionable result. The Supreme Court had the authority to decline to hear the lawsuit, but we had the right to present this important issue. Even though the Supreme Court rejected the lawsuit, moving forward we should not allow election officials to unilaterally change election laws. Such changes severely diminish the integrity of elections. It's amazing that so many have criticized the states for daring to raise this question before the court on behalf of so many who believe the rules have been violated. I wonder if this righteous indignation would be as loud if the roles were reversed. History suggests that it would not.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I rise today to express my gratitude to serve as the Chairman of the Republican Study Committee's National Security and Foreign Affairs Task Force this Congress. In June, the Task Force issued its National Security Strategy report after convening a number of meetings with top policy experts and engaging in complex discussions on the foreign policy challenges we face. The RSC's National Security Strategy spans over 120 pages and includes over 100 detailed policy recommendations on tackling the Chinese Communist Party, Russia, Iran, and the Salafi-jihadi movement, and for standing up for democracy and human rights. The report boldly stood up for a foreign policy of American leadership through the principle of peace through strength. It was also noticed and condemned by adversaries such as the Chinese Communist Party, the Kremlin, and the Chief of Staff of the President of the Iranian regime. In only a few months a number of the report's ideas have already been implemented by the Trump Administration, or have been introduced as legislation. For example just last week Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced that the United Front Work Department of the Chinese Communist Party would be sanctioned, something first proposed by the RSC Task Force report. This month also, RSC members introduced six bills taking on China for it's IP theft, Rep. Jack Bergman introduced a bill to audit U.S. contributions to the United Nations, and I was grateful to introduce the Badr Organization Designation Act, and the Stop the Killing in Syria Act, both based upon the National Security Strategy report. I am grateful for the leadership of my colleagues on the Task Force including RSC Chairman Rep. Mike Johnson, Rep. Rob Whitman, Rep. Don Bacon, Rep. Ann Wagner, Rep. Dan Crenshaw, Rep. Ralph Norman, Rep. Bryan Steil, Rep. Alex Mooney, Rep. Jack Bergman, Rep. Neal Dunn, Rep. Clay Higgins, and Rep. Michael Waltz. I appreciate the hard work of Omar Hossino of the RSC staff in managing the Task Force's meetings, developing policy recommendations, and writing the report. I am grateful for Omar Hossino's dedication and service to the Task Force. Omar Hossino has been a key advisor and invaluable asset on foreign policy issues not only to members of the Task Force but also to the broader RSC. His vast knowledge of the intricacies of both complex foreign policy issues as well as the intricacies of legislation, especially economic sanctions has been invaluable to me and Task Force members. Omar Hossino's passion and tireless work ethic has also been a driving force behind turning the report into legislative initiatives. Finally, I would like to recognize my Legislative Director Oren Adaki of my staff for his deep dedication and important contributions to this project as well.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, The Washington Times editorial board is appreciated for publishing ``Joy, and Vaccines to the World,'' where they praised President Donald Trump for his efforts to bring a vaccine to the United States faster than any other vaccine in history. The article is explaining: The lifesaving COVID-19 vaccine that President Trump promised to deliver has arrived in record time. Hallelujah. On Friday, the Food and Drug Administration concluded its review of the front-running vaccine developed and gave a green light for distribution. Initial shipments are expected to reach all 636 locations across the 50 States by today. ``Promises made, promises kept,'' Mr. Trump likes to say. That is the can-do spirit that makes America special. Just in time for Christmas, the fruits of Operation Warp Speed are starting to bring joy to the world. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. Our family's sympathy for the death of former DNC Chairman Don Fowler.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I am grateful for Major Jeremy E. Tillman, who has been serving in the Washington office of the Second Congressional District of South Carolina from the Army for the past year as a Defense fellow. Major Tillman has been deployed twice: to the Republic of Korea and to Iraq. He is the recipient of the Purple Heart, the Bronze Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Medal, the Combat Action Badge, the Army Commendation Medal, and many other deserved awards. Major Tillman has been essential to the office over the past year. He has worked to solidify important legislation in the National Defense Authorization Act, NDAA, including modification of body armor for female troops. I am thankful for his commitment to America. I wish him well and the best for his future. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. I appreciate President Donald Trump as a champion for our military for peace through strength.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, this Saturday, America recognizes 150 years since Joseph Rainey, the first African American to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives, took office. I am grateful for South Carolinian Joseph Rainey, a Republican, a champion of civil rights, for breaking ground for so many African Americans who followed in his footsteps. Last week, it was announced there will be a House exhibition entitled, ``Joseph Rainey: 150 Years.'' The exhibition shares Rainey's impact from the 1870s through the 1970s. The power and importance of voting rights are at the heart of the exhibition, which tells this tumultuous history through objects, images, documents, and words of African-American Members of Congress who have lived and legislated through it. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. Congratulations to President Donald Trump for leading South Carolina Republicans to the most success in 140 years since Congressman Rainey began the Republican Party.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Chairman Adam Smith and Ranking Member Mac Thornberry for their dedicated work on developing this bipartisan bill appropriately named in honor of Chairman Mac Thornberry, an American patriot. As a member of the conference committee, I appreciated the opportunity to work on another historically important NDAA. Enactment of this bill will be the 60th consecutive fiscal year that the NDAA has passed, exhibiting the true bipartisan nature of the process. I am thankful for the provision of a 3 percent military pay increase, which represents the first time in a decade the troops have consecutively received a salary boost of at least 3 percent. The most recent report contains the Guardian and Reserve Hazard Duty Pay Equity Act, a bipartisan bill introduced with Representative Andy Kim. I was grateful to lead a letter with Representative Kim urging its inclusion. I am also especially grateful that my bill, the Body Armor for Females Modernization Act, was included to ensure that female servicemembers have the right equipment from day one. This legislation contains the Small Manufacturer Cybersecurity Enhancement Act, a bill I introduced with Representative Jimmy Panetta, which will allow the Department to partner with manufacturing extension partnership centers to provide assistance to small manufacturers. There is full funding for the Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative at USC Aiken and PILT and pit production at the Savannah River site. It also incorporates a bipartisan bill I introduced with Representative Ed Perlmutter to ensure continued funding for the Office of the Ombudsman in the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Program. I appreciate the success of staff member Drew Kennedy and military fellow Major Jeremy Tillman. I support this conference report, remembering 9/11 and the murderous attacks, by defeating the terrorists overseas. Mr. Speaker, I urge all Members to vote in favor.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, congratulations to Ritedose Corporation of Columbia, a South Carolina company on the front lines of America's spectacular effort to secure a coronavirus vaccine. Thursday, it was announced that Ritedose has been selected as a subcontractor of ApiJect Systems America, led by CEO Franco Negron, to produce prefilled single-dose syringes for the vaccine. In 4 months, Jody Chastain, the president and CEO of Ritedose, and his talented team have up-fitted a facility that will produce up to 45 million doses a month of the vaccine. That is American ingenuity at its best, and it is our capable workforce in South Carolina at their best. The Ritedose success in Operation Warp Speed, led by Vice President Mike Pence, is a historic achievement and another Donald Trump victory, which the fake media will distort. I am grateful that The Ritedose Corporation is integral in this effort for the health and safety of American families. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. Mr. Speaker, we appreciate the courage of Claudia Tenney.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I would like to include in the Record the following obituary for Rita Marie Brus. Rita Marie Brus, age 91, passed away on November 27, 2020. She was the beloved wife of the late James Brus, Sr. Rita was born on November 13, 1929 to the late Joseph and the late Florence Choiniere. Dear mother of the late James Brus, Jr. Mother-in-law to Kathleen Brus. Cherished grandmother to Matthew Brus, and Kimberly (Patrick) Lusch. Adored great- grandmother to Kylan, Kinsleigh, and Kamden Lusch. Loving sister to Sister Mary Choiniere SSJ, Margaret (Harvey) Richardson, the late Joseph (the late Georgina) Choiniere, the late Bernadette (Ralph) Dunnigan, and the late Robert Choiniere. Rita was loved by many nieces, nephews, great- nieces, and great-nephews. When the love of her life died young, Rita went back to school and became a dietary supervisor. She spent years working at St. John Nursing Home in Detroit. She cherished her time with her grandchildren, spending weekends with them. She was a devout Catholic, and sponsored numerous people through confirmation. Rita was Godmother to over eight family members. She held a special place in her heart for those with disabilities, including two great nieces, and donated time with the Special Olympics. Widowed for 40 years, Rita instilled the importance of Catholic values, such as attending Mass and the Sacraments, in her family. Her husband's Upper Peninsula roots rubbed off on Rita, as she passed on her love of cooking pasties and other comfort foods. She loved a great family gossip conversation and as a result, you always knew where you stood with Rita! Conversations with Rita always started with her asking how her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were. Her great- grandchildren loved being pushed on her walker as they raced down the hallways. She shared a special bond with her sister, Margaret. Also of great importance to Rita were her many nieces and nephews, all of whom she treated like her own. Despite suffering through many losses, including that of her husband and her only son, Rita instilled in her family the importance of always putting God first. How blessed we are to have had Rita in our lives! Heaven has gained a spunky angel!

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, the defeated Democrat candidate for Senate acknowledged South Carolina Republicans swept to remarkable victories on the local, State, and Federal levels due to the coattails of President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence, providing the largest Republican majorities at every level in 140 years. Despite biased fake news, our citizens appreciate the lowest unemployment in history for African Americans, Hispanics, and Asian Americans, with the highest employment ever for women and youth. Peace through strength has been maintained with rebuilding the military, and Promises Made Promises Kept, the American Embassy is now in Jerusalem. Out-of-State contributions of unlimited millions to Democrats enriched political consultants as Democrats lost, while outspending every Republican. Senator Lindsey Graham survived the over $150 million onslaught in America's most expensive Senate race. The most expensive House race ever led to Congresswoman-elect Nancy Mace becoming the first female Republican Federal official in history. My opponent spent 15 times more than my prior opponent to receive the exact vote of 42 percent. We appreciate the voters. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I would like to take the time to recognize Cindy Smith for her dedicated work to the Lexington District One Board of Trustees. She is an important member of our community as she has worked to improve our children's education. District Honors 20-year Board Member On Tuesday, Oct. 20, the Lexington District One Board of Trustees honored board chair Cynthia ``Cindy'' S. Smith who decided to retire following 20 consecutive years of devoted service to the district. She became involved in Lexington District One while serving as president of the Lexington Elementary School PTA. After serving in the PTA and her children's School Improvement Council, she decided to run for the Board of Trustees in 2000 and was elected. Smith served as secretary, vice chair and chair throughout her 20 years of service. As one of the fastest-growing school districts in the state, ranking sixth in total enrollment, Smith is proud of the excellent academic reputation the district established. During her tenure on the board, the district experienced rapid growth, and drew accolades and national recognition for high academic improvement and innovative programs. An active community member, Smith chaired the South Carolina Insurance Trust Board of Directors, the Lexington District One Educational Foundation, the South Carolina School Boards Association and the Lexington Woman's Club and served on the Executive Board of the Friends of the Lexington County Library and the Board of Directors for the South Carolina School Improvement Council.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I would like to include in the Record the following obituary for distinguished South Carolinian, Raymond A. Denny, Jr.: Raymond Denny, former sales executive in the electronics industry, passed away October 26 in Greenville. Born in New York City September 18, 1930, he was the son of Raymond and Hazel Ladner Denny. He graduated from Iona College, where he was a member of the 1954 championship debating team and President of the Young Republicans of NY. He developed his business career with Union Carbide as sales manager for consumer products. His position as the first sales manager of Kemet Electronics brought him from Ohio to Greenville, later declaring he did not plan to live anywhere else. He later founded Electronic Marketing Associates, a successful electronics sales firm covering the south. He was a lifelong member of Toastmasters, the English Speaking Union; and a member of the Furman University Learning in Retirement program, lecturing on cathedral history and the origins of Christianity in England. He was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Greenville. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Peggy; sons Robert of Raleigh and Tony (Beverly) of Columbia; and grandchildren Leah Grace and Marshall Denny.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I yield as much time as he may consume to the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Smith), the very courageous sponsor of this bill.