Joe Wilson

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, it is with sincere gratitude and appreciation that I have the opportunity to recognize Matt Blackwell, former senior legislative assistant for South Carolina's Second Congressional District. I will always appreciate Matt for his years of service on behalf of the people of South Carolina. A native of Aiken, South Carolina, and a USC graduate, Matt worked on a wide variety of issues, including energy, tax, financial services, transportation and infrastructure, and budget and appropriations. Beginning as an intern in the office in 2013, it has been an honor to work with such a dedicated public servant. It is with mixed feelings, but great happiness, that the office bids Matt farewell. He will be doing amazing work in his new role as legislative director for Congressman Neal Dunn of Florida, a distinguished graduate of Washington and Lee University of Lexington, Virginia. I know his parents, State Representative Bart and Paula Blackwell, and family members join me in recognizing his achievements. 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. Mr. Speaker, Ethiopian Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed Ali has made positive changes in the country since his April inauguration. Prime Minister Ali has released thousands of political prisoners and ended a state of emergency. Critically, Dr. Abiy has stated that Ethiopia will fully comply with the Algiers Agreement, the peace agreement signed for the formal end of the war of 12 years between Ethiopia and Eritrea, which, gruesomely, has killed more than 100,000 people. Prime Minister Abiy's leadership and initiative to personally visit with the Eritrean leadership and offer direct airline routes has melted away a nearly 18-year cold war between the two states. The United States will continue to support Prime Minister Abiy's diplomatic outreach and reform, which will also contribute to regional stability. New hope and opportunity with free market reforms are now available to the people of Ethiopia. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. Welcome, Pastor John Hagee and Christians United for Israel, to Washington, addressed last night by Ambassador Nikki Haley.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, the latest results are in from the Republican tax cuts, with Trump deregulation, producing jobs: $2,059 average tax cut for a typical family of four; $2,000 new per child tax credit, double the old amount. Sixteen regulations rolled back through the Congressional Review Act process, the most in history. Ninety percent of Americans are receiving bigger paychecks under the new withholding tables. A 3.4 percent increase in real disposable income in the first quarter of 2018; a record high level of U.S. exports of goods and services, over $200 billion; 3.7 million jobs created since November 2016; 1.3 million jobs created since the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act became law; 6.6 million job openings as of May 2018, meaning more jobs than job seekers. Sixty-five percent of Americans now say it is a good time to find a quality job. 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. Mr. Speaker, on Friday, The Washington Times correctly reported on the front page about the NATO conference that ``President Trump's bare-knuckles diplomacy paid off.'' ``Mr. Trump declared that the U.S. remained committed to the military alliance.'' The Brussels Declaration of July 11 itself confirmed: ``We will share fairly the responsibilities of defending each other. Real progress has been made across NATO. . . . But even if we have turned a corner, we need to do more, and there will be further progress.'' Today, I am grateful to welcome a delegation from Bulgaria as a valued NATO ally. Chairperson of the Foreign Policy Committee, Dzhema Grozdanova of the National Assembly, who also is chair of the Friendship group Bulgaria-USA, is leading a delegation of assembly members to Washington, coordinated by Ambassador Tihomir Stoytchev. It is inspiring to see young Bulgarians and Americans training together at the base at Novo Selo to establish peace through strength. 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. Mr. Speaker, The Post and Courier of Charleston, South Carolina, has provided a thoughtful editorial supporting the confirmation of Judge Brett Kavanaugh. The editorial reinforces that ``Brett Kavanaugh is a highly qualified `originalist' who will help return the Supreme Court to its proper function in American society. The Senate should quickly confirm him.'' ``Judge Kavanaugh . . . fits President Donald Trump's promise to appoint judges known to adhere to the original language of the Constitution and its amendments, and to closely follow the law as laid down by Congress.'' ``As a Federal judge, Mr. Kavanaugh appears to have taken the . . . view that Congress is the preeminent policymaking body of the Federal government except where the Constitution gives policymaking powers to the executive; that Congress, the executive branch and the judiciary are all bound by the Constitution . . . and that judges and the President are further bound by the permissible decisions of Congress.'' ``It would be a welcome change to see the court allow the political branches of government to decide most political questions rather than the court.'' 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. Mr. Speaker, President Donald Trump has made an excellent selection of Judge Brett Kavanaugh for the Supreme Court. The Aiken Standard lead editorial today is correct: ``Brett Kavanaugh the Right Choice for Court.'' ``A judge's job is to interpret the law, not to make the law or make policy,'' writes Judge Brett Kavanaugh. The judge will apply the law as written and enforce the text, structure, and original understanding of the Constitution. Judge Brett Kavanaugh's credentials are impeccable. He served on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia for 12 years. He has authored more than 300 opinions. A graduate of Yale College and Yale Law School, Judge Kavanaugh has clerked on the Supreme Court under Justice Anthony Kennedy and on the Third and Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. He has taught at Yale, Harvard, and Georgetown. Judge Kavanaugh has devoted his life to public service, and the Senate should confirm him quickly, as America, he, and his family deserves. The biased media will fail again as it smears the judge, making up more fake news and destroying its own credibility. 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. Mr. Speaker, this week, Investor's Business Daily published an editorial titled: ``Colorblind Boom in Jobs.'' The editorial begins: ``It may be a surprise, but President Trump is nowhere near as unpopular among minority voters as the biased mainstream media suggest. Why is that? In a word, jobs. ``Trump, it turns out, has been the most consequential President in history when it comes to minority employment. In June, for instance, the unemployment rate for Hispanics and Latinos 16 years and older fell to 4.6 percent, its lowest level ever. . . . '' African American unemployment of 6.5 percent ``represents the second lowest unemployment reading ever for Black Americans. ``As for Asian Americans, unemployment similarly bounced off its all- time low. . . . '' ``The truth is, the ripping jobs growth that began when Trump entered office and picked up steam after his tax cuts has been good for everyone in America--even liberal media pundits.'' In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. Best wishes, Judge Brett Kavanaugh, with an impeccable record of service to be on the Supreme Court of the United States. Happy birthday, Jackson Gossett.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, South Carolinians extend sincere thoughts and prayers to State Representative Katie Arrington, who was injured in a tragic auto accident on Friday. We are grateful to learn that Katie will make a full recovery. On June 12, Katie achieved the Republican nomination for Congress for the historic First District of South Carolina. When successful in November, she will be the first Republican Federal elected official in the history of South Carolina, in the tradition of Ambassador Nikki Haley who was South Carolina's first female Governor in 340 years. Also, yesterday, Republicans nominated Pamela Evette to be the first female Republican Lieutenant Governor ever, and Lexington Republicans selected Paula Rawl Calhoon for the South Carolina State House. Katie served as an executive with military defense contracts, ensuring servicemembers will have the tools necessary to succeed. She is on the board of many organizations, including Women In Defense, Charleston Defense Contractors Association, and South Carolina Cyber. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. Congratulations on yesterday's primary victories by Governor Henry McMaster, Attorney General Alan Wilson, and congressional nominee William Timmons.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate former Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army, Van Hipp, on the establishment of the Hipp Center for National Security and Foreign Policy at Wofford College in Spartanburg, South Carolina. The Hipp Center provides experiential learning options for students interested in international relations, which includes student opportunities for internships in national security and foreign policy and an upcoming exchange program. Van founded the Hipp Lecture Series on International Affairs and National Security in 2011 which has since hosted many great American lecturers including President Donald Trump, Secretary Ben Carson, and Governor George Pataki. Speaker Newt Gingrich said of the center, ``Van Hipp has spent a lifetime working to defend America and defeat our enemies. This new Center for National Security and Foreign Policy will help a new generation learn the key lessons which shaped Van's life.'' Hipp is a former chairman of the South Carolina Republican Party and is now chairman of American Defense International, Inc., in Washington. He serves on the board of directors of the American Conservative Union and on the National Capital Board of the Salvation Army. Van Hipp's enduring generosity will positively impact both students at Wofford College and South Carolinians for years to come.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, last week the National Federation of Independent Business released their May Small Business Optimism Index, which is the highest Small Business Optimism rating in history. The NFIB reports that expansion plans for small businesses have hit an all-time high. The positive sales trends for independent businesses are at their highest level since 1995. These statistics show that the Republican tax cuts and President Donald Trump's economic deregulation have promoted jobs. Thanks to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, the National Association of Manufacturers, led by President Jay Timmons, reports 77 percent of manufacturers plan to increase hiring, and 72 percent plan to increase wages or benefits. Current unemployment is 3.8 percent, the lowest level in almost 50 years. In addition, African American unemployment is the lowest ever recorded. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. Our sympathy to the family and talented associates of Charles Krauthammer, a megastar for truth on FOX News.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, South Carolinians appreciate the service of Major General John P. ``Pete'' Johnson, the 50th Commander of the U.S. Army Training Center and Fort Jackson in Columbia, South Carolina. Since taking command in June 2016, Maj. Gen. Pete Johnson has supervised numerous changes and improvements to the installation. Prior to serving at the U.S. Army Training Center and Fort Jackson, Maj. Gen. Johnson served in principal staff leadership positions, joint service positions and has commanded troops from Company through Brigade and the Combined Joint Task Force-levels, including several combat tours, to include: Operations Enduring/Iraqi Freedom in Afghanistan and Iraq, Operation Provide Comfort, Iraq and Operation Just Cause, Panama. Additionally, his notable command assignments include: Deputy Commanding General for Operations, 25th Infantry Division, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii; Commander, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, Fort Campbell, Kentucky and Operation Enduring Freedom, Afghanistan. Upon his departure from Fort Jackson, he will become the Deputy Commanding General for United States Army Pacific (USARPAC), at Fort Shafter, Hawaii. Best wishes to Major General Johnson and his wife Sheila as they embark on this new chapter.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, congratulations to President-elect Ivan Duque on being elected the new president of Colombia on Sunday, achieving 10 million votes, with one of the largest voter turnouts in the history of Colombia. At 41, President-elect Duque will be one of the youngest presidents in the country's history. The father of three is married to Maria Juliana Ruiz. I know firsthand of the talented people of Colombia, as former co- chairman of the Partners of Americas program, hosting students from Colombia with two of my sons as exchange students to Colombia. The South Carolina National Guard, headed by General Bob Livingston, is grateful to be training with Colombia's military and the State Partnership Program. This election was the first to be held since a peace deal was reached that ended the murderous, leftist insurgency in Colombia. I am grateful that President-elect Ivan Duque plans to work closely with the United States in the tradition of former President Alvaro Uribe. He will be successful in creating jobs, increasing security for the population, and leading Colombia to a more prosperous future. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. We will remember Otto Warmbier on the anniversary of his death.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I object to the vote on the ground that a quorum is not present and make the point of order that a quorum is not present.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, pursuant to clause 1, rule I, I demand a vote on agreeing to the Speaker's approval of the Journal.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoidably absent for votes on June 12, 2018. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 258, and YEA on Roll Call No. 259

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, last week South Carolinians were grateful to provide tribute to Col. Pete Sercer who was properly recognized as an American Patriot devoted to inspiring young people for military service at Irmo High School. The following thoughtful obituary is provided by Dunbar Funeral Home: Col. Peter Edward Sercer, Sr., Columbia.--Memorial Service for Col. Peter Edward Sercer, Sr., (USAF, Retired), will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 8, 2018, at St. Mary's Episcopal Church with burial in the church's adjoining Memorial Garden. The Rev. Jill Biemdiek will officiate. A reception will follow in the church's Parish Hall. Peter Edward ``Eddie'' Sercer, Sr., 81, peacefully passed away on June 3, 2018, surrounded by love. He is survived by his loving wife, Lesley W. Sercer; sons, Peter E. Sercer, Jr. and Paul L. Sercer. He is also survived by his sister, Frances Smoak, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Pete was predeceased by his parents, Peter E. Sercer and Marie Blaze Sercer, as well as his siblings, Helen Ross, John Sercer, Richard Sercer, Teresa Sercer, Jesse Shirah, and Caroline Croft. Born on October 19, 1936, in Columbia, South Carolina, Pete graduated from Columbia High School. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Business from the University of South Carolina, immediately joining the United States Air Force. After serving over 26 years in the Air Force, Pete became the Director of the Irmo High School Air Force JROTC program for 22 years. In addition to his education at the University of South Carolina, Pete earned a Master of Business Administration and Doctor of Education. Community service was an integral part of Pete's life. He served as a Commissioner of Midlands Technical College for over 26 years and was named Commissioner emeritus. He was active in the Association of Community College Trustees in many capacities, culminating in his serving as National Chairman of the organization in 2010- 2011. Pete was a founding member of St. Mary's Episcopal Church and served on the vestry, building committee, and rector search committee many times. Active in the St. Andrews Rotary Club, Pete served as Club President and Assistant District Governor and was a Rotary Benefactor, 10-Star Rotarian, and multiple Paul Harris Fellow. He was a strong supporter of the University of South Carolina Gamecocks, volunteering as a Gamecock Ambassador and Press Box Assistant during football games for many years. During his military career, Pete was awarded the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, and other decorations. In 2006, he was awarded the Order of the Palmetto in recognition of extraordinary achievements and service to the State and Nation. He was instrumental in the creation of the Irmo High School ``Celebrate Freedom Gardens and Courtyard,'' dedicated in his honor. Pete Sercer was a good man, a kind man. He never spoke ill of anyone. He was a happy man, an optimistic man, and always had a smile on his face. Pete will be greatly missed, but the memories of the tremendous joy he brought to our lives will always make us smile. The family would like to thank the caring and compassionate staff of Palmetto Health Parkridge and McLeod Home Care. To honor Pete's life, memorials may be made to the Midlands Technical College Foundation or St. Mary's Episcopal Church.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, on Monday, President Donald Trump arrived in Singapore for the historic meeting with Kim Jong-un of North Korea, the first-ever meeting between a sitting President and the leader of North Korea. I applaud President Donald Trump, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, and National Security Advisor John Bolton for their successful efforts. This summit was a substantive step forward, but to protect American families, the United States will continue to insist that North Korea take concrete, verifiable steps toward denuclearization. I remain hopeful that North Korea will commit to regular, unannounced nuclear inspections by both U.N. and American experts, leading to prosperity for the people of North Korea, as has been achieved phenomenally for the people of South Korea. As one of only two Members of Congress who have visited Pyongyang, I am especially grateful that President Trump has maintained his effective foreign policy of peace through strength, without which this summit would have never occurred. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. Congratulations to State Representative Katie Arrington on the dynamic primary victory yesterday to represent the historic First District of South Carolina.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, last month, I visited Dempsey Wood Products in Orangeburg, South Carolina, to get a firsthand look at the positive impacts of the tax cuts creating jobs. Owner Parker Dempsey explained that they were able to expand their business due to the tax cuts. Dempsey Wood Products will be able to launch a $15 million project, creating jobs. Mr. Dempsey explained that: ``. . . we will have new equipment and the best technology. The plan is to get it up and going and start a second shift, and probably add another 40 jobs.'' Since President Donald Trump took office, the economy has created nearly 3 million jobs. The numbers of employed persons are the highest ever in the United States. The unemployment rate has fallen to 3.8 percent, matching the lowest level in 50 years. African American and Hispanic unemployment rates have reached record lows, and the unemployment rate for women has fallen to the lowest level since 1953. The National Federation of Independent Business, NFIB, small business optimism index is at one of the highest levels in 45 years. I appreciate the leadership of NFIB Director Ben Homeyer. 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. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, pursuant to clause 1, rule I, I demand a vote on agreeing to the Speaker's approval of the Journal.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I am grateful for the professional support provided by Major Jennifer Gibson, United States Air Force, to the Readiness Subcommittee of the House Armed Services Committee. Over the past two years, Major Gibson, an active duty officer and engineer, has performed her duties as Legislative Liaison to the Congress in a superlative and valuable manner. Major Gibson's analytical prowess and passion for Airmen has helped members and staff develop and pass historic improvements in the National Defense Authorization Act in fiscal years 2018 and 2019, including targeted increases in authorization of appropriation, as well as innovative and forward-looking infrastructure policy initiatives that will help the Air Force achieve mission success well into the 21st century. I appreciate Major Gibson enduring many late nights and long trips in support of subcommittee priorities. Her tireless work ethic, willingness to tackle new issues, and assistance in addressing critical Air Force issues have been truly commendable. I have no doubt that as Major Gibson continues her career she will achieve great things for the Air Force, the Department of Defense, and her country. I am thankful for her dedicated staff work and wish her the very best in all her future endeavors.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I am grateful that, 28 years ago this week, I was appointed by the International Republican Institute as an election observer for the first free elections in Bulgaria as it emerged from totalitarian communism. Since that time, I have seen Bulgaria advance to be a vibrant democracy as a member of NATO and the European Union. On the 75th anniversary of the rescue of Bulgarian Jews from the Holocaust, the world recognizes this as a remarkable event in history. Over 50,000 Jewish people were saved by the Bulgarian church, some intellectuals and members of Parliament, but most of all, the Bulgarian people. The Bulgarian Jewish community was the only one in Europe which not only survived World War II, but increased in size. The Bulgarian people should always be appreciated for their courage and action. As co-chair of the Bulgaria Caucus, I cherish the mutually beneficial friendship between our two countries inspired by Prime Minister Boyko Borissov and Ambassador Tihomir Stoytchev. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. God bless the memory of the American-led Allied troops who landed at Normandy 74 years ago to begin the liberation of Europe, defeating national socialism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, an extraordinary highlight for me on Friday was to live a momentous historic event live on FOX News with the talented Harris Faulkner. During a scheduled interview on the upcoming North Korean talks, it became a prelude for the breaking news of the North Korean envoy arriving at the White House to deliver the letter to President Donald Trump from Kim Jong-un. The past year has been a success for President Trump. We were awaiting delivery of a letter to the White House instead of a threatened delivery of a North Korean missile to vaporize the patriotic American territory of Guam. Beginning with the selection of Vice President Mike Pence, the President has capable associates to work for peace through strength, including Chief of Staff John Kelly, Secretary Mike Pompeo, Ambassador John Bolton, and Ambassador Nikki Haley. American families are safer today, and the China model for North Korea is available for working with America, maintaining its leadership while its citizens are enriched. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. Congratulations, Harris Faulkner, on the book out today, ``9 Rules of Engagement: A Military Brat's Guide to Life and Success.''

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, the National Defense Authorization Act passed the House Armed Services Committee with an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote of 60 yes to 1 no. I am grateful for the leadership of Chairman Mac Thornberry, with Speaker Paul Ryan, promoted by Defense Secretary James Mattis. The NDAA being considered today provides a critical increase in topline funding to support troops and readiness recovery, consistent with President Donald Trump's commitment to rebuild the military as he keeps his promises. This legislation makes major reforms to the Pentagon bureaucracy, while adding more military personnel to all services. The NDAA also includes the largest pay increase for the military in 9 years. As chairman of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness, I am grateful that this legislation promotes rebuilding the military and supports readiness recovery by rehabilitating and replacing worn-out equipment, overcoming the crisis in military aviation, restoring America's strength at sea, and rebuilding crumbling military buildings and other infrastructure. I urge my colleagues to support this bipartisan bill that supports the men and women in uniform, along with military families, to promote peace through strength. 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. Mr. Chairman, I thank Congressman Mike Gallagher for his military service and now service in Congress. I am grateful to speak in support of Congressman Mike Gallagher's amendment that would require the executive branch to create a strategy to address the abuse of visa programs used to enter the United States to conduct political activity and establish groups in support of the Chinese Communist Party. Organizations like the Confucius Institute and the Thousand Talents program are clear examples as to why Congressman Gallagher makes perfect sense, and it is critical to our national security. Confucius Institutes are currently active in 103 college campuses, despite Li Changchun, a member of the Chinese Communist Party's Politburo Standing Committee, calling the institutes ``an important part of China's overseas propaganda setup.'' Additionally, FBI Director Christopher Wray described the Confucius Institutes operating in the United States as exploiting the very open research and development environment we have, which we all revere, but they are taking advantage of it. Unfortunately, my amendment, cosponsored by Congressman Gallagher and Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler, dealing with organizations like the Confucius Institutes was not ruled in order. It is critical that the whole-of-government China strategy include vulnerabilities within our academic community, and for this reason, I urge everyone to support Congressman Gallagher's amendment.