Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, did you know that 1 in 50 Americans is living with an unruptured brain aneurysm? It is a silent killer hiding in plain sight. Most won't know it is there until it is too late.

Today, I rise in recognition of Brain Aneurysm Awareness Month and to highlight the lifesaving work of the Trinity Love Hoblit Foundation, based in Fernandina Beach, Florida.

Founded by Olivia and Phil Hoblit in honor of their daughter, pictured here, a vibrant 14-year-old who tragically passed away from a ruptured aneurysm, the foundation is turning grief into action. Their mission is research, training, and treatment for brain aneurysms and strokes, and raising awareness about warning signs.

One of their most important initiatives is the Florida Familial Brain Aneurysm Research Project, a program dedicated to understanding the genetic links and safeguarding future generations.

Mr. Speaker, this month, let us all honor Trinity's legacy by raising awareness and championing early detection because lives truly depend on it.

Mr. Speaker, on September 11, 2025. the Rotary Club of Orange Park Sunrise will once again raise ``Flags for Heroes,'' a moving sea of hundreds of American flags honoring the men and women who lift our communities every day.

In Clay County and across Northeast Florida, we remember the lives lost on September 11, 2001, and we salute the heroes who still answer the call: first responders, service members, veterans, teachers, nurses, and the quiet volunteers who serve without fanfare. Each flag carries a name, a story, and a promise that we will never forget.

I commend the Rotarians, sponsors, and families who make this commemoration possible, and I invite neighbors to walk among the flags, reflect, and thank a hero in their life. America is strongest when service is celebrated, and sacrifice is honored.

I thank the Rotary Club of Orange Park Sunrise for reminding us of who we are. Let's go get them.

Mr. Speaker, William Shakespeare asked: ``What's in a name? A rose by any other name would smell just as sweet.'' He may have been speaking about the flower, but, Mr. Speaker, he could very easily have been talking about the One Big Beautiful Bill Act because no matter what you call it, its impact is just as sweet.

I spent the last several weeks visiting factories and businesses of all sizes in northeast Florida, visiting with constituents and taxpayers about what they thought about the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, and it made me ask: What should we call it?

Some say it should be called the peace through strength bill because it modernizes America's military and ensures our Nation stands tall in the face of global uncertainty. Others call it the border bill because it finishes the wall, strengthens enforcement, and invests in the infrastructure needed to restore order and integrity to our immigration system. Some say it should be called the strengthening Medicaid bill because it protects Medicaid for those who really need it most, pregnant women, children, seniors, people with disabilities, and low- income families, by eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse.

Mr. Speaker, I can't deny that a crowd favorite is calling it the working families tax cut bill because it delivers the largest tax cut in American history. It puts money back in the pockets of people who need it most: people who rely on tips and overtime and people living on Social Security. It lifts burdens off the backs of working parents, retirees, and disabled veterans.

The truth is, Mr. Speaker, whatever name you choose, this bill will, and is, launching the golden age of America because, as Shakespeare reminded us, it is not the name that defines the value. It is the action the bill takes, and this bill, by any name, is just as sweet.

Mr. Speaker, today, I rise with a heavy heart, but a grateful spirit, to honor the life of my friend, Commissioner Carrol Eugene Franklin, who passed away peacefully in Hilliard, Florida, at the young age of 76. Born in Booneville, Mississippi, Carrol lived a life shaped by hard work, deep faith, and a quiet but profound dedication to others.

He was a proud combat veteran who served in the U.S. Army's 9th Infantry Division during the Vietnam War. That same courage and resolve stayed with him throughout his life, whether it was in service to his country, in business, or in leadership with the Nassau County Ocean Highway & Port Authority.

Carrol was a man who showed up--not just when it was easy, but when it was needed. He believed in faith, integrity, and perseverance. He loved his family dearly. And for 42 years, he stood side by side with his beloved wife, Judy, raising their sons, Garrett and Greg, and cherishing their granddaughter, Diana Del.

To his church family at First Baptist of Boulougne, his brothers and sister, and his many friends, nieces, nephews, and neighbors who knew him--Carrol was the kind of man whose legacy is etched not in headlines, but in the lives he lifted.

Mr. Speaker, we say goodbye to a veteran, a man of character, a family man, and my friend. It hurts, because that's the impact that Carrol has had on so many. May his memory continue to inspire us all to serve with heart, live with purpose, and love without hesitation.

Mr. Speaker, a beam is a ray of light, a symbol of hope. For more than 40 years, BEAM in Jacksonville Beach, Florida, has been that light, delivering hope and help to northeast Floridians in need.

It started in 1985 by representatives of local churches who saw people needing a hand up.

Today, I rise to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Beaches Emergency Assistance Ministry, BEAM, a lifeline for families facing hardship in eastern Duval County, places like: Mayport, Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, Atlantic Beach. From keeping the lights on to filling the pantry, supporting seniors and single parents, BEAM continues to show up with compassion and care.

Mr. Speaker, I know what you are thinking. They are 40 years old, and they don't look a day over 29. That is true. What is also true is their volunteers and benefactors are everyday heroes, quietly providing critical services to thousands of neighbors each year.

As our community has grown and changed, BEAM has remained a constant source of light, guiding families through tough times with warmth, direction, and hope.

Today, we celebrate more than a milestone. We celebrate that ray of light that is never dimmed. May BEAM continue to shine, lighting the path forward for those who need it most for years to come.

Honoring the Life of Carrol Eugene Franklin

Mr. Speaker, today I rise with a heavy heart but a grateful spirit to honor the life of my friend, Commissioner Carrol Eugene Franklin, who passed away peacefully in Hilliard, Florida, at the young age of 76.

Born in Booneville, Mississippi, Carrol lived a life shaped by hard work, deep faith, and a quiet but profound dedication to others. He was a proud combat veteran who served in the U.S. Army's 9th Infantry Division during the Vietnam war.

That same courage and resolve stayed with him throughout his life, whether it was in service to his country, in business, or in leadership with the Nassau County Ocean, Highway & Port Authority.

Carrol was a man who showed up, not just when it was easy but when it was needed. He believed in faith, integrity, and perseverance. He loved his family dearly. For 42 years, he stood side by side with his beloved wife, Judy, raising their sons, Garrett and Greg. They also cherished their granddaughter, Diana Del.

To his church and to his church family at First Baptist of Boulougne; his brothers and sisters; and his many friends, nieces, nephews, and neighbors who knew him, Carrol was the kind of man whose legacy is etched not in headlines but in the lives he lifted.

Mr. Speaker, we say goodbye to a veteran, a man of character, a family man, and my friend. It hurts because that is the impact that Carrol made on so many.

May his memory continue to inspire us all to serve with heart, live with purpose, and love without hesitation.

Mr. Speaker, when danger strikes, it is not just about boots on the ground. It is about paws in motion.

Today, I rise in defense of those who cannot speak for themselves but serve our Nation with unmatched loyalty, discipline, and courage. I am talking about canines and horses that serve our law enforcement officers on the front line every single day.

From narcotics detection to crowd control, search and rescue to border patrol, these animals are more than sidekicks. They are trusted teammates, and just like their human handlers, they face real threats, danger, and consequences.

That is why, today, I am introducing the Leo K9 Protection Act, a straightforward bill to strengthen the penalties for those who assault or injure these animals in the line of duty.

I am proud to champion the Leo K9 Protection Act alongside the dedicated team at K9s United, whose tireless advocacy ensures that our service animals are treated not just as tools but as heroes.

Under my legislation, the Federal penalty will be up to 15 years when someone uses a deadly weapon to harm a Federal police animal. In addition, this legislation will expand the Federal statute to apply to any State, county, or local police animal assisting a Federal agency.

The effort is not just symbolic. It is timely and necessary. Last year, 21 police canines made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, including K9 Leo of Marion County, Florida, who the bill is named after and who is pictured right beside me.

Mr. Speaker, these animals run toward danger, not away from it. We owe them far more than a belly rub or a scratch behind the ears. Mr. Speaker, they fight for us. Now, it is our turn to fight for them.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this critical legislation.

Mr. Speaker, I thank Chair Foxx for yielding to me.

Mr. Speaker, we all know what Neil Armstrong said when he first walked on the Moon. As founder of the DOGE Caucus, I am proud to say that, with this rescissions package, the first of its kind in 25 years, we are taking one small step to cut wasteful spending but one giant leap toward fiscal sanity. Yet, Houston, we have a problem. We are still $37 trillion in debt. This year alone, we will run a $1.7 trillion deficit. With this small step today, let's commit to the giant leap.

Here is my challenge to the White House: Let's do a rescissions package every month because America has had enough--enough to wasteful spending, enough to out-of-control deficits.

We do have a long journey ahead, but, thankfully, not as far as the Moon. All systems are go. Let the countdown begin, and let's launch to fiscal sanity by voting ``yes'' to clawing back $9 billion.

I am ready. The House is ready. America is ready. Let's go get `em.

Mr. Speaker, Duuuval.

Mr. Speaker, football fans across the Southeast will recognize that as the rallying cry for the Jacksonville Jaguars. You may wonder how many u's are in that rallying cry. The answer is: No one really knows. How about that?

Everyone knows that there is one ``a'' in that rallying cry, and that is the reason, Mr. Speaker, I want to focus on that ``a'' because, for the first time ever, Duval County schools received an A grade from the State of Florida Department of Education.

It is a big deal. It is a big deal in northeast Florida. This momentous accomplishment reflects the hard work and unwavering commitment of our students, educators, administrators, families, and parents. It reflects years of progress, innovation, and a community- wide effort to achieve educational excellence.

Under the leadership of Superintendent Dr. Christopher Bernier, the school board, and the steadfast efforts of teachers and staff across the district, Duval County has not only met the State's rigorous standards, but it has surpassed them, Mr. Speaker.

To the parents who have stayed involved, to the students who rose to the challenge, and to every member of Team Duval, I thank them. Their success is a shining example of what happens when a community believes in its children and backs that belief with action.

I congratulate Duval on this well-deserved recognition. Duuuval--I can't say it enough.

honoring nassau county pirates

Mr. Speaker, I am a Pirate, arrgh.

Mr. Speaker, you might think of a pirate as someone who takes what isn't theirs, but in Nassau County, Florida, a Pirate is someone who earns everything they have with grit, heart, and honor.

I rise today, Mr. Speaker, as a proud Pirate, a graduate of Fernandina Beach High School, and a product of Nassau County Schools. Today, Mr. Speaker, I rise with great pride to recognize a historic achievement. Under the leadership of Superintendent Dr. Kathy Burns, the Nassau County School Board, and a tremendous support team, Nassau County Schools has been named

number one in the State of Florida by the Department of Education. Number one goes to Nassau County. Even more impressive is that every single school in the district earned an A rating from the Department of Education.

It is not just about grades, Mr. Speaker. It is a reflection of community vision, a commitment to excellence, and a belief in every student's potential.

I thank our teachers for sparking curiosity and building confidence. I thank our qualified administrators for their steady leadership. I thank our families and parents for their support at home and for making students do their homework. I thank the students. They are the future of Nassau County, America, and this great Nation.

With their hard work and determination, the future is bright as ever. Of course, Mr. Speaker, I will always be partial to the Pirates, but I know they are not the only champions in town. Here is to all of our 17 schools in Nassau County and all 12,000 of our incredible students.

Let's go Warriors, Hornets, Flashes, and Pirates. Their pride, passion, and pursuit of excellence make our county, our Nation, and our community much stronger.

building on clay county's strong foundation

Mr. Speaker, when people think of a strong foundation, they often think of something built on rock, not clay. However, in Clay County, Florida, we are proving them wrong. That is because here, the foundation that lasts is built on education.

Today, I rise, Mr. Speaker, to proudly recognize Clay County District Schools in northeast Florida for, once again, earning an A rating from the Department of Education.

This continued success reflects the dedication of students, educators, administrators, and families working together to achieve excellence.

Under the leadership of Superintendent David Broskie, a committed school board, and the tremendous support team, Clay County has built a culture of winning, where teachers are supported, students are challenged, and families are engaged.

I thank everyone who makes this success possible.

Clay County doesn't just aim for excellence. It delivers it.

I congratulate Clay County and Clay County Schools. Their achievement is a win that proves that excellence doesn't just come from stone. It is forged in Clay.

Mr. Speaker, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, some say it is the bee's knees. What is the buzz?

Basically, it brings better jobs, bigger paychecks, and booming communities. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act is about boosting wages, backing small businesses, bolstering border security, and it brings tax relief.

Mr. Speaker, I recently sat down with manufacturers from my district in northeast Florida who reviewed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, and they said bravo.

The Trump tax cuts have bolstered growth, boosted job creation, and benefited American production. However, barring action, burdensome tax hikes will be bothersome. In northeast Florida alone, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act protects 15,000 jobs and over $2.6 billion in base economic output.

The House has done its part, but I am banking on the Senate to bring it on and show the American people they are serious about ensuring manufacturing remains the bedrock of our blossoming economy.

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act is not just about good policy. It is the reason there is a buzz from break rooms to backyards. It brings bold benefits to builders, businessowners, and breadwinners. It is the best for workers, families, and our big, beautiful future. Let's get it done, and let's boogie.

Mr. Speaker, I thank Chair McClain for the time.

Mr. Speaker, I know there are budget hawks, and I know there are people that care about the deficit, which should be everybody in this room. I know they are getting impatient. They are wondering when is the House going to finally take action and make the DOGE cuts official. The answer, Mr. Speaker, is today.

Today is the day we take the first step in restoring fiscal discipline and getting our Nation back on track. H.R. 4, the Rescissions Act of 2025, cuts unnecessary spending and ensures tax

dollars are not wasted on reckless foreign aid. There will be no more tax dollars to fund DEI programs in Serbia. There will be no more taxes to fund DEI musicals in Ireland and no more tax dollars to fund electric vehicles in Vietnam.

Taxpayers, Mr. Speaker, have said enough is enough. I say enough is enough. Let's pass this bill, Mr. Speaker, and let's go get them.

Mr. Speaker, $168 billion was the amount the Federal Government improperly paid last year. We paid some bills two or three times. We paid the wrong invoices altogether. We paid invoices we didn't know we paid because there was no tracking mechanism.

If only, Mr. Speaker, there was a bill to require the Department of the Treasury to ensure accuracy and eligibility in Federal spending.

Wait, there is. I just filed it, Mr. Speaker. It is the Delivering On Government Efficiency in Spending Act, DOGE in Spending Act.

The war on waste, fraud, and abuse begins today by requiring the Treasury Department to simply track, verify, and cross-check payments. That is what the DOGE in Spending Act will do.

Mr. Speaker, the American people deserve accountability and transparency. I urge all my colleagues to join me, and I am saving a cosponsorship for each of them.

Mr. Speaker, let's deliver results. Let's go get them.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the remarkable life of John Thrasher who climbed so many professional mountains.

Instead of resting on his laurels, John helped other people climb their mountains. While many called him speaker, senator, chairman, and president, I was fortunate to call him friend.

From the battlefields of Vietnam where John was a decorated war hero

to the halls of the Florida State Legislature where John was elected speaker of the Florida House and State senator, John was a born leader.

In 2014, it came as no surprise that John became the 15th President of Florida State University. Beside him in his many accomplishments was his wife, Jean, the heart of his world. Their boundless joy for their children and grandchildren was a true testament to the family they built together.

Mr. Speaker, we honor John as a mentor, a mentor to me, and a man of purpose and integrity. John's work here is done but his legacy will endure.

Godspeed, my friend.

Mr. Speaker, standing at Arlington National Cemetery, the weight of history surrounds you--rows of white headstones stretching endlessly, each marking a life dedicated to service. But among them, one site stands apart: the eternal flame at President John F. Kennedy's final resting place. As the flame flickers, unwavering, the words from his inaugural address echo in your mind.

``Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe in order to assure the survival and success of liberty.''

President Kennedy spoke those words in 1961, but he could have said them today, or yesterday. More than a declaration, those words are a promise woven into the fabric of American history, upheld by the generations of men and women laid to rest around him. To put it simply, President Kennedy's immortal words encapsulate Memorial Day perfectly.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Memorial Day, a time to commemorate the valor and sacrifices of the brave men and women who laid down their lives in service to our nation. To recall those who enlisted in our armed forces and fought to preserve our American liberties, values, and way of life.

We remember the men who ran ashore the beaches of Normandy to end WWII; those who fought in the snows of Korea; the bravery of those who fought in the impenetrable jungles and unbearable heat of Vietnam; as well as the men and women who were called to serve in the aftermath of 9/11. America is the world's superpower, but our freedom comes at a cost that has included the lives of the brightest and boldest of our Nation.

It is only fitting that on Memorial Day, we find ourselves reflecting on those individuals who so bravely and instinctively risked their all in the face of severe danger. I am reminded of the poignant words of Navy veteran Jack Crawford, who, while serving aboard the USS Yorktown when it was sunk during the Battle of Midway in 1942, once stated:

``There aren't many things you can take out of this planet . . . but you can take with you, wherever you go, consciousness of duty faithfully performed.''

That which we simply call `duty,' a word we use freely and do not give the reverence it deserves--is the motto, way of life and heartfelt song of soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and Coast Guard members, who constantly and without hesitation put their lives on the line for our freedoms.

Mr. Speaker, the men and women who have given their lives in service to this nation are--irrevocably--heroes. When their country called, they answered. No matter how they found their way to service, each took it upon him or herself to serve faithfully and to their fullest, while giving their last measure of devotion to our country.

We owe them more than just remembrance; we owe them gratitude, respect, and a promise to forever uphold the values for which they fought and died.

Mr. Speaker, they say all the world is a stage, but in Jacksonville, Florida, the best seat in the house comes with dinner and a standing ovation.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great excitement that I rise today to recognize the Alhambra Theater & Dining in Jacksonville, Florida--are you ready for this, Mr. Speaker?--for being named the Best Dinner Theater in America by USA Today's Readers' Choice Awards.

Since opening its doors in 1967, the Alhambra has brought Broadway to Florida's First Coast, hosting a wide variety of shows, musicals, comedies, and tribute acts.

Under the visionary leadership of my good friend, Managing Partner Craig Smith, the Alhambra has evolved into a unique destination where art, entertainment, and culinary excellence converge to create an unparalleled experience.

Mr. Speaker, the Alhambra isn't just a destination. It is a source of community pride, a cultural beacon, and a testament to the power of community and the arts.

As we celebrate this incredible honor, I look forward to more captivating performances, more incredible meals, and more nights filled with the joy that only the Alhambra can provide.

When Craig is there, and he is most nights, he personally welcomes each audience. When you step through the doors, Mr. Speaker, you are not just attending a show. You are stepping into a legacy, one that continues to shine brighter with each curtain call.

Earning this recognition is no small feat. I congratulate Craig and the entire Alhambra team on this well-deserved honor, and here's to many more standing ovations.

Honoring Sergeant Billy O'Leary

Mr. Speaker, we are all in a hurry. We rush through life, and sometimes, we don't know the impact we have on others.

One of my favorite books is by Mitch Albom, ``The Five People You Meet in Heaven.'' The book says that when you get to Heaven, you get to see other people's lives, the impact you had on their lives, and how it unfolded.

On the other hand, Mr. Speaker, we know the people who have very much impacted our own lives, such as Sergeant Billy O'Leary, who was, indeed, a giant of a man in northeast Florida.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of Sergeant Billy O'Leary, of Fernandina Beach, Florida, a man who dedicated himself to service, leadership, and community that few people can match.

Billy's passing was tragic and sudden. It hurts. It leaves an undeniable void. His legacy, one built on honor and commitment, will live on in the hearts of those whom he had an impact on.

Billy will be missed by his sister, Robin; his children, Skylar, Caitlin, and Emery; three beautiful grandchildren; and scores of friends and coworkers.

Billy, first and foremost, was a man of service. He answered the call to defend his country as a United States marine, proudly serving 4 years with discipline and courage. Afterward, he made the transition to law enforcement, serving with the Fernandina Beach Police Department and continuing with a 25-year tenure with the Nassau County Sheriff's Office. As a sergeant, he led with integrity, mentoring officers and strengthening public safety to ensure that his community remained safe.

Billy's impact, Mr. Speaker, stretched far beyond the badge. He played football for the Fernandina Beach Pirates and went on to play for Newberry College. When he returned home, he constantly coached for Babe Ruth baseball and Pop Warner football, and he poured his heart into Pirate Athletics. He was the voice of the Pirates. At every football game, Mr. Speaker, you would hear Billy-O with the call.

He was president of the Quarterback Club, which is the fundraising arm for the football team. Our kid was on the football team. Like so many others, our kid graduated--sorry, Mr. Speaker. He was just a big deal.

So many others that are a part of this Quarterback Club where their kids had already graduated years ago are part of a group that could not say no to Billy O. We keep working for the football team because nobody wants to tell this guy no. He would say: Help us out. It is for the kids.

Mr. Speaker, Billy was a marine, a protector, a coach, a voice, a leader. He was just a friend. He was my friend. I am--it hurts. I think, Mr. Speaker, why it hurts so much is because the impact he made was so great.

God speed to Billy. He will be missed but not forgotten.

Mr. Speaker, it is a scary time for taxpayers in the United States or those who own small businesses. Both are facing a tsunami of tax increases, the largest in U.S. history.

Mr. Speaker, I have good news: Help is on the way. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act is real tax relief for real Americans. It is for those who are paid in tips, for hourly workers who are working overtime, and for families and seniors who have been struggling under the weight of inflation. It is for the 91 percent of Americans who use the standard deduction.

The bill expands the child tax credit. It secures our border and enhances education and health savings options. It unleashes American energy. It will encourage production on U.S. soil. Made in America will mean something once more.

Buckle up, America, and put your seat in the upright position because, with the passage of this bill, the golden age of America is ready for takeoff.