Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate a truly remarkable Journey--the dedication, perseverance, and unwavering commitment that has brought Oslene Ducady to this moment becoming a citizen of the United States of America.

Born in Haiti, the fifth of nine children, Oslene came to this country chasing a dream, not for herself, but for her future children. She moved to Green Cove Springs in the great state of Florida, where she met her husband, Alix.

For 35 years, she built a life, raised six incredible children, and poured her heart into her community. Yet through it all, she nurtured the quiet fire within--a flame fueled by ambition, determination, and the unwavering pursuit of a place to call home.

And this week, that pursuit reaches its pinnacle On Friday, May 16, 2025. Oslene will raise her hand and take the Oath of Allegiance, becoming a proud citizen of the United States of America.

My office was honored to play a small part in helping her navigate the final steps of that journey. Her story is a reminder that the American Dream is not always fast or easy, but it is real, and it is still worth fighting for.

I congratulate Oslene and her family. Today, we celebrate not just a new citizen, but a dream realized.

Mr. Speaker, from nursery rhymes to classroom wisdom, Mother Goose told stories that shaped childhood, while Mother McKissick shaped minds that built futures.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the remarkable life of Estelle Williams McKissick, affectionately known to everybody as ``Mother McKissick,'' a devoted educator, church leader, and pillar in the Jacksonville, Florida, community.

For 50 years, Mother McKissick poured her heart into the Duval County public school system as a teacher and principal, where she touched the lives of thousands of kids with her passion for learning.

Mother McKissick was a faithful servant of the Bethel Baptist Church where for 47 years she led along with her husband Bishop Rudolph McKissick, Sr.

Together they launched the B.E.S.T. Academy to help struggling students.

Although we mourn her passing, Mr. Speaker, let us carry forward her mission to educate with passion and to serve with love.

Godspeed, Mother McKissick.

Mr. Speaker, rain or shine, turbulence or calm, the Red Lancer's Commanding Officer is always steady at the helm-- because leadership doesn't come with an `abort mission' button.

I rise today to congratulate Commander Daniel Russell on his promotion to Commanding Officer of Patrol Squadron VP-10 of the United States Navy, also known as the Red Lancers.

When it comes to leadership in the Navy, it's more than just a title. It is a calling, a duty, and a profound responsibility. It requires vision, dedication, and commitment to those who serve. Commander Russell has already demonstrated these qualities in abundance, serving with distinction as Executive Officer, guiding this squadron with a steady hand and an unwavering focus on operational excellence.

A native of Troy, North Carolina, Commander Russell is a graduate of East Carolina University, where he earned a degree in the science of biology. He began his military career by enlisting in the United States Navy in 2005 and has since held numerous assignments, including on the USS Maryland (SSBN-738), USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74), and successfully completed two deployments.

Throughout his service, he has not only accumulated over 2,000 flight hours in various

aircraft, but numerous military decorations, including the CAPT Tim Tibbets Leadership Award, six Navy Commendation Medals, as well as the Navy/Marine Corps Achievement Medal.

As he steps into the role of Commanding Officer, I know that Commander Russell will continue to execute vital maritime patrol and reconnaissance missions with precision and uphold the highest traditions of Naval Aviation.

Mr. Speaker, Commander Russell is a true patriot and distinguished American who has devoted himself to the service of our Nation. It is appropriate that we honor him today by expressing our gratitude for his dedication and wishing him well on his new command.

And while he may not be able to push the ``abort mission'' button, I know that when the pressure rises, Commander Russell will rise higher.

Mr. Speaker, diamonds are rare and among the most sought-after treasures in the world--but so are police officers. Their courage, dedication, and commitment to protecting communities make them priceless. Unlike diamonds, their shine comes not from the way they reflect light, but from the way they reflect honor, integrity, and sacrifice every single day.

Today, I rise in observance of Clay County Police Memorial Day on Thursday, May 8th, in Clay County, Florida, and to honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

Clay County Police Memorial Day is more than a ceremony--it is a solemn tribute, a reminder of their courage, and a commitment to never forget their service.

These officers answered the call to protect and serve, putting their lives on the line every day to ensure the safety of our community. They walked into uncertainty, faced danger without hesitation; and upheld the values of integrity, justice, and duty. Their legacy lives on in the hearts of those they touched.

To the families of our fallen heroes, we offer our deepest gratitude. No words can truly capture the weight of your loss or the sacrifice, but please know that your loved ones will forever be honored and remembered.

Mr. Speaker, let us reaffirm our commitment to those who continue to serve. Let us support and lift up our law enforcement officers, recognizing their dedication and ensuring they have the resources and protection they need.

Mr. Speaker, let us pledge to keep the memory of our fallen officers alive--not just today, but every day. So that just as the legacy of diamonds is everlasting, so will be the legacy of our fallen Clay County police officers.

Mr. Speaker, according to Bubba from ``Forrest Gump,'' there are 21 ways to prepare shrimp, but there is only one place you can experience all that and more: Fernandina Beach, Florida's Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival. Can you believe, Mr. Speaker, this is the 60th year.

As Fernandina Beach's congressman and former mayor, I love to attend this event, which started out as shrimp boat races, but has grown into a massive festival celebrating delectable crustaceans.

From the thrill of the pirate invasion--arrgh--to the crowning of Miss Shrimp Festival to the irresistible aroma of wild-caught shrimp sizzling across the waterfront, every corner of this festival reminds us of why we come together to celebrate our heritage as the birthplace of the modern shrimping industry.

Mr. Speaker, when it comes to festival, this one is shrimply the best. I invite my colleagues and you, Mr. Speaker, to come shell-e- brate with us. It is always the first weekend in May.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for yielding.

Mr. Speaker, is it true President Trump has done more in 100 days than the previous President has done in 4 years?

Mr. Speaker, I have only got 60 seconds, but let's break it all down: border closed; mass deportation of illegal immigrants; fentanyl smuggling dropping; Laken Riley Act signed into law; inflation cooling; egg prices down; gas prices falling; astronauts back home; 11 American hostages freed; reducing the Federal bureaucracy, saving taxpayers billions of dollars and rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse; reversing the anti-crypto crusade; unleashing American energy; the green new scam terminated; EV mandates eliminated; revoked DEI policies in the military and government; affirming there are only two genders; no more men playing in women's sports; restoring America's leadership on the world stage; rebuilding our military; military recruitment up; defending religious liberty; sending gang members back to their own home countries; standing up for American workers; adding 345,000 new jobs; securing billions of dollars in new investments in the United States.

The golden age of American prosperity is indeed here. As exciting as the first 100 days of President Trump have been, it is clear President Trump is just getting started.

Mr. Speaker, President Calvin Coolidge once said, ``The nation which forgets its defenders will be itself forgotten.'' His words perfectly encapsulate the importance of remembering our Vietnam War veterans.

I rise today with great honor to recognize the legacy and great sacrifice of our Vietnam War veterans through The Wall That Heals, which will be on display in Nassau County, Florida, from April 17th through April 21st at the Northeast Florida Fairgrounds.

The Wall That Heals is a half-scale replica of the permanent memorial in Washington, D.C., that stands six feet tall at the center and covers almost 300 feet from end to end.

The traveling exhibition will be a unique opportunity for individuals in our community, including the 26,900 Vietnam Veterans who call the Fourth Congressional District of Florida home, to see the names of their loved ones and comrades who otherwise may not be able to make the trip to Washington.

I would like to thank the Town of Hilliard, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10095, and all the volunteers who dedicated their time and effort to bring this distinct honor to Northeast Florida.

Mr. Speaker, we will never be able to repay our debt to those who have given their last measure of devotion for the spirit of America. But we can continue to do our duty: to remember. May the lives of those who served and were killed during the Vietnam War never be forgotten.

Mr. Speaker, I thank very much the chairman for yielding time.

Mr. Speaker, one citizen, one vote. It is the pillar of our democracy and you would think that of all the issues that we debate on this hallowed floor, this is the one. This is the one that brings everybody together, the pillar of our democracy, one citizen, one vote. Everybody is on the same team.

Mr. Speaker, you would be wrong. It is amazing that you would be wrong because there are people in this room that think women are incapable of getting an ID. I think that is an insult to women.

Mr. Speaker, let me remind you why we are here. We are here because this previous administration, the Biden administration, imported 10 to 15 million illegal aliens who have come here and we have evidence that they are participating in our elections.

The next thing you will say is: Did they get Social Security numbers? Mr. Speaker, they did. The DOGE team just announced millions of illegals now have Social Security numbers. It is happening, and it ends today when we vote on the SAVE Act.

I have just heard my colleagues say it is already against the law. We don't need this act, but let me tell you, Mr. Speaker, it is already against the law for a minor to buy beer, but yet the clerk checks the ID before the purchase is made.

We need the SAVE Act. We need security. We need to come together. I invite our colleagues to come together. There is still time to agree that the pillar of our democracy is one citizen, one vote. The right answer on the SAVE Act is a ``yes'' vote.

Mr. Speaker, let's go back to 1974, which was, indeed, a big year. It was the year ``Blazing Saddles'' was a massive box office success, ``All in the Family'' was the top-rated TV show, and ``Happy Days'' premiered on ABC.

Mr. Speaker, it was that same year that Trinity Baptist College was founded in Jacksonville, Florida, 50 years ago.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Trinity Baptist College's 50th anniversary, a milestone that invites reflection on a half-century commitment to higher education from a God-centered worldview.

Mr. Speaker, TBC believes that ministry is not confined to the pulpit or the classroom but rather every career can be a platform for living out faith and sharing the gospel.

With this understanding, the college has seen impressive growth in both its academic and athletic programs. Most importantly, TBC has upheld a bold, unapologetic Christian worldview in every aspect of student development. For five decades, TBC's mission has remained unchanged and is today more alive than ever before as it strengthens students for service, purpose, and leadership.

Mr. Speaker, as TBC celebrates its golden anniversary, I ask my colleagues to join me in wishing them a hearty congratulations on 50 years of preparing students to learn with integrity, whether in the classroom, workplace, or the community.

May God's favor and blessing be upon Trinity Baptist College as it embarks on the next 50 years.

Mr. Speaker, I want to take you back 100 years to the year 1925. ``The Great Gatsby'' had just been published. In this very Chamber, the House voted to authorize the construction of Mount Rushmore. Entertainment legend Dick Van Dyke was born.

Today, Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate the 100th birthday of someone else born that same year, 1925, an American hero named Leonard Messineo of Amelia Island, Florida. Born on April 30, 1925, Len served bravely in World War II with the Army's 20th Armored Division. In April 1945, just days before the war in Europe ended, his unit fought through heavy resistance, helped liberate the Dachau concentration camp, and patrolled Hitler's vacated Eagle's Nest.

Hitler took his own life on Len's 20th birthday; and Len proudly marks his birthday each year, saying that he celebrates April 30 for Hitler's demise.

After the war, Len earned an engineering degree on the GI Bill and built a successful career in manufacturing, including for the U.S. Army. He later became an award-winning nature photographer.

Len's greatest legacy is his family which includes two daughters, Deb and Lynn, four grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and even a grand-dog named Charlie.

We wish Len a happy 100th birthday. We thank him for his service, his life, and his enduring example. May God continue to bless him.

Celebrating the Retirement of Don Fann

Mr. Speaker, when you are lost, you need to find the way. In Clay County, Florida, when you need medical care and don't know where to turn, you need to find The Way Free Medical Clinic.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the retirement of Mr. Don Fann who served as executive director of The Way Free Medical Clinic from 2017 to 2024.

When Don first joined The Way Clinic in 2017 as interim director, his task was clear. It was to stabilize a struggling organization and ensure its continued service to those most in need. Not only, Mr. Speaker, did he meet that challenge but he also exceeded every expectation.

Through his tireless efforts to secure funding, forge partnerships, and implement sustainable programs, Don guided the clinic through a time of transformation. Today, the brand new Way Free Medical Clinic building offers both medical and dental services to countless individuals who otherwise would go without.

Don's professional success is only matched by his personal dedication. Don consistently placed the needs of others above his own. His empathy, resilience, and quiet determination inspired those around him to become hallmarks of the clinic's culture. His values of service, compassion, and hope are now woven into the very identity of The Way Free Medical Clinic.

As Don Fann retires, I join many in thanking him for his years of outstanding service and leadership. May the next chapter of his life be filled with the same purpose, joy, and generosity that defined him and his time at The Way Free Medical Clinic. We are proud of him.

Madam Speaker, yes, we are fired up for March Madness in northeast Florida, and, no, I am not just talking about the No. 1 seed Florida Gators basketball team. I am talking about Papa Seans Pizza in Baldwin.

Papa Seans just sliced up the competition in a bracket-style tournament held by radio station WQIK. Papa Seans beat out fellow contestants to gain its ``One Shining Moment'' as the best pizza in the Jacksonville area.

It is no surprise that Papa Seans knows how to whip up votes. Founder Sean Lynch is the mayor of Baldwin.

I recently had some of Papa Seans' pizza while visiting Baldwin. Let me tell you, no recount is needed, Madam Speaker. Papa Seans serves up a superior slice.

It is an honor and testament to the hard work of the mayor and his team, who have created not just a great place for food but a gathering spot where neighbors become friends.

I congratulate Papa Seans. If you are ever near Baldwin, trust me, Madam Speaker, stop in for a slice.

Mr. Speaker, did you know that more than 3 million Americans, some only 18, 19, or 20 years old, served in Vietnam? Each one had a duty to serve, but our duty, Mr. Speaker, is to remember.

On March 29, National Vietnam War Veterans Day, we remember the brave Americans who served, including the 26,900 Vietnam veterans who call the Fourth Congressional District of Florida home. We remember the 58,000 patriots who never returned home safely to the warm embrace of their families. Today, their names are hauntingly etched into the two faces of black granite in our Nation's Capital known simply as The Wall.

A replica of this very wall, almost 300 feet long, will be on display in my district from April 17 to April 21, 2025, at the Northeast Florida Fairgrounds in Nassau County, Florida. This will be a unique and moving opportunity for individuals to come see the names of their loved ones and patriots who otherwise may not be able to make it to Washington, D.C.

Mr. Speaker, we remember the 150,000 who were wounded in battle and bear the visible scars of post-traumatic stress and Agent Orange exposure. We remember those who faced brutal captivity as prisoners of war, and the 1,200 servicemembers still missing in action from Vietnam.

Mr. Speaker, we may never be able to repay our debt to those who have given the last measure of devotion for the spirit of America, but we can continue to do our duty to remember.

Mr. Speaker, on National Vietnam War Veterans Day and every day, we, the people of the United States, with a grateful heart salute those who endured great dangers at the hands of the enemy and lost in service to our Nation.

Mr. Speaker, the COVID pandemic is over and so are many of our problems that disappeared with it, but the mushroom cloud of fraud still lingers in the air.

The COVID-19 pandemic didn't just reveal cracks in the U.S. relief programs. It turned them into sinkholes. Due to a lack of guardrails, fraudsters stole hundreds of billions of taxpayer dollars from numerous pandemic-era programs.

Mr. Speaker, $135 billion is how much was stolen from the American people in unemployment insurance programs alone. As of today, only a paltry $5 billion has been recovered. Meanwhile, the statute of limitations is set to expire on March 27.

Mr. Speaker, letting cheats get away with stealing taxpayer money would truly be a tragedy.

To the fraudsters, con men, and outright thieves, I have a message to you from the American people: We want our money back, and this bill is going to help us get it.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud today to rise in favor of my colleague from Missouri, Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith's bill, H.R. 1156, the Pandemic Unemployment Fraud Enforcement Act. This must-pass bill will extend the statute of limitations for criminal prosecution and civil enforcement actions from 5 to 10 years so the Justice Department can deliver justice and go after these fraudsters and recover our money.

The only answer, Mr. Speaker, is to vote ``yes.'' Let's go get them.

Mr. Speaker, the king of auto racing, Richard Petty, was once asked when the first car race was. He replied: The day they made the second car.

Mr. Speaker, America is in love with the automobile, and nothing celebrates that better than The Amelia. It started 30 years ago in northeast Florida as the Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance. This year, it celebrates its 30th anniversary with hundreds of exceptional vehicles descending on Amelia Island, Florida, to delight car lovers of all ages.

Mr. Speaker, I don't know how they do it, but it seems they top themselves each year, and The Amelia is definitely going to be one of the best this year.

In the words of their vice chairman, Matt Orendac: History comes to life on the fairways at The Amelia, where enthusiasts are guaranteed to discover new automobile stories and personalities.

This year, one of the four drivers to win the Indy 500 for a record four times, including the most recent driver to do so, Helio Castroneves, will be the Amelia's 2025 honoree.

Mr. Speaker, attendees this year will ooh and ahh over 500 unique and specialized automobiles and enjoy seminars, auctions, films, ride and drives, dinners and parties, and, of course, the crowning jewel of the Amelia, Sunday's Concours d'Elegance.

At the core of the event every year, Mr. Speaker, is a commitment to give back to the community. The Amelia has donated a whopping $4 million to local charities and continues to have an incredible $30 million economic impact annually on Amelia Island and all of northeast Florida.

Mr. Speaker, nothing can compare to the automobile wonder of the Amelia, and it is an event that I am proud to host in my district. I wish them a hearty congratulations on their 30th anniversary. Here is to the next 30 years.

Mr. Speaker, let the show begin.

Mr. Speaker, if families across the Nation pay their debts and live within their means, shouldn't we in Congress reevaluate how money is being spent in Washington and across the Nation? Of course we should.

For far too long, our government has put the cost of not just emergencies but everyday expenses on our Nation's credit card. Now, as a result, our national debt is a staggering $36 trillion and growing every day.

Mr. Speaker, I am willing to put my money where my mouth is, and that is why I have introduced the Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is Act to reduce congressional office budgets by $100,000, just a paltry 5.2 percent.

The American credit card has reached its limit. We must tighten our belts. We have bills to pay and emergencies to cover. We need to be in this together.

Mr. Speaker, I have one question for you and this body: Are we willing to put our money where our mouths are?

I encourage all of my colleagues to join in this effort. Let's go get them.