Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today as a former prosecutor and as an Arizonan who has seen what happens when the system prioritizes the criminal over the victim.

Kayleigh Kozak was 12 years old when a trusted teacher and soccer coach began to abuse her. Years later, as an adult and a mother, she was forced back into court to face him again.

In 2020, 13 years after his conviction, he asked a judge to end his so-called lifetime probation. Kayleigh was given just 3 weeks' notice. She had to stand in the courtroom and plead for protection that should never have been in doubt.

Two times as an adult, she was hauled back to look at the man who destroyed her childhood just to keep him away. No victim should ever have to do that.

I want to thank Kayleigh, who is here today with her family, for being here. I promised Kayleigh that when I made it to Congress I would introduce this bill in her honor. Nothing makes me happier than making good on that promise. Kayleigh turned what happened to her into protection for thousands of other victims.

Arizona is proud of Kayleigh, and I am proud of her. We have three of her children here on the floor, as well.

Kayleigh's Law started in Arizona. It works. In its first year alone, more than 1,000 survivors in our State secured lifetime protection from the criminals who hurt them. Kayleigh's Law would give every American victim of a Federal sex crime or violent felony that same shield.

This bill is simple. When a predator is convicted, Federal courts must issue a lifelong no-contact injunction.

Victims should never again be forced to fill out another form, face their abuser across a courtroom, or spend their lives looking over their shoulder simply because a sentence ended and the system decided its job was done.

Healing cannot begin if the abuser can show up again the day after release. Justice is not complete if the victim still lives in fear. Arizona already closed that gap. It is time the Federal Government did the same so no American, no matter which State they live in, is left unprotected after a Federal conviction.

I have sat across from victims. I know how vulnerable they are, and sadly, how determined their predators can be. No survivor should be victimized twice, first by the criminal who harmed them and then by a system that forced them to fight again and again.

Now Kayleigh travels the country ensuring Kayleigh's Law is passed in every State legislature. It is time we guarantee that same protection to victims of Federal crimes across America.

I thank Chairman Biggs for spearheading Kayleigh's Law through the Judiciary Committee, and I also thank Senator Mike Lee for introducing this bill in the Senate.

Mr. Speaker, this is not complicated. We protect victims. I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on H.R. 8481.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today with tremendous respect to recognize Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and the enduring American-Armenian partnership.

Armenia stands among the world's oldest civilizations, preserving a rich cultural and spiritual heritage that has endured for millennia. Today, under his leadership, Armenia finds itself at a defining moment in its modern history. His government's efforts to strengthen democratic institutions, secure lasting peace, and expand Armenia's partnerships with the United States and Europe have earned the attention and admiration of many who recognize the significance of this historic opportunity.

The growing strategic partnership between the United States and Armenia reflects this remarkable progress. President Trump's leadership to join him and President Ilham Aliyev in signing a trilateral Joint Declaration marked an important milestone in advancing peace and stability in the South Caucasus. His meetings with President Trump, his participation in the World Economic Forum in Davos at his invitation, and Armenia's role as a founding member of the Board of Peace initiative, demonstrate a shared commitment to diplomacy, regional stability, and a stronger United States-Armenia relationship.

His efforts to normalize relations with Azerbaijan represent one of the most consequential diplomatic initiatives in Armenia's modern history. Following his party's victory in the June 2026 parliamentary elections, the Armenian people entrusted his government with a renewed mandate to pursue a permanent peace. The successful conclusion of negotiations on the draft Agreement on the Establishment of Peace and Interstate Relations reflects both political courage and a commitment to reconciliation after decades of conflict.

The enduring friendship between our nations is further strengthened by the extraordinary Armenian-American community. For generations, Armenian-Americans have made remarkable contributions to business, science, technology, philanthropy, and public life.

As our nations continue building upon more than a century of friendship, I remain confident that the United States and Armenia will deepen their partnership in ways that advance regional stability, expand economic opportunity, and promote lasting peace.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Dana White, a visionary of American sports, a stalwart patriot, and the president and CEO of the Ultimate Fighting Championship.

Dana embodies the spirit of the American innovator who turns bold ideas into reality. For over 25 years, his dedicated leadership of the UFC has transformed mixed martial arts from a niche competition into one of the most widely watched and fastest-growing sports in the world. Under his care, UFC has expanded its reach, built a global fan base, and consistently showcased the discipline, athleticism, and competitive spirit that resonate with audiences across our Nation.

Accompanying Dana's tremendous success as a businessman is an unwavering loyalty to his friends, his country, and the principles he believes in. From the earliest days of his career, Dana has demonstrated a willingness to stand by those he considers family and to give back to the country that made his success possible. His longtime friendship with President Trump is an important part of that story, beginning with Dana's first UFC cards at the Trump Taj Mahal and continuing through years of mutual support.

Dana has consistently used his platform and resources to support the American people, from helping rebuild communities and businesses after the devastating COVID-19 lockdowns to providing financial assistance to victims of the insidious attempt on President Trump's life in Butler, Pennsylvania. Whether in business, philanthropy, or public life, Dana has repeatedly demonstrated that loyalty is not simply something he talks about, it is something he lives.

Dana's profound commitment to leveraging the UFC's success for the betterment of our Nation culminated in an unprecedented celebration of America's 250th Anniversary: UFC Freedom 250. Through painstaking effort, Dana with support from the White House executed a historic celebration of American excellence, featuring displays of our military might, live musical performances, and seven extraordinary fights broadcast to more than 34 million people worldwide. More than simply a sporting event, UFC Freedom 250 showcased American strength, ingenuity, and patriotism on a truly global stage.

Hosted on the South Lawn of the White House, this landmark event underscored Dana's pivotal role in elevating MMA from a niche sport to a global phenomenon and a staple of American culture. His enduring legacy of patriotism and leadership merits the highest recognition.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today with tremendous pride as an Arizonan to honor one of our own--a warrior, a champion, and a true example of the American Dream: Justin Ray Gaethje, the undisputed Ultimate Fighting Championship Lightweight Champion of the World.

Born on November 14, 1988, Justin was raised in the hardworking town of Safford, Arizona. The son of a dedicated copper miner and his mother, Carolina, of Mexican descent from Sonora, he learned the values of discipline, sacrifice, and relentless grit from a young age. His father, John Ray Gaethje, worked for decades in the mines, and his mother instilled in him that same blue-collar work ethic that helped build Arizona and this Nation.

Justin started wrestling at age four. At Safford High School, he compiled a stellar 191-9 record, earned four state finals appearances, and brought home two Arizona state championships. That same toughness carried him through collegiate wrestling and into the world of professional Mixed Martial Arts. Known as ``The Highlight,'' Justin has thrilled fans worldwide with his fearless, all-action style, devastating leg kicks, and unbreakable warrior spirit. He does not back down from anyone--he runs toward the fight. That is exactly the kind of courage and toughness Arizona produces.

Last month, Justin captured the undisputed UFC Lightweight Championship in historic fashion at UFC Freedom 250 on the White House lawn, defeating Ilia Topuria to become the first fighter to unify the title after holding the interim belt multiple times.

A kid from Safford, Arizona, now standing as the undisputed king of the lightweight division--that is the American Dream in action. Justin represents the best of Arizona and the best of America: resilience, family loyalty, hard work, and the refusal to quit. In a time when too many seek the easy path, Justin reminds us what real excellence looks like.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize President Aliyev of Azerbaijan.

Azerbaijan stands as a historic bridge between Europe and Asia. For centuries, the nation served as a vital crossroads on the ancient Silk Road, connecting different cultures, languages, and global trade. From the vibrant capital of Baku on the Caspian Sea to the rich cultural traditions, Azerbaijan represents a long history of resilience, trade, and national pride.

The admiration Americans hold for Azerbaijan is deeply rooted in our shared respect for the ideals of liberty and self-determination. In 1918, the nation made history by establishing the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic, creating the first secular parliamentary democracy in the Muslim world and granting women universal suffrage well before many Western nations. This monumental achievement resonated deeply across the Atlantic, prompting U.S. President Woodrow Wilson to famously observe in 1919 that the leaders of Azerbaijan spoke the exact same language of liberty, right, and justice as the American republic.

These shared values created the foundational roadmap for our modern partnership. Today, our Nations work closely together to protect global energy security. This strong bond began with major international energy projects in the 1990s that successfully connected Caspian oil and gas directly to Europe. Today, this cooperation lives on through secure global trade routes that bypass volatile regions, strong security ties, and an ongoing commitment to economic growth and reform.

These historical connections serve as reminders that although our Nations are separated by geography, we share a deep respect for independence, national identity, and human progress.

As representatives of two Nations shaped by a strong sense of purpose, may we continue to strengthen the bonds of friendship, mutual respect, and strategic cooperation between the United States of America and Azerbaijan.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Sheikh Mowafaq Tarif, the paramount spiritual leader of the Druze community in Israel and a respected voice for Druze communities throughout the region.

For centuries, the Tarif family has held an important place in the spiritual life of the Druze people. Today, as the recognized leader of Israel's Druze community, President of the Supreme Druze Religious Council, and Chairman of the Druze High Appeal Religious Court, Sheikh Tarif stands not only as a guide for Druze citizens of Israel, but as a symbol of unity, continuity, and resolve for Druze communities throughout the Levant. His leadership is rooted in faith, honor, service, and an unbroken commitment to the dignity and survival of his people.

Sheikh Tarif also serves as a guardian of Druze religious heritage, including the sacred traditions connected to the Nabi Shu'ayb, the Tomb of Jethro, the most important holy site in the Druze faith. As ancient communities across the Middle East face violence, displacement, and erasure, his leadership has helped preserve the identity and continuity of the Druze people.

During a period of brutal violence facing Druze communities in Syria, Sheikh Tarif brought attention to the suffering of Druze civilians and urged action to prevent further bloodshed and humanitarian catastrophe. He also welcomed a historic delegation of Syrian Druze religious elders visiting Nabi Shu'ayb for the first time in decades, underscoring the bonds of faith, family, and history that connect Druze communities across modern borders. In 2025, Sheikh Tarif received the Israeli Presidential Medal of Honor, recognizing his contribution to Israeli society, his defense of the Druze people, and his work as a bridge between communities.

His leadership also reflects the historic partnership between the Druze and Jewish peoples, Druze citizens of Israel have served with distinction in the Israel Defense Forces, contributed to public life, and held positions of national responsibility, including service in the Knesset, senior government roles, and even as Acting President of the State of Israel. Through that service, the Druze people have become an indispensable part of Israel's national mosaic.

Sheikh Tarif's leadership reflects the spirit of the Abraham Accords: looking beyond old divisions and toward a Middle East where ancient communities build a future of partnership, mutual respect, and peace.

Mr. Speaker, Sheikh Mowafaq Tarif stands as a modeI of principled leadership for the Druze people in Israel, Syria, Lebanon, and beyond-- and deserves recognition by this Congress.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who, in July 2025, demonstrated resolute leadership and moral clarity through his actions to defend the Druze community in Syria during a period of escalating violence and instability. As Druze villages and families faced mounting threats in southern Syria, Netanyahu made clear that Israel would not remain silent or indifferent while innocent people--particularly a community bound to Israel by generations of friendship and shared sacrifice--were placed in danger. His commitment reflected not only strategic leadership, but also a deep recognition of the historic bond between the Jewish and Druze peoples, a relationship built on loyalty, courage, honor, and mutual respect.

For decades, the Druze community has played an integral role in the fabric of Israeli society, serving with distinction in the Israel Defense Forces, contributing to public life, and standing shoulder to shoulder with the people of Israel in moments of both triumph and hardship. Netanyahu's decision to act in defense of Druze civilians in Syria sent a powerful message to the world: true allies do not abandon one another in times of crisis. His leadership underscored the principle that protecting vulnerable communities and confronting extremism are essential to preserving regional stability and human dignity.

At a time when much of the international community hesitated, Netanyahu's actions reflected conviction, strength, and a willingness to uphold Israel's longstanding commitment to the safety and security of the Druze people. In standing with the Druze during one of their most difficult moments, Prime Minister Netanyahu reinforced a legacy of partnership, solidarity, and unwavering support that will not be forgotten.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Father Andrew Azia, a devoted priest in the Holy Apostolic Catholic Assyrian Church of the East and a proud Arizonan.

Father Andrew faithfully serves Arizona's thriving Assyrian-American community--thousands of strong families preserving one of the world's oldest Christian faiths and their ancient Mesopotamian heritage. Like so many who came to America seeking freedom, they have brought deep faith, tight-knit families, entrepreneurial drive, and true patriotism to our State.

Through their churches and community work, they strengthen Arizona every day.

I am proud to thank Father Aziz for his dedicated service. Arizona is stronger because of leaders like him and the vibrant Assyrian-American community he serves.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and heroic sacrifice of Phoenix Police Officer Zane T. Coolidge and to urge support for my legislation, H.R. 3393, which designates the United States Postal Service facility located in Phoenix, Arizona, as the Officer Zane T. Coolidge Post Office.

On September 6, 2024, at just 29 years old, Officer Coolidge succumbed to his wounds after being shot in the line of duty while responding to a larceny call in Phoenix. In an instant, a devoted husband, loving father, brother, son, and uncle was taken from his family and from the community he swore to protect.

Officer Coolidge embodied the highest ideals of public service. He answered the call every day, knowing the risks. On that tragic day, he made the ultimate sacrifice so that others might be safe.

His courage, integrity, and selflessness represent the very best of the men and women who wear the badge and stand between law-abiding citizens and chaos.

Naming this post office in his honor is a small but enduring tribute, a permanent reminder to every Arizonan who walks through those doors of the bravery and devotion of Officer Zane Coolidge and all those who have given their last full measure of devotion and service to our communities. What makes it even more special and meaningful is that the building sits right across the street from Thunderbird High School, where Zane graduated in 2013.

Officer Coolidge's legacy will not be defined by the day he was taken from us but by the life he lived and the lives he protected.

May this designation ensure that his name and his sacrifice are remembered for generations to come.

Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 3393.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of my bill, H.R. 3767, the Health Professionals Scholarship Program Improvement Act of 2025.

As too many taxpayers well know, the VA spends millions of our hard- earned taxpayer dollars training healthcare professionals through scholarships, yet, these same qualified professionals are forced to wait months for employment contracts after graduation. All the while, our veterans suffer.

It is government inefficiency at its worst, and our veterans seem to always be paying the price. Veterans are sent to emergency rooms while skilled doctors are waiting to serve patients.

That is why I introduced this bipartisan legislation with my colleague, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski, because we saw a program that required action. Bureaucratic red tape is the enemy.

The reports by the inspector general are a testament to what veterans in my district already know: Staffing shortfalls are more than a figure. They are missed appointments, endless long waits, and canceled procedures.

American heroes' lives are at stake. Back home in Arizona, the Phoenix VA Health Care System covers 100,000 veterans. The Southern Arizona VA Health Care System covers yet another 170,000. Every one of them deserves access to qualified providers.

Arizona's Eighth District alone has 65,000 veterans. These patients deserve better than bureaucratic incompetence when they need medical care. They did not wait to defend America, and America should not make them wait for healthcare.

My bill offers a simple and commonsense fix. HPSP scholarship recipients will be given offers of jobs within 90 days post-graduation. They will not wait. Veterans will not be forgotten. We are going to drain the VA swamp one regulation at a time.

Our bill also requires an annual report to Congress on hire dates and placement rates. Transparency generates performance.

We are not just addressing the issue today. We are ensuring bureaucrats cannot hide and escape tomorrow.

To those who would say 90 days is too aggressive, my response is: How long should a veteran wait? How long should a trained physician sit idle? The current state is intolerable. The status quo has failed, and it is time for genuine reform.

Mr. Speaker, I have seen firsthand what occurs when the systems fail for those on the front lines overseas. We cannot allow failure at home. When I served as an Army intelligence officer overseas, we lived by a simple creed: Mission first, and no Americans left behind.

My bill is an embodiment to that promise. This isn't partisan posturing. This is about doing right by America's warfighters. The House Committee on Veterans' Affairs agreed. They voted for my bill by voice vote without opposition. There was zero dissent. There was complete consensus and stakeholder support. It is now time for the entire House to deliver.

Mr. Speaker, every day of delay is another day a veteran waits for care. It is another day a qualified professional can't serve. It is another day the system fails those who have served and protected us all. It is another day the swamp wins and our heroes lose.

We ask our veterans to wait for many things. Quality healthcare shouldn't be one of them, not in President Trump's America and not on our watch.

Mr. Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues to support the HPSP Improvement Act. Our veterans have waited long enough. We must deliver on the promise we made to the brave men and women who served our country. It is time to put veterans first.

Mr. Speaker, I was unavoidably detained and unable to be present for the following vote.

Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 224, on Passage of H.J. Res. 104.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to offer a warm welcome to His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, the spiritual leader of 300 million Orthodox Christians throughout the world and the current Archbishop of Constantinople, serving in one of the oldest sees in Christendom. This month, Patriarch Bartholomew will visit Washington, D.C., where he will be recognized as this year's recipient of the prestigious Templeton Prize, an award that has been garnered in the past by great historical figures such as Mother Teresa, the Dalai Lama, and Archbishop Desmond Tutu.

In his previous visits to the United States, His All Holiness has had visitations with five Presidents, he has spoken to both houses of Congress and has been awarded the Congressional Gold Medal; the highest award that civilian Congress can bestow. His next trip will maintain that longstanding tradition of friendship between the United States and the Ecumenical Patriarchate.

It is Patriarch Bartholomew's life that embodies ethical and principled leadership and the patriarch's perseverance that became proverbial. Fluent in seven languages and a holder of several doctorates in Canon Law, he has tirelessly championed the cause of religious freedom, inter-faith dialogue and environmental responsibility--earning the endearing nickname ``the Green Patriarch'', by stating that damaging God's creation is a sin.

At a time when religious persecution, catastrophes and tensions among religious communities seem to be dominating news headlines, Patriarch Bartholomew presents an alternate vision: ``War in the name of religion is war against religion,'' he tells us. He calls on people of faith of all traditions to be ``peacemakers'' and protectors of the Earth.

There are thousands of Greek-Americans living in Arizona's 8th Congressional District, including the hundreds of faithful at St. Haralambos Greek Orthodox Church in Peoria. They, and Orthodox Christians throughout our land, welcome this visit with joy. My constituents are particularly proud of the fact that Patriarch Bartholomew has been an outspoken defender of human dignity and has reached out to Jewish and Muslim leaders throughout the world.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in welcoming His All- Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew to Washington, D.C., and in paying tribute to his decades of ministry for peace, reconciliation and environmental stewardship. May God continue to bestow his example as a guide to defend religious freedom, choose cooperation over conflict, and secure a healthier, safer America for future generations.

Madam Speaker, I hereby remove my name as cosponsor of H.R. 3941.

Mr. Speaker, due to attending a funeral, I was unable to be present for Roll Call No. 156 on H.R. 2966, the American Entrepreneurs First Act.

Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 156--H.R. 2966, American Entrepreneurs First Act.

Mr. Speaker, due to unavoidable scheduling conflicts related to critical constituent matters, I was unable to cast my vote on Monday, May 5, 2025. The well-being of our veterans and the security of our Nation against foreign adversaries remain top priorities of mine. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 115 (H.R. 530--ACES Act); and YEA on Roll Call No. 116 (H.R. 36--MEGOBARI Act).