Floor Statements

Mr. President, I rise today to once again call attention to the crisis at our southern border--the very crisis the Biden administration refuses to acknowledge and in not doing so, fails the American people.

It is a simple fact: There is no national security without border security; and everyone knows our border is anything but secure. We have the numbers to back it up.

For starters, more than 8.2 million illegal immigrants have crossed the border since Biden took office. To kick off fiscal year 2024, there were over 240,000 illegal immigrant encounters in October, the highest monthly total ever recorded. This comes after a record-setting fiscal year 2023, which saw more than 2.4 million encounters. Of the 2.4 million, at least 169 individuals are on the Terror Watchlist. But what is really frightening is that these numbers only reflect the known encounters and doesn't even include all of those who evaded law enforcement--the ``got-aways.'' Border officials estimate that there were 1.7 million ``got-aways,'' any number of which could be on the Terror Watchlist living in our country with who knows what intentions.

Even with all of this information available, the administration continues to break all the wrong records. In the last several weeks, daily records have been smashed time and again with known daily encounters ranging from 10,000 to 12,000. For context, President Obama's DHS Secretary said that 1,000 a day ``overwhelms the system.''

We have heard from officials such as FBI Director Wray expressing his concern regarding the ability of terrorist organizations to exploit any port of entry, including our southwestern border. Warnings such as these should not be ignored, and yet it appears this administration will continue to do exactly that.

But encounters are only part of the ongoing crisis. In October, over 1,300 pounds of fentanyl and over 9,500 pounds of meth were seized--and that is only what was seized. Estimates show that this is only 5 to 10 percent of the illicit drugs coming across the border. These drugs continue to run rampant in our communities at a devastating cost, including in my rural State of Mississippi.

The CDC says overdose deaths are up from last year, meaning more and more families and communities are being broken apart by the circulation of dangerous drug smugglers across the border. And even worse than the drugs being smuggled across the border are the humans the cartels are smuggling.

I have spoken before about my trip to the border--the one earlier this year--and the horrific stories of girls, 12- to 16-years old, being smuggled against their will, has stayed with me. The human trafficking industry has grown in the last several years to a $13 billion industry. And this will only continue to grow if the border continues to be an access point for traffickers.

I do not blame the brave men and women working to do their best to help patrol the border. I blame solely--all of this--on the Biden administration and Democrats for their unwillingness to work in a serious manner to help secure the border and keep criminals and drugs out of our communities. Border Patrol agents are not given the resources they need to stop the never-ending onslaught of migrants, drugs, and traffickers. Even the border security's provision in the President's emergency supplemental request amount is just more money to process illegal immigrants with no real policy or enforcement reforms.

I am hearing from law enforcement back home in Mississippi and how the crisis is affecting my State. As many have said, today, every State is a border State because of this crisis.

On January 18, 2023, a Mississippi Highway Patrol trooper made a routine traffic stop. In the vehicle was an illegal immigrant driving without a license and an additional three illegal adult males and one 7-year-old migrant child. After Homeland Security Investigations was contacted, the driver attempted to flee on foot and was captured. The HSI determined the child was not related to anyone in the vehicle. Charges are pending on the driver and HSI is attempting to identify the child and reunite him with family.

In another incident on October 9, 2023, a Mississippi Highway Patrol trooper identified another illegal immigrant driving on I-10 in Jackson County with no ID. A passenger, also an illegal immigrant, revealed that they were on their way to Houston, TX, to pick up another man, a woman, and three or four children. After a legal search of the vehicle, items consistent with human trafficking were discovered. A Border Patrol agent was notified, and, turns out, the driver was a repeat offender, illegally reentering the United States after deportation.

If I am hearing from law enforcement in my State, I know that my colleagues are too.

I applaud the efforts of the Mississippi Highway Patrol and the U.S. Border Patrol for taking action, but the fact remains that if the resources were already at the border, this would have never happened.

Senate Republicans have shown Americans time and time again that we are ready to take steps to stop the growing threat at the southern border. Unfortunately, our Democratic colleagues will not take action with us, appearing afraid to anger their radical base.

Giving our Border Patrol agents the means to do their job is not radical. Fortifying our border by ending catch-and-release, closing asylum loopholes, finishing the wall, and supporting law enforcement officers is key to our national security. And we owe our citizens no less.

I, along with my Republican colleagues, will continue to work toward solutions; and I invite Senate Democrats and the administration to join us so we can finally secure our borders and keep the American people safe and alleviate the Biden-caused humanitarian crisis at the border.

I yield the floor.

Mr. President, I wish to recognize the 50th anniversary of Intercessors for America--IFA--a ministry that has faithfully served believers by encouraging effective prayer and fasting for the Church, our Nation, and our elected leaders, including those of us elected to Congress. At the time of IFA's founding, the Watergate scandal, the Vietnam war, pervasive drug use, and the Supreme Court's tragic decision to legalize abortion on demand in Roe v. Wade had shaken the moral foundations of our Nation. In the 50 years since, IFA's ministry has been important in rebuilding a society that once again respects the Judeo-Christian principles and moral values that lie at the heart of America.

The founding leaders of IFA, including Derek Prince and John Beckett, began their first activities at a large dining table where John Talcott and his wife Roselyn wrote a prayer letter, which was mailed to a group of like-minded people who recognized the need for God to intervene to heal our Nation. Over the past 50 years, IFA has grown from these beginnings to inform, connect, and mobilize intercessors across America, in churches and communities nationwide, to pray for our Nation and our leaders.

In its work, IFA follows the teaching of the Apostle Paul in 1 Timothy 2:1-3: ``I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity. This is good and pleases God our Savior, who wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth.''

Nowhere could this impact of the power of prayer, including the prayers of many IFA intercessors, be better seen than the Supreme Court's historic decision in 2022 in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization to overturn the moral stain of Roe v. Wade. This moment was a testament to God's faithfulness, and underscores the importance of the work we have ahead of us to rebuild a culture where God's gift of life is respected and cherished.

It is an honor to recognize Intercessors for America and to celebrate its 50-year anniversary, in gratitude for its work, through prayer and intercession for public officials, to restore our moral values, protect the right to life and the family, and to bring about a renewal of faith, so that God may continue to bless our Nation.

Mr. President, it is an honor to pay tribute to Mr. Jack Rutland, Jr., of Lincoln County, MS, who for more than 10 years has shown an inspiring dedication to sharing the stories and memories of armed service veterans in Mississippi. By conducting radio interviews with veterans, their experiences can be appreciated by citizens all across Mississippi. Mr. Rutland has shown that his appreciation and respect for the men and women who have served in our armed forces goes beyond that of an average citizen, and America needs more people like Jack.

Jack Rutland, Jr., was born on May 20, 1948, in Birmingham, AL, while his father was stationed at an Air Force base there. His father, Jack Rutland, Sr., enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps prior to World War II, and he served during the war for 3 years in countries like England, North Africa, and Italy. During his World War II service, the senior Mr. Rutland earned five battle stars. Upon the completion of the war, he remained in the Air Force for over 20 years. Once he retired, the family returned to Lawrence County, MS. From experiencing his father's patriotic dedication to our Nation, Jack grew up with a sincere reverence for the veterans who served to defend the United States of America.

In 2003, the Military Memorial Museum in Brookhaven, MS, opened to inform the public of local veterans and the town's service history through artifacts, newspaper clippings, and other memorabilia. The museum is operated completely by volunteers, one of them

being Jack Rutland, Jr. On the 10-year anniversary of the Military Memorial Museum's opening, Jack interviewed four veterans. His interviews were captivating and respectfully executed, leading the public to want more. Today, Jack has conducted more than 50 interviews with veterans, some as recently as a few weeks ago. These interviews can be heartbreaking, like the story of World War II veteran Mr. Howard Britt who had to leave his beloved lieutenant in the field after he had been wounded. While in enemy territory, there was no time to wait. A story from Mr. Don Hemphill was similarly moving, detailing his arrival on the beaches of Normandy on the evening of D-day and seeing the wreckage of equipment left behind, as well as American soldiers who had not made it. The scene was so harrowing that Mr. Hemphill still could not talk about it when he was interviewed. In addition to these poignant interviews were inspirational recollections, like Mr. Hoyte Case who saw the iconic flag raised on Iwo Jima atop Mount Suribachi from his ship as he left the battle. Mr. Herbert Savell recounted his long journey home from the Pacific following the end of the war, traveling by cattle car to return to his small hometown in the Mississippi Delta. Walking down the aisle of the church and sitting in the pew beside his mother was how he returned. Each interview shows another side of the tragedies and triumphs faced by veterans.

The work that Jack has done is necessary to help younger generations understand the commitments and sacrifices made by our Nation's veterans. Preserving the oral histories of those who served helps us better understand the challenging circumstances they underwent and the emotional impacts they experienced during that time. These veterans had immense influence on our country from their brave and selfless duty of protecting our Nation's values and freedoms. Through the diligent work of Jack Rutland, Jr., we can learn a bit more about the Nation we are today from those who served in the armed forces for us.

My life has truly been enhanced by knowing Jack and his wife Shirley, who reside in my corner of the world. They have an outstanding family that includes their daughter Jamie, son-in-law Joshua Grosshans, and three grandchildren: Avery Rose, Jack Seton, and Alice Faye.

In conclusion, I am incredibly grateful to Mr. Jack Rutland, Jr., for dedicating his time to serving those who have served our country. I commend him for his accomplishments, and I hope his story and the veterans' stories he brings to light will inspire future generations.

Madam President, I am honored to pay tribute to the memory of a true American hero, Jacklyn ``Jack'' Harrell Lucas.

Jack, a long-time resident of Mississippi, and the youngest marine to ever receive the Medal of Honor, left an indelible mark on American history. During the Battle of Iwo Jima, Jack jumped between two live grenades to shield three of his fellow marines from the explosion. This act of heroism caused him significant injuries. Even after his time in the military, Jack continued to inspire generations through his commitment to veterans' causes and his advocacy for those who suffered in service to their country. Jack Lucas took his final salute on June 5, 2008, in Hattiesburg, MS, leaving behind his wife, their five children, and a legacy of patriotism and service to this Nation.

On October 7, 2023, the Navy will commission its first Arleigh Burke Flight III guided-missile destroyer. DDG-125 will bear the name of this distinguished son of Mississippi, Jack. H. Lucas. The USS Jack H. Lucas was built at Ingalls Shipyard in Pascagoula, MS, further highlighting Mississippi's commitment to the defense of the United States.

Jack's heroism will continue to inspire generations of Americans for years to come. As we reflect upon the life of Jack H. Lucas, let us honor his memory by dedicating ourselves to upholding the principles for which he so bravely fought.

Mr. President, I am pleased the Senate is beginning consideration of the Military Construction-Veterans Affairs, Agriculture, and Transportation, Housing and Urban Development appropriations bills.

Let me begin my remarks by thanking Chairman Murray and Vice Chairman Collins for their strong leadership in advancing these bills through committee and now to the Senate floor. This returns to regular order, which is long overdue and is a testament to what we can accomplish through a committed bipartisanship.

I also want to thank Senator Schatz, the chairman of the T-HUD Subcommittee. He has been a delight to work with and has been very, very pleasant to go through this and help me.

The fiscal year 2024 Transportation, Housing, Urban Development, and Related Agencies appropriations bill is a bipartisan and fiscally responsible bill that has passed unanimously--a 29-to-0 vote in July-- by the full Appropriations Committee.

There are a few important aspects of the bill that I would like to highlight. First, I want to stress that this bipartisan bill incorporates input and requests from more than 80 Senators from both sides of the aisle. The bill provides adequate resources for the Department of Transportation and the Department of Housing and Urban Development to administer the many important programs and activities under their jurisdictions. These programs protect public health and safety, promote economic growth, and improve the overall quality of life for all Americans.

The bill includes $28.5 billion for DOT and $73 billion for HUD, as well as funding for small independent Agencies like the Federal Maritime Commission and the National Transportation Safety Board.

With this bill, we are continuing to foster and grow the safest and most reliable transportation system in the world. The bill makes key investments in our transportation infrastructure, including $800 million for the popular RAISE Grant Program, and nearly $1.2 billion for the important bridge repair and rehabilitation program.

We also fully fund critical aviation needs, such as funding for 1,800 new air traffic controllers and for modernizing our legacy airspace systems.

The popular Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements Grant Program is funded at $500 million, and Amtrak is funded at $2.5 billion, which will continue to provide upgrades and service to rural communities, as well as the Northeast corridor.

In addition to transportation programs, this bill maintains existing rental assistance for more than 4.6 million households. This includes working families, seniors, people with disabilities, and those who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Additional investments are made to support ending veteran and youth homelessness, as well as to develop more permanent supportive housing.

Ending cycles of dependency requires promoting self-sufficiency and financial literacy tools, and I am pleased that the bill includes $198 billion for HUD's self-sufficiency programs.

Finally, the bill continues to fund the CDBG Program at $3.3 billion, which continues to be one of the most requested programs in this bill by Members from both parties to help State and local governments across the country promote economic development and job creation.

In closing, given the wide array of projects and activities funded by this bill, the subcommittee received a substantial amount of Member requests and has worked to try to address as many Member priorities as possible. The fiscal year 2024 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies appropriations bill is worthy of consideration and passage by the full Senate.

I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting the investments in this bill to support families and communities across this country, as well as the Military Construction, VA, and Agriculture bills that make up this minibus.

I yield the floor.

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded.

Mr. President, I rise today to pay tribute to the remarkable life of a legendary native of Mississippi whose music is synonymous with the spirit of summertime and enjoying life: Jimmy Buffett.

Born in Pascagoula, MS, Jimmy Buffett's journey began in the heart of the South. His music touches the heart of those well beyond Mississippi or the South, but there is no denying Jimmy's music embodies the very essence of the South, with its warm hospitality, vibrant culture, and distinctive charm.

Jimmy's early years were filled with the sights and sounds of Mississippi. The Sun shining over the Gulf of Mexico and many other beautiful experiences of the South would later inspire some of his most beloved songs.

But it was Jimmy's great appetite for adventure that ultimately propelled him to worldwide fame. He embarked on a journey that would take him to the Florida Keys, the Caribbean, and beyond those changes in latitudes. Amid more than 40 musical tours throughout his career, he churned his talents into a diverse business empire and charitable works.

As we reflect on the legacy of this son of a son of a sailor, we cannot help but be inspired by Jimmy Buffett's unyielding commitment to following his dreams and embracing life. His songs transport us to sandy beaches, where the stresses of life fade away. He reminds us that sometimes we all need to kick back, relax, and take a moment to savor the simple pleasures of life. As Jimmy would put it, ``it's 5 o'clock somewhere.''

In honoring Jimmy Buffett, we celebrate the man who, through his music, brought us with him on many of his adventures around the Sun, from the Pascagoula Run to the shores of paradise, and we are all better for it.

I have so much gratitude for the joy, laughter, and the inspiration that Jimmy Buffett brought into so many Americans' lives. His music is a timeless reminder that no matter where we come from, we can all find a bit of paradise within ourselves, and, come Monday, it will be all right.

Jimmy Buffett is a true southern storyteller who was generous enough to share his piece of paradise with the world. I have no doubt his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

I yield the floor.

Mr. President, I am pleased to recognize the Vicksburg District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers--USACE--for 150 years of exceptional service to the people of Mississippi and our Nation.

Founded in 1873 when Captain William Henry Harrison Benyaurd created a USACE office in Monroe, LA, the Vicksburg District now covers 68,000 square miles in Mississippi, Arkansas, and Louisiana; nine major river basins; 278 miles of the Mississippi River; and 460 miles of mainline Mississippi River levees. In 1884, the first permanent Vicksburg office was formed by Captain Eric Bergland. Vicksburg National Military Park was largely constructed by the Vicksburg District in the early 1900s. In response to the Great Mississippi Flood of 1927 and as directed by the Flood Control Act of 1928, the Vicksburg District designed and implemented an extensive flood control program, commonly referred to as the Mississippi Rivers and Tributaries--MR&T--project, which continues to serve the people of Mississippi to this day.

The benefits the Vicksburg District brings to Mississippians and the Nation are hard to quantify, but should not be taken for granted. The average annual benefits of the MR&T project alone are valued at $1.46 billion, but the positive impacts associated with the many watersheds, ports, locks and dams, reservoirs, and flood control structures the district manages go far beyond any dollar amount.

The Vicksburg District continues to boast some of the brightest engineering minds in the world as it designs, constructs, and maintains premier civil works projects. In addition to fulfilling its mission of flood control, it also excels in its other mission areas, including navigation, hydro-power, recreation, water supply, emergency operations, and environmental restoration. I am grateful for its important work to protect the people, economy, and natural resources of Mississippi, and I look forward seeing what the Vicksburg District accomplishes in the future.

Madam President, this bill presents a solution in search of a problem. Unfortunately, it appears that the intent of this legislation is to treat abortion as healthcare, to prevent pro-life entities from sponsoring ads designed to help provide women and girls with trustworthy support during pregnancy, and to make it harder for States to enforce their own laws protecting life and the most vulnerable.

When it comes to ensuring patient privacy and healthcare, I believe there are bipartisan solutions to be found that we can all agree on. One-sided efforts to promote abortion are not the way for us to find common ground on this issue.

I would also like to point out that this bill has not received a hearing or markup in the Commerce Committee, which would be a great opportunity to have.

I would like to turn now to recognize that this Saturday will mark the first anniversary of the Supreme Court's landmark decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization. I am incredibly proud that this victory for the pro-life movement, reversing the moral stain of Roe v. Wade, came out of my State of Mississippi. I am amazed and grateful that in God's sovereign plan, a law introduced by my friend, Mississippi State Representative Becky Currie, ultimately achieved what I and so many have prayed for, for 50 years now, to restore the sanctity of life.

My friend, Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch, our State's solicitor general, Scott Stewart, and the many others in the AG's office worked tirelessly to represent our State's direct challenge to Roe.

After a draft of the Dobbs majority opinion was shamefully leaked, the conservative Justices resisted disgraceful intimidation tactics and threats to their own lives. They stayed true to their judicial oaths to uphold and defend the Constitution.

The Supreme Court recognized correctly in Dobbs that the Constitution does not confer a right to abortion and that Roe was ``egregiously wrong and on a collision course with the Constitution from the day it was decided.''

While the Dobbs decision did not end abortion in America, it took a monumental step in returning the issue back into the hands of the people and their elected representatives. Today, as a result, 14 States are protecting unborn children through all 9 months of pregnancy. Several others now protect babies at the point where they have a heartbeat, at 6 weeks, and still others at 12 weeks. One recent study found that there were more than 24,000 unborn children saved from abortion in the first 9 months since Dobbs. That is 24,000 miracles, because that is what a child is--a miracle.

But it is not just the States that can protect life after Dobbs. We in Congress also have a responsibility to protect life and stop the Democrats' extreme pro-abortion agenda.

It saddens me deeply that Democrats in Congress continue to advocate for appalling legislation that would impose legalized abortion on demand up until to the moment of birth across all 50 States. Their legislation is even more radical than Roe was and would eliminate even the most modest pro-life protections, like parental involvement laws and bans on sex-selective abortions. Democrats cannot name a single limit on abortion they support--not one.

The American people, however, reject this extreme position. A new Tarrance Group poll this month found that three-fourths of voters oppose allowing abortions through all 9 months of pregnancy and support at least some limits to abortion.

More Americans continue to reject abortion when they learn more about the child in the womb--when they can hear the child's heartbeat, when they can see them suck their thumbs and yawn in an ultrasound, and when they learn that they can feel pain.

Despite this, the Biden administration's FDA and Department of Justice continue to allow the abortion industry to obstruct the will of pro-life States by illegally flooding the mail with do-it-yourself abortion pills, turning post offices into abortion centers. These actions not only endanger women's lives and their health, but they violate longstanding Federal laws that clearly prohibit the mailing of abortion drugs.

Finally, we also must advance policies to support pregnant mothers in choosing life. In particular, we need to support the work of pregnancy centers. More than 2,700 pregnancy centers across the country provide critical medical and material support for women and families facing unplanned pregnancies to choose life rather than abortion.

This is the promise of the Declaration of Independence: that all men are created equal and endowed by their Creator with the inalienable right to life.

Thanks to the Supreme Court's decision in Dobbs, 1 year ago this week, we can finally begin the hard work to make good on the promise for unborn Americans too.

Finally, I object.

Mr. President, I rise to extend a warm welcome to His Excellency Narendra Modi, the esteemed Prime Minister of the Republic

of India. Next week, we will be honored to have him address a joint meeting of Congress underscoring the significance of the relationship between the United States and India.

The bond between India and the United States is not just an alliance, it is a strategic and global partnership. Our two nations' relationship is built on the strong foundation of shared values--democracy, freedom, and respect for the rule of law.

India and the United States have long recognized the power of collaboration and fostering peace, prosperity, and global stability. United States-India diplomatic relations have only grown since India gained its independence 75 years ago.

In the face of global challenges ranging from education to energy to agriculture and health, Prime Minister Modi has worked with the United States to address these issues, and continues to work toward solutions that benefit not just our countries but the entire world.

Prime Minister Modi's visit to Washington, DC, is an occasion to celebrate that progress and to reaffirm our commitment to further strengthen this vital partnership.

I have had the opportunity to learn more about this partnership from Dr. Kulkarni, who is the Indian Consulate General in Atlanta, and a friend of mine. And she is also a friend of my State director, Umesh Sanjanwala.

So Prime Minister Modi's visit is an opportunity to deepen our collaboration in areas such as trade, defense, technology, and healthcare, which will shape the future trajectory of our nations.

I encourage my colleagues to join me in extending a warm welcome to the Prime Minister as he visits our great Nation.

I yield the floor.

Mr. President, I am pleased to commend Mr. Wade Litton of Greenwood, MS, for his service and contributions to the State of Mississippi while serving as the 87th president of Delta Council.

Organized in 1935, Delta Council plays an important role in uniting agricultural, business, and economic development leadership to solve problems and promote greater opportunities in the Mississippi Delta region, which encompasses 19 counties in northwest Mississippi. Mr. Litton has worked tirelessly this year to advance the priorities of Delta Council, including healthcare, farm policy, economic development, flood control, and education. He is also the third generation of his family to serve as president of Delta Council.

Mr. Litton is the chief executive officer of Wade, Inc., a fourth- generation company that operates 14 John Deere dealerships in the Mississippi Delta. As a businessman, Mr. Litton and his company are at the forefront of evolving farm technology tools that enable producers to become more efficient and productive. Mr. Litton's priorities in leading Delta Council have been to continue the work of the organization and to build stronger relationships with the people of the Delta to help improve the economy and quality of life for all citizens. He is deeply involved in industrial and community development, including the Delta Strong regional economic development association. Mr. Litton assumed the role of Delta Council president during unprecedented times characterized by rising inflation, rural healthcare disruptions, the after effects of the global coronavirus pandemic, and a multitude of other challenges. Wade Litton has been a steady and calm leader over this past year and has contributed his vast knowledge and service to many critical issues during his tenure as president.

Outside of his time spent running his business and serving Delta Council, Mr. Litton contributes his time to many other important organizations. He serves as a commissioner for Greenwood Utilities, a member of the Young Presidents' Organization, and is involved with the Greenwood-Leflore Chamber of Commerce, the Greenwood United Way, the Boys and Girls Club of Leflore County, the Agribusiness Industry Council of the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, and the Greenwood Rotary Club. He is also a youth soccer and baseball coach. Mr. Litton, his wife Meagan, and his three children Kennan, Robert, and Elizabeth are members of the First Presbyterian Church, where he serves as an elder.

It is my pleasure to join the citizens of the great State of Mississippi in expressing our appreciation and gratitude to Mr. Wade Litton and in sharing these good wishes with his family. His

years of service and leadership have undoubtedly contributed to the overall success of this highly respected 88-year-old organization, Delta Council.

Mr. President, this week our Nation commemorates the 2023 National Police Week and honors the brave men and women of law enforcement who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. As a nation, we will pay tribute to those who have given their lives to protect our communities and join in mourning their loss with their families and loved ones.

As we recognize National Police Week and remember these fallen officers, we must acknowledge the critical role that law enforcement officers play in keeping our communities safe. They leave their homes and families every day not knowing if they will return. The amount of courage, dedication, and passion that demands cannot be overstated. It is important to remember, too, that their families also demonstrate exceptional courage, as they support their loved ones knowing the circumstances are sometimes life and death.

My State of Mississippi is blessed with amazing law enforcement. These men and women in blue are not only hometown heroes, but also are an integral part of our communities. Every loss of an officer is deeply felt by all. I would like to specifically remember and honor the nine fallen officers from Mississippi whose names have been added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial this year. These officers died heroes in service to their communities, and we will forever be grateful for their sacrifice.

We remember: Steven Michael Robin and Branden Paul Estorffe of the Bay St. Louis Police Department, who were shot and killed while conducting a welfare check, and Marzell Jerome Brooks of the Brookhaven Police Department, who passed from COVID-19 during the commission of his job duties.

We remember: Myiesha Breanna Stewart of the Greenville Police Department, who was shot and killed during a vehicle pursuit of a suspect who fled the scene after a shooting; Lee Dan Vance, Jr., of the Hinds County Sheriff's Office who died after contracting COVID-19 during an outbreak among employees and inmates; and Robert Edward Moak, Sr., of the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office, who was killed by a suspect who he had testified against in court.

We remember: Kennis Winston Croom of the Meridian Police Department, who was shot and killed while responding to a domestic violence call, and Jeffrey Ray Turney of the Pontotoc Police Department, who succumbed to COVID-19 after contracting the illness during the commission of his job duties.

Lastly, we remember Johnny Raymond Patterson of the Verona Police Department, who was struck by a vehicle while directing traffic.

To honor their memory, we must put our words into actions by ensuring our officers have the resources and tools they need to do their jobs safely and effectively. It is critical they have adequate support for training, equipment, and technology, as well as policies that prioritize officer safety and well-being.

For my part, I will continue to be an advocate for law enforcement professionals and provide support where possible and do all I can to honor the legacy of those lost in the line of duty.

I ask my colleagues to join me in remembering and honoring these brave officers in Mississippi and across the Nation during National Police Week and throughout the year. It is my prayer that their families and loved ones find comfort in knowing that their sacrifices will never be forgotten.

Mr. President, I am pleased to commend Jimmy Stringer, a dedicated member of my personal staff who left my office recently to return to my home State of Mississippi. Jimmy merits commendation for his contributions and dedicated service throughout his role in public service, as well as a member of my personal office staff.

A native of Madison, MS, Jimmy earned his bachelor's degree from Mississippi State University. Jimmy's

humble beginnings in the U.S. Government started as an intern for the late Senator Cochran, my predecessor.

Following that, Jimmy's career turned to the Pentagon, where he supported the Air Force in its day-to-day operations. His outstanding service there earned him the Secretary of the Air Force Technical and Analytical Support Top Performer Award.

After 2 years at the Pentagon, Jimmy decided to focus his service closer to home, accepting an opportunity to serve as military legislative assistant in the office of Congressman Gregg Harper of Mississippi.

Jimmy's service in the House of Representatives led him to the U.S. Senate, where he became the military legislative assistant for my office, where he excelled and eventually earned the additional title and responsibilities of deputy legislative director.

Jimmy's contributions throughout his tenure in public service have been truly invaluable to the legislative and administrative functions of my office, and his insightful input will be missed.

I, along with the rest of my office, have benefited from Jimmy's knowledge, experience, and leadership.

Anyone who has had the opportunity to meet and visit with Jimmy would agree he is a hard-working, courteous, and intelligent young man.

Jimmy's strong sense of responsibility, good judgment, and a pleasant demeanor set him apart as a leader in our office and proved time and time again to be an asset for the people of Mississippi.

In fact, Jimmy has always put Mississippi first. No matter the situation or how high the stakes, the needs of the State came first. While many have been caught up in the demands of Washington, DC, politics, Jimmy's focus has always remained hundreds of miles south of the beltway. Mississippians knew if they had a problem, Jimmy Stringer would help them find a solution.

Mississippi and our Nation have been well-served by the diligence, dedication, and commitment to excellence Jimmy Stringer provided on a daily basis. He has put forth his best efforts to reflect credit on our military, the House of Representatives, my State, and the U.S. Senate.

I will miss Jimmy's astute counsel. He has my appreciation and gratitude for the notable job he has done throughout his time here in Washington, especially within my office.

I wish Jimmy, his wonderful wife Frances, and beautiful daughter Price God's continued blessings and all the best in their future endeavors.

Madam President, Americans across the country, led by Concerned Women for America, the Nation's largest public policy organization for women, and other faith-based organizations continue to celebrate April as Faith Month. I commend this noble effort calling all people of faith to join in prayer, thanksgiving, and celebration of their faith.

The United States of America was born of the unanimous Declaration that we are ``endowed by [our] Creator with certain unalienable Rights,'' based on ``the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God,'' ``appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world,'' and acknowledging our ``reliance on the protection of divine Providence.'' We are a people of faith, which is why religious freedom is known as America's first freedom, as laid out in the Establishment and the Free Exercise Clauses of the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. The freedom of speech is guaranteed by the First Amendment and also supports America's unique focus on freedom of expression, including in matters of faith.

America's Judeo-Christian founding promotes religious diversity and tolerance. Our motto, ``In God We Trust,'' further emphasizes the importance of faith in our Nation's founding. From our first President to the last, we have always acknowledged America's faith. President George Washington recognized ``it is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor.''

Preserving our religious freedom, which strengthens our country's appreciation of all peoples, regardless of faith, requires eternal diligence. Sadly, attacks on religious liberty and people of faith are growing, with some religious charities forced to betray the tenets of their faith in order to participate in certain government programs. We must actively reject all efforts to criminalize or cancel religious beliefs as somehow incompatible with our democracy.

Religious organizations in America have a rich history of charitable engagement by helping the sick, poor, and afflicted. Their presence in my State of Mississippi following devastating and fatal tornadoes in March has been a blessing to those trying to rebuild their lives. Their service demonstrates why these organizations should be celebrated, not maligned, for their contributions to improve life. According to the Pew Research Center, more than 75 percent of Americans practice some type of religious faith. This rich, diverse religious heritage is to our credit and should be encouraged.

This Faith Month, I join millions of Americans in honoring the right to practice our faith freely and openly, with public displays and celebrations, including prayer and expressions of thanksgiving. In this manner, we reaffirm our commitment to the religious liberty principles of our founding.

Mr. President, I rise today to also express my disappointment in the fiscal year 2024 budget submitted to Congress by President Biden. As a fiscal conservative, I have serious concerns about the direction this budget proposes to take our country. It fails to address the real needs of our Nation and instead doubles down on failed policies.

Americans continue to suffer from the worst inflation since the Carter administration--inflation set off by President Biden's reckless tax-and-spend agenda. Consumer prices have risen 15 percent since Biden took office. These are real numbers. People in my home State of Mississippi and across this country continue to see their hard-earned savings dwindle and their paychecks stretched thin by higher prices for everything from groceries to gasoline and basic utilities.

After 2 years of trudging through this economy, Americans truly need help. However, President Biden's budget will do anything but help. The President's $7 trillion budget for 2024 will result in massive spending increases that will further exacerbate our already significant debt and deficit problems. Remember, reckless spending is the major reason prices took off in the first place.

We simply cannot afford to spend at this level and continue passing on the burden of our current and growing debt to future generations.

What is more, this proposal includes $4.7 trillion in new or increased taxes--the largest tax hike since the 1960s. These tax hikes would stifle economic growth, discourage investment, and ultimately harm the very people the President's budget is supposed to help.

The President is asking Congress to hike the individual Federal income tax rate up from 37 percent to 39.6 percent, not including the surtaxes with that. This proposal would push tax increases on even more hard-working Americans. Make no mistake, this proposal does not ``tax the rich,'' as my colleagues across the aisle love to say; it raises taxes on middle-class Americans.

The President's proposed tax increases may raise revenue in the short term to support his big spending, Big Government schemes, but they amount to distraction and to only gimmicks.

There is little chance these massive tax increases will see the light of day, but even if they did, the Biden tax hikes would not address the underlying issues of our ballooning national debt.

The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office projects that the Federal Government will spend over $10 trillion on interest alone in the next 10 years. Think about that for a moment--$10 trillion on interest payments alone. Unbelievable. As we pay more and more on debt interest payments, there will be less available to use on critical and important priorities like Senator Hoeven mentioned: national defense, infrastructure, healthcare, or education.

I recently reintroduced a constitutional balanced-budget amendment because I am very concerned about the future of this great Nation. In contrast, President Biden's 2024 budget plan sends a clear signal that he and his administration are not serious about controlling the national debt or even reducing annual deficit spending. He may talk about it, but this budget says otherwise.

It is our responsibility as elected officials of the American people to strengthen our Nation, not to leave it saddled with unsustainable debt that puts everything at risk, including entitlement programs that hard-working Americans have paid into their entire lives.

President Biden's budget is a disappointment and falls short in addressing serious challenges, such as getting our fiscal house in order, securing the border, unleashing American energy, and so much more.

We all know the President's budget was received dead on arrival, but it signals the starting point to the annual budget process. It is my hope that wiser minds on both sides of the aisle will prevail as Congress embarks on the 2024 budget and appropriations process.

Americans are already pinching pennies, taking on debt, and struggling to pay their bills, and they deserve much, much more. They deserve relief, and our Nation needs relief in the form of tried-and- true just pure fiscal responsibility.

I yield the floor.