Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to congratulate the Washington Cattleman's Association on their 100th anniversary, an incredible milestone that ranchers in our State should be proud of.

Since its inception in 1925, the Washington Cattleman's Association has been instrumental in promoting the agriculture and cattle industry in the State of Washington. They preserve, protect, and promote the beef industry through producer and consumer education, legislative advocacy, regulatory scrutiny, and legal intervention.

Based in Ellensburg, Washington, the Washington Cattleman's Association has 1,500 members across the State. Their excellent leadership in Olympia and Washington D.C. has helped advance important legislation and cut red tape for ranchers in our State. Despite challenges facing ranchers and cattleman in the State, the Washington Cattleman's Association has been instrumental in establishing water, grazing, and local conservation efforts that has helped build our robust cattle industry here in Washington.

Their exceptional work has helped so many ranchers, and on their 100th anniversary, I thank them for all they do for the State of Washington.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to congratulate Dr. Steven Ashby on his retirement as Director of the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in Richland, Washington.

Since 2015, Dr. Ashby's leadership at PNNL has driven scientific excellence and innovation, advancing the lab as a world leader in science, national security, and energy research and development.

Dr. Ashby believes our biggest challenges cannot be solved alone, and his tenure reflected that belief. Having spent over a decade working to expand the lab's reach with new partnerships and opportunities, he transformed PNNL from a research lab to a world-class institution held in the highest regards throughout the scientific community.

I also commemorate Dr. Ashby for his work on modernizing PNNL and equipping the lab for the future. Under his leadership, the campus became a hub for new and emerging technologies, including the Energy Sciences Center and the Grid Storage Launchpad, that will contribute to research and innovation for decades to come.

Mr. Speaker, I thank Dr. Ashby for his willingness to work with myself and members of the Washington Congressional Delegation. We built a strong relationship over the years and worked diligently to ensure PNNL had the resources needed to not only be successful but excel in their mission.

I wish Dr. Ashby the very best in his retirement and thank him for his years of service.

Mr. Speaker, due to a previously scheduled medical procedure, I was unable to vote on Roll Call Nos. 265 and 266. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 265 and YEA on Roll Call No. 266.

Mr. Speaker, due to a previously scheduled medical procedure, I was unable to vote today. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call No. 263 and YEA on Roll Call No. 264.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today for two reasons: to honor the crew members who served aboard the USS Triton (SSRN-586) submarine, and to commend the Port of Benton for commissioning a new commemorative wall honoring the Triton and her crew.

Commissioned in 1959, the USS Triton holds a special place in the history of the U.S. Navy. Powered by two nuclear reactors, the Triton was the first submarine to complete a submerged circumnavigation of the globe.

During the Cold War, the Triton was a vital part of the Navy's defense strategy as a leader in peace and security around the world. The members who served aboard her were at the forefront of this mission, often enduring long months of isolation and unpredictable conditions aboard the vessel. But their shared dedication and expertise led them to achieve one of the most groundbreaking missions in naval history.

The USS Triton Submarine Memorial Park was formally dedicated in Richland, Washington, on November 10, 2011, to commemorate the submarine and her crew. Central Washington is proud to be home to this piece of our Nation's history, and I thank the Port of Benton for honoring the crew members and preserving their legacy.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman from Washington (Ms. Schrier) for yielding. I thank all my friends and colleagues here in the Chamber of the House today.

Mr. Speaker, as we all just heard, tragedy and sorrow fell on Wenatchee, Washington, this week with the loss of three beautiful young girls: Evelyn, Paityn, and Olivia Decker.

I can't believe that many of us here can truly understand the pain that comes to loved ones living through something like this. I thank my colleagues because we are here to send our most sincere condolences to their family; to the community; and to the people of Wenatchee, Washington, as they all mourn this tremendous loss.

Today, we join the outpouring of support. It is truly amazing what is happening and what we are seeing back

home, as community members pay their respects to these three young ladies.

We support law enforcement who have committed to employing any resource necessary to bring those responsible to justice for this tragedy.

Mr. Speaker, due to unanticipated personal reasons, I missed an important vote on H.R. 2240 and H.R. 2255. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 130, and YEA on Roll Call No. 131.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today, along with my colleagues from Washington state, Representatives Suzan DelBene, Rick Larsen, Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, Michael Baumgartner, Emily Randall, Pramila Jayapal, Kim Schrier, Adam Smith, and Marilyn Strickland, to recognize and commend the distinguished tenure of Dr. Kirk Schulz as President of Washington State University (WSU). Since 2016, President Schulz has guided WSU through a period of immense growth, advancing research, student success, and statewide partnerships. As he prepares for retirement, we honor his leadership and dedication to higher education in Washington State.

Under President Schulz's tenure, WSU has strengthened its reputation as a world-class research institution, addressing critical challenges in agriculture, medicine, and clean energy. His efforts have ensured that students across our state have access to high-quality education, and his work with Washington's congressional delegation has helped secure funding for key university initiatives.

Each of Washington's ten congressional districts has benefited from President Schulz's leadership, reinforcing WSU's role as an institution that serves all Washingtonians. I would like to highlight a few key impacts across the state.

1st District: WSU has built strong partnerships with the region's tech industry, working with companies in King and Snohomish counties to prepare students for careers in artificial intelligence, software development, and semiconductor manufacturing. These efforts ensure Washington remains at the forefront of technological advancement.

2nd District: WSU's agricultural extension programs in Northwest Washington have played a vital role in supporting farmers and sustaining fisheries in the region. WSU's Everett campus provides entrepreneurs critical business management skills and trains engineers for the world-class aerospace and high-tech industries in Northwest Washington.

3rd District: WSU Vancouver has expanded opportunities in STEM education, creating new pathways for students to enter high-demand fields like engineering and healthcare. By connecting with local industries and healthcare providers, WSU is strengthening Southwest Washington's workforce and economic outlook.

4th District: Home to some of the Nation's premier vineyards, Central Washington has benefited from WSU's viticulture and enology programs. Through cutting-edge research and collaboration with winemakers, WSU has

helped the region maintain its reputation as a world-class wine producer.

5th District: WSU's Pullman campus is a cornerstone of agricultural research, and the completion of the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) building has only strengthened that legacy. The facility provides farmers and food producers with critical innovations in crop science and food security, supporting one of Washington's most essential industries.

6th District: WSU researchers have been at the forefront of sustainable forestry and climate resilience efforts. Their work supports the health of Washington's forests, which are vital for the economy, outdoor recreation, and the environment, ensuring these natural resources are protected for future generations.

7th District: WSU's collaborations with Seattle-area institutions have led to major advancements in medical research, including breakthroughs in cancer treatment and biomedical engineering. These efforts not only push the boundaries of science but also create opportunities for students to engage in life-changing research.

8th District: With a focus on clean energy, WSU has led the way in developing innovative hydroelectric, wind, and solar power solutions. These advancements have benefited communities across the Cascades, helping Washington transition to a more sustainable energy future.

9th District: The Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine has provided new opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds to enter the medical profession. By expanding access to healthcare education, WSU is addressing physician shortages and improving healthcare access across Washington.

10th District: Military families near Joint Base Lewis-McChord have benefited from WSU's extension programs, which provide educational support and workforce development opportunities. These initiatives ensure that service members and their families have access to the resources they need to succeed.

Mr. Speaker, as President Schulz concludes his tenure, we recognize his transformative impact on Washington State University and our communities. His leadership has strengthened WSU's role as a center of innovation, education, and economic opportunity.

I thank President Schulz for his years of service, and I look forward to seeing how WSU continues to grow and thrive in the years to come.

Mr. Speaker, I was unable to vote on roll call no. 84 and no. 85 due to unavoidable circumstances. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 84 and YEA on Roll Call No. 85.

personal explanation

Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that when the House adjourns today, it adjourn to meet at 9 a.m. tomorrow.

Mr. Speaker, I move that the House do now adjourn.

The motion was agreed to; accordingly (at 5 o'clock and 58 minutes p.m.), pursuant to House Resolution 191, the House adjourned until tomorrow, Thursday, March 6, 2025, at 9 a.m., as a further mark of respect to the memory of the late Honorable Sylvester Turner.

Madam Speaker, pursuant to clause 2(a)(1) of rule IX, I rise to give notice of my intention to raise a question of the privileges of the House.

The form of the resolution is as follows:

Resolution Censuring Representative Al Green of Texas.

Whereas, on March 4, 2025, during the joint session of Congress convened pursuant to House Concurrent Resolution 11, the President of the United States, speaking at the invitation of the House and Senate, had his remarks interrupted by the Representative from Texas, Mr. Green;

Whereas, the conduct of the Representative from Texas disrupted the proceedings of the joint address and was a breach of proper conduct; and

Whereas, after numerous disruptions, the Representative from Texas had to be removed from the Chamber by the Sergeant at Arms:

Now, therefore, be it resolved that Representative Al Green be censured; Representative Al Green forthwith present himself in the well of the House of Representatives for the pronouncement of censure; and Representative Al Green be censured with the public reading of this resolution by the Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to a question of the privileges of the House and offer the resolution that was previously noticed.

Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today for a very serious issue that I think troubles and disturbs every Member of the House of Representatives on both sides of the aisle.

Mr. Speaker, decorum, order, and respect are the foundations for the way that we conduct business in this Chamber, in this institution.

Respect for the institution is paramount. Respect for each other and respect for the responsibility that each one of us has been given and has been tasked with and who has the responsibility to the American people are the building blocks and the most important facets of our system that truly separate us, the United States of America, from the rest of the world.

During the President's address just last night to a joint session of Congress, Mr. Speaker, those principles were violated. The gentleman from Texas (Mr. Green) performed one of most shameful acts that I have ever seen on this floor.

As an advocate for bipartisan problem-solving and for working across the aisle as hard as possible to come up with solutions for the people whom I represent and for the people whom every single one of us represents, I was deeply disappointed to see the behavior that we all saw and that the world saw unfold in this Chamber.

I thank my Republican colleagues and certainly House leadership, particularly Mr. Crane and Mr. Nehls, for helping elevate the Conference's concern on this very, very important matter.

Mr. Speaker, we must maintain a standard in the House of Representatives, and any Member's refusal to adhere to the Speaker's direction to cease such behavior, regardless of their political party and regardless of who is at the lectern giving a speech, has to and must continue to be reprimanded. We cannot afford to let it go by.

Mr. Speaker, we can do better. Mr. Speaker, we must do better for ourselves, for the institution, and for the people who sent us here. Checking our emotion, checking our energy, and checking our rhetoric and prioritizing decency between each other sends the message not only to our colleagues but to the rest of the country and the rest of the world that we are working for the people and not against each other.

With those brief comments, Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I would just like to say that I respect Mr. McGovern's opinion and his viewpoints. They may conflict with mine on many occasions, but he has the absolute right to express them on this floor, and we need to continue that tradition. However, this is not about the President. This is not about President Trump.

This is about how we, as Members of the House of Representatives, conduct ourselves while we are doing business on the House floor. This is about how we treat each other. It is about how we treat each other, whether with respect or not. It is so important, especially when the eyes of the world are focused right here in this very room.

In my short time in Congress, which is just about a decade now, I have never ever seen a Member of the House, by the direction of the Speaker, escorted from the premises by the Sergeant at Arms. That is a first.

Maybe, Mr. Speaker, you know of the last time it happened. It has been a long time.

I am very disappointed and ashamed of the fact, and this is not personal to Mr. Green, who is a very amiable fellow, but we must, as Members of this institution, leave our rhetoric, calm our energy, and make sure our emotions do not take over and conduct ourselves in a way that all of us, not just here in this room but across the country, can be proud of because we truly are on display to the rest of the world.

Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from California (Mr. LaMalfa).

Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Washington (Mr. Baumgartner).

Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from California (Mr. McClintock).

Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.

Mr. Speaker, this is very interesting to listen to the arguments coming from the other side of the aisle about what we are doing here tonight.

In talking about free speech, it seemed to me that the gentleman from Texas was doing all he could to prohibit or get in the way of the President of the United States exercising his free speech and his address to the joint session.

This is not about policy. This is not about whether Republicans are better than Democrats or vice versa. This is about how we conduct ourselves on the House floor. This is about how we treat each other. This is a reflection on every single one of us in this Chamber. As my colleague from the State of Washington said, it is not just us this affects. This affects the kids of our country, as well, who are learning, one way or the other, from our examples.

You can go on and on about how much you disagree and detest some of the policies and positions of the President of the United States. Be my guest, but that is not what is being argued tonight. That is not the issue that we are taking a stand on today. This is how we, as a body, should conduct ourselves in these hallowed Halls, this Chamber, that not very many people ever get to set foot into.

This is something we should hold to a higher standard. We have to or else what are we? Are we just a debate club that yells at each other, or do we stand for something? Do we truly see ourselves as Representatives of the people of the United States?

Something has to change. It truly does. A line has to be drawn. Not all of us on either side of the aisle are perfect examples of what we could or should be, but certainly, as I mentioned before, in my career here, I have never ever seen a Member of Congress escorted from the floor of the House by the Sergeant At Arms. It has never happened in my career, and I don't want to see it happen again.

Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.

I appreciate the comments of Mr. Doggett and do consider him a friend as well, but let me just tell you that we are talking apples to oranges when we are speaking about something that happened under President Obama's speech on the Republican side.

Last night, Mr. Green was reprimanded at least three times by the Speaker to stop and desist what he was doing, shaking his cane at the President at the rostrum in a threatening manner, underscoring--what I saw was emotion, energy and emotion; and intentionality, absolutely, intending to disrupt the speech by the President of the United States.

I think we are talking about two different things here. The incident during the Obama administration was over in just a few seconds. This went on and on and on. Certainly, debating the issue is one thing in different circumstances. This was not an open debate. Mr. Green was trying to make it one.

This was a message from the President, so the actions that we are proposing to take here are absolutely justified. The President was here under invitation by the House of Representatives for a report to Congress. It was not an open debate. It was a message being received by the joint session, and that is the way it should be treated.

Respect should be given to the Presidency whether or not they are your guy or your gal. It is the Office of the President that needs the respect because it reflects on all of us as Members of the House of Representatives.

Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

I am prepared to close, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time.

One of the things when I was a freshman in Congress that just shocked me, amazed me, is how easily events on the floor would devolve into what I would describe as something akin to a high school pep rally, and that pains me to say that.

We are all adults here, discussing some of the most important issues facing the American public, I would daresay the entire world, right here in this Chamber. The things that happen in this Chamber that reflect poorly on us reflect poorly on every single one of us.

I would say to you, Mr. Speaker, that this is truly a wake-up call for this Chamber. The lack of decorum has reached a new high when the President of the United States cannot even come into our Chamber, invited, and complete his speech without the interaction that we saw last night.

We have to take this action of censure. Let me tell you, there are many people on my side of the aisle that would like to take this even further. The notion of intentionality versus emotion does not justify the actions that we witnessed last night, the disrespect of the institution.

Using the argument that, well, our side did it so we can do it, too, well, that doesn't work. That does not hold water.

Mr. Speaker, we can do better. Mr. Speaker, we must do better. We cannot ignore the willful disruption intended to stop a proceeding.

Let me use another word that is also difficult to say. It was shameful.

Without decorum, without respect, what have we got? What do we have? Truly.

You have all seen the newsreels of other countries that chambers similar to ours evolve into fistfights on the floor.

Is that where we are headed next? Is that what we want to have happen so that these fine people that work their tails off every day can be part of that and be the referees in a situation that is out of control?

Like I said, this shameful action reflects on every single one of us. You are right. I will concede that all of us need a reminder that we all need to raise our level of accountability due to the actions that we take.

Mr. Speaker, I think this is a necessary but difficult step. This resolution is offered in all seriousness. It is something that I believe that we must do in order to get us to the next level of conduct in this hallowed Chamber.

Mr. Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues, Republicans and Democrats, to join with me to attain that better level of conduct. We owe it to our constituents for sure. We owe it to our future constituents in this country. We owe it to our country.

Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor a fallen hero in central Washington. Zuza served the Yakima County Sheriff's Department at the hand of Deputy Nick Ward.

In her 7-year career with the sheriff's department, Zuza had an incredible record of 138 captures, including dangerous criminals and murder suspects. Tales of her heroism and ferocity spread quickly throughout Yakima County, with many stories of her taking down criminals at record speeds and even more stories of suspects only hearing her bark before giving themselves up to authorities.

Outside of her bark and her bite, she was a comforting presence for officers in tense situations and offered a sense of security when things got difficult. Yakima County is safer because of Zuza, and I thank Deputy Ward for his commitment to her handling and to the safety of our communities.

Mr. Speaker, I move that the House do now adjourn.

The motion was agreed to; accordingly (at 2 o'clock and 56 minutes p.m.), under its previous order, the House adjourned until Monday, January 20, 2025, at 10 a.m.