Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, as we close on the 112th Congress, I wish to express my gratitude to the residents of Florida's 25th Congressional District for having given me the honor and the privilege to serve them as their elected Representative in the United States Congress.

When my constituents first elected me to come to Congress, they did so with what I thought was a very clear mandate as to what the focus of the 112th Congress should be, and that is to restore fiscal responsibility to the Federal Government and begin moving our economy forward to create jobs. Here in the U.S. House of Representatives, I believe we have strived to meet the challenges that out-of-control spending have created in the form of yearly deficits and long-term debt accumulation. The 112th Congress' passage of the free trade agreements with Colombia and Panama and South Korea demonstrates what type of pro- economic growth and job-creation policies can be achieved when we place the Nation's long-term economic interests before parochial or short- term considerations.

Unfortunately, too often in the 112th Congress, our efforts here in the U.S. House of Representatives to restore fiscal responsibility to the Federal Government have not been met with the same sense of urgency by our governing partners in the United States Senate or the White House. Last evening's vote regarding a so-called fiscal cliff is yet another example of Washington's willingness to forego making difficult, long-term decisions regarding spending in deference to short-term fixes that do not solve our looming debt crisis. That same debt crisis, that is the real fiscal cliff that our Nation faces; because whether we realize it or not, the more our Nation climbs this mountain of debt--a mountain we ourselves are creating--the higher the cliffs will be.

I urge future Congresses to meet this challenge, take up the challenge in restoring fiscal responsibility with a renewed sense of vigor and urgency.

I also want to encourage my colleagues in the 113th Congress to apply that same sense of urgency to another

issue of great national importance: immigration reform. I clearly recognize what a contentious issue this is, pitting two fundamental American values--rule of law and compassion--against each other, but I would suggest that making this effort is crucial to America's future.

We need a sustained commitment to afford opportunity for all Americans, at least for young people, young people who, through no fault of their own, are now in limbo due to their undocumented status; young people who have been educated in our school systems; young people who are willing to achieve further academic excellence, who are willing to serve in our military and risk their lives. Can we not at least say that, if somebody is willing to die for America, the least we can do is give them a chance at life in America? I hope in the 113th Congress the answer to that question will be ``yes.''

So, Mr. Speaker, I end my remarks where I began, expressing my deep sense of gratitude for the honor and privilege granted me to serve in the 112th Congress. I have been blessed with a superb staff of dedicated professionals: my previous chief of staff, Steve Vermillion, may he rest in peace; my current Chief of Staff, Javi Correoso; and my entire D.C. office staff. My district director, Alina Garcia, and my entire district office staff have all served this Congress, the people of Florida's 25th Congressional District, and our Nation with honor and distinction. My friends, supporters, and constituents have blessed me with their confidence.

And finally, my gratitude to my family, and particularly my mom, Daisy, who is a saint, whom I love dearly, and who has sacrificed everything so that I have the opportunity to serve and achieve the American Dream. Only in America can a child of a political refugee, a kid born on the wrong side of the tracks, grow up and be elected to serve in the United States House of Representatives. America is indeed the greatest country mankind has ever known.

May God bless you, Speaker, and my colleagues. May God bless the United States House of Representatives. May God bless the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, like so many others, I ran for Congress because I believe in the greatness of the American people, the nobility of our national ideals, and the eminence of our principles and rights that have made America that shining city upon a hill.

But there are still many peoples who yearn for freedom and basic human liberties. The Sahrawi people of Western Sahara have been trapped in dreadful and oppressive conditions for over thirty years with the support and enabling of a compromised and corrupt Algerian government and its puppet regime, the Polisario Front.

The Polisario instituted mass kidnappings of Sahrawis from their homes into the Tindouf region in Western Algeria. The majority of these refugees have remained warehoused and imprisoned in Tindouf's sprawling camps for 35 years.

The Polisario partners and collaborates with the likes of Cuba, whose military distributes food in the camps on a quid pro quo basis and ``educates'' children who have been reportedly stolen from their parents, and Al-Qaeda in the Maghreb.

The Government of Morocco has advanced an Autonomy Plan that does address these issues and provides a clear, simple, transparent and democratic solution to the long drawn out Sahara crisis. This is where America's support should lie.

Mr. Speaker, the United States can and must continue to advance fundamental human rights, freedom and democracy as we, in this chamber, continue to work together for peace, justice, and human dignity in the Western Sahara.

The Moroccan Initiative in the Western Sahara

The Moroccan initiative comes in response to repeated

requests of the United Nations Security Council and several

of its key members, including the United States, that Morocco

propose a solution to this longstanding problem that could

facilitate the opening of negotiations for a ``just, durable

and peaceful'' political solution.

After nearly a decade of trying to bring the Polisario and

Morocco to agreement to conduct a referendum to determine the

territories future, Kofi Annan, then Secretary

General, and James Baker, then Personal Envoy for the Western

Sahara, reported to the Security Council that it was not

possible to achieve agreement between the Polisario and

Morocco on the central issue of who should be permitted to

vote in a referendum. Consequently, Annan and Baker

recommended that the Security Council encourage Morocco and

the Polisario to enter into direct negotiations to find a

compromise political solution. The Security Council accepted

the assessment of Annan and Baker that a referendum would not

be possible, and began a process carried through several

years of UNSC resolutions calling for direct negotiations.

James Baker proposed two such compromise political

solutions based on the underlying assumption that the

proposals would allow Morocco to remain sovereign in the

Western Sahara, but that the territory would benefit from a

substantial autonomy that would allow it to become self-

governing. Morocco accepted the first Baker proposal as the

basis for direct negotiations, but the Polisario refused. The

Polisario accepted the second Baker proposal, but Morocco

refused since it did not allow for direct negotiations

between the parties on the terms of the arrangement. The

Moroccan proposal is the first and only proposal to come from

one of the Parties to the conflict in response to the

Security Council encouragements. In various forms, the

Polisario has continued to insist that the referendum be

held, and threatens a renewal of hostilities and the eviction

of the United Nations peacekeeping force from the territory

under its control, despite the fact that the Security Council

repeatedly has made clear that this solution is no longer

viable.

Summary of the Moroccan Initiative:

The initiative is the product of a year long internal and

foreign Moroccan consultation process. All sectors of the

Sahrawi population were included in the consultations and the

views of foreign governments and expert international

authorities were sought before the plan was finalized for

presentation to the United Nations.

The plan itself represents an outline for a political

solution that traces what Morocco considers to be the broad

scope of an autonomy arrangement for the Western Sahara. It

does not go into extensive detail on its various aspects on

the assumption that such specific arrangements should be the

result of direct negotiations rather than the imposition of

only one of the parties to the dispute.

The plan provides for a local elected legislature that

would subsequently elect an executive authority. It also

would establish a separate judiciary for the autonomous

region with competence to render justice on matters specific

to the autonomous status of the region. The legislature would

elect a chief executive.

The formula proposed by Morocco would ensure majority

representation in the legislature for Sahrawi inhabitants of

the autonomous region, while also ensuring credible

legislative representation for non-Sahrawis who have been

long-time residents in the territory. Residents of the

autonomous region would also continue to elect

representatives to the national legislature.

The government of the autonomous region would have

exclusive authorities on some issues, shared authority with

the central government of Morocco on others and consultative

rights on authorities that remain reserved to the central

government and that effect the region.

The autonomous government would control local

administration, local police, education, cultural

development, economic development, regional planning,

tourism, investment, trade, public works and transportation,

housing, health, sports and social welfare. It would have

taxing authorities to support these functions and would

continue to receive funding from the central budget as well.

It would be able to establish foreign regional trade

relations offices and would have consultative rights on other

sovereign foreign agreements affecting the region.

The central government would retain exclusive jurisdiction

over the normal elements of sovereign authority: national

defense, currency, postal, and foreign affairs and religion,

over which the Monarchy has a special status in Morocco.

The chief executive of the autonomous region would be

elected by the legislature, but would be invested by and

serve in the name of the Monarchy.

The initiative also envisages transitional bodies to guide

the central government and the autonomous authority through

the initial stages of implementation of the plan.

All individual rights guaranteed under the Moroccan

Constitution would continue to apply to all residents of the

autonomous region.

Moroccan Initiative for Negotiating an Autonomy Statute for the Sahara

Region

I. Morocco's commitment to a final political solution

1. Since 2004, the Security Council has been regularly

calling upon ``the parties and States of the region to

continue to cooperate fully with the United Nations to end

the current impasse and to achieve progress towards a

political solution.''

2. Responding to this call by the international community,

the Kingdom of Morocco set a positive, constructive and

dynamic process in motion, and pledged to submit an autonomy

proposal for the Sahara, within the framework of the

Kingdom's sovereignty and national unity.

3. This initiative is part of the endeavors made to build a

modern, democratic society, based on the rule of law,

collective and individual freedoms, and economic and social

development As such, it brings hope for a better future for

the region's populations, puts an end to separation and

exile, and promotes reconciliation.

4. Through this initiative, the Kingdom of Morocco

guarantees to all Sahrawis, inside as well as outside the

territory, that they will hold a privileged position and play

a leading role in the bodies and institutions of the region,

without discrimination or exclusion.

5. Thus, the Sahara populations will themselves run their

affairs democratically, through legislative, executive and

judicial bodies enjoying exclusive powers. They will have the

financial resources needed for the region's development in

all fields, and will take an active part in the nation's

economic, social and cultural life.

6. The State will keep its powers in the royal domains,

especially with respect to defense, external relations and

the constitutional and religious prerogatives of His Majesty

the King.

7. The Moroccan initiative, which is made in an open

spirit, aims to set the stage for dialogue and a negotiation

process that would lead to a mutually acceptable political

solution.

8. As the outcome of negotiations, the autonomy statute

shall be submitted to the populations concerned for a

referendum, in keeping with the principle of self-

determination and with the provisions of the UN Charter.

9. To this end, Morocco calls on the other parties to avail

the opportunity to write a new chapter in the region's

history. Morocco is ready to take part in serious,

constructive negotiations in the spirit of this initiative,

and to contribute to promoting a climate of trust.

10. To achieve this objective, the Kingdom of Morocco

remains willing to cooperate fully with the UN Secretary-

General and his Personal Envoy.

II. Basic elements of the Moroccan proposal

11. The Moroccan autonomy project draws inspiration from

the relevant proposals of the United Nations Organization,

and from the constitutional provisions in force in countries

that are geographically and culturally close to Morocco. It

is based on internationally recognized norms and standards.

A. PowersoftheSaharaautonomousRegion

12. In keeping with democratic principles and procedures,

and acting through legislative, executive and judicial

bodies, the populations of the Sahara autonomous Region shall

exercise powers, within the Region's territorial boundaries,

mainly over the following:

Region's local administration, local police force and

jurisdictions;

In the economic sector: economic development, regional

planning, promotion of investment, trade, industry, tourism

and agriculture;

Region's budget and taxation;

Infrastructure: water, hydraulic facilities, electricity,

public works and transportation;

In the social sector: housing, education, health,

employment, sports, social welfare and social security;

Cultural affairs, including promotion of the Saharan

Hassani cultural heritage;

Environment.

13. The Sahara autonomous Region will have the financial

resources required for its development in all areas.

Resources will come, in particular, from:

Taxes, duties and regional levies enacted by the Region's

competent authorities;

Proceeds from the development of natural resources

allocated to the Region;

The share of proceeds collected by the State from the

development of natural resources located in the Region;

The necessary funds allocated in keeping with the principle

of national solidarity;

Proceeds from the Region's assets.

14. The State shall keep exclusive jurisdiction over the

following in particular:

The attributes of sovereignty, especially the flag, the

national anthem and the currency;

The attributes stemming from the constitutional and

religious prerogatives of the King, as Commander of the

Faithful and Guarantor of freedom of worship and of

individual and collective freedoms;

National security, external defense and defense of

territorial integrity;

External relations;

The Kingdom's juridical order.

III. Approval and implementation procedure for the autonomy statute

27. The Region's autonomy statute shall be the subject of

negotiations and shall be submitted to the populations

concerned in a free referendum. This referendum will

constitute a free exercise, by these populations, of their

right to self-determination, as per the provisions of

international legality, the Charter of the United Nations and

the resolutions of the General Assembly and the Security

Council.

28. To this end, the parties pledge to work jointly and in

good faith to foster this political solution and secure its

approval by the Sahara populations.

29. Moreover, the Moroccan Constitution shall be amended

and the autonomy Statute incorporated into it, in order to

guarantee

its sustainability and reflect its special place in the

country's national juridical architecture.

30. The Kingdom of Morocco shall take all the necessary

steps to ensure full integration, into the nation's fabric,

of persons to be repatriated. This will be done in a manner

which preserves their dignity and guarantees their security

and the protection of their property.

31. To this end, the Kingdom of Morocco shall, in

particular, declare a blanket amnesty, precluding any legal

proceedings, arrest, detention, imprisonment or intimidation

of any kind, based on facts covered by this amnesty.

32. Once the parties have agreed on the proposed autonomy,

a Transitional Council composed of their representatives

shall assist with repatriation, disarmament, demobilization

and reintegration of armed elements who are outside the

territory, as well as with any other action aimed at securing

the approval and implementation of the present Statute,

including elections.

33. Just like the international community, the Kingdom of

Morocco firmly believes today that the solution to the Sahara

dispute can only come from negotiations. Accordingly, the

proposal it is submitting to the United Nations constitutes a

real opportunity for initiating negotiations with a view to

reaching a final solution to this dispute, in keeping with

international legality, and on the basis of arrangements

which are consistent with the goals and principles enshrined

in the United Nations Charter.

34. In this respect, Morocco pledges to negotiate in good

faith and in a constructive, open spirit to reach a final,

mutually acceptable political solution to the dispute

plaguing the region. To this end, the Kingdom of Morocco is

prepared to make a positive contribution to creating an

environment of trust which would contribute to the successful

outcome of this initiative.

35. The Kingdom of Morocco hopes the other parties will

appreciate the significance and scope of this proposal,

realize its merit, and make a positive and constructive

contribution to it. The Kingdom of Morocco is of the view

that the momentum created by this initiative offers a

historic chance to resolve this issue once and for all.

Mr. Speaker, like all of us in Congress, I believe in the greatness of the American people and the preeminence of our principles and rights that have made America a beacon of hope and freedom, but there are still many around the world who yearn for basic human liberties.

The Sahrawi people of Western Sahara have been trapped in oppressive conditions for over 30 years, with the support of the corrupt Algerian Government and its puppet regime, the Polisario Front.

The Polisario Front has instituted mass kidnappings of Sahrawis from their homes into the Tindouf region in western Algeria. The majority of these refugees have remained warehoused and imprisoned in Tindouf's sprawling camps for 35 years.

The Polisario collaborates with the likes of Cuba, whose military rations food in the camps in exchange for loyalty to the regime and indoctrinates children who have been stolen from their parents, all while partnering with al Qaeda and the Maghreb.

The Government of Morocco has advanced an autonomy plan, which I will submit at a later time, that addresses these issues with a clear and democratic solution to the long, drawn-out Sahara crisis. This is where America's support should lie.

Mr. Speaker, the United States can and must continue to advance fundamental human rights, freedom, and democracy as we, in this Chamber, continue to work together for peace, justice, and human dignity in the Western Sahara.

Yesterday, December 10, marked the 60th anniversary of International Human Rights Day. As usual, the Castro dictatorship demonstrated its brutal nature. Cuban state police violently arrested more than 100 dissidents and put another 100 to 150 under house arrest. Among those detained were about 80 members of the Ladies in White organization, a human rights organization that peacefully seeks change in Cuba. Many of them were arrested on their way to mass to celebrate at our Lady of Charity Basilica in the eastern town of El Cobre. About 45 Ladies in White were arrested in Havana, following their traditional march outside the Santa Rita Church after Sunday mass. Thirty-four Ladies in White were detained with violence as they tried to make their way to church.

Mr. Speaker, once again, I call on President Obama, the Obama administration, and the international community to denounce and condemn the terrorist Castro dictatorship's human rights abuses and continue to push for democratic change on that imprisoned island nation.

This week marked the 3-year anniversary that a United States citizen, Alan Gross, has been held hostage in Cuba. He was arrested on December 3, 2009, for engaging in humanitarian activities to help the oppressed Cuban people.

Once again, the specter of a swap for Cuban spies being held in prison here has been raised. I would continue to encourage the administration to reject that notion, particularly when these Cuban spies are being held for participating in a murder conspiracy against other American citizens that were shot down over international water.

I would remind the administration that Cuba remains on the list of terrorist nations--nations that are specific enemies of this country and want to do harm to this country; a country that is harboring fugitives from U.S. justice, and a country where, just this week, peaceful dissidents in Cuba were attacked once again, according to reports from Cuba, by relatives of a political police captain on the island that attacked supporters of the peaceful group the Ladies in White.

Once again, I would urge, as I have done so many times, that the international community continue to denounce the atrocious human rights abuses on the island nation of Cuba.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great sadness that I take to the floor of the House of Representatives today to inform my colleagues and the entire Capitol Hill family of staff of the passing of my dear friend and chief of staff, Steve Vermillion. For nearly 25 years, I have known Steve as a friend, family man, and committed public servant. My service in Congress has been greatly enhanced by Steve's invaluable advice and knowledge regarding all aspects of the legislative process. As a 17-year veteran of Capitol Hill, Steve will be dearly missed by the Capitol family for his warmth and his sense of service to this institution and our Nation.

Steve began his service in the House of Representatives in 1986, serving as communications director for then-Congressman Bob Livingston. He subsequently served as a legislative assistant for Congressman James Sensenbrenner, as chief of staff to former Congressman Lincoln Diaz- Balart, and most recently as my chief of staff. An avid and champion rower who also received a degree from the U.S. Naval War College, Steve was recognized for his work throughout his years in Congress with such distinctions as the Congressional Staff Leadership Award from the Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute.

Steve demonstrated his commitment to service with great dignity these past two years as he simultaneously battled health problems while dutifully fulfilling his professional obligations with excellence and distinction. His family can take great pride in the manner in which Steve honored us all with his unwavering strength of character, his dedication to the work of the American people, and his civic virtue.

His wife, Jennifer; his daughter, Sarah; his son, Joe, and his entire family should know that Steve made great contributions to the United States Congress and to our Nation.

Steve was indeed a man of the House. Those who worked and served with him over the years are blessed to have had the opportunity to share in his life, a life that has left a lasting impact on so many. Today our country has indeed

lost a great American, a great patriot, a great friend, a great husband, and a great father.

So while we here in the United States Congress bid farewell to our friend and colleague, we do so always remembering the enduring spirit and sense of service that Steve imparted on every life that he touched. Steve Vermillion's life serves as an inspiration to all of us who knew and loved him. May God receive him mercifully into His glory and bless the family, the Nation, and everyone that he leaves behind.

Stevo, we'll miss you, Big Man.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Republic of China (Taiwan) for more than a century of tremendous success as we approach their National Day of Celebration, October 10, 2012. This day marks 101 years since the founding of the country, and most importantly marks more than a century of progress towards democracy, freedom, and economic success for the people of Taiwan. I would like to commend the country for its continued commitment to a brighter future, despite numerous struggles over the years. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Taiwan for its many years of friendship to the United States. It has been an ally in the region for decades, and this invaluable friendship deserves recognition.

I congratulate Ambassador Jason Yuan, Representative of Taiwan to the United States, on his new post as Secretary-General of the National Security Council of Taiwan. I cherish the friendship with Ambassador Yuan and wish the Ambassador and Madame Yuan the very best of luck in the future.

Mr. Speaker, as a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, I rise today to draw attention to the increasing conflict in the East China Sea and to reiterate the necessity to remain involved in the region given the growing security threats and challenges to U.S. interests.

In light of the latest controversies in the East China Sea and the Diaoyutai Islands, President Ma Ying-jeou of the Republic of China (Taiwan) proposed the East China Sea Peace Initiative in August 2012, which calls on the People's Republic of China, Japan, and Taiwan to resolve the Diaoyutai dispute peacefully.

With respect to the Diaoyutai issue, the government of Taiwan has consistently affirmed its position of ``safeguarding sovereignty, shelving disputes, pursuing peace and reciprocity, and promoting joint exploration and development.''

The Diaoyutai Islands are located in the East China Sea, which is an important air and sea transportation hub in the western Pacific, and therefore have clear significance for security and peace in the Asia- Pacific region.

In order to foster regional peace and stability, economic prosperity and the sustainable development of the marine environment, as well as to seek out a path to coexistence and mutual prosperity, the government of Taiwan proposes the East China Sea Peace Initiative and calls on all parties concerned to:

1. Refrain from taking any antagonistic actions;

2. Shelve controversies and not abandon dialogue;

3. Observe international law and resolve disputes through peaceful means;

4. Seek consensus on a code of conduct in the East China Sea;

5. Establish a mechanism for cooperation on exploring and developing resources in the East China Sea.

I believe we must stand with Taiwan, an ally that shares our values of freedom and democracy. I commend the peace initiative proposed by President Ma and recognize Taiwan government's efforts in promoting peace and stability in East Asia.

Mr. Speaker, I am gravely concerned about the deteriorating human rights situation, democratic shortcomings, and increased drug trafficking in Ecuador.

Corruption, inefficiency, and political influence have plagued the Ecuadorian judiciary for many years. In a referendum held in May 2011, President Rafael Correa obtained a mandate for constitutional reforms that could significantly increase government powers to constrain media and influence the appointment and dismissal of judges. President Correa continues to weaken the democratic electoral process by appointing government supporters as authorities in all branches of government.

Ecuador's Criminal Code has provisions that restrict freedom of expression and government officials use these laws against the ruling party's critics. The ``desacato'' (lack of respect) clause enables the Ecuadorian government to imprison and prosecute anyone who offends the president or a government official.

President Correa has taken action to strengthen trade relations with Iran, a U.S.- designated State Sponsor of Terrorism. Iran has reduced tariffs for seven Ecuadorian products as well as signed an agreement to supply oil products during 2012 and 2013 to Ecuador. President Correa has expressed his desire to continue trading with Iran and bilateral visits between Correa and Iranian dictator Mahmoud Ahmadinejad occur frequently.

With its location between the two largest cocaine producing countries in the world, Peru and Colombia, Ecuador is a major transit country for narcotics. Ecuador's porous borders and increased participation in the drug trade makes the country very vulnerable to organized crime. Counternarcotics cooperation with the United States is and should remain a major focus of U.S. assistance to Ecuador.

Recently I met with Sociedad Ecuatoriana del Exterior (SEDE), an organization dedicated to fostering freedom and democracy in Ecuador and promoting the wellbeing of Ecuadorian-American citizens. I am asking for

unanimous consent to submit for the Record the attached letter. This letter provides a detailed outline of the Ecuadorian government's failure to protect the fundamental human rights of its people.

It is critical that we pay close attention to the actions of the Ecuadorian government as they silence political opposition, rig elections, and strengthen ties with Iran.

Sociedad Ecuatoriana Del Exterior,

Doral, FL, August 13, 2012.

Hon. David Rivera,

U.S. Conqressman.

Dear Mr. Rivera: Sociedad Ecuatoriarva del Exterior (SEDE),

in an effort to be faithful to our freedom and democracy

principles, considered a must to let you know that there have

been very serious fundamental human rights violations in

Ecuador, which are listed right below.

1. Freedom of expression have been severely limited

promoting absurd and unsubstantiated judgments against

prestigious national newspapers such as--``El Universol''

magazines private property confiscations, such as

``Vanguard'' Magazine, and the closure of radio and

television stations opposed to the Ecuadorian Government,

such as the closing of Radio Morena, a community managed.

government opposed radio station.

The electoral process to choose, not only a new president

but also Assembly Members, and new Ecuadorian authorities has

been null and void from its very beginning when the

government simulating knowledge contests, just to end up

appointing government supporter as authorities in all

branches of government That, in addition to disqualifying the

legally registered political parties due to mistakes made by

the National Electoral Council in a clear attempt to have no

political opponents in the coming presidential election.

3. The Ecuadorian government has declared Delaware, Nevada,

Wyoming and Florida, as ``tax havens'', therefore seeking to

be able force Ecuadorian-Americans in the U.S. to pay taxes

in Ecuador for corporations registered in these states and in

Ecuador

4. As Ecuadorian-Americans committed to freedom and

democracy, we are very concerned about the Ecuadorian

government's announcement on `strengthening'' of trade

relations with Iran, including the willingness to open a

trade office in that country and start ``commercial

missions'' when Iran is considered a country that promotes

terrorism and money laundering.

5. All money remittances from Ecuadorians living abroad,

sent to Ecuador will be channeled through the Central Bank of

Ecuador and then ``after making a few bucks'' to the final

destination, thus, restricting the speed of the process in

order, or so they say, to record them and tax these

transactions.

All points outlined above, highly affect the already low

life quality and business of Ecuadorians living in Ecuador,

and also the lives of those Ecuadorian-Americans and

residents who live in this great country, who are a part of

it and who have sworn to love, respect and defend it, with

our lives if it is necessary, as we already have done in the

past.

Now, and very respectfully, we would like to ask you to

share this document with your colleagues, and for its formal

presentation to the Congress of the United States of America.

Sincerely yours,

Carlos R. Lange,

SEDE President.

Mr. Speaker, last week I took to this floor to discuss the brave dissidents inside Cuba that went on a hunger strike to protest the jailing of one of their own. The end of that hunger strike came this week when the Castro dictatorship announced the pending release of that dissident. This was a victory for the heroes of the opposition movement inside Cuba, but there is still much to be done.

The international community must continue to denounce the human rights abuses occurring inside Cuba, the lack of civil liberties and democratic rights, and continue to support the heroic opposition struggling for a free and democratic Cuba inside the island.

Mr. Speaker, this Monday, prominent Cuban dissident Marta Beatriz Roque launched a hunger strike in order to draw attention to the unwavering attempts by the Castro dictatorship to suppress pro- democracy supporters. She has since been joined in her hunger strike by an additional 25 dissidents. Roque suffers from diabetes, and her water-only fast could easily kill her in days.

Castro's thugs have continually increased the level of repression against the opposition movement. It is intolerable that this has become the ``norm'' in Cuban society. Jailing, beating, and detaining peaceful protestors who are simply demanding their basic human rights is not the norm. It is unacceptable.

The Castro brothers will continue their violent and abusive ways and will stop at nothing to remain in power. How bad do things need to get before the international community finally recognizes the plight of the Cuban people? These brave men and women continue to risk their lives every day, and we must call attention to their struggle.

Mr. Speaker, businessman, entrepreneur, freedom fighter and long-time friend of the United States Adolfo Calero Portocarrero died in Managua, Nicaragua on June 2.

Mr. Calero was best known as an ally of the United States in our efforts to prevent the spread of communism in Central America in the 1980s. He was leader of the Nicaraguan Democratic Force, the largest group in the broad anti-Sandinista coalition.

Mr. Speaker, I personally knew Adolfo Calero and I can attest that he was a great friend of the United States. He went to high school in New Orleans, received degrees from Notre Dame and Syracuse University, managed the Coca-Cola bottling plant in Nicaragua, and occasionally lived in Miami, Florida.

Calero was a member of the Conservative Party in Nicaragua and after the communist Sandinista (FSLN) overthrow of the Somoza regime in 1979, he was jailed and later went into exile in Florida. Eventually he joined the political directorate of the Nicaraguan Democratic Force and became its president.

What is lesser know is that Calero had also been twice jailed by the Somozas in the 1970s. He was an advocate and friend of democracy and an opponent of dictatorship whether it was on the right or left.

In the 1980s, saddened and angered by Nicaragua's fall to communism and Daniel Ortega's abuse of human rights, Calero joined the United Nicaraguan Opposition (UNO) in an effort to unify the various anti- Sandinista factions. Nicaragua's ``counter-revolutionary'' fighters or Contras were largely made up of 18-22 year olds, independent rural farmers and indigenous Christian Indians from the Caribbean Coast. The Contras also filled their ranks with disenchanted Sandinistas--at one time 6 Of 14 Contra regional commanders and 13 Of 52 Contra task force commanders were Sandinista defectors who wanted true freedom. At the peak of their strength, UNO had 30,000 men in the field--more than the Sandinistas ever had in their fight against the Somoza regime.

The decade-long effort to oppose the Sandinistas received typical on- again off-again support from a fickle U.S. Congress. During that time, Soviet-Cuban support for communist governments and insurgencies in Nicaragua, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico was steadfast. Their goal was to spread communism throughout the hemisphere and up to the southern border of the United States. Central America was engaged in an epic struggle and Nicaragua was the epicenter. More than 3000 Cuban military intelligence and State security officers set up the repressive internal security apparatus in Nicaragua, advised the Sandinista armed forces, and participated in combat. The PLO sent 100 experienced combat officers, Libya and Iran shipped tons of weapons, the Cubans sent tens of thousands of AK-47s, Soviet MI-8 helicopters and SA-7 missiles.

Thousands of Contras were killed and maimed, but they held fast. The struggle culminated in a ceasefire in 1988 and democratic elections in 1990. In those elections, UNO's coalition of 14 political parties led by Violetta Chamorro scored an upset victory over the Sandinistas.

Calero's efforts ultimately led to victory and the restoration of democracy. Calero's dedication to freedom and democracy also led to the beginning of the end of Soviet-Cuban penetration of Central America.

Madam Speaker, I rise in support of the ``Repeal of Obamacare Act'' before us today. I commend our Leadership for bringing this bill to the Floor so quickly to enable us to start the important process of repealing and replacing this job-destroying healthcare law. Our vote today demonstrates once again our commitment to our constituents that we will protect them from government interference with their relationship with their doctors and fulfills our promise that we will protect all Americans from new taxes on the middle class.

I strongly support healthcare reform, for example, by offering tax credits for individuals to purchase healthcare insurance, by allowing small businesses to pool together beyond state lines, thus gaining bargaining leverage to purchase more affordable health insurance policies for their workers, and by prohibiting insurance companies from denying coverage due to pre-existing conditions.

As we begin the process of replacing Obamacare with commonsense reforms that lower healthcare costs for families and small businesses and increase access to affordable quality care, we must ensure that the replacement includes critical Medicaid funding for Puerto Rico and the other territories. The funding, originally added to Obamacare legislation because it was the sole legislative vehicle available at the time, has just begun to reverse federal policy that has treated our fellow Americans in Puerto Rico inequitably. Where previously Washington paid less than 20 percent of Puerto Rico's Medicaid costs, the federal government is now paying 35 percent of the cost of the program. This is a step in the right direction, but still far below equal treatment. By comparison, the federal government pays nearly 70 percent for the District of Columbia's program and 75 percent for Mississippi's program. How can we continue to ask the U.S. citizens of Puerto Rico to do their share in service to our country--with hundreds of thousands serving honorably in the U.S. military--when the federal government isn't doing its part to treat them fairly in federal programs like Medicaid? This isn't about a hand out, but rather a level playing field to provide a fair and just level of medical care to every American citizen.

I have voted to repeal Obamacare, and will continue to do so until we prevail, and intend to work on reform measures that include access to high quality health care at affordable costs. Ensuring the current levels of Medicaid funding for Puerto Rico and the territories must be part of that reform effort.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the outstanding accomplishments of Mr. Gus Machado, who exemplifies the virtues of hard work, dedication, and contribution to the community.

Mr. Machado was born in Cuba, and came to the United States when he was only fifteen years old where he studied at the Edwards Military Institute in North Carolina and Greenville College before working for the Caterpillar Tractor Company in Illinois.

In 1956, he moved to Miami with no more than a few thousand dollars. He used the money to get stared in the automotive business by investing in a gas station and sending used cars to Cuba until Castro established himself as the nation's dictator and targeted free enterprise. Nevertheless, Mr. Machado persevered by refocusing his business operations to the Cuban exile community in South Florida. He began concentrating on the retail aspect of car sales and utilized his keen insight to business to identify and cater to the emerging demands of the market. For example, in 1973, he began a business that exported vehicles to Puerto Rico to fulfill the high demand in the area. Soon after, the only other General Motors distributer in Puerto Rico closed down, leaving Mr. Machado as the main dealer in the market.

Throughout the following years, his business endeavors multiplied and he established himself as one of the most successful automotive dealers in the country. In 1984, he purchased a Ford dealership in Hialeah and quickly became the #1 Ford dealer in Miami-Dade County.

Today, Mr. Gus Machado is one of the most respected and successful car dealers in the country. When the recession hit, the future of the auto industry looked very grim. Like many other Americans, Mr. Machado's business faced unprecedented hardship. Nevertheless, he took a bold risk by expanding his domain and buying another Ford dealership in Kendall. Like many of his other ventures, this too proved fruitful. He continues to provide his services to the community, and has been honored with countless awards for his work, including the Ford Motor company's highest honor, the President's Award.

Furthermore, Mr. Machado has established himself as one of the most generous philanthropists in South Florida. His endeavors include the establishment of the Gus Machado Family Foundation, which provides hundreds of children with backpacks and school supplies every year, and the founding of the Gus Machado Classic Charity Golf Tournament benefiting the American Cancer Society, among many, many others.

Mr. Machado has also worked hard to promote the transition to democracy in his native Cuba, the most oppressive nation in the Western Hemisphere. His dedication to the cause of liberty and freedom is truly remarkable.

Due to his hard work, his ambition, and his generosity, Mr. Machado embodies the American Dream. He is a model citizen for aspiring businessmen and civic leaders because he reminds us of what it truly means to be an American.

However, I doubt that he could have made it this far without the support of his wonderful family and particularly his loving wife Lilliam who has organized many charitable events in our community.

On June 29th, the community will show its appreciation by dedicating ``Gus Machado Way'' in his honor. On behalf of the South Florida community, I thank Mr. Machado for everything he has done for this community, and I take great pride in being a part of this celebration.

Mr. Speaker, many young immigrants have found themselves stuck in limbo due to our failure to address immigration reform. Such is the plight of my constituent, Daniela Pelaez, who came here from Colombia with her family when she was four. They overstayed their visas, and she has now been ordered deported. Next week, Daniela, who is here with us today in the gallery, will graduate as valedictorian from North Miami High. Having maintained a 6.7 GPA, she has received a full scholarship to Dartmouth College.

In order to assist students like Daniela today, I am introducing the Studying Toward Adjusted Residency Status, or STARS, Act. The STARS Act would allow undocumented students who arrive here at a young age, graduate from high school, and are accepted into a university to apply for a 5-year conditional nonimmigrant status. During that 5-year period, they can focus on their college education and, once they graduate, have their conditional status extended and work toward achieving residency.

This legislation can make the American Dream a reality for young people like Daniela, who through no fault of their own are prevented from realizing their full potential in this land of opportunity.

I ask my colleagues to join me in supporting this legislation to help Daniela and others like her who are as American as anyone born in the United States and who simply need a chance to continue being productive Americans.