Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the life of Miss Candis King. Candis was a lifelong resident of Prince William County and the beloved daughter of my friend, Delegate Candi Mundon King, and Deputy Sheriff Joshua King.

Candis was known for her kindness and creativity and the ability to brighten every room. She left a lasting impact on her peers, teachers, and community. Tragically, Candis passed away from complications of sickle cell disease. We need to invest more in medical research, expand access to care, and raise greater national attention to this serious disease.

I extend my deepest condolences to Delegate King, Deputy Sheriff King, and their entire family. Their strength in the face of unimaginable loss is truly inspiring.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Miss Candis King who was only 15 years old when she passed. Though her time was far too short, her legacy of joy, creativity, and resilience will endure.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Sheriff Scott Foster for his 31 years of outstanding service in law enforcement and his commitment to the safety of the Fredericksburg community.

Sheriff Foster began his career in 1994, advancing from the rank of Deputy to Captain. On September 15, 2022, he was appointed Sheriff of the City of Fredericksburg by the Honorable Gordon F. Willis, Circuit Court Judge, and was sworn in shortly afterwards.

Since taking office, Sheriff Foster has worked to improve the Fredericksburg Sheriff's Office by updating operational plans, building policies and procedures, and improving training and record-keeping. Under his leadership, he also established a Career Development Program to support employee growth and recognize professional excellence within the department.

Beyond his leadership duties, Sheriff Foster has remained active in the community helping with school safety, participating in the D.A.R.E. program, and supporting mental health transports. He has also worked closely with Fredericksburg City Public Schools by attending safety board meetings and school events. I want to personally congratulate and thank Sheriff Foster for his endless dedication to ensuring our Fredericksburg communities stay safe and have access to the resources they need.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the City of Fredericksburg and its residents, I extend our deepest gratitude to Sheriff Foster for his unwavering service and dedication. His impact on our community will be felt for years to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Chief Brian Layton on his retirement from the Fredericksburg Police Department after more than three decades of dedicated service.

Over 30 years ago, Chief Layton joined the Department and has served with honor since becoming Chief in January 2020. During his tenure, he has strengthened recruitment and retention, modernized departmental operations, and set the City's Emergency 911 Center on the path to achieving national accreditation.

Under Chief Layton's leadership, the Fredericksburg Police Department experienced significant growth and success. He guided the agency through the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic; launched the Crisis Intervention Response Team (CIRT), which places law enforcement officers with mental health providers to support residents in crisis; and secured and managed more than $6 million in grant funding to enhance officer wellness, expand community programs, and strengthen training initiatives. These accomplishments capture only a portion of his distinguished record over the course of his service.

I want to personally congratulate Chief Layton on his endless dedication to ensuring our communities stay safe and have access to the resources they need.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the City of Fredericksburg and its residents, I extend our deepest gratitude to Chief Layton for his unwavering service and dedication. His impact on our community will be felt for years to come.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Chief Brian Layton on his retirement from the Fredericksburg Police Department after three decades of service.

Chief Layton has served in the department since 1994 and as chief since January 2020. He has strengthened department recruitment and retention, modernized their operations, and is expected to soon achieve national accreditation for the city's emergency 911 center.

The role that Chief Layton has played in regional public safety is invaluable. On behalf of the city of Fredericksburg and its residents, I extend our deepest gratitude to Chief Layton for his unwavering service and dedication. His impact on our community will be felt for years to come.

Mr. Speaker, I am honored to congratulate Chief Layton on this well- earned moment and recognize him as this week's constituent of the week. I wish him a restful retirement.

Mr. Speaker, given the President's disturbing and counterfactual defense of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman today, I feel compelled to speak up on behalf of Mr. Khashoggi and his family and the American people.

During my tenure on Trump's White House National Security Council staff, I reviewed many of Trump's calls with foreign leaders. Of all of the calls I reviewed, two stood out as the most problematic.

The first, we all know. It was between President Trump and President Zelenskyy, which resulted in President Trump's first impeachment. The second was between President Trump and Mohammed bin Salman.

After the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, I reviewed a call between the President and the Saudi Crown

Prince. The American people and the Khashoggi family deserve to know what was said on that call.

If history is any guide, the receipts will be shocking. I call on the President to release that transcript.

Honestly, does anyone believe that the Zelenskyy call was the only problematic conversation Donald Trump had with a foreign leader?

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate a historic moment in our community--the installment of Rev. Dr. Sandra K. James as the first woman senior pastor in the history of First Mount Zion Baptist Church (FMZBC) located in Dumfries, Virginia.

Over twenty-five years ago, Rev. Dr. James began serving at FMZBC, one of the oldest churches in Prince William County. Before her leadership at the church, Rev. Dr. James served our Nation with honor in the United States Army for more than 24 years, retiring with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

After retiring from the U.S. Army, Rev. Dr. James continued her leadership and service to others as Assistant Pastor at FMZBC, where she provided guidance in preaching, teaching, pastoral care, and ministry development.

Rev. Dr. James is also a dedicated scholar of faith. She earned a Master's Degree in Theological Studies from Virginia Union University and later went on to earn a Doctor of Ministry in Pastoral Studies and Ministry from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, which equipped her to serve others with wisdom and compassion.

In 2024, Rev. Dr. James made history when she was appointed Acting Pastor of FMZBC, leading the church with vision and grace. Today, she stands as the 11th Pastor of First Mount Zion Baptist Church, a milestone in the churches' 158-year history.

Mr. Speaker, I want to personally recognize Rev. Dr. James as she makes history as the first woman to pastor First Mount Zion Baptist Church, bringing a fresh vision to meet the challenges of today.

Founded in 1867 by formerly enslaved men and women determined to build a place of worship and community, FMZBC has stood as a symbol of faith and hope in Prince William County. I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Rev. Dr. James and the entire First Mount Zion Baptist Church family as they enter this new and inspiring chapter in their church's history.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Neabsco Baptist Church located in Woodbridge, Virginia for their extraordinary commitment to serving families in need.

During the height of pandemic, the church created the Food Giveaway Program to help members from the congregation put food on their tables. As the harmful impacts of the pandemic spread throughout the Prince William County, the church expanded its mission--opening its doors to the entire community.

As of today, volunteers come together once a week to package and distribute food boxes to families across the community. What started as a small operation has now grown into a critical lifeline for thousands. The Neabsco Baptist Church has now provided food to over 5 million families, ensuring that no one goes hungry.

I want to personally thank the Neabsco Baptist Church and all the volunteers for their unwavering commitment and generosity. Having had the opportunity to join them alongside my team to pack food boxes, I have witnessed firsthand their compassion and dedication.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the Neabsco Baptist Church for the lasting impact it has made on the lives of families throughout the Prince William County community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding accomplishment of Madison County High School in Madison, Virginia, for being selected as one of the Top 25 schools nationwide--and the only school in Virginia--in T-Mobile's Friday Night 5G Lights competition.

This remarkable achievement distinguishes Madison County High School from thousands of schools across the nation that participated in this innovative program. The Friday Night 5G Lights initiative is more than just a contest--it is a nationwide movement designed to fuel school pride, performance, and possibility. Through this multimillion-dollar program, T-Mobile supports small towns and rural communities by empowering high schools to showcase their school spirit, strengthen community engagement, and compete for a football field upgrade that enhances student and fan experiences.

Madison County High School's selection as a Top 25 finalist reflects the extraordinary dedication of its students, faculty, staff, and community. Their collective enthusiasm and spirit exemplify the pride and resilience of Madison County and the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Madison County High School for its recognition and commend the entire community for rallying behind their students. I know this community will continue to support their school as they inspire our young leaders in demonstrating that teamwork, community, and perseverance can light up even the smallest towns in the brightest ways.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Lydia Larimore, an outstanding school counselor at Neabsco Elementary School in Prince William County Public Schools, who has been named the 2025 Virginia School Counselor of the Year and selected as one of five national finalists for the 2026 American School Counselor of the Year Award.

Mrs. Larimore's recognition at both the state and national level reflects her remarkable dedication to the well-being and success of her students. Through her work, she has cultivated a school environment where every child is encouraged to grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Her leadership has strengthened the bonds between students, families, and educators, making Neabsco Elementary a model for inclusive and compassionate counseling practices.

Throughout her career, Mrs. Larimore has shown a deep belief in the potential of every student. She goes above and beyond to ensure that each young person feels seen, supported, and capable of achieving their goals. Her innovative and student-centered approach has had a lasting impact on the school community, improving not only educational outcomes but also the sense of belonging and hope among those she serves.

Mrs. Larimore's recognition by the Virginia School Counselor Association and her selection by the American School Counselor Association as a national finalist are honors that reflect not only her individual excellence but also the number of educators who devote themselves to public service.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in commending Lydia Larimore for her exceptional achievements, her compassion, and her commitment to helping young people realize their full potential. She demonstrates the highest standards upheld by Virginia educators and serves as an inspiration to all who believe in the transformative power of education.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Miss Candis King, an adored sophomore at Colgan High School in Prince William County, Virginia.

Candis, a lifelong resident of Prince William County and the cherished daughter of Virginia House Delegate Candi King and Fairfax Deputy Sheriff Joshua King, was a proud member of her school's Color Guard, a dancer, and someone who lit up every room with her kindness and creativity.

Her love for Transformers was more than just a hobby; it was a reflection of her cheerful spirit, Candis had a gift for bringing happiness to all those around her, and her presence made a lasting impact on her peers, teachers, and entire community.

Sadly, Candis passed away due to complications from sickle cell disease, a devastating and often overlooked condition that affects marginalized communities. This serves as a critical reminder of how much work still needs to be done in sickle cell research, treatment, and awareness. We need to invest more in medical research, expand access to care, and raise greater national attention to the seriousness of this disease.

I want to offer my deepest condolences to Delegate Candi King and Deputy Sheriff Joshua King. Your strength during this time of an unimaginable loss is inspiring. I hope you find comfort in knowing that Candis's light touched many lives and that her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Candis King. Though her time with us was far too short, her legacy of joy, creativity, and resilience will live on.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Mrs. Aroostine Sheston and her student, Nam Nguyen, of Brooke Point High School in Stafford County, Virginia, for their outstanding participation in the 2025 Young People's Continental Congress.

Mrs. Sheston and Mr. Nguyen were among only 56 distinguished teachers and students from across the nation who were selected to participate in this extraordinary program. In commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the First Continental Congress, the Carpenters' Company, which preserves and stewards historic Carpenters' Hall in Philadelphia, launched this initiative to engage young people and educators around our country to understand the history and meaning of our nation's founding.

In July 2025, delegates from 28 states gathered at Carpenters' Hall, just as the Founders did to deliberate, debate, and reflect on the ideals of our democracy. Over the course of six days, Mrs. Sheston and Mr. Nguyen immersed themselves in historic sites, participated in rigorous discussions, and joined their peers in drafting their own ``Declaration of Aspirations.'' This declaration, written in the spirit of the Continental Congress, speaks powerfully to the hopes and commitments of a new generation of leaders.

The Young People's Continental Congress is a National Partner Program of America250, developed in partnership with National History Day. Delegates, such as Mrs. Sheston and Mr. Nguyen, were chosen through a highly competitive process, beginning their work months in advance with virtual seminars and assignments before convening in person. Their dedication to this process reflects the vitality of civic learning and the enduring importance of the democratic experiment they studied.

I am especially proud of Mrs. Sheston and Mr. Nguyen for representing Virginia with skill, passion, and integrity. They embody the best of Brooke Point High School, the Stafford County community, and the Commonwealth. With their commitment to scholarship and civic engagement, they remind us that the legacy of 1776 continues to inspire and guide future generations.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Mrs. Aroostine Sheston and Mr. Nam Nguyen for their remarkable achievement and in celebrating the Young People's Continental Congress, which so fittingly carries forward the spirit of America's founding into our nation's 250th anniversary commemoration.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. David Cattler for his extraordinary career and over 30 years of federal service to our country. Mr. Cattler is set to retire from the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) on September 30th.

Mr. Cattler began his journey at the U.S. Naval Academy, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Political Science and then going on to earn a Master of Policy Management from Georgetown University. He is also a graduate of the National Intelligence University, the US Naval War College, and was a Senior Fellow at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's Seminar XXI: Foreign Politics, International Relations and the National Interest.

His career in public service began as a naval surface warfare officer, where he served aboard two Aegis cruisers, USS Antietam and USS Chancellorsville, and ashore as a military and civilian officer with the Office of Naval Intelligence.

Throughout the years, Mr. Cattler has held many prestigious positions. He served as the Assistant Secretary General for Intelligence and Security at NATO, where he played a key role in shaping and securing critical NATO decision-making. He also served as Deputy Assistant to the President for Regional Affairs within the National Security Council, helping to coordinate national policy. Additionally, he provided critical advising as a senior advisor to the Director of National Intelligence in various roles, including Chairman of the National Intelligence Management Council, National Intelligence Manager for the Near East, and Principal Deputy National Intelligence Officer for Military Issues.

Throughout his career he has been recognized by numerous national and international awards, including the Joint Distinguished Civilian Service Award; the Order of the Cross of Terra Mariana of Estonia (Third Class); the Officer's Cross of the Order of Merit of Poland; the Order of Prince Yaroslav the Wise of Ukraine (Fifth Degree); the Order of Merit of the Ministry of Defence of Estonia (Second Class); Medal of Noble Partner of the Ministry of Defence of Georgia; Medal of Honorary Recognition of the Ministry of Defence of Latvia; Medal of the Defense Intelligence Service of Lithuania; Medal of Partnership of the Foreign Intelligence Service of Ukraine; the DNI Distinguished Service Award; the DIA Director's Award; 2020 Distinguished Alumni Award of the Amphitheater School District (Tucson, Ariz.); Navy Commendation Medal (with one gold star); Joint Service Achievement Medal; Navy Achievement Medal (with one gold star); and the Coast Guard Achievement Medal.

I want to personally extend my deepest gratitude to Mr. Cattler for over 30 years of service to our country. His unwavering commitment to national security has shaped our entire nation.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Mr. Cattler's remarkable legacy and authentic leadership. We are grateful for his leadership, courage, and vision.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Women Inspiring Women Leaders Chapter of American Business Women's Association (ABWA), charted in Fredericksburg, Virginia, on July 31, 2021, and to celebrate American Business Women's Day.

ABWA's Women Inspiring Women Leaders Chapter held its first meeting on May 22, 2019, with a clear vision: to provide a community for businesswomen to grow through networking connections that empower, advocate and educate in a diverse atmosphere of meetings and community involvement.

Through their efforts, they have brought together businesswoman from a variety of fields, offering opportunities for personal and professional growth through mentorship and more.

I am proud to join them and their sister chapters across our country in celebrating 76 years of ABWA and its impact in Fredericksburg, Stafford, and Central Virginia.

I thank the Fredericksburg Women Inspiring Women Leaders Chapter for their dedication to uplifting others, and I'm proud to join them in celebrating their achievements and ongoing commitment to empowering women in business.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Fredericksburg Women Inspiring Women Leaders Chapter for their lasting impact on our communities and their vital contributions to our local and national economy.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Ms. Cynthia Lee for her remarkable 44 years of federal service with the Department of the Army.

Ms. Lee began her journey at Virginia State University where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. She then went on to pursue a Master of Science in Contract and Acquisition Management from the Florida Institute of Technology, laying the academic foundation for a career that would span more than 4 decades.

At the age of 18, Ms. Lee began her career as a student hire. From those early days, she demonstrated exceptional leadership, rising through the ranks to become a well-respected leader.

Over the course of her career, Ms. Lee's contributions have left a lasting impact on both her peers and the entire federal workforce in her role as Program Manager of Small Business Programs within the Department of the Army.

In recognition for her exceptional performance, Ms. Lee has received numerous awards that reflect her commitment and dedication. As Resource Management Chief, she was commended for her service as Acting Deputy Commander from May 2021 to January 2022, a role in which she displayed exceptional professionalism.

I want to personally thank Ms. Lee for her decades of service. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Ms. Lee for her 44 years of outstanding federal service. We are deeply grateful for her dedication, her leadership, and her invaluable contributions to our Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate Edie Brooks on being named Teacher of the Year by the Virginia Business Educators Association.

Edie is a business and IT career education teacher at Post Oak Middle School. She was honored for her innovative teaching strategies, unwavering commitment to student success, and active pursuit of professional growth. Through her commitment to education, Edie has left a lasting impact on both her students and colleagues.

Edie's service and devotion to Spotsylvania County Public Schools is truly deserving of this recognition. I am honored to congratulate her on this well-earned moment and recognize her as this week's Constituent of the Week.

I congratulate and thank Edie for all that she does for our young minds.