Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to share a story from Charlene, a grandmother in Michigan, who wrote me with a real, honest fear about Medicaid cuts.

Her granddaughter is just 11 years old, and she lives with type 1 diabetes.

Her life depends on insulin and a constant stream of medical supplies to keep her alive.

Her mother is a single mom and a nurse. She takes care of others for a living. Even though she has her own insurance, it doesn't come close to covering all of her daughter's needs.

That is where Medicaid comes in. She is doing everything right and this family is still holding their breath. If Medicaid disappears, Charlene's granddaughter faces the possibility of going without the medicine that keeps her alive.

Who are we as a nation? Why are we talking about this right now, and all for what? It is so that Republicans can continue massive tax cuts for billionaires and corporations. We can afford the healthcare that we need and deserve in this country if we are willing to stand up to the ultrawealthy.

I will never stop fighting for Charlene's granddaughter and every family like hers in west Michigan and across the country.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Huntington's Disease Awareness Month and to honor the courage and strength of families across the Nation who face lifelong hardships due to Huntington's disease, including one of my own constituents, Rachel Reising, and her family.

Rachel has reached out to me and asked that I join her in raising awareness for this disease. Huntington's disease is a rare genetic disorder that slowly damages the brain over time. There is currently no cure. However, there is hope, thanks to Medicaid research advancements and investments.

Rachel recently reached out to me and shared her brave story as she grieves the loss of her father, whom she tragically lost to Huntington's. She has made it her life's mission to advocate for proper care of those affected and to eventually find a cure.

In honor of Rachel's family and the tens of thousands of others who face Huntington's disease, I urge my colleagues to protect research and funding to help those living with this rare disease.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize May as Huntington's Disease Awareness Month. I want to take a moment to honor the courage and strength of families across the Nation who face lifelong hardships due to this disease--including one of my own constituents, Rachel Reising, and her family. It is so important for families like Rachel's for us to encourage dialogue and acknowledgement of Huntington's Disease so we can work to improve prevention and care of affected folks at the federal level.

Huntington's disease is a rare genetic disorder that slowly damages the brain over time. It leads to a progressive loss of control over movements, thoughts, and emotions. There is currently no cure. However, there is hope. Because of ongoing advancements in medical research and continued investments in biomedical science, we are closer than ever to the possibility of breakthrough treatments and perhaps even a cure in the decade ahead through gene therapy.

Rachel, my constituent, recently reached out to me to bravely share her story. As she grieves the loss of her father, whom she tragically lost to Huntington's, it has become her life's mission to advocate for proper care of those with Huntington's and for a cure. I am so moved by her strength and resilience.

In honor of Rachel's family and the tens of thousands of others who face Huntington's Disease, I am proud to lend my voice to this cause. May this month serve not only as a time of remembrance and education, but also a call to action. I ask my colleagues to do everything we can to help those living with rare diseases such as Huntington's Disease, and to fight for more research, better support, and even greater care.

Mr. Speaker, I was unable to vote today. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 119.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the tireless dedication of our public servants.

Michigan is seeing the real-time impact of President Trump's and Elon Musk's mass firings. I have heard and seen people's fears firsthand at my townhalls because civil servants are the quiet force behind the services that hold our communities together.

When a farmer in west Michigan loses a season's worth of crops, it is the USDA employee who helps them adjudicate a crop insurance claim, making sure they can recover and keep food on our tables.

Public servants are the problem-solvers, neighbors, and first responders in times of crisis. They protect our food supply, ensure veterans receive their benefits, and respond when disaster strikes. These are the people who have devoted their careers to making our country better.

We must continue to honor and support our public servants, not only during Public Service Recognition Week,

but every week. Let us do right by them and the American people they serve.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate my constituent, Robert Jennings, on his retirement from SpartanNash in Byron Center, Michigan. Mr. Jennings was an outstanding associate of SpartanNash, with

his retirement marking 25 years of incredible professionalism and service to his coworkers and community. His commitment to excellence in his role is to be commended, and it is my honor and privilege to recognize Mr. Jennings here today.

Through considerable effort, innovation, and persistence, Mr. Jennings has helped foster an efficient and effective warehouse environment for associates at SpartanNash. He worked with cross- functional departments to coordinate distribution center operations while supervising the daily warehouse department in shipping, selection, loading, and storage. Mr. Jennings was also crucial in assisting with the training of SpartanNash teams during changes in procedure, and worked with warehouse leads to coordinate the day-to-day scheduling of associates. Our West Michigan Community is fortunate to have lived and worked alongside Mr. Jennings, who has made outstanding contributions during his time at SpartanNash.

Mr. Speaker, I once again ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Robert Jennings on his retirement from SpartanNash. We commend him for his decades of service. I wish Mr. Jennings, a much- deserved, restful retirement surrounded by family, friends, and neighbors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of my constituent, Robert ``Bob'' Guina, who turned 100 years old on January 14th of this year. Mr. Guina has dedicated his life to our country, his family, and Michiganders.

After graduating from high school in 1943, Mr. Guina quickly joined the United States Army Air Corps and became a lieutenant pilot after 18 months of service. He briefly moved to Detroit in 1945 before returning as a pilot in the Korean War, flying in 52 missions. Mr. Guina recalls several heroic moments during his service, where he was tasked with identifying and taking out targets with his aircraft. At one point, in the dead of winter, he had completely emptied his fuel reserves during a mission. They prayed for more time as they raced back to the base and the engines failed, but the crew still managed to land safely. Now, over 70 years later, we thank him for his bravery and life-long commitment to our country.

After he was discharged from the military, Mr. Guina returned to Michigan and worked for Ford Motor Company. He has since retired and enjoys spending time with his more than 50 grandchildren and great- grandchildren.

I am proud to honor Mr. Guina and his unwavering service to our Nation and West Michigan. His life serves as a shining example of true courage, resilience, and patriotism. Once again, I ask my colleagues to join me in wishing Robert Guina a wonderful birthday as we celebrate his contributions to our Nation and his family. I wish Mr. Guina another happy, healthy, and fulfilling year ahead.

Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material in the Record.

Mr. Speaker, the United States won its independence 250 years ago in the Revolutionary War, and our journey as the United States of America began. Yet, 250 years ago, I could not be standing where I am today. Women did not have the right to vote, to hold public office, or to own property 250 years ago. Some women were property 250 years ago. Women were a footnote to the story of our country's founding 250 years ago.

Today, 250 years later, women make up 125 Members in the Congress, and the Democratic Women's Caucus is 96 strong. Women now make up more than 58 percent of college graduates, 40 percent of all businesses are women owned, and more than 52 Fortune 500 companies are led by women.

This kind of change did not happen by accident. It happened because our mothers, grandmothers, great-grandmothers, aunties, sisters, and cousins dared greatly and forged new paths for us to walk on. The freedoms and privileges we enjoy today are because of those who came before us. These are their stories.

Over the next hour, we will hear from women Members across the country who will share the stories of heroines who changed the course of history.

Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from North Carolina, Ms. Deborah Ross.

Madam Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from Minnesota (Ms. Morrison).

Mr. Speaker, clearly, history is still being made this Women's History Month as we have an unprecedented number of changemaker women from across the country who are standing up and fiercely defending their constituents. We are so grateful for their work in Congress.

Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from Maryland, Representative Sarah Elfreth.

Mr. Speaker, as the first woman in history to hold my seat in Congress, I am always thinking about the history-making women of the past, present, and future. I am honored to highlight a few stories of history-making women Michiganders now.

I am honored to highlight Michigander Harriet Quimby, the first American woman to earn a pilot's license and the first woman ever to fly solo across the English Channel. Her career in aviation was short but accomplished.

Flying from the U.S. to England, Mexico, and more, Harriet's legacy serves as a reminder that women can soar to whatever heights they set their minds to.

We are so proud to claim that Sojourner Truth made her home in Michigan for the last 27 years of her life, a fearless abolitionist and women's rights advocate who used her powerful voice to demand justice. Born into slavery, she escaped and dedicated her life to fighting for freedom and equality. Her famous ``Ain't I a Woman?'' speech challenged the exclusion of Black women from the suffrage movement, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire generations.

Anna Howard Shaw was a trailblazer in every sense of the word, becoming one of the first female ordained ministers in the United States and later a physician. She dedicated decades to the fight for women's suffrage, serving as the president of the National American Woman Suffrage Association. Her leadership and relentless advocacy helped secure the right to vote, proving that determination and conviction, as well as persistence, can change the course of history.

Clara Arthur, known as the Mother of the Playground Movement, believed in creating a better world for future generations. As president of the Michigan Equal Suffrage Association, she worked tirelessly to advocate for women's voting rights. Her activism extended beyond the ballot box. She championed education, labor reforms, and public spaces for children, ensuring that progress didn't just mean progress for some. It meant progress for all.

Lucia Voorhees Grimes was a dedicated suffragist who played a pivotal role in Michigan's fight for women's voting rights. As a leader in the Michigan Equal Suffrage Association, she traveled the State organizing campaigns, educating voters, and pushing for legislative change. Her unwavering commitment helped pave the way for Michigan women to claim their rightful place in the democratic process.

These are the stories of past historymakers who have changed the course of our Nation. The freedoms we enjoy today are because they refused to sit idly by, and now, as we see unprecedented attacks on our healthcare, on our rights, we also see everyday women, especially in places like my hometown in Grand Rapids, Michigan, who refuse to sit quiet.

I refuse to stand by while Republicans, Donald Trump, and billionaires like Elon Musk try to gut essential programs like Medicaid, a lifeline that millions of families rely on.

No parent should have to choose between their child's health and paying their bills. We are fighting to protect the care that women and families depend on because healthcare isn't a privilege for the wealthy; it is a right for everyone.

I highlight a brave mom from my district, Abby Koroma, a mother of two visually impaired daughters who depend on Medicaid. Without this critical program, Abby would be forced to make impossible decisions: whether she has enough in her bank account for treatments that could save her children's vision or putting food on the table.

No parent should have to face that choice, but Republicans in Congress right now, aided by Donald Trump and Elon Musk, are willing to rip away this essential healthcare from families like Abby's just to hand out more tax cuts to the ultrawealthy.

We won't let it happen. We are the women who are standing in the gap and standing up for these families. We will fight every day to protect Medicaid, to stand up for families who depend on it, and to make sure that no one in this country is left wondering whether they can afford the care that they need for themselves or their families.

I stand here today so that no one has to wonder who they have fighting for them. We are here, standing together and fighting for families across the country.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the women who joined me here today to stand up and highlight the powerful women of their home States and the impacts that they have had on changing the course of history.

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

Mr. Speaker, I was unable to vote on March 24, 2025. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 72, and YEA on Roll Call No. 73.

Mr. Speaker, I welcome my friends, family, and constituents back home in west Michigan to my Special Order hour honoring notable Black west Michiganders and the impact they have made on our wonderful community.

Black History Month is not just about reflecting on the past. It is also about acknowledging the incredible individuals who have shaped our communities and continue to inspire future generations.

Black history is woven into the very fabric of America, and it is our duty to honor it, not just in February but every single day of the year.

As the Representative of Michigan's Third Congressional District, I am privileged to highlight some of the remarkable Black leaders, educators, athletes, activists, and artists who have left their mark on west Michigan. Their stories are ones of perseverance, excellence, and resilience in the face of adversity. They remind us that history is not just something written in textbooks, but it is alive in the people who have worked tirelessly to break barriers and uplift their communities. I want to first tell you about Lyman Parks first.

Lyman Parks, Grand Rapids Mayor: After moving to Grand Rapids to serve as a pastor of the First Community AME Church in 1968, he was elected as the first Black commissioner in the city's history.

Lyman Parks holds a special place in our history as the first and only Black mayor of Grand Rapids. His leadership throughout the 1970s marked a turning point for the city, proving that Black leaders could and should have a seat at the table in shaping the future of our communities.

In 2003, Parks was awarded the GIANT Among Giants Award, an annual award presented by the city of Grand Rapids since 1983 to recognize exceptional contributions by African Americans to the greater Grand Rapids community.

Rillastine Wilkins, City Council: At age 18 and with $3 in her pocket, Wilkins made her way to Muskegon, where she had an aunt. She became active in the civil rights movement and attended school board meetings and Muskegon Heights City Council meetings.

Rillastine Wilkins shattered glass ceilings, becoming the first female city

councilmember in 1974. Her husband, who went by the nickname Peaches, accompanied her to every single council meeting to prevent the male councilmembers from harassing or intimidating her.

In 1999, she was elected as the city's first Black female mayor. Her leadership spanned decades, influencing local government and paving the way for future Black women in politics throughout west Michigan.

Hattie Beverly, Teacher Extraordinaire: In 1899, Hattie became the first African-American woman to teach in Grand Rapids Public Schools, a feat that did not come without struggle.

Despite her remarkable academic achievements, she faced resistance from those who believed a Black woman should not teach White children. Yet, she persevered, and we are so much better because she did.

Though her teaching career was tragically cut short when she passed away at the tender age of 30, Beverly's impact resonated beyond her lifetime. Her legacy of determination and excellence paved the way for future Black educators, ensuring the doors she opened would remain open for others to walk through.

Jimmy Carter, Basketball: No, not that Jimmy Carter, but still, he looms large in west Michigan as a basketball phenom and a name truly synonymous with basketball excellence in Grand Rapids.

Jimmy Carter dedicated his life to shaping young athletes. From his high school days at South High School to coaching and mentoring multiple children and young athletes at various schools, Carter's influence in the sports world has been profound.

Carter's contributions extend far beyond the court, as well, proving that mentorship and investing in young athletes can transform lives. He was recently inducted into the Grand Rapids Sports Hall of Fame, and that solidifies his place in history.

Helen Claytor, Activist: Helen Claytor's work with the Young Women's Christian Association extends far beyond Grand Rapids. She was the first Black woman to serve as president of the national YWCA board of directors. Under her leadership, the organization embraced the fight against racism, making racial justice a core tenet of its mission.

Her work reminds us that institutions have a responsibility to be antiracist and that leadership must reflect the values of equity and justice.

Today, her legacy stands tall in Grand Rapids, both figuratively and literally, with her statue near GRCC's campus.

Dr. Patricia Pulliam, Publisher: As an educator, Dr. Pulliam worked tirelessly to uplift students in Grand Rapids, serving as an adviser, mentor, and leader in higher education.

Beyond the classroom, she became a publisher and, later, owner of The Grand Rapids Times, ensuring that the stories of Black residents were not just heard but celebrated. She also cofounded the GIANT Awards, an annual ceremony recognizing Black excellence in our community.

Her contributions continue to inspire. While the media has often ignored or misrepresented Black voices, thanks to leaders like Dr. Pulliam, those voices are amplified and preserved.

Dr. John Butler, Boxing Champion: In 1953, Dr. Butler became the first Grand Rapids boxer to win a National Golden Gloves title, an accomplishment that cemented his legacy in the sport.

Dr. Butler was not just a fighter in the ring. He was also a fighter for education and equality.

Growing up in Mississippi, he faced the harsh realities of poverty and racism. His mother, determined to give her family a better future, moved them to Grand Rapids, where Dr. Butler found his passion for boxing.

Through the mentorship of his trainer, he not only honed his athletic abilities but also understood the importance of education. That discipline led him to earn a Ph.D. from Michigan State University.

Dr. Butler dedicated his career to the Grand Rapids school system, serving as a teacher and assistant principal and eventually training city employees in public service. He provided guidance to young Black students who faced adversity, making an impact far beyond the classroom.

Today, his legacy is forever etched in the Grand Rapids Sports Hall of Fame, a testament to his dedication to both sports and education.

Paul Collins, Artist: Paul Collins has spent his life using his artistic talents to tell the stories of those often overlooked.

Born in Muskegon and raised in Grand Rapids, Collins was drawn to art from a young age. Despite initial discouragement, he pursued his passion, eventually traveling to West Africa to immerse himself in his cultural roots.

Collins' work has been displayed worldwide, from exhibitions in Africa to murals honoring historical figures in the United States.

He was the first Black artist to paint a sitting President when he painted President Gerald R. Ford.

His contributions to the art world also include designing the Martin Luther King Jr. Nonviolent Peace Prize Medal and the Challenger 7 space shuttle logo.

As we celebrate Black History Month, let us remember that these stories are not just relics of the past, but they are living legacies that continue to shape our community.

It is our duty to ensure that these trailblazers live on, that we continue the fight for equality, and that we uplift and support Black voices in our community.

It is our duty to ensure that we continue to tell these stories.

Black history is American history, and it is a history that deserves to be honored not just in February but every single day. These achievements are proof that progress is possible, but only if we remain committed to justice, inclusion, the power of education, and advocacy. I am proud to continue to carry on their legacy through this Special Order hour today.

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

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Marine Captain Miguel Justin Nava, a west Michigan hero.

Captain Nava was tragically killed in a helicopter accident outside of San Diego while serving our country. This week marks 1 year since his death.

Captain Nava grew up in Comstock Park, Michigan, and was a cherished member of our community. He graduated from Comstock Park High School and then went on to attend the United States Naval Academy. After graduating from the Naval Academy, he was commissioned into the Marine Corps to become a pilot.

During his time of service, Captain Nava earned several decorations, including the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Sea Service Deployment Ribbon.

Captain Nava leaves behind an incredible legacy and a loving family who I have had the honor of getting to know throughout this past year. Together, alongside the Comstock Park community, we passed a bill to rename the local post office after him, which was signed into law last month.

In so many ways, Captain Nava represents the best of west Michigan. It is only right that his legacy is remembered in the community that raised him.

My thoughts are with the Nava family during this difficult time, including his beloved wife, Ryann; his son, Luca; his parents, Lisa and Javier; and his brother, Nikolas.

West Michigan is forever grateful and indebted to Captain Nava's service, and we remain committed to honoring his sacrifice and his enduring legacy.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize the extraordinary career of Mayor Rosalynn Bliss of Grand Rapids, Michigan, my mayor and my friend.

Born in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, Mayor Bliss moved to Grand Rapids after graduating from the University of South Alabama. She then attended Michigan State University--go green--where she earned a master's in social work and then set forth on a career characterized by compassion and service.

In 2005, Mayor Bliss was first elected to the Grand Rapids City Commission, where she displayed her passion for improving Grand Rapids' beautiful parks and public spaces.

She had a vision for Grand Rapids and the experience and willingness to act. After laying out her ambitious plans for the city, then-City Commissioner Bliss was elected by her friends and neighbors to become the first woman mayor of Grand Rapids, which is Michigan's second largest city, and the youngest mayor in over 130 years.

Mayor Bliss' tenure in Grand Rapids was defined by bold, compassionate leadership. She strengthened community-police relations through community-centric law enforcement initiatives, mental health response teams, and a first-of-its-kind crisis stabilization unit.

Amidst a nationwide housing shortage, she expanded affordable housing opportunities and prioritized sustainable development through projects like the Grand River Greenway and an ambitious carbon-neutrality goal.

She also shepherded the city through the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing our west Michigan community to bounce back even stronger.

Thanks to Mayor Bliss, our economy is booming with over $11 billion in private investments, a new soccer stadium, many new sports teams, and 9 million annual visitors. Our limitless growth potential is, in large part, due to her forward-thinking vision and her bold action.

After two incredible terms in our city's highest office, I am confident that Mayor Bliss will leave an impactful legacy that sets a high bar for public service in west Michigan and across America's great cities.

Mr. Speaker, once more, I ask my colleagues to join me in commending Mayor Bliss for her decades of service to the great city of Grand Rapids.

I wish my dear friend the greatest happiness in her retirement.

Mr. Speaker, had I been present, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call No. 509.

Mr. Speaker, I am so pleased that my bill to rename the Comstock Park, Michigan, post office after Captain Miguel Justin Nava is being brought up for consideration today.

Captain Nava is an American hero. He represented the best of west Michigan. It is only right that his legacy is remembered in the community that helped raise him.

A true son of west Michigan, Captain Nava was widely admired and respected throughout the community. After graduating from Comstock Park High School, Captain Nava was nominated by former Congressman Justin Amash, who previously represented my district. He attended the United States Naval Academy. He was then commissioned to the Marine Corps to become a pilot, earning his wings in July of 2020. He was promoted to the rank of captain in 2021.

Captain Nava earned several decorations for his service, including the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and the National Defense Service Medal and the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon.

He was tragically killed while serving his country in a helicopter training exercise in February of this year. He is survived by a loving family whom he cherished, including the love of his life, his wife Ryann Isabelle Andres; his young son, Luca; his parents, Lisa and Javier; his brother, Nikolas, along with his grandparents and in-laws and many other family members who keep his legacy alive.

Getting to know Captain Nava's family and learning about his incredible legacy has been one of the true privileges of my service and representation of this district. I was proud to lead a moment of silence earlier this year honoring Captain Nava and his three fellow marines who were killed in the training exercise and later to welcome his body home to Grand Rapids at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport.

The groundswell of support for this bill that we have received both from the Comstock Park community and Captain Nava's fellow marines has been nothing short of inspiring. Passing this bill is the least we can do for a man who lived his life with honor and integrity in service to our Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I urge the passage of this bill.

Mr. Speaker, I stand today to recognize the life and career

of one of my incredible constituents, Minnie Forbes, the last living owner of a Negro League baseball team, the Detroit Stars.

Minnie Forbes was born in 1932 in Mississippi and eventually found her home in Grand Rapids with her uncle, Ted Rasberry, a player in the Negro Leagues. Her uncle taught her to play softball. As a young teen, she played on the Grand Rapids' Cook's Brown Dolls softball team.

Minnie found her true love for the game working behind the scenes in team management. By 18, Minnie was a secretary for her uncle and his multiple baseball teams--the Grand Rapids Black Sox, the Detroit Stars, and the Kansas City Monarchs.

Then, at just 24, she became the owner of the Detroit Stars. Minnie was shocked but felt prepared to take over the team, and thus became one of the few women ever to own a Negro League baseball team.

As an owner of the Detroit Stars, Minnie endured racism and prejudice toward herself and her players, especially while traveling for games. Players were often forced to sleep and eat on the bus, as the restaurants and hotels refused to accommodate and even feed Black Americans. Sometimes they were even chased out of town.

The players and Minnie persevered through strife and their love of the game. The ripple effects of that persistence echoed through the civil rights movement.

Minnie and her contemporaries made strides in changing American culture through sport. We are forever indebted for their sacrifices in pursuing a more equal and equitable future for all.

I am proud to step up to the plate to commend Minnie for her extraordinary legacy, a legacy that continues to live on in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in the Ted Rasberry Youth League, where I have had the honor of serving as a volunteer coach.