Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dennis Iott of Kalkaska County on his induction into the Michigan Farmers Hall of Fame and to honor his more than four decades of dedication to Michigan agriculture.

For 45 years, Dennis has worked to build Iott Seed Farms into one of Michigan's premier agricultural operations. Under his leadership, the farm has nearly tripled its seed potato production and now grows approximately 27 million pounds of seed potatoes each year, making Iott Seed Farms the largest supplier of seed potatoes in Michigan. His commitment to excellence has earned him recognition as the 2026 Frito- Lay Seed Supplier of the Year, the 2025 Kalkaska Business of the Year, and the 2024 Michigan Association of Conservation Districts Conservation Farm of the Year.

Dennis's impact extends well beyond his own farm. As President of Potato Growers of Michigan and Chairman of the Kalkaska Conservation District Board of Directors, he has been a steadfast advocate for Michigan farmers and for responsible stewardship of our natural resources. He has worked with Michigan State University researchers, welcomed students and policymakers to his farm, and participated in field trials that advance agricultural practices strengthening both productivity and conservation. He has also been a consistent voice in discussions surrounding Michigan's water resources, advocating for sound science, responsible management, and continued access to water for farmers.

Perhaps most importantly, Dennis has invested in the people who will carry Michigan agriculture forward. Through mentorship, agricultural education, and years of service to farming organizations and his community, he has generously shared his knowledge with fellow farmers, students, researchers, and the next generation of agricultural leaders.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Dennis on this well-deserved honor, thank him for his decades of service, and wish him and his family continued success for many growing seasons to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of Army Specialist David Anthony Wilkey, Jr., a native of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our Nation during Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Specialist Wilkey was born in Norway, Michigan, and grew up nearby in Wilson. As a teenager, he moved to Elkhart, Indiana. After graduating from Jimtown High School in 2003, David worked alongside his father at Plastic Components Inc. before answering the call to serve and enlisting in the United States Army. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, based at Fort Riley, Kansas, and deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

On June 17, 2007, while traveling with a Humvee convoy in Baghdad, an improvised explosive device detonated near David's unit, leaving him with wounds that would claim his life the following day. On June 18, 2007, at just 22 years old, Specialist Wilkey gave his life in defense of our Nation and in service to his fellow Soldiers.

Those who knew David remember him as someone who was always willing to help others. He was the kind of person who was always ready to lend a hand, smooth out rough edges, and make a friend wherever he went. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, traveling, sports, repairing things, shopping, and poetry. Most importantly, he was a devoted husband, father, son, and friend who remained deeply connected to his loved ones even while serving thousands of miles from home.

David was ultimately laid to rest in Powers, Michigan, near the Upper Peninsula community where he grew up. Though his military service took him far from home, he returned to the place that helped shape him and where his memory remains part of the community which he called home.

Mr. Speaker, may we always remember Specialist David A. Wilkey, Jr., honor his service, and never forget that the freedoms we enjoy were defended by brave Americans like him.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor and recognize Retired Air Force Master Sergeant Steve Kwarciany on being named the 2026 Upper Peninsula Veteran of the Year. For more than a decade, Steve has been a steadfast leader within numerous Veteran organizations across the Upper Peninsula, dedicating countless hours to improving the lives of those who have served our Nation.

As a Life Member of VFW Hiawatha Post 2998, AMVETS Escanaba Post 123, DAV Delta County Chapter 24, and Bark River American Legion Post 438, Steve has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to serving his fellow Veterans. His leadership roles as Commander of the Delta County Veterans Council, Quartermaster of VFW Post 2998, Senior Vice Commander of DAV Chapter 24, and Chairman of the Delta County Department of Veterans Affairs Board reflect the confidence and respect he has earned from his fellow Veterans.

Steve played a vital role in the ballot referendum that established the Delta County Department of Veterans Affairs, helping ensure that local Veterans have greater access to the resources and services they deserve. His service as Director of the Delta County Veterans Council's Memorial Day, POW/MIA Recognition Day, and Veterans Day ceremonies, along with his work as Funeral Honor Guard Commander and member of the Upper Peninsula Honor Flight Welcome Home Honor Guard, demonstrates his enduring commitment to honoring those who have worn the uniform.

Steve's work has left an enduring mark on the Upper Peninsula, Whether coordinating the annual VFW Poppy Sale, serving as a mentor for young people while at the Bark River-Harris Leo Club, or volunteering with the U.P. Off Road Races, Steve has consistently placed service above self. By exemplifying the highest standards of leadership, he has inspired countless others to embrace the values of citizenship, volunteerism, and patriotism.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Retired Air Force Master Sergeant Steve Kwarciany on being named the 2026 Upper Peninsula Veteran of the Year. On behalf of Michigan's 1st Congressional District, I congratulate Steve on this well-deserved recognition and thank him for his extraordinary service to our Nation, our Veterans, and the people of the Upper Peninsula.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor and recognize Dr. Richard Bates on his retirement from Thunder Bay Community Health Service. Throughout his distinguished career, Dr. Bates has dedicated himself to improving access to quality healthcare for the people of Northern Michigan while exemplifying compassionate leadership and an unwavering commitment to rural communities.

A graduate of Alma College, Michigan State University, and Wayne State University School of Medicine, Dr. Bates has served Northeast Michigan for more than twenty-five years as both a trusted physician and respected healthcare leader. During his tenure as Chief Executive Officer of Thunder Bay Community Health Service, he expanded access to care by growing the organization's services, including the launch of its Women's Health program, ensuring more families throughout the region received the care they deserve.

Beyond his leadership within the clinic, Dr. Bates has been a tireless advocate for Community Health Centers, regularly traveling to Washington to champion the needs of rural healthcare providers. He has led discussions with my office on behalf of health centers across our region and has been a valued partner in advancing policies that strengthen healthcare access for the people of Northern Michigan. His dedication to delivering quality care has also touched countless families, delivering thousands of babies throughout Northeast Michigan over the course of his medical career.

Although retiring from his role as Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Bates will continue serving patients as a part-time clinician to assist with Thunder Bay's expanding women's health services, ensuring his experience and passion for medicine will continue to benefit our communities.

Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to recognize Dr. Richard Bates for his extraordinary service, leadership, and commitment to improving the health and well-being of Northern Michigan. On behalf of Michigan's 1st Congressional District, I congratulate him on his well-earned retirement and wish him, his wife Cheryl, and their family many years of health, happiness, and continued success.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the countless hardworking hotel employees across Michigan's 1st Congressional District and throughout our Nation on National Hotel Employee Day. These dedicated individuals are the backbone of the hotel industry, providing the exceptional service, professionalism, and care that make travelers feel welcome.

Hotel employees do far more than greeting guests at check-in. From room attendants and front desk staff to engineers, chefs, sales managers, and countless other professionals, hotel staff ensure safe, comfortable, and memorable experiences for millions of travelers each year. Their dedication strengthens our communities, supports our economy, and reflects the very best of American hospitality.

The hotel industry plays a vital role in our Nation's economy, supporting one in every twenty-five American jobs and contributing approximately $900 billion annually to our Nation's Gross Domestic Product. In Michigan's 1st Congressional District, travel and tourism are central to our local economy, with destinations like Mackinac Island welcoming more than 1 million visitors each year. The 552 hotels and more than 10,000 hotel employees across my district provide the warm and welcoming service that keeps visitors returning to experience all that Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula have to offer.

On National Hotel Employee Day, we recognize the men and women whose contributions often happen behind the scenes, but whose impact is felt everyday by travelers, families, and communities across the Nation, Their hard work and dedication embody the values of service and excellence that make our country stronger.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing hotel employees across Michigan's 1st Congressional District and throughout the United States on National Hotel Employee Day. We thank them for their continued dedication, professionalism, and commitment to providing exceptional service to all who travel.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor and recognize Chief Frank Claeys on his retirement after twenty-nine years of selfless service to the City of Gaylord Police Department.

Chief Claeys began his career with the Gaylord Police Department as a Reserve Officer in 1996 before joining the department as a full-time Patrol Officer in the following year. As a testament to his enduring commitment to duty and exceptional leadership, Chief Claeys was promoted to Sergeant in 2013 and later appointed Chief of Police in 2019. At every stage of his career, he exemplified the highest standards of law enforcement, earning the respect of his fellow officers and the trust of his community through his integrity, professionalism, and steadfast dedication to public service.

As Chief of Police, Frank strengthened the Gaylord Police Department through meaningful initiatives that will benefit the community for many years to come. Under his leadership. the department reinstated participation in the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) program, added a K-9 unit, enhanced departmental equipment, and recruited and mentored a new generation of law enforcement officers. His leadership has ensured the department remains well-equipped to meet the evolving needs of the community while fostering a culture of compassion, excellence, and commitment to service.

Whether working alongside fellow officers, partnering with community organizations, or assisting residents in times of need, he consistently demonstrated kindness, humility, and a deep sense of duty. His ability to build lasting relationships strengthened not only the Gaylord Police Department but the entire Gaylord community.

Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to recognize Chief Frank Claeys for his nearly three decades of honorable service and steadfast dedication to the people of Gaylord. On behalf of Michigan's 1st Congressional District, I congratulate him on his well-earned retirement and thank him for his enduring commitment to keeping our communities safe.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize United States Marine Corps Master Sergeant (MSgt) Jesus L. Nivar, Jr. on his retirement after 22 years of honorable and dedicated service to our Nation. This well-deserved honor reflects the professionalism, discipline, and leadership expected of every Marine.

A native of Santa Domingo, Dominican Republic, MSgt Nivar, Jr. began his career with the Marine Corps in August of 2004 when he attended recruit training in Parris Island, South Carolina. Upon completion of his training, he quickly rose the ranks from Private First Class to Sergeant before being deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in April of 2011.

Following his deployment, MSgt Nivar, Jr. reported to Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, and served with the 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion and 2nd Marine Logistics group.

There he was trusted to manage personnel and support deployed forces, leading to a well-deserved promotion to Staff Sergeant. As a result, he was subsequently deployed to serve as the Administrative Chief for the Command Element of the Combined Join Task force in the Horn of Africa until November 2013.

In the years following his deployment to the Horn of Africa, MSgt Nivar, Jr. continued to earn positions with increasing responsibility. In November of 2014, he received orders to serve as the Administrative Chief and Funeral Honors Staff Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge at Quantico, Virgina and was later transferred to the Marine and Family Programs to serve as the Administrative Chief. He later provided administrative leadership and inspection oversight at Headquarters, 1st Marine Corps District, and was promoted to Master Sergeant in 2021 while serving with Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 24. In his most recent position, he served as Adjutant Chief with the Marine Corps Embassy Security Group.

Throughout his distinguished military career, MSgt Nivar, Jr. has earned numerous personal decorations, including the Joint Service Commendation Medal, four awards of the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, four awards of the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, and numerous additional service and campaign medals.

Mr. Speaker, let us all join in recognizing Master Sergeant Jesus L. Nivar, Jr. on his retirement from the United States Marine Corps. His humility, work ethic, and unwavering dedication to his fellow Marines embody the very best of what it means to serve this great Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Northwestern Michigan College (NMC) as they celebrate 75 years of serving students and communities across Northern Michigan.

Since opening its doors in 1951 as Michigan's first community college, NMC has provided generations of students with affordable, high-quality educational opportunities while helping meet the workforce needs of our region. For 75 years, NMC has strengthened Northern Michigan by preparing students for meaningful careers, supporting local employers, and creating opportunities for lifelong learning.

NMC has long demonstrated a commitment to innovation. As Michigan's first community college, NMC has continued to find new ways to serve students and employers alike. Today, the college offers a variety of employer-driven degrees, certificates, and workforce training programs. They lead important research through its Freshwater Research and Innovation Center and provide students with valuable hands-on learning opportunities.

NMC is also home to one of the Nation's premier aviation programs, where students can earn their private pilot licenses and continue on pathways toward commercial aviation careers. Its nationally recognized drone program is preparing the next generation of professionals to use unmanned aircraft systems in industries ranging from agriculture and infrastructure to public safety and environmental stewardship.

The College has also built strong partnerships with universities across Michigan, giving students the opportunity to earn bachelor's and select master's degrees while remaining in Traverse City. These partnerships expand access to higher education, keep talented students in Northern Michigan, and help meet the workforce needs of our communities.

For 75 years, NMC has remained committed to serving the people of Northern Michigan by expanding educational opportunities, strengthening our workforce, and investing in the future of our communities.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of Michigan's 1st Congressional District, I congratulate Northwestern Michigan College on this significant milestone and thank its students, faculty, staff, alumni, and supporters for 75 years of service to Northern Michigan. I wish them continued success in the years ahead.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Mr. Tim Hygh for his retirement from the Mackinac Island Convention & Visitors Bureau (MICVB). His leadership has strengthened one of Michigan's most iconic tourist destinations while supporting local businesses and preserving the Island's unique character.

For fifteen years, Tim has served as the Executive Director for the MICVB, after helping to found the organization in 2010. He has been instrumental in turning the MICVB into a premier destination marketing and advocacy organization. Under his leadership, the Bureau has expanded to encompass the Mackinac Island Convention & Visitors Bureau, the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau, and the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau Political Action Committee.

Tim's leadership was evident during the COVID-19 pandemic when he led the island's Public Health Task Force. By fostering strong communication among local leaders, businesses, and public officials, he helped guide the community through uncertainty while establishing the Bureau as a trusted resource and effective partner. The relationships formed during that time helped the MICVB expand its advocacy efforts to advance the island's interests within federal agencies and the Michigan State Legislature.

Throughout his tenure, Tim has worked tirelessly to increase Mackinac Island's national profile. He established a lasting relationship with Advance Travel and Tourism to market the island on a broader scale and gained national recognition from media outlets such as Conde Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, USA Today's 10Best, among other accolades. These efforts have helped to keep the Island a world class destination, increasing tourism and strengthening the local economy.

Mr. Speaker, let us all join in recognizing Tim Hygh for his remarkable career and steadfast commitment to Mackinac Island. Tim's vision, integrity, and unwavering commitment to serving others have left an enduring legacy on Mackinac Island that will continue to benefit the community for years to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Commander Ryan Hawn on his retirement from the United States Coast Guard after 20 years of dedicated service. Throughout his career, Commander Hawn has exemplified the Coast Guard's core values of Honor, Respect, and Devotion to Duty and has demonstrated exceptional leadership in service to the American people.

Prior to assuming Command in Traverse City, Commander Hawn served as Chief Pilot at Kodiak Air Station in Alaska where he oversaw aviation operations in challenging environments. At every stage of his career, he has demonstrated exceptional expertise in operational planning, interagency coordination, and military aviation. He has helped strengthen the Coast Guard's lifesaving capabilities while advancing innovative technologies that will support future missions.

For the last two years, Commander Hawn has served as the Commanding Officer of Coast Guard Air Station Traverse City where he oversaw active-duty Coast Guardsmen and civilian personnel responsible for safeguarding communities across the Great Lakes. In addition to commanding one of the busiest air stations, he also served as an operational pilot, remaining actively engaged in search and rescue and maritime law enforcement missions. Whether responding to mariners in distress or preparing for emergencies, Commander Hawn ensured the station remained prepared to answer every call, living out the Coast Guard's motto of ``Always Ready.''

Mr. Speaker, let us all join in recognizing Commander Ryan Hawn on his retirement from the United States Coast Guard. His dedicated leadership, professionalism, and commitment to protecting the communities of Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula exemplify the very best of the United States Coast Guard.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Ms. Elonica Tester on her extraordinary achievement of capturing two national championships in track and field at the Under Armour Nationals, held May 29 through May 31 in Bradenton, Florida. Her remarkable accomplishments are a testament to the discipline, determination, and perseverance that define outstanding athletes of Northern Michigan.

At just 15 years old, Elonica recently completed her third year at Traverse City East Middle School, where she has already established herself as one of the school's most accomplished student-athletes. She currently holds 13 school records and recently added two national titles to an already impressive list of achievements. This past season, she also helped lead the Traverse City East Trojans girls track and field team to its first Mid-Michigan MegaStar team championship, a competition widely regarded as the middle school equivalent of a state championship.

Despite her success at the local and state levels, Elonica had never envisioned herself competing on the national stage. That changed when she decided to pursue national competition. This was no easy feat, unlike Michigan middle school track, where hurdle races are either 55 or 200 meters long, Under Armour Nationals only provided 100 and 200- meter competitions, requiring her to compete in an event where she had little experience.

After a slow start on her first day of the competition, Elonica rallied to post a title winning 14.92 second run in the 100-meter hurdles the following day. She followed up that performance by adding another championship in the high jump with a leap of 5 feet 5 inches.

Mr. Speaker, let us all join in recognizing Ms. Elonica Tester on her extraordinary achievement of capturing two national championships at the Under Armour Nationals. Her willingness to embrace new challenges serves as an inspiration to young athletes across Michigan's 1st Congressional District.

Mr. Chairman, I thank the chairman for yielding.

Each of us swore an oath to support and defend the U.S. Constitution. It is the basis for which we serve.

Within our Constitution is the enumerated responsibility of Congress to raise an army and maintain a navy. Our committee fulfilled our constitutional duty when we reported the National Defense Authorization Act to the floor today.

As our chairman indicated, we are delivering on President Trump's request to authorize the first of two defense appropriations, including this authorization of $1.15 trillion.

While there is much to be made about the generational investments in ships and aviation, this bill also fully supports the sustainment of the defense enterprise. It strengthens our Nation's commitments to our servicemembers and their families, and it delivers major quality-of- life initiatives, including significant funding for facilities.

Now, it is easy for some Members to reject this bill because it provides too much money for our national security. Theirs is a false hope that a chaotic and irreverent global disorder will never reach the shores of our magnificent Nation.

I reject this premise. I believe we are already in a strategic race for the continued rise and stability of our Nation.

This defense budget sits as the cornerstone of this great enterprise. We need to fulfill our constitutional responsibility, and we need it now.

I thank my Subcommittee on Readiness ranking member, Mr. John Garamendi, and our personnel and professional staff that serve our Subcommittee on Readiness for their work on this bill. We are united in purpose, in making our Department of War a presence to be respected in both peace and, if necessary, prevail in conflict.

I commend Chairman Rogers and Ranking Member Smith for delivering this magnificent defense bill.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Ms. Sophia Shaft of Canton, Michigan, for her extraordinary achievement in winning the Panamerican Weightlifting Championship in Panama City, Panama. At just 21 years old, Sophia represented the United States with distinction, discipline, and poise.

Competing in the Senior Women's 63-kilogram weight class, Sophia was the youngest athlete in the field and rose to the occasion in remarkable fashion. She earned second place in both the Snatch and the Clean and Jerk events, while securing the highest combined total to claim the overall Panamerican Championship title. Her accomplishment is a testament not only to her athletic talent, but also to the countless hours of preparation, sacrifice, and perseverance required to compete at the international level.

Sophia's success reflects the strong support of her family, including her parents, Dr. Jeremy and Shay Shaft, her younger sister, Eadie, and her coaches at Optimus Barbell Club. In only three short years in the sport of weightlifting, Sophia has already established herself as one of the Nation's premier young competitors and is now on the path toward representing the United States at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

Mr. Speaker, let us all join in congratulating Sophia Shaft on this outstanding achievement and wishing her continued success in the years ahead. Her accomplishments bring great pride to the State of Michigan and serve as an inspiration to young athletes across our Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the extraordinary achievement of the Alpena High School Engineering Team, who recently represented Michigan's 1st Congressional District with distinction at the Great Lakes ROV Competition.

Under the leadership of their coach, Mr. Robert Thompson, and in partnership with Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary and Alpena Community College Marine Tech Program, these talented students work collaboratively to develop vital marine research equipment and educational content. Their efforts highlight the ingenuity, discipline, and determination of Northern Michigan students and demonstrate what can be accomplished when education, technical training, and community support come together.

This year, the team delivered a record-setting performance at the regional competition against teams from Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin, earning the distinct honor of advancing to the World Championship in St. John's, Newfoundland this coming summer. During the competition, the students were judged by local professionals who evaluated the design and functional operation of the robots, poster displays, and engineering presentations.

At the world championship, the team will compete against students from around the world, deploying custom-built Remotely Operated Vehicles designed to solve real world marine challenges. These students not only represent the future of Michigan's 1st Congressional District, but they also highlight the critical role skilled innovators play in strengthening our Nation's infrastructure, maritime capabilities, and national security.

Mr. Speaker, let us all join in recognizing the Alpena High School Engineering Team on this tremendous achievement and wish them the very best as they represent Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula at the international competition in Newfoundland. I cannot think of a better group of young adults to represent Michigan's 1st Congressional District on the world stage.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate Dr. Thomas McKee for earning the 2026 Yooper Super of the Year Award, an honor that reflects his outstanding leadership of Rudyard Area Schools.

Each year, this award is presented to a superintendent who exemplifies excellence in public education and demonstrates a deep commitment to students, educators, and community stakeholders across the Upper Peninsula. Nominated by his peers, Dr. McKee was formally recognized for his outstanding service and leadership on April 29, 2026.

Under his guidance, Rudyard Area Schools have experienced meaningful improvements to facilities and infrastructure, reinforcing the strength and identity of the district. Supporters of Dr. McKee have highlighted how he has transformed the culture of education throughout the community through steady leadership, increased expectations, and care for students and staff. His leadership has not only strengthened public education in Rudyard, but has helped advance priorities for rural sustainability, equitable school funding, and special education services across the Upper Peninsula.

Dr. McKee's dedication to public education helped cultivate a school system defined by pride, purpose, and positivity. His work stands as a model for educational leadership across Michigan and our Nation.

Mr. Speaker, let us all join in recognizing Dr. Thomas McKee on this well-deserved honor. On behalf of Michigan's 1st Congressional District, I thank him for enduring contributions to the students, families, and educators of Rudyard Area Schools and the Upper Peninsula.