Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a truly special milestone for my district: 100 years since the incorporation of Deerfield Beach, Florida.

What started in June 1925 as a town of just 500 people has boomed into a vibrant city and one of the best places to live in South Florida. Deerfield Beach is special not just because of its natural beauty, but also because of the people who have built this city up for the past century and make it what it is today.

I'm proud to represent parts of Deerfield Beach, and I'm fortunate to work with Mayor Todd Drosky and its local commissioners to deliver the federal resources this city needs to support its infrastructure, boost its economic development, and keep families here safe. It is truly an incredible place to call home.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and our colleagues join me in wishing a happy 100th birthday to the City of Deerfield Beach. I look forward to what this next century brings for this community and its residents.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate a student from my district, Ms. Alana Karam, on receiving this year's Broward County League of Cities' Scholarship. This prestigious scholarship is awarded each year to a high school senior who has demonstrated a deep investment in public service and intends on leading a life focused on it.

Alana is a recent graduate of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, where she has distinguished herself in our community through her passion for law, public policy, and civic engagement. Her accomplishments speak volumes, not only about her talents, but also about her character and drive.

For her deep intellect and track record of leadership in and out of the classroom, Alana has received well-deserved local and national recognition. She earned first place in the Veterans of Foreign Wars Voice of Democracy Essay Contest and third place in the Federal Bar Association's National High School Essay Contest--both highly competitive national honors--and had her Capstone research project published in the Journal of Student Research, a rare accomplishment at the high school level.

Beyond her academic achievements, Alana has been an active member of DECA and several honor societies, and she has sought real-world experience to deepen her understanding of the justice system. During an internship at the Broward County Public Defender's Office, she encountered firsthand the power of advocacy, and the role reaffirmed her desire to dedicate her life to serving her community.

Looking ahead, Alana will attend Georgetown University this fall, where she plans to major in Public Policy or Political Science. She aspires to attend law school and ultimately serve as a public defender, uplifting marginalized voices and contributing meaningfully to the justice system.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my colleagues join me in celebrating Ms. Alana Karam for her remarkable accomplishments and meaningful impact on our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate a student from my district, Ms. Nicole Hennessy, on receiving this year's Broward County League of Cities Scholarship. This prestigious scholarship is awarded each year to a high school senior who has demonstrated a deep investment in public service and intends on leading a life focused on it.

Nicole is a recent graduate of North Broward Preparatory School, where she has made a mark in our community through her passion for law and justice. At North Broward Prep, Nicole's dedication and commitment to the mock trial team led her to numerous accolades, including its Best Attorney Award and the Best Trial Attorney Award from the National Student Leadership Conference. Outside school, Nicole has already gained valuable, hands-on experience in the criminal justice system through her internship with a defense attorney.

Nicole's years of dedicated volunteer work with Voices for Children of Broward County only further solidify her investment in our community. While distributing clothing, toys, and hygiene products to those in need, she has contributed an impressive 606 hours of service to our community, an achievement that reflects both her compassion and her meaningful impact on those around her.

Nicole continues to have a bright future ahead of her. In the fall, she plans to attend Florida State University and major in Criminology with a minor in Law and Philosophy. Following her college graduation, she hopes to pursue a law degree, enter the workforce as a public defender, and uplift the voices of others through a career in justice.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in celebrating Ms. Nicole Hennessy for her remarkable accomplishments and meaningful impact on our community.

Mr. Speaker, I along with my colleagues, Representative Wasserman Schultz and Representative Cherfilus-McCormick rise today to highlight and celebrate the 2025 Honorees of the Senior Hall of Fame, an esteemed tradition made possible through the tireless efforts of the Area Agency on Aging of Broward County, a cornerstone organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for older adults in our community.

The Area Agency on Aging of Broward County is part of a vital statewide network of 11 Area Agencies on Aging across Florida. These agencies are tasked with coordinating a wide array of programs and services designed to help seniors live safely, independently, and with dignity in their own homes and communities. From meal delivery and transportation assistance to caregiver support and health education, the Agency plays a pivotal role in addressing the needs of our aging population.

Each year, the Broward Senior Hall of Fame honors exemplary residents aged 60 and older who have selflessly dedicated five or more years to volunteer service in Broward County. These individuals embody the spirit of civic engagement and community service that strengthens the social fabric of our region.

This year's distinguished honorees are Linda Hill Anderson, Sandra Atkins, Timothy G. Curtin, Barbara Effman, Helena Friedman, Susan Gilbert, Juanita Gray, Mona Malbranche, Melinda Montgomery, Dr. Irving Rosenbaum, Zeff Ross, Reverend Jesse Scipio, and Doris Tarlow. Their contributions have made a meaningful difference--from mentoring youth and supporting local nonprofits to improving access to healthcare and advocating for vulnerable residents. Their efforts are not only commendable but inspiring.

We would also like to offer a special thank you to Charlotte Mather- Taylor, CEO of the Area Agency on Aging of Broward County, whose visionary leadership and deep commitment to service have elevated the Agency's impact throughout our community. Her dedication ensures that our seniors continue to receive the respect, support, and recognition they deserve.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of Florida's 20th, 23rd and 25th Congressional Districts, we ask our colleagues to join us in congratulating these outstanding individuals for their extraordinary volunteerism and in recognizing the indispensable role the Area Agency on Aging of Broward County plays in honoring and serving our older citizens.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Associated Builders & Contractors Institute Apprenticeship College (ABCI) on the event of its 50th anniversary. A proud institution in Florida's 23rd Congressional District, ABCI provides apprenticeship training for the construction industry across our region. They collaborate directly with builders, contractors, and educators for a quality, hands-on apprenticeship education and construction trade program that helps drive our economy from South Florida all the way up Florida's Eastern coast.

We're particularly proud that ABCI has become the largest single provider of apprenticeship education and training in the state of Florida. It is a leader in innovative apprenticeship programs for the construction workforce--including in some of the most high-demand

areas of trade and it has set up its students for success with access to employment opportunities even before they complete their education.

The more than 900 pre-apprentices and apprentices currently enrolled in the Institute are a testament to ABCI's reach, as are the many students that have come before and the many that will come after. As Florida continues to grow, ABCI and its students will continue to help meet the ever-growing needs of the construction sector.

Mr. Speaker, as we commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Associated Builders & Contractors Institute Apprenticeship College, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating ABCI, its leadership, and its dedication to supporting Florida's workforce. The dedication, skill, and expertise of their many graduates are a testament to the success they've had over these past 50 years and will continue to have many years into the future.

Mr. Speaker, the Speaker is a Member of this body. There are 435 of us, and the petition process exists so that the other 434 of us have a little bit of power so that if there is an idea that we want to bring to the Chamber, one person can't stop it.

The petition process is about us. It is about the Members, but people are feeling all sorts of kingly these days in D.C. It has been reported that leadership is bribing Members to vote ``no'' so they can have their bills moved and get spots on committees.

I don't understand. The Freedom Caucus just owns you guys. They just own the Republicans. The last time they took you hostage, they removed a Speaker.

Literally, the Freedom Caucus could teach a clinic on Speaker hostage taking. If you don't like the bill, vote against it. Is the Freedom Caucus the only one with power? Is Chip Roy the only one who sits in these seats with power?

The Representative from Texas, Mr. Speaker. Is that all right?

I will refer to him as Representative of Texas. I didn't realize the snowflake thing was a problem.

Mr. Speaker, I don't know that anyone should lecture us on working. The American people work harder than us. We are here only 3 days a week. I mean, you want to talk about working, you guys are not even showing up for your townhalls, so I don't know that you should be lecturing us about working.

Mr. Speaker, I rise along with my colleague, Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, to celebrate and honor the incredible achievements of women who are shaping our communities, empowering future generations and leading with grace, courage, and determination. It is a privilege to recognize inspiring women receiving the 2025 Community Service Award in recognition of Women's History Month at the Women of Excellence Celebration and Awards Luncheon.

This celebration is not just about acknowledging individual accomplishments, but it is also about highlighting the collective strength and transformative influence women have in every sector of society. From family leaders to trailblazers in business, education, public service, and beyond, women continue to break barriers and inspire change with remarkable resilience and dedication.

We extend a special thank you to the host of the event, LaTonya Coley-McKenly, the Executive Director of the Deerfield Beach Housing Authority. Her vision, leadership, and commitment to community development made this celebration possible.

Mr. Speaker, please join us in celebrating the honorees being recognized at this year's Women of Excellence Celebration and Awards Luncheon in recognition of Women's History Month: Gloria J. Battle, Lisa C. Davis, Rose Anne Brown, Kiana Morris, Gwendolen Clarke-Reed, and Shaheewa F. Gelin.

Mr. Speaker, that is exactly right. It is CR day on Capitol Hill, and what is going on with Republicans? I mean, President Trump puts out a tweet and says please and all a sudden they just flip- flop.

Let me mention some mean tweets about how Republicans feel about CRs when they are in the minority only. The first one is actually from the gentleman from Texas. It says: ``It is Groundhog Day in the House Chamber--all the time, every day. Yet again, spending money we don't have'' apparently only when he is in the minority.

Here is another one from a colleague comparing continuing resolutions to attending a P. Diddy party. In any given year, another colleague said that if Congress raises the debt ceiling, passes the CR, and rams through an omnibus bill, no Member of Congress should receive a paycheck. That is awkward for you guys. How many of you are going to give back your paycheck?

Another colleague said: I have never voted for a CR. You sent me to Congress to cut wasteful spending, and I am a woman of my word. You can guess who that is.

This is my favorite. What does a CR stand for? It stands for capitulating Republicans, caving Republicans. That was said by a Republican. You know what? I am going to miss the never CR group. I mean, they were great, but they are breaking up. It was great to see them live while there were together. They had lots of fans. I am going miss them. I mean, they were mostly a boy band. Some of them are going solo. It appears it is only Thomas Massie. Something tells me there will be a reunion but only when they are in the minority.

To quote Representative Massie talking about Republicans: ``I guess deficits only matter when we are in the minority.'' So, listen, go home to your families, turn in your voting cards, and give Trump the gavel because that is what has happened to your entire party. You don't need to be here. He tells you to do something, you jump.

What is going on in the world? Another Representative brought up what is going on in the world in the last 30 days. Let's see. Egg prices are up. Goods are up. The stock market is down.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate and acknowledge all the hardworking teachers being honored at the Rotary Club of Boca Raton's 39th Annual Teacher of the Year Awards Celebration for the Palm Beach County School District on March 20, 2025. As a father of two growing boys eager to learn, I know educators' lifelong impact on their students and families. Education is the foundation of our country's future, and as a community, we depend on our teachers daily to prepare the next generation of Americans.

We are thankful to be gifted with extraordinary teachers in Florida's 23rd Congressional District. As Teachers of the Year, they serve as an inspiration not only to their colleagues but also to educators across the region. These teachers serve as a shining example of the positive difference that teachers make in the lives of their students. Their passion, enthusiasm, and commitment to shaping the future leaders of tomorrow are truly commendable, and there is no doubt that they will continue to inspire and empower countless students in years to come.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in celebrating all the teachers being recognized at the Rotary Club of Boca Raton's 39th Annual Teacher of the Year Awards Celebration: Lindsey Wuest, Lesley Healy, Maureen Tonti, Jane Nealy, Maureen Carter, Maria Mansoor, Mary Bocskocsky, Emily Hedengren, Whitney Pinzon, Miriam Bravo, Jacqueline Cuomo, Francesca Sheridan, Ashley Kluthe, Edileusa Goller, Wendy Zeitz, Mandy Berrocal, Budget Briggs, Frank Torres, Dina Marschke, Ashley Carraro, Dori Lebowitz, Charles Fine, and Lyndsay Tolerton.

Mr. Chair, Representative Thomas Massie is a budget hawk who walks around with the debt clock--which, by the way, I bought. It is $99 on the website. Today, he talked about that if the Republican budget passes, the budget deficit doesn't get better. It gets worse.

Then Elon Musk commented, and he said: That sounds bad.

Boy, that is awkward. I mean, you know how much we hate it when you guys fight amongst each other.

That wasn't enough, right? Then Representative Massie went to the Republican meeting where the budget was being discussed, and he came out, and he said: You know what, they convinced me.

They convinced me that he is a ``no.'' The reason he is a ``no,'' he said, over the next 3 years, it is going to add almost a trillion dollars to the debt, and that is in the best case, the most rosy scenario. Then he said: That is a lie.

This clock that we have that has the debt, it is still going up. DOGE has not yet reversed it. I say that as a member of the DOGE Caucus who wants to shrink the size of government and cut spending. This 36, instead of your budget making it a 35, it is going to make it a 37. We are going to go to $37 trillion in debt.

If you pass this today, this idea about DOGE or the Republicans being fiscal hawks or wanting to cut spending is no longer a reality.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today because I am deeply concerned that we are headed toward a government shutdown on March 14. It is not

about whether Democrats or Republicans would win politically. It is because we know the American people would lose.

Mr. Speaker, let me tell you why I am deeply concerned that we are headed for a government shutdown on March 14. I am worried because the Speaker has not brought the 12 individual spending bills, which is the way we should fund the government. In fact, it is the promise that was made by my Republican colleagues on how we would fund the government.

Republicans have made the argument that the last election was about the status quo disappearing, that it can't exist and that people are fed up.

They created DOGE, which is going through the Federal Government and finding fraud, waste, and abuse, so they say and so they claim. If that is true, Mr. Speaker, if Elon Musk and DOGE have found all that fraud, waste, and abuse, the hundreds of billions of dollars as they claim, then, Mr. Speaker, we can't fund the government by CR anymore because the CR would refund all of that waste, fraud, and abuse that DOGE has found. That means the only way to fund the government is to fund it by individual spending bills, but we are running out of time, Mr. Speaker.

We have a month before the government shuts down. We have to get back to the process of individual spending bills. If we don't, then the Speaker will be the one who will have closed the government for the American people.

I am concerned, and I am here to work with the Speaker on the 12 individual spending bills. Democrats are at the table to do that, but we have to be honest. We can't tell the American people we are for reducing fraud, waste, and abuse, that we are for government efficiency and to look at all these things we have found, and then say that we are going to refund them all with a clean CR.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to say: I am here. I am willing to stay weekends. I am willing to work for the next month so that we can fund the government appropriately with the 12 individual spending bills, a promise that my Republican colleagues made.

The Speaker has to start getting that train moving. Otherwise, he will close the government.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the marriage of Kurt Dieter and Addison Breiding. As proud residents of Boca Raton in Florida's 23rd Congressional District, Kurt and Addison have not only enriched each other's lives but have also become cherished members of our community.

On March 1, 2025, this wonderful couple will begin the next chapter of their lives together as they exchange vows at the Baker's Cay Resort in Key Largo, Florida. Their love story began on May 15, 2020, when a mutual friend introduced them at Tin Roof in Delray Beach. Since that day, Kurt and Addison have built a beautiful life together, filled with love, laughter, and shared adventures.

Kurt, an adventurous traveler and University of Maryland graduate, fell in love with more than just Addison when they met in 2020. Through her, he discovered the beauty of Florida as she introduced him to her favorite towns, beaches, and hidden gems. Their shared love for the Sunshine State led them to settle in Boca Raton in 2021, where they have created a warm and welcoming home with their beloved dog, Homer. Together, they reflect the vibrant spirit of our community and the joy of building a life filled with love and adventure.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in celebrating Kurt Dieter and Addison Breiding as they prepare for a lifetime of happiness. Their union reflects the values of love, dedication, and community that make our district and our Nation strong. I wish them endless joy and look forward to seeing the incredible contributions they will continue to make to Boca Raton and Florida's 23rd Congressional District.

Mr. Speaker, I, along with Representative Wasserman Schultz and Representative Cherfilus-McCormick, rise today to recognize the Area Agency on Aging of Broward County (AAABC) and the celebration of their 43rd Annual Installation Dinner honoring four distinguished members of the community.

For over four decades, the AAABC continues to be a pillar of support and advocacy for older adults, ensuring that they receive vital resources and services to enhance their quality of life. We are proud to recognize the following honorees for their exemplary service to the senior community.

This event celebrates and honors outstanding contributions of individuals, organizations and municipalities whose advocacy has made a profound difference in the lives of older adults. Among the honorees are:

Andrea Buscada, the director of Broward County Elderly and Veterans Services, as Project Leader of the Year for her commitment to serving our senior and veteran populations.

Dr. Naushira Pandya, Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Geriatrics at Nova Southeastern University (NSU) as the Volunteer of the Year for her impactful work in geriatric healthcare and education.

Senator Nan Rich, Broward County Commissioner and former State Senator, as Community Champion of the Year for her outstanding leadership for over 25 years in the community, working as a champion for seniors and the disabled community. Her impactful work has advanced policies that protect and empower older adults in our community.

Senior Proof, a home safety modification company for their innovative efforts to support aging in place and create safer living environments for seniors.

City of Oakland Park and the City of Miramar for their Fair Share Milestone commitment to creating age-friendly communities and supporting local senior programs.

As the AAABC celebrates this milestone, they are commended for their unwavering dedication to improving the lives of Broward County's aging population. Together we would also like to thank the CEO, Charlotte Mather-Taylor for her leadership of the agency with a mission to enhancing the quality of life for older adults. Charlotte along with her team are committed to ensuring that all seniors in Broward County receive the dignity, respect, and care they deserve.

Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize the AAABC and the honorees of the 43rd Annual Installation Dinner. We ask our colleagues to join us in congratulating them on this significant occasion and wishing them continued success.

Mr. Speaker, denial is not just a river in Egypt.

Let's talk about the last 2 years. It was the Democrats who raised the debt ceiling, not the Republicans last time. Many of you voted against it.

It was the Democrats who kept the government open. Not once, not twice, but every single time we needed to keep the government open, it was the Democrats who kept the government open. More of us voted for it than you.

All I have heard for the last couple of weeks is about this giant mandate, landslide, and trifecta. Put on your big-boy pants. Pass your own bill.

We are only here because Republicans can't agree amongst themselves. Now, hold on a second.

Democrats will keep the government open for the American people. We will mediate the disagreements between that side of the room and that side of the room. We will do that for them, but they will have to at least invite us to that meeting. If Republicans want us to solve their problem because they can't agree amongst themselves, reach out.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commend the 30 years of dedicated public service of Mr. Frank Babinec, the City Manager for Coral Springs, Florida. Over the years, Frank has displayed an unwavering commitment to the community's safety, well-being, and prosperity.

Frank's journey in public service began as a volunteer in 1993 when he joined what is now known as the Coral Springs-Parkland Fire Department, putting his life on the line to protect others. His hard work and dedication led him to be appointed to Fire Chief in 2014. His commitment to public safety went beyond firefighting. He championed emergency medical services and advanced training programs and strengthened partnerships with other public safety organizations, raising the department's standards and response capabilities.

In his role as Fire Chief, Frank supported the community through a tragic shooting that took place at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in 2018. His leadership in the aftermath demonstrated his ability to provide calm and competent direction in times of crisis, encouraging a sense of resilience and unity within the community.

In 2019, Frank was appointed City Manager of Coral Springs. He has guided the city through unprecedented challenges, including the COVID- 19 pandemic, and focused his commitment to the city's health and economic stability. Over the years, Frank has worked tirelessly to promote sustainable growth, improve city services, and address the needs of residents while fostering transparency and accountability in local government. During his distinguished career, he has earned numerous accolades and awards through his service over the last 30 years.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Mr. Frank Babinec's invaluable contributions to the City of Coral Springs and his exemplary public service career. Frank's legacy in Coral Springs is one of compassion, strength, and deep commitment to serving others. I wish him all the best in his retirement.