Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, I am grateful to recognize the 2022 Army Congressional Fellow, Master Sergeant John Gardner, for his service to the Second District of South Carolina.

His yearlong service with the office is ending, and John will be missed. Not only has he been an indispensable coordinator and contributor to legislative goals, including the National Defense Authorization Act, but also a valued team player.

Including a combat tour on the front line as an infantry medic in Iraq, John has held many leadership assignments throughout his 20-year decorated career in the Army, including most recently in the Defense Attache Office of the American Embassy in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

John hails from Houston, Texas. He has a master's degree from Colorado State and holds two graduate degrees. His next assignment is in the Pentagon, where John will be a valued participant in peace through strength.

In conclusion, God bless our troops who successfully protected America for 20 years as the global war on terrorism continues moving from the Afghanistan safe haven to America.

Godspeed, Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

Madam Speaker, Americans are experiencing inflation at 40-year highs, with families in South Carolina paying over 14 percent more in the last year.

Under Biden, inflation has outpaced worker wages for 18 months in a row and will cost the average American household over $8,000 annually, which is a loss of a month of income.

A trip to the grocery store costs families 12 percent more from last year. Eggs are up 43 percent, flour up 25 percent, milk up 15 percent.

The Congressional Budget Office reports the irresponsible inflation expansion act will increase the deficit through 2026 and cost working families an additional $60 billion, destroying jobs.

Our country is in crisis, and Americans need relief, which is why voters have achieved a House Republican majority. Republicans will fight Bidenflation undermining American families.

Congratulations, Speaker-to-be Kevin McCarthy.

In conclusion, God bless our troops who successfully protected America for 20 years as the global war on terrorism continues moving from the Afghanistan safe haven to America.

Madam Speaker, in February, war criminal Putin launched his illegal invasion of sovereign Ukraine.

His cowardly acts have resulted in the murder of thousands of Ukrainian citizens, the torture of countless others, and the destruction of civilian infrastructure. Putin sacrifices young Russians for his personal gain of oil, money, and power.

The world witnesses the daily atrocities of war criminal Putin and continues to be shocked. Congress has provided bipartisan support for President Vladimir Zelenskyy and the Ukrainian people through sanctions against Putin and his corrupt cronies.

A recent Wall Street Journal poll is significant and shows the majority of Americans continue their compassionate desire to assist the heroic people of Ukraine in victory.

America must not waver in support of victory for Ukraine over war criminal Putin and thus also help deter other would-be global invaders, such as the Chinese Communist Party against Taiwan and Iran against Israel with ICBMs against America.

In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. Speaker, Biden and House Democrats inherited a strong economy from President Donald Trump that worked for American families.

Unfortunately, under a Federal Government controlled by Democrats, inflation is at a 40-year high, illegal aliens are crossing the southern border at record numbers, and strategic oil reserves are at the lowest level since 1984, just to name a few of the serious challenges facing the country.

Now, through the democratic process, voters supported a Republican majority led by Kevin McCarthy to the House of Representatives which will promote positive change.

House Republicans will immediately produce legislation reflecting the commitment to America. Republicans are focused on: a Nation that is safe; an economy that is strong; a future built on freedom; a government accountable to the people.

In conclusion, God bless our troops. We will never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Congratulations, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel.

Madam Speaker, I am honored to recognize the South Carolina Blythewood Minors baseball team for their win of both the state AAA baseball youth championship and the Dixie Youth World Series.

For the first time in nearly 50 years, a South Carolina Blythewood Youth Baseball team won the World Series title with a 10-3 win over Alabama. This is an incredible victory for not just the thirteen players, Head Coach Marshall Dinkins, and Assistant Coaches, Matt O'Donnell, Justin Blackwelder, and Fred Cruz, but also for their families and the entire Blythewood community who have supported them all along. Throughout their sixteen-game stretch, the team and coaches worked hard in preparing for this big championship.

Since the age of seven, this was a dream for many of the players to one day achieve this impressive title. The win was especially meaningful for Coach Dinkins, as he played in the league himself a few decades ago.

Founded in the mid-1970s, the Blythewood Youth Baseball and Softball League has unified the community. Beginning with the building of the original baseball field, the team continues to bring families together weekly to cheer on the young players. This kind of abundant support exists throughout the Blythewood community, and I know they could not be more excited about the title earned by their team.

This first-time victory of the Dixie Youth World Series by the Blythewood team is well-deserved, and I congratulate the team, coaches, families, and community for all their hard work, making the kids' dream come true.

Madam Speaker, an August NBC News poll revealed that fifty-eight percent of Americans believe the country is headed in the wrong direction.

Already at a forty-year high, inflation has surged thirteen percent since Biden took office, while wages have risen only eight percent over the same period. Under Biden, inflation has outpaced wages for workers for seventeen months in a row, causing families to pay more for everyday goods and services.

New economic figures show that inflation and high interest rates have cost the average American over four thousand dollars in annual income, according to a Heritage Foundation expert.

Eggs are up forty percent. Gas is up twenty-six percent. Milk is up seventeen percent. Bread is up sixteen percent, and the list goes on. Families are suffering and jobs are being destroyed.

Bidenflation prices are unsustainable for families.

God Bless our troops, who successfully protected America for 20 years, as the Global War on Terrorism moves from a safe haven in Afghanistan to America. Never forget 9-11.

Madam Speaker, I am honored to recognize the 100th Anniversary of Columbia International University.

Since its founding in 1923 as the Columbia Bible School, the University has been providing students in South Carolina and across the world with an outstanding Christian education. Originating from humble beginnings, the school has grown astronomically, and is consistently ranked as a top `Southern Regional University,' `Best Value University,' and for `Social Mobility' in the South by U.S. News & World Report. The University also received a 2022 accolade of `A Best College for Veterans in the South' from the same publication.

Columbia International University is committed to veterans and participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program, the Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance Program, and Veteran Readiness and Employment. Numerous educational benefits are provided by the school as well.

As a Veteran myself with four sons who have served overseas, and as a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee, I am proud my community is home to a university dedicated to our veterans.

One hundred years ago, Columbia International University was founded by a group of prayerful Christian women and led by first president, Robert C. McQuilkin, who dreamed of establishing a local Bible school. Their dream was not only realized, but then flourished into an accomplished university, evangelizing our community and nations with their 24,000 alumni.

I am proud of the positive impact Columbia International University has made globally and join them in celebrating their 100th Anniversary.

Madam Speaker, as the Ranking Member of the Foreign Affairs Middle East Subcommittee, it is a pleasure to recognize A Century of United States and Israel Ties.

One hundred years ago, Senator Henry Cabot Lodge (R-MA) and Representative Hamilton Fish (R-NY) pushed a joint resolution through Congress for the United States to officially acknowledge their support for a Jewish homeland. The House and Senate vote was unanimous, and in September 1922, President Warren G. Harding signed the Resolution.

Israel is a great friend, ally, and partner to the United States in our shared commitment to democracy, economic development, and regional security. The U.S.-Israel bond is unique, as it is the foundation of American leadership in the Middle East. In 1948, America was the first country to recognize Israel as a state and in 2018, America established an embassy in Jerusalem. I was grateful to lead the House Delegation for the Embassy opening fulfilling the courageous promise of President Donald Trump.

A highlight of my service in Congress was when my wife Roxanne and I met with former Prime Minister Netanyahu in Jerusalem and Washington. Mr. Netanyahu significantly contributed to the strengthening of Israeli security, transitioning it into an economic force, respected internationally. I know firsthand of his extraordinary dedication to the people of Israel. The Israeli people have demonstrated resiliency, overcoming numerous challenges and enduring the threat of terrorism, while continuing to remain confident in the future of their country. They continue to lead the way in critical sectors of healthcare, information technology, and defense.

I grew up with an appreciation of the Jewish faith in Charleston, South Carolina, where at the time of the American Revolution was home of the largest Jewish population in the New World. The provincial constitution of South Carolina was the first constitution to recognize Judaism as a religion. The first Jewish elected official in America was to the South Carolina Provincial Assembly, and sadly it was home of the first Jewish American killed in the Revolution.

The people of Israel, and Prime Minister Yair Lapid, know they have a true ally in America. I continue to work toward the normalization of our Arab partners and Israel relations to achieve a more stable, peaceful, and prosperous Middle East in which all people and religions can coexist and prosper. I am grateful for the dedicated service of Ambassador to the U.S., Michael Herzog.

Madam Speaker, last week, Vice President Harris bizarrely said the southern border is secure. The reality is more threatening and absurd.

Since Biden took office, over 3 million illegal aliens have crossed. In August alone, there were over 200,000 illegal alien encounters. This is three times the illegal crossings compared to

the last August when Donald Trump was President.

Dangerously, there are 66 trained murderers from the terrorist watch list that have crossed. Separately, half a million illegal aliens have invaded in the last year, admitted the Department of Homeland Security.

Biden and the Democrats are responsible for a national security crisis due to the open border, with American families at a greater risk of murderous attacks than ever before.

In conclusion, we will not forget 9/11. God bless our troops who successfully protected America for 20 years as the global war on terrorism continues, moving from a safe haven in Afghanistan to America. God bless Ukrainian victory.

Madam Speaker, as a Ranking Member of the Foreign Affairs Committee, I am grateful to recognize the Centennial of Egypt and the United States with diplomatic relations.

Egypt is a friend, an ally, and an important economic and regional security partner of the United States. Over the past 100 years, Egypt has been a strategic partner in advancing peace in the Middle East and the Eastern Mediterranean.

Trade ties between America and Egypt have grown rapidly over the years. In 2021, the

United States was Egypt's second largest trading partner and our largest export market in Africa, with a total bilateral trade volume standing at 9.1 billion dollars. Egyptian investment in innovation and commitment to economic prosperity has led to important development in oil and gas exploration and production, as well as renewable energy technologies and production. It is significant Egypt's newest satellite, Nilesat 301, successfully launched a Space X Launcher from the Space Force station in Cape Canaveral, Florida, initiating greater progress in space technologies.

Last week I had the pleasure of attending the Embassy of Egypt's 100 Year Diplomatic Relations Reception at the Library of Congress hosted by Ambassador Motaz Zahran. Ambassador Zahran is highly respected in Washington with Deputy Chief of Mission Abdelrahman Raafat and Counselor Ahmed Abu Moussa. It was an honor to join them in celebrating the Centennial of Egypt and the United States diplomatic relations, and I look forward to continuing the advancement of our partnership.

I am thankful the United States and Egypt remain close allies for mutual benefit, and I would like to again recognize this years' Centennial of our partnership.

Madam Speaker, American families are paying the highest electricity prices in over 40 years with a 16 percent increase from a year ago. Additionally, natural gas prices to heat homes are up 30 percent as winter nears due to the extremist Biden energy failing policies.

According to a HelpAdvisor survey in the last year, a quarter of Americans reduced food and medicine so they could pay the energy bill. Unfortunately, one in six people, more than 20 million households, are behind on utility bills and in danger of losing utility services. The Energy Information Administration anticipates an additional increase this year.

The policies of Biden and Democrats are responsible for high utility costs and destroying jobs.

In conclusion, God bless our troops, who successfully protected America for 20 years, as the global war on terrorism continues moving from a safe haven in Afghanistan to America. With the open Biden border for terrorists, American families today are at a greater risk of mass murder than ever before.

Mr. Speaker, inflation has outpaced workers' wages for 17 months in a row under Biden. This has cost the average American worker over $3,000 in lost income with the price of everyday costs, such as gas, utility bills, and food, reducing pocketbooks of families.

Food costs alone are up over 11 percent, the largest 1-year increase in prices in 43 years. More specifically, a trip to the grocery store will feature cost increases such as: Flour up 23 percent; roasted coffee up 19 percent; lunch meats up 18 percent; milk up 17 percent.

According to a new Fox poll, the inflation is the largest issue facing Americans voters, along with murderous crime, preferring Republicans to handle these issues. Biden inflation is a tax on all Americans.

In conclusion, God bless our troops, who successfully protected America for 20 years as the global war on terrorism continues moving from a safe haven in Afghanistan to America.

Happy birthday, Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina.

Madam Speaker, today I recognize the 150th Anniversary of the Sinclair Lodge No. 154 of Ancient Free Masons in West Columbia, South Carolina.

The Sinclair Lodge was organized on November 1, 1869, with 20 members, and through continued growth still maintains true to the vision statement of being men of faith, morality, and perseverance.

The Sinclair Lodge exemplifies greatness, taking good men and teaching them to be better men. The organization also demonstrates outstanding generosity through their support of various charities. Among these include academic scholarships to local high schools and even the Special Olympics of South Carolina.

Surely this community in which it resides greatly benefits from the charitable actions of the Sinclair Lodge, led by the Worshipful Master Logan Roush.

I am humbled to accept the 40 Year Service Award from the Sinclair Lodge and am grateful for the impact it continues to make in the lives of its members and those with whom they interact in this great state of South Carolina.

Madam Speaker, as co-chair of the U.K. Caucus of the U.S. Congress, I am grateful to recognize Queen Elizabeth II for her dedication and decades-long era of service to the people of the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth, and the Realms.

On September 8, 2022, after 70 years of service to the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth realms, the beloved Queen Elizabeth II died at Balmoral Castle in Scotland, the home she cherished. Queen Elizabeth reigned with dignity and elegance, leading unparalleled human progress, and winning over the hearts of many around the world. During her reign, she endured as a symbol of stability and strength as the monarchy faced constant political, cultural, and social change. The spirit of her steadfast leadership and devotion to the cause of freedom will remain with us all.

During Queen Elizabeth's seven decades of service, she worked with 15 prime ministers, from Churchill to Truss, and 14 American presidents, from Truman to Biden. She welcomed her responsibility to not just represent her country with grace and poise, but to also play a constitutional role in government decisions, meeting with prime ministers weekly in private audiences. She also valued maintaining a connection with her people. This included making radio broadcasts, establishing a social media presence, introducing the Commonwealth games, sponsoring 3,000 charities across the globe, and hosting her much adored Jubilees.

The civilized have benefitted incredibly with British cultural and government influences. I have experienced firsthand from an appreciation in America, to Ghana, to Hong Kong, to the Caribbean islands of St. Vincent, Barbados, British Virgin Islands, to Bermuda, freedom and democracy have been enhanced.

I especially appreciate that I grew up in the most British city of North America--Charleston, South Carolina. Founded in 1670, surviving the American Revolution and Civil War, until unintended mothballing by poverty for a century to be revived in the 1960's with restoration of the elegant homes of the 1700's.

Shortly after the Queen's passing, a double rainbow appeared over Buckingham Palace as thousands of members of the public gathered around to pay their respects. Not long after, a rainbow also appeared above Windsor Castle and Balmoral. This was a wonderous occurrence, as thousands of people, looking up at the sky, reflected on the Queen who served them so wonderfully for most of their lives. As Winston Churchill once stated, ``All the film people in the world, if they had scoured the globe, could not have found anyone so suited to the part.'' I offer my sincerest condolences to friends in the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth, and across the world, on the passing of Queen Elizabeth

Mr. Speaker, inflation is at the highest in over 40 years. Yet, by passing the inflation expansion act, Biden and the Democrats are further plunging American families into debt and destroying jobs.

Signed into law by President Biden, the Congressional Budget Office reports this bill will increase the deficit through 2026 and cost working families an additional $60 billion.

Families are paying 14 percent more at the grocery store, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics--the largest 1-year jump since 1979. Eggs are up 40 percent. Milk is up 17 percent. Bread is up 16 percent.

Since Biden took office, inflation has surged 13 percent, while wages have only risen 8 percent over the same period. The inflation crisis has cost the average American worker over $3,000 in annual income.

Bidenflation is a tax on all Americans.

In conclusion, God bless our troops who successfully protected America for 20 years as the global war on terrorism moves from a safe haven in Afghanistan to America.

God bless victory for Ukraine.