Floor Statements

Mr. President, I rise to recognize the 80th anniversary of the National School Lunch Act. Eight decades after President Harry S. Truman signed the legislation into law, we celebrate a program that has nourished generations of American children and helped build a stronger, healthier, and more prosperous nation.

As a former public school board member, I have seen firsthand the powerful connection between nutrition and learning. Children who have access to healthy meals are better prepared to succeed in the classroom, participate in extracurricular activities, and reach their full potential. That simple truth has guided the program.

Arkansas is proud to be part of this success story. Every school day, school meal programs serve hundreds of thousands of Arkansas students, giving them access to the nutrition necessary to learn, grow, and thrive. These meals not only support academic achievement but also promote long-term health and well-being.

We have also worked to build on the success of the National School Lunch Act and extend nutrition support beyond the school year. The Hunger-Free Summer for Kids Act, signed into law in 2022, delivered the most significant modernization of summer feeding programs in more than 60 years. By permanently expanding noncongregate meal options, the law helps ensure that children in rural and underserved communities can continue receiving nutritious meals when school is out of session.

These efforts built on a long, bipartisan tradition of strengthening child nutrition programs, including support for school breakfast programs, summer meal initiatives, and policies that connect America's farmers, ranchers, and producers with the schools that serve our children every day.

The mission of the National School Lunch Act remains as important as ever. The program continues to nourish children in Arkansas and all across the country and invest in the future of our Nation.

Eighty years of feeding hungry students, supporting families, and creating opportunities for success is a record worth celebrating. I look forward to building on that legacy for generations to come.

Mr. President, I rise today to recognize the 150th anniversary of the city of Malvern, AR.

Located in central Arkansas, Malvern has built a proud heritage rooted in hard work, innovation, and community. Since its incorporation in 1876, generations of residents have helped shape a city known for its resilience, strong local economy, and commitment to preserving its unique character.

Established along the Cairo and Fulton Railroad, Malvern quickly emerged as a center for commerce, agriculture, and industry. Its designation as the Hot Spring County seat in 1878 further strengthened its importance to the region and helped lay the foundation for decades of growth.

The area's rich clay deposits made Malvern an ideal location for brick production. Following devastating downtown fires in 1896 and 1897, residents rebuilt with brick, helping establish an industry that would become closely associated with the community. The presence of Acme Brick Company further cemented Malvern's reputation as a manufacturing center and contributed an identity it proudly adopted as the ``Brick Capital of the World.''

Wartime needs spurred further industrial activity in the region in the 1940s, including extensive barium mining as well as the construction of an aluminum reduction factory and the Lake Catherine Steam Generating Plant within Hot Spring County. These industries, along with the presence of the Reynolds Metals Company, supported economic growth and helped draw in new residents and opportunities to the area.

Today, the community is home to Arkansas State University Three Rivers and the Ouachita River Whitewater Park, which invites visitors from across Arkansas and neighboring States. The area's many attractions also include the widely renowned Garvan Woodland Gardens, a botanical estate on Lake Hamilton developed by Malvern's Verna Garvan and bequeathed to the University of Arkansas Department of Landscape Architecture.

Congratulations to the entire community on this sesquicentennial celebration. The city's rich history and continued growth are a testament to the strength of its people and their commitment to building a bright future. I am pleased to recognize this milestone and join Arkansans in celebrating 150 years of achievement, service, and community in Malvern.

Mr. President, I rise today to honor and recognize the distinguished service of Cindy McCain, executive director of the World Food Programme.

Throughout her tenure at the World Food Programme, Cindy demonstrated strong, steady leadership during a period of rising global need. She worked to strengthen the organization by streamlining its structure, improving accountability, and expanding its ability to reach people facing dire gaps in access to lifesaving nutrition aid.

As chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee, I also want to recognize the important role that American agriculture plays in this mission. Food aid programs have a dual benefit of delivering surplus U.S. grown commodities to those in need. This supports American farmers at home while transforming lives abroad in some of the world's most desperate situations. With the help of Cindy's leadership, these programs have created tremendous good will toward the U.S. in recipient countries.

It was an honor to serve alongside her late husband John in the U.S. Senate as they both voiced the benefits of a robust American influence abroad to advance our own interests and help change the world. Their contributions left a lasting mark on the institution and shaped important policies while always demonstrating an unshakeable belief in our country.

I thank Cindy McCain for her commitment at the World Food Programme and wish her the very best as she focuses on her continued recovery. I am grateful for her service to strengthening food security around the world, and I am thankful for her continued friendship.

Mr. President, I have one request for a committee to meet during today's session of the Senate. It has the approval of the Majority and Minority Leaders.

Pursuant to rule XXVI, paragraph 5(a), of the Standing Rules of the Senate, the following committee is authorized to meet during today's session of the Senate:

Mr. President, I rise today to honor a dear friend and outstanding Arkansan, Randy Massanelli, as he concludes his service at the University of Arkansas and begins a well-earned retirement.

Randy's lifelong commitment to public service and the State of Arkansas is remarkable. Born and raised in Pine Bluff, he earned a bachelor of science in business administration from the University of Arkansas before serving with distinction in the U.S. Army. His military career included numerous stateside and overseas assignments, leadership of the Pershing II Nuclear Missile System in Europe and a combat tour in the Persian Gulf War. For his service, Randy received the Bronze Star Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal with two oakleaf clusters, and many other honors that reflect his dedication and courage.

Following his time in uniform, Randy continued to serve Arkansas and our Nation. He held leadership roles in the Arkansas attorney general's office and then as State director for former U.S. Senator Mark Pryor, helping shape meaningful State and Federal legislative accomplishments. In these roles, he demonstrated his ability to work with diverse stakeholders and achieve meaningful results for the flagship University of Arkansas institution in Fayetteville, as well as residents across the State.

Since 2014, Randy has served as vice chancellor for governmental and community relations at the University of Arkansas. In this role, he has been the university's chief liaison with local, State, and Federal officials, civic organizations, and private partners. His leadership has been instrumental in securing multimillion-dollar Federal research grants, increasing State support, and fostering relationships that have strengthened the university's mission and impact. Randy's insight, experience, and guidance have shaped policy, strategy, and partnerships that will benefit the university community for years to come.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Randy is a friend and upstanding Arkansan who has dedicated his career to our State's progress and opportunity. I have had the privilege of knowing him personally and witnessing his integrity, wisdom, and genuine care for the people and institutions he serves. The insights and warm hospitality he constantly delivered have been invaluable to me and countless others over the years.

As Randy steps into retirement, I join his family, colleagues, and all those whose lives he has touched in celebrating a career defined by service, leadership, and friendship. His legacy will continue through those he has mentored and the countless contributions he has made to our State and Nation.

On behalf of all Arkansans, I congratulate Randy on his success and wish him the best in his next chapter. Arkansas and our country are better because of his dedication and service.

Mr. President, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Central Arkansas Radiation Therapy Institute, or CARTI.

Since its founding on April 5, 1976, CARTI has grown from a radiation-focused practice into Arkansas' leading cancer care provider and a comprehensive, statewide network serving more than 60,000 patients each year. From its flagship CARTI Cancer Center in Little Rock to locations across the State, CARTI's physicians and care teams deliver advanced, multidisciplinary treatment options in a compassionate, patient-centered environment.

For over five decades, CARTI has remained steadfast in its mission to ensure all Arkansans have access to world-class cancer close to home. Through its statewide network of medical, surgical, radiation oncology, diagnostic radiology, and hematology/oncology services, CARTI treats all known forms of adult cancer and blood disorders. With board- certified doctors across multiple specialties, it has demonstrated a deep commitment to excellence and clinical expertise. CARTI's accreditation in advanced imaging and oncology services further underscores its leadership in delivering high-quality, innovative care.

Equally important is CARTI's recognition that cancer is a family disease. The organization actively engages patients and caregivers in every care plan and, through the CARTI Foundation's Patients Assistance Program, provides critical support services including housing, transportation, financial assistance, nutritional and emotional counseling, and survivorship programs for qualifying patients. As a not-for-profit institution governed by a community board, CARTI reinvests all resources back into its mission of expanding and improving cancer care for Arkansans.

As we mark this important milestone, we recognize not only CARTI's legacy of excellence, but also the thousands of Arkansans whose lives have been saved, extended, and improved through its care.

I am grateful for CARTI's vision and vital service to countless Arkansans and their families, and look forward to many more years of innovation, compassionate care, and hope.

Mr. President, I rise in opposition to amendment No. 4798. I appreciate the concerns of my colleague from New Mexico regarding grocery costs and recent changes to the SNAP program. Working Families Tax Cut took a practical approach to reduce SNAP by reducing waste, enhancing accountability, and encouraging recipients to move toward self-reliance through work and training.

This amendment is not germane to the budget resolution in violation of the Congressional Budget Act.

I, therefore, raise a point of order against the amendment under section 305(b)(2) of the Congressional Budget Act.

Mr. President, I rise in opposition to amendment No. 4884. I appreciate my colleague, and I share her support for school meals programs. This issue is within the jurisdiction of the Senate Agriculture Committee, of which I am chair. I am eager for the Agriculture Committee to turn to the child nutrition reauthorization. It is prudent that we work together to examine and strengthen our school meals programs so they are targeted to those most in genuine need.

This amendment is not germane to the budget resolution in violation of the Congressional Budget Act. Under the provisions of section 305(b)(2) of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974, I raise a point of order that the amendment offered is not germane.

Mr. President, I rise today to recognize an outstanding Arkansan, DuShun L. Scarbrough, Sr., who recently received two distinguished national honors that reflect his unwavering commitment to service, leadership, and community empowerment.

We were tremendously proud to learn Scarbrough had earned the 2026 Beloved Community Civic Leadership Award by The King Center, a nonprofit steward of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s legacy led by Dr. Bernice A. King. This accolade honors individuals whose work reflects a deep commitment to advancing justice, fostering unity, and serving others in the footsteps of MLK Jr.

Also this year, he became only the second Arkansan to receive the Freedom Flame Award from the organizers of the Selma Bridge Crossing Jubilee, an annual event that commemorates the legacy of the Selma to Montgomery voting rights marches. This distinction celebrates leaders who carry forward the enduring spirit of courage, sacrifice, and meaningful social change.

These recognitions are a testament to Scarbrough's lifelong dedication to uplifting others. Raised in Little Rock by his grandmother and aunts, he chose a path of purpose and perseverance, becoming a positive force in his community and an advocate for opportunity and inclusion. He graduated from Philander Smith College and pursued further education before returning to Arkansas, yet has remained steadfast in advancing the ideals championed by Dr. King while ensuring that personal, professional, and civic opportunity remain accessible to all people, regardless of race, creed, color, or background.

Scarbrough's service as the executive director of the Arkansas Martin Luther King Jr. Commission has consistently reflected his belief in this mission and a dedication to uplift and invest in his community, as well as our entire State. His efforts have activated others, encouraged new ideas and inspired the next generation to make a lasting impact. In fact, thanks to his vision and guidance, The Natural State now hosts the largest service day nationwide in honor of the life of MLK Jr.

Scarbrough follows in the footsteps of exceptional Arkansans, including Dr. Maya Angelou, whose legacies are hallmarks of progress and positive leadership that shape countless lives.

DuShun Scarbrough, Sr.'s story is one of resilience, faith, and determination. His message is simple but powerful: work hard, stay focused, and do not be afraid to create new paths where none exist. I commend all his extraordinary achievements and the example he sets. Arkansas is proud of his many contributions, and our Nation is stronger because of his service.

Mr. President, I rise today to congratulate and recognize LaQuita Norris of Benton on being named the 2026 Arkansas Small Business Person of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration.

As the founder and CEO of Gateway Family Therapy and Wellness, Norris has distinguished herself as an entrepreneur and community leader. For more than 13 years, she has built a thriving career while positively impacting thousands of individuals and families across Arkansas. As a certified social worker, clinical trauma professional, and grief educator, she brings both expertise and compassion to her professional mission of helping heal others.

Recognizing a critical need for accessible trauma treatment resources, Norris founded Gateway Family Therapy and Wellness in 2014. Guided by her vision of a whole-person approach to care, she established a practice that serves adults, children, couples and families navigating trauma, post-traumatic stress disorders, grief, and other mental and behavioral health challenges.

To bring this vision to life, Norris partnered with the Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center, which assisted her in developing a comprehensive business plan. With this support, she secured a Small Business Administration line of credit that allowed her to expand from a 400-square-foot office into a 10,000-square-foot multidisciplinary wellness facility. Today, her practice offers a wide range of services--including therapy, massage, yoga, and life coaching--allowing her team to reach more clients and provide holistic, integrated care.

Beyond her clinical work, Norris continues to extend her impact as a speaker, author, and consultant, further advancing awareness and understanding of trauma-informed care. Her leadership and commitment exemplify the vital role small businesses play in strengthening our communities.

This recognition is a testament to Norris' unwavering dedication to improving the well-being of others and to the positive difference she has made in the lives of so many Arkansans. On behalf of all Arkansans, I congratulate LaQuita Norris on this well-deserved honor and wish her continued success in the years ahead.

Mr. President, I rise today to recognize and commend the distinguished individuals selected for induction into the Arkansas Agriculture Hall of Fame Class XXXVIII.

Agriculture is the backbone of Arkansas' economy and a defining part of our State's heritage. Since the Hall of Fame's founding in 1987, nearly 200 men and women have been honored for their extraordinary contributions to The Natural State's largest industry and the communities it sustains. In addition, their achievements extend not only to Arkansas, but throughout the country. This year's inductees exemplify the innovation, stewardship, and leadership that continue to strengthen agriculture in our State and beyond.

The 2026 inductees reflect excellence across a broad range of agricultural sectors, including soybeans, rice, cotton, cattle, and forestry, as well as public service at the State and national levels.

Jim Carroll III of Moro is a fourth-generation farmer whose leadership has helped expand global markets, advance research, and promote sustainable production for soybean growers nationwide. Through service on local and national boards, including as chair of the U.S. Soybean Board, he has played a key role in strengthening Arkansas' soybean industry while advocating for infrastructure improvements that protect valuable farmland in the Delta.

Joe Fox of Fayetteville has dedicated more than five decades to forestry, conservation, and wood products, helping balance economic growth and environmental stewardship. He led the effort to bring together industry, nonprofit, and government partners to establish Arkansas' largest conservation easement, and his service as Arkansas State Forester and president of the National Association of State Foresters speaks to the lasting extent of his impact.

Allen B. Helms, Jr., of Clarkedale has provided decades of leadership in cotton, soybeans, and ginning, shaping agricultural policy and innovation far beyond east Arkansas. A longtime leader in State and national agricultural organizations, his work has strengthened farm safety, efficiency, and competitiveness for producers across the country. He expertly championed the long-term viability of the cotton industry while supporting the farmers who sustain it.

The Honorable Blanche Lincoln, a native of Helena, devoted her career in public service to advancing the interests of Arkansas farmers and rural communities. As the first Arkansan and first woman to chair the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, she played a pivotal role in the passage and implementation of the 2008 farm bill and worked to preserve a strong safety net, expand conservation programs, and support critical irrigation projects in our state.

John Paul Pendergrass of Charleston represents six generations of Arkansas cattle producers. Under his management, Pendergrass Cattle Company has grown into one of the State's leading stocker and feeder operations, providing economic opportunity for small producers and contributing significantly to rural communities. He has also engaged in national conversations on global food security while continuing a long tradition of stewardship and innovation in Arkansas agriculture.

The late Benny Petrus of Stuttgart lived a life in service to agriculture, entrepreneurship, and public service in Arkansas County. Through the business he built and operated and his service in the Arkansas House of Representatives, he advocated innovation, conservation, and economic opportunity while working to strengthen rural communities and support the next generation of agricultural leaders.

These six individuals embody the values that define Arkansas agriculture: hard work, stewardship of the land, service to others, and a deep commitment to their communities. It is fitting that they be recognized by the Arkansas Agriculture Hall of Fame, and I extend my congratulations to each inductee and their families.

Mr. President, I rise today to honor and recognize the distinguished service of Kent Eikenberry, president and chief executive officer of the Northwest Arkansas Food Bank, upon his retirement after a decade of exemplary leadership.

Kent has been a driving force behind the food bank's mission to fight hunger and food insecurity throughout Arkansas. Under his guidance, the organization strengthened partnerships with local farmers, businesses, faith communities, and volunteers, expanding its reach and improving its ability to deliver nutritious food to those in need. His steady hand and thoughtful vision helped the food bank grow into a cornerstone of support for families facing difficult times.

Arkansas is stronger because of Kent's service. His example reminds us of the difference one individual can make in a community. As he begins a well-earned retirement, the impact of his leadership will endure for years to come in the lives of those he helped and his tireless effort to grow the food bank.

I am grateful for Kent's friendship and dedication to advocating for greater food security. On behalf of all Arkansans, I extend my deepest gratitude to Kent Eikenberry and his wife Diana for their lasting contributions and wish their family every happiness in the years ahead.

Mr. President, I rise today to honor and recognize the distinguished career of Mary Hightower, chief communications officer for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, upon her retirement after 23 years of exemplary service.

Mary's tenure with the division of agriculture has been marked by a tireless dedication to connecting the public with the vital research and extension work carried out across Arkansas. Her passion and skill for telling the stories of agriculture in the Natural State created a better understanding of the ongoing, critical work in support of our State's producers.

She was an integral force in elevating the organization's messaging efforts, strengthening the visibility and impact of both the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station and the Cooperative Extension Service through innovative storytelling, strategic outreach, and a deep commitment to the land-grant mission.

Her leadership transformed the division of ag's communications team, expanded its media reach, and brought

local agricultural expertise to the national stage. Mary's work has informed the public about scientific advances and community initiatives while also inspiring her colleagues and young communicators to pursue excellence in agricultural communication.

Throughout her career, Mary has been recognized with numerous awards for her outstanding contributions to journalism and communications, and her lasting influence on the industry and the division of agriculture will continue to be felt for years to come.

As she begins this next chapter of her life, I join Mary's family, friends, and colleagues in thanking her for her service to Arkansas and to the agricultural community. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Mary Hightower on her remarkable career and in wishing her all the best in her retirement.

Mr. President, I rise today to recognize Master Sergeant Promotable Amanda Osborne for her dedicated service to the United States Air Force and the Senate as a legislative defense fellow. Since joining my office in January 2025, she has been a trusted adviser on matters relating to national security and veterans affairs.

Amanda enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in July 2008. Over the course of her distinguished career, she has held leadership positions at the wing, headquarters, and secretariat levels and performed highly sensitive duties in coordination with senior leaders across the White House, the Office of the Secretary of Defense, and the Department of the Air Force. Additionally, she deployed to Southwest Asia in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. Her exceptional service has resulted in numerous citations, including the Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, and multiple Air and Space Commendation and Achievement Medals.

Her experience as executive assistant to then Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall has provided a unique and valuable perspective to her work in my office, particularly in discussions with senior leaders and in planning for appropriations. Amanda has also diligently worked to strengthen engagement between Senate and Air Force leadership, leading the Senate Air Force Caucus through various programming that included planning an official staff visit to Florida.

This has been a unique year in Congress; yet Amanda has demonstrated her ability to navigate a challenging legislative session while contributing to key defense policy decisions. Her professionalism, knowledge, and judgment have ensured that our office was well-equipped to meet these challenges.

I am especially grateful for Amanda's service to the people of Arkansas. She has actively engaged with our servicemembers, veterans, and their families, providing invaluable support for their needs and priorities.

I also want to recognize her husband Mr. Matthew Osborne, and her children Gracie and Brantley for their support during her time in uniform. Having grown up in an Air Force family myself, I understand that military service is a family affair, made possible by their sacrifice and encouragement.

I am proud to have had someone like Amanda on my staff who approaches every task with discipline and a steady hand. She will always be welcome in my office, and as she prepares for her upcoming promotion to senior master sergeant, we are thankful for her continued service to the U.S. Air Force and for her contributions to my office. I congratulate Amanda on a remarkable tenure of service and wish her and her family all the best as she moves forward.

Mr. President, I rise today to honor Jared and Cathren Smith, who have been named the 2025 Arkansas Farm Family of the Year.

Since 1947, the Arkansas Farm Bureau's Arkansas Farm Family of the Year program has recognized outstanding farm families for their contributions to the industry and their communities. This award reflects the Smith family's 17 years of dedication to farming and their important role in Arkansas' leading industry.

The Smiths operate a 250-acre farm in Howard County that includes eight poultry houses and a cow-calf operation. They are joined by their children Cooper and Clara, who are learning the value of agriculture through hands-on work and participation in FFA.

Committed to producing affordable, abundant, and safe food, the Smiths help feed families in Arkansas and across the world.

As Arkansas Farm Family of the Year, the Smiths will be competing with the winners from nine other States to vie for the Sunbelt Ag Expo Southeastern Farmer of the Year program. I applaud their hard work and join all Arkansans in wishing Jared and Cathren the best of luck as they represent the Natural State.

Congratulations to Jared, Cathren, Cooper, and Clara on this well- deserved recognition. I wish them continued success and look forward to their future contributions to Arkansas agriculture.

Mr. President, I rise today to honor and congratulate Aline Andres, Ph.D., R.D., CLC, on her election to the National Academy of Medicine, one of the most prestigious distinctions in health and medicine. This recognition reflects not only Dr. Andres' remarkable professional achievements, but also her deep commitment to improving the health and well-being of mothers and children in Arkansas and beyond.

Dr. Andres serves as professor and section chief of developmental nutrition within the department of pediatrics at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and a project Leader for the Arkansas Children's Nutrition Center in Little Rock. Her work has placed Arkansas at the forefront of critical research into maternal and child health.

She is internationally regarded for her leadership understanding how exposures during pregnancy and lactation can influence outcomes. Through rigorously conducted randomized controlled trials of diet and lifestyle interventions in pregnant and lactating women, Dr. Andres has helped establish causal relationships that shape pregnancy outcomes, breast milk composition, and the programming of metabolic health in children. Her contributions are improving care, informing policy, and guiding future scientific discovery.

Beyond her research accomplishments, Dr. Andres is known for mentoring the next generation of scholars and health professionals. She brings exceptional thought and integrity to her work, ensuring her students and colleagues are equipped not only with technical expertise but also with the compassion essential for serving families. Her influence extends well beyond Arkansas as she collaborates with national and international partners who rely on her expertise.

Dr. Andres' election to the National Academy of Medicine is a testament to her extraordinary contributions and her unwavering dedication to advancing maternal and child health. Her achievements are a source of tremendous pride to UAMS, the Arkansas Children's Nutrition Center, and our entire State. We are pleased to celebrate her on this distinguished honor and her continued service to families and communities across the Nation.