Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. Foster for bringing us together to talk about this profoundly important situation.

We stand here today on a precipice. In less than a month, the New START treaty, the last remaining major arms control agreement between the Soviet Union, or Russia, and the United States, is set to expire.

If we allow this treaty to lapse without a replacement, then we will be entering a world we haven't seen in decades, a world without limits on the nuclear arsenals of the two largest nuclear powers: Russia and the United States. We will be stripping away the last guardrail preventing a catastrophic return to the unchecked nuclear buildup of the Cold War.

In 1985, President Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev declared a profound truth: A nuclear war cannot be won and must never be fought. That principle has been the bedrock of global security for nearly 40 years. It led us and Russia to eliminate nuclear testing, to shrink bloated stockpiles, and to prioritize communication over conflict.

Yet today we are close to forgetting that profound blessing. Instead of prioritizing deescalation, we see a resurgence of the same Cold War mindset that once pushed us to the brink of annihilation. We see hawkish perspectives pushing the U.S., Russia, and now China to a new, three-way nuclear arms race.

Proponents tell us that this buildup will make us more safe and that more is better. They tell us that pouring trillions of dollars into a nuclear modernization is the only way to be safe, but nothing-- nothing--could be further from the truth.

Without nuclear arms control agreements like the New START, every new weapon we build only fuels an unwinnable arms race as our adversaries respond in kind. We build. They build. We build. They build. And the cost of this race is staggering.

Let me give you one example, Mr. Speaker: The Sentinel program aims to replace the Minuteman III ICBMs. This single program has already ballooned to cost over $200 billion, an 81 percent cost overrun. We are spending blindly. We are on remote control: more bombs, more, more, and we will be safe.

That is nonsense, just nonsense. We will not be safer.

Instead of doing the hard work of diplomacy, we are being asked to plow billions of taxpayer dollars into a dangerous fantasy: the so- called Golden Dome, a missile defense system. We will be safe. We will build more bombs, and we will stop their bombs.

We are told the system would cost only $175 billion and it will provide the perfect shield. However, a recent working paper showed that this system that actually attempts to defend against the full range of Russia and China will cost as much as $3.6 trillion, a multitrillion- dollar gap between rhetoric and reality.

So what do we get for that price?

The same report concludes that with this unlimited spending, such a system will still fail to be 100 percent effective.

Are we prepared to spend trillions of dollars on a shield that cannot be 100 percent effective?

Oh, well, only if one or two bombs get through, forget about New York and forget about Washington, D.C. After all, who needs Washington,

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an outstanding officer and strategic leader in our United States Air Force.

Lieutenant Colonel Michael W. Knapp distinguished himself through exceptional professional character and dedication by serving this Nation in uniform. For the past two years, Lieutenant Colonel Knapp served admirably as the Deputy Director of Congressional Affairs for U.S. Transportation Command. In this role, he was the principal liaison for Members of Congress and the Commander of the U.S. Transportation Command. Here, he fostered positive relationships between the Congress and the command and conveyed information critical to Congressional oversight, policy development, and appropriations.

Lieutenant Colonel Knapp graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy and serves as a senior pilot with over three thousand one hundred flight hours as a combat pilot for the C-17A Globemaster III and as a Vice Presidential pilot on C-32A aircraft. Prior to his assignment at U.S. Transportation Command, he served as Defense Legislative Fellow to Senator Tammy Duckworth, where he advised on defense, foreign relations, and veterans' affairs legislation.

As Deputy Director of Congressional Affairs for U.S. Transportation Command, Lieutenant Colonel Knapp scheduled eighty-three office calls between the Commander and Members of Congress. These meetings addressed contested logistics and readiness concerns and fortified posture testimony during Senate and House Armed Services Committee hearings. He also organized the Deputy Commander's annual Hill engagements, educating nearly one hundred staffers on the Mobility Capabilities Study, directly influencing critical report language for aeromedical evacuation requirements. Finally, he developed the command's appropriations engagement strategy thereby protecting $2.8 million dollars for Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation funds for maritime logistics platforms.

Of particular note for my district, Lieutenant Colonel Knapp led a four-day congressional staff delegation to California showcasing Ready Reserve Force vessels and joint mobility assets throughout the district, thus bolstering support for maritime equities, surface transportation needs, and air mobility requirements that align perfectly with the Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee's priorities. This engagement provided Congress critical insights and directly influenced the debate for recapitalizing the Ready Reserve Force in the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act.

Mr. Speaker, next month Lieutenant Colonel Knapp will assume duties in my district at Travis Air Force Base, California, as the Director of Operations of the 821st Contingency Response Squadron, where he will once again lead Airmen on the tactical and operational levels. It has been a great pleasure to work with Lieutenant Colonel Knapp during his time representing U.S. Transportation Commands on Capitol Hill. His dedication to the Nation's maritime and air mobility infrastructure, combined with his deep understanding of strategic mobility challenges, made him an invaluable partner in advancing our national defense transportation priorities. On behalf of our grateful Nation, it is my honor to recognize the selfless service and sacrifice of Lieutenant Colonel Knapp and his family for the past sixteen years. I wish them the very best as they continue their journey in our U.S. Air Force, and I look forward to welcoming them to California's 8th Congressional District.

Together, we deliver.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the extraordinary life and legacy of Betty Reid Soskin, a trailblazer, public servant, and living witness to American history who used her 104 years of her life to the fullest.

Born in 1921, lived in the East Bay since 1927, when her family moved from New Orleans. She lived a life defined by courage, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to truth and justice. She experienced firsthand the hardships of segregation, the challenges of wartime America, and the long struggle for civil rights, yet she transformed those experiences into a lifetime of public service and education.

As a young woman during World War II, Betty worked as a shipyard clerk for an all-Black auxiliary lodge of the segregated Boilermaker's union. In 1945 she and her husband founded one of the first Black-owned music stores, which remained open until 2019.

Ms. Soskin made history as the oldest active National Park Service ranger, serving at the Rosie the Riveter/World War II Home Front National Historical Park in Richmond, California. Through her work, she ensured that the stories of women, people of color, and working families who are often omitted from traditional historical narratives were finally heard and preserved. Her storytelling gave voice to generations whose contributions shaped our Nation but were too often overlooked.

Beyond her federal service, Betty Reid Soskin has worked as staff to a Berkeley city council member, a state Assemblywoman, and a California State Senator. As well as a respected civil rights activist, author, educator, and community leader. Her life reminded us that history is not only something we study it is something we live, challenge, and improve.

Even after surviving serious injury late in life, Ms. Soskin continued to inspire with her determination, grace, and clarity of purpose. She taught us that patriotism includes honesty, that progress requires persistence, and that every generation has a responsibility to expand opportunity and justice.

Betty Reid Soskin leaves behind an enduring legacy of service, truth- telling, and hope. Her life stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of ensuring that America's full story is told. I extend my deepest condolences to her family, loved ones, and all those whose lives were touched by her remarkable spirit. Her impact will be felt for generations, and I know the people of Contra Costa County, and our Nation will join me in celebrating her life and legacy. May we honor her memory by continuing the work she so passionately advanced and by striving, as she did, to build a more just and inclusive Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my deep appreciation for Major Justin Smith of the United States Air Force, who has served with distinction as a Department of Defense Legislative Fellow in my office since January 2025. Major Smith has brought invaluable insight, expertise, and dedication that have greatly contributed to the success of our work.

His background and experience directly informed my efforts as Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness, where we addressed critical issues related to the preparedness of our Nation's military forces. His professionalism, knowledge, and judgment consistently strengthened our understanding of these complex challenges.

Whether preparing for hearings before the House Armed Services Committee, drafting legislative proposals, or conducting in-depth research, Major Smith could always be relied upon to deliver work of the highest caliber. He authored key provisions that were ultimately adopted into the National Defense Authorization Act, ensuring that priorities for California's 8th Congressional District were reflected in the final bill.

Throughout the year, Major Smith provided thoughtful, well-researched perspectives that proved invaluable in supporting the mission of Travis Air Force Base and in advancing the well-being of servicemembers, their families, and the broader community. His commitment to strengthening U.S. Cyber forces was particularly noteworthy and played an important role in shaping my approach to these vital issues.

Major Smith's passion for service and dedication to his profession were evident in all that he did. His exceptional performance has left a lasting impact on my office, and both I and my entire team will miss his presence. The United States Air Force is fortunate to count him among its ranks, and I am confident he will continue to advance its mission with distinction.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District and a

grateful Nation, I extend my deepest appreciation to Major Smith for his dedicated service and wish him every success in his future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition and appreciation of Dr. Ryan Nesselrodt, Ph.D. upon his completion of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, Science & Technology Fellowship. Dr. Nesselrodt served as a fellow in my Washington, D.C. office from September 2024 to December 2025, displaying remarkable technical knowledge, flexibility, and creative thinking.

As an integral member of my legislative staff, Dr. Nesselrodt assisted my work on the House Committee on Armed Services and the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, particularly my work on the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation. His exceptional analytical skills and scientific background made him an invaluable advisor for the office on a variety of issues, ranging from plutonium pit production to geothermal energy to the maritime industry.

Throughout his fellowship, Dr. Nesselrodt was the driving force behind several critical legislative efforts. He drafted key provisions on nuclear weapons policy that were adopted as part of the National Defense Authorization Act. He also was responsible for drafting and introducing the ``Geothermal Tax Parity Act,'' which would incentivize geothermal energy production. In addition, he was instrumental in building support among industry stakeholders and Members for my ``SHIPS for America Act.'' His work often required balancing competing legislative priorities, and he was always able to develop a range of sound policy options for my consideration.

Beyond drafting legislative language, Dr. Nesselrodt proved to be a critical voice in policy debate. He consistently offered thoughtful perspectives often not considered by other members of the team. His arguments, grounded in strategic realities, have been essential in helping the office promote responsible, effective policies.

Dr. Nesselrodt is a dedicated public servant, an extraordinary researcher, and a skilled communicator. He is precisely the kind of future leader and innovative thinker we need. I expect Dr. Nesselrodt's fellowship in my office will inspire and inform his future endeavors, and I am confident he will make invaluable contributions in his new role.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional district, I extend our deepest appreciation to Dr. Nesselrodt for his dedicated service as an AAAS Science & Technology fellow. He will always remain a deeply valued member of Team Garamendi.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. I look at the photo and say, Doug, for 12 years, you and I represented the Sacramento River. We developed a friendship based upon the working part, but mostly upon sharing, sharing things. We would get on the airplane to fly to Washington, and you had your seat all the time. We said hello and talked about what was coming and then going home. It was a friendship that was deep and meaningful. There was plenty of work to do.

The Sacramento River is the most important river in California after the Colorado. It was yours. You had the upper, and I had the lower part of it. Together, we worked to protect the river, to protect the farmers, and to protect the flow of water. It is good work, and you did a good job. You were good at representing your district and representing the very complex issues.

I remember standing on one of the levees, and you were talking about your rice field. I said, Doug, let me talk about my cows in my fields. He said, Okay, you go ahead, but I am going to go first.

You shared your knowledge with me and with others. You were good. You were really good at the work you did for your people. You were a quality Representative.

I miss you. I miss the work that we did together on the Sacramento River Valley and all the issues that we had. It is a long list, and it would take another hour to go through them all.

I miss you, and Patti misses you because she would get up from her seat and go back to your seat, which you always had on that plane, and the two of you would talk and share.

I know your family misses you. I know your constituents miss you. Doug LaMalfa, you are going to be remembered by those of us who have had the honor of working with you.

Mr. Speaker, indeed, it is a great State because we have great freshmen Representatives. I thank them for this Special Order hour and the opportunity to really talk about a critical issue for our constituents in California and really all across America.

If we go back to the beginning of the Trump administration and we think about the various issues that he has put forth and the burdens that he has placed on America, one of the most important is in the big, ugly bill. If you take a look at the big, ugly bill and you get into the details, well, there are the enhanced tax credits for the Affordable Care Act, and we will talk about that in a few moments; but also in the big, ugly bill is the big problem coming up at the end of this 2026 year.

They have put in place a dismantling of the Medicaid program. They pushed it off until after the election, but the facts of the matter are those impacts are already being recognized across the healthcare system. It is going to affect every American and particularly those that are relying on Medicare.

Now, if we talk about what the issue is today--and thank goodness, the Democratic leadership in this House put forth an opportunity to solve one of the most critical problems that face Americans right now, and that is the expiration of the Affordable Care Act tax credits. That has happened. Today, on this floor, there was a vote. Fortunately, the House of Representatives, led by the Democrats and a handful of Republicans, pushed forward an extension, a 3-year extension of the Affordable Care Act subsidies which will be exceedingly important.

The Affordable Care Act enhanced premium credits expired. They expired last year at the end of the year, and 4 million Americans immediately faced a problem. The expiration of these tax credits not only raised the cost for individuals in the marketplace, but it also raised the healthcare costs all across America because it rippled down into all aspects of the healthcare system, the insurance, and the operations at hospitals and clinics. These harmful impacts won't stop at the Affordable Care Act insurance premiums. Those costs are now across the system.

Let me level with the American people. The Republican healthcare crisis will make the American people wait longer for healthcare. It will make Americans pay more for worse healthcare systems. And for people who live in rural, as well as urban areas, your clinics and your hospitals are shut down. Why? Because the Republicans have been after a challenge dating back to the 1960s when the Medicare program was put in place to eliminate the government's operations there.

There is still time to avoid this crisis, and today, this House, led by the Democrats, took action to solve at least one of the major pieces of that, the Affordable Care Act enhanced premium tax credits. It is up to the Senate Republicans now.

Hello, where are you, Senate Republicans? Are you paying attention? It is in your House. You have the opportunity to save this system, Senate Republicans. I know that Senate Democrats are already on board. They want to do this. Let's get this done.

So let's challenge the Senate Republicans, see where they stand. We know where a whole lot of our Republican colleagues in the House of Representatives stand. They did not stand with Americans. They didn't stand with those people in your districts, in my district, that are going to lose their Affordable Care Act insurance premiums.

We have got work to do. This isn't the end of this healthcare crisis. This is just one more step along the way to try to find some way to overcome the terrible burden that the Trump administration and the Republicans have placed on Americans as they go about trying to provide healthcare coverage for themselves, for their families, and for their communities.

We met that challenge today. The Democrats here in the House of Representatives met that challenge today, and we forced through a 3- year extension of the Affordable Care Act insurance premium subsidies. We are thankful that many, and a handful of Republicans, stood with us in this.

Mr. Speaker, I stand here a little bit confused. I want to support this bill, but at the same time, the work that we have put in on the Subcommittee on Readiness, dealing with the ability of the troops to have a clean barracks and to be ready to deal with the issues that are out there, there are many things going on that are troublesome. It may be time for all of us to just take a deep breath and go: Wait a minute. What is happening here?

There are extrajudicial killings going on in the middle of an ocean. Military aircraft are used for deportation. Secretary Hegseth and the President are eroding our military readiness while advancing their ambitions.

At a moment when this administration is dangerously close to dragging us into a disastrous and unauthorized war in Venezuela, this bill does not, unfortunately, push forward the appropriate role of the Congress to carry out its funding, as well as our oversight responsibility.

Many provisions of this bill they worked hard for on the Subcommittee on Readiness, such as child development, infrastructure, barracks, even in my own district, but it is not enough.

The administration has threatened war with our NATO allies and purged senior officers and career military lawyers without cause. They deployed the National Guard into U.S. cities over the objection of local city leaders, entered into a conflict with Iran without congressional authorization, and diverted resources from critical military needs to fund immigration enforcement.

All of this, and I haven't begun to talk about my favorite subject, the nuclear arsenal, and we could spend a lot of time on that.

I would like to vote for this bill, but I can't. I just can't. It is time for all of us to take a moment and say: Wait a minute. We are the Congress of the United States. This bill, while it does many things, does not assert congressional authority as it should.

Mr. Speaker, for years, the House Armed Services Committee has worked to craft a bipartisan bill that ensures strong congressional oversight of the Department of Defense and guarantees that our servicemembers and their families have the resources they need to accomplish their mission.

Each year, I have worked hard to help make this bill the best it can be,

but this year's bill falls short at a moment when congressional oversight is more important than ever.

As the administration deploys American troops to our streets, carries out extrajudicial killings in the middle of the ocean, and uses military aircraft for deportations, Secretary Hegseth and President Trump are eroding our military's readiness while advancing their authoritarian ambitions. At a moment when this Administration is dangerously close to dragging us into a disastrous and unauthorized war, this bill does not do enough to reinforce Congress's role as a co- equal branch responsible for matters of war and peace.

To be clear, the bill contains many provisions I am proud of. As the Ranking Member of the Readiness Subcommittee, I fought for military construction projects that will improve quality-of-life infrastructure--barracks, housing, and Child Development Centers, including one at Travis Air Force Base. I am proud of our work pressing the Department to take sustainment costs seriously, and I commend the committee staff for their tireless efforts to strengthen this legislation.

Unfortunately, it is not enough. Let's remember what this administration has done this year: threatened war with our NATO allies; purged senior officers and career military lawyers without cause; deployed the National Guard to U.S. cities over the objections of local leaders; entered a conflict with Iran without congressional authorization; diverted resources from critical military needs to fund immigration enforcement operations--including in our district; and wasted countless taxpayer dollars on unnecessary nuclear capabilities while undermining other modernization priorities.

Meanwhile, Congress hasn't held a public hearing since July and most of us haven't even seen the videotape of the double-tap strike in Venezuela. And when we have demanded oversight, the Republican majority and Trump's Pentagon have delayed and obstructed it. This bill's solution, requiring DoD to report to Congress only after unlawful actions occur, is wholly inadequate.

Congress can fix this. Sadly, this bill does not rise to the moment. Asking for reports after wrongdoing is not accountability. Giving Hegseth and Trump even more authority and more resources will only embolden their dangerous behavior. It's time for Congress to do its job.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Vilma Aquino as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Vilma has spent over three decades transforming lives and communities through the power of gardening. Since the 1990's, she has been a passionate educator and advocate for sustainable growing practices, community health, and environmental awareness. In 2009, she founded the Vallejo People's Garden, which provided fresh produce to the Christian Help Center's kitchen for ten years, feeding up to 75 clients daily. For fifteen years, she worked with students from Touro University to teach future healthcare professionals how gardening supports the concept of food as medicine. Her innovative work with Kaiser Permanente's Rehab Department and Residency Program brought healing and hands-on gardening education to patients, caregivers, and medical staff. Over the years, Vilma has helped several community gardens in Vallejo get started, including the garden at the Reynaissance Family Shelter in 2014. In 2024 and 2025, she co-founded the Bay Area Butterfly Festival, which attracted thousands of attendees and raised awareness about the declining Western Monarch Butterfly population and the critical role of native plants in ecosystem health. She coordinates a wide variety of gardening and wellness classes for the community, including culturally relevant offerings such as ``Filipino Fruits and Vegetables You Can Grow at Home in Solano County.'' Vilma is currently a Board Member at the Global Center for Success on Mare Island and continues to work with organizations such as Touro University, Kaiser Permanente, and Solano Community. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Vilma Aquino for her invaluable contributions to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Yajaira Rubio Machado as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year in tribute to her visionary cultural leadership and tireless dedication to her community. Her work has left a lasting impact in Vallejo, California, and beyond. As the Founder and Director of Moon Azteca Dance and Art School, has elevated Mexican heritage and indigenous traditions, bringing their richness to the forefront of community life. Even during times of financial hardship and through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, she remained steadfast in her mission of ensuring that young people stayed connected, creative, and proud of their cultural identity. Among her most notable accomplishments was her leadership in formalizing the Sister City agreement between Vallejo and Ensenada, Mexico. This diplomatic and cultural achievement exemplifies her ability to turn vision into sustained international partnerships bridging communities through shared heritage and mutual respect. Yajaira's service spans numerous civic, business, and cultural organizations, where she continues to empower others and advocate for inclusion and representation. Her contributions have preserved and promoted cultural expression, created pathways for youth development, and inspired civic pride. Yajaira's leadership stands as a shining example of how cultural diplomacy and grassroots engagement can strengthen and transform communities. Her unwavering resilience, community-first mindset, and creative spirit serve as an inspiration to all who know her. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Yajaira Rubio Machado for her invaluable contributions to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Yvette Williams-Barr as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year for her extraordinary dedication to education, community revitalization, and public service in the City of Richmond. As Senior Administrative Analyst for the City's Literacy for Every Adult Program (LEAP), Yvette brings leadership, innovation, and compassion to one of Richmond's most impactful educational initiatives. Her work empowers adult learners through literacy and lifelong learning, opening doors to opportunity and personal growth for countless community members. A lifelong Richmond resident, Yvette has played a pivotal role in the city's cultural and economic renewal through more than a decade of service as an Executive and Board Member of the Richmond Main Street Initiative. With deep expertise in media and communications, she has shaped the organization's public presence, strengthened outreach efforts, and served as a dynamic spokesperson on behalf of Richmond. Yvette's commitment to advocacy continues through her leadership as President of Local 21 IFPTE, where she represents fellow union members with integrity, fairness, and a spirit of collaboration. In every role, she uplifts others connecting people, mentoring colleagues, and helping build a stronger Richmond. Equally inspiring is Yvette's devotion to her family. As the proud mother of five, including a son currently serving in the United States Coast Guard, she exemplifies resilience, generosity, and balance. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Yvette Williams-Barr for her invaluable contributions to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions of TSgt Ny Vu, as she is honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year for her extraordinary service, leadership, and innovation which have had a lasting impact on our military and our community. As the Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge of Financial Operations for the 60th Comptroller Squadron, Sergeant Vu leads the largest financial team in Air Mobility Command, supporting over 16,000 personnel and managing a $1 billion civilian pay portfolio. Her leadership ensures financial readiness across three wings and 11 Combatant Commands. During a critical staffing shortage, Sergeant Vu stepped into a Company Grade Officer role, executing over $1 million in payments and restoring financial mobility for 7,000 members in just 12 days. She has led joint-service financial operations, standardized procedures, and mentored junior officers, strengthening leadership across the force. Her innovations, including an Air Force-wide fraud detection tool and deployment of mobile financial systems, have modernized operations and reduced pay errors to a five-year low. She also contributed to designing a new global disbursing system now in use at 78 bases.

Born in Rach Gia, Vietnam, Sergeant Vu immigrated to the U.S. after spending time in a refugee camp. Her service since 2006 includes assignments in Europe, Asia, and four deployments to the Middle East. Her resilience and excellence have earned her multiple awards and promotions. Her service embodies the highest ideals of the Air Force and the American spirit. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize TSgt Ny Vu for her invaluable contributions to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Sarah Wally and to honor her as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the Richmond community. With over 30 years of experience in real estate development, historic preservation, and community-based initiatives, Ms. Wally has dedicated her career to fostering economic growth, sustainability, and inclusive opportunity in Richmond and the greater Bay Area. Since moving to Richmond 11 years ago, Ms. Wally has played a pivotal role in revitalizing the city through her leadership at Richmond Main Street and PLANN-A Development. She has also served on the Richmond Workforce Development Board for more than a decade, helping prepare residents for meaningful employment and sustainable careers. Beyond her professional achievements, Ms. Wally actively engages with youth through partnerships with the Richmond Police Activities League and she contributes to her community as a member of the Rotary Club. Her dedication to community empowerment, mentorship, and economic development embodies the spirit of service that strengthens our neighborhoods. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Sarah Wally for her invaluable contributions to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Shelmae Turner, who is being honored as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year for her outstanding service and unwavering dedication to the Solano County community for over 50 years. Ms. Turner has long been a steadfast advocate for young people, a cultural ambassador, and a committed community servant. Her work has ensured that essential resources are accessible to those in need, and her impact is deeply felt across generations. For more than 25 years, Ms. Turner has been an active member of the Chinese American Association of Solano County, an organization with deep personal meaning to her since her father was one of its founding members. In the past decade, she has served as Secretary of CAASC, continuing her family's legacy of service and civic involvement. Under her leadership, CAASC has awarded scholarships to 409 students. Ms. Turner has also played a key role in promoting cultural awareness and diversity in Solano County. She has organized Chinese New Year and Lunar New Year celebrations and ensured CAASC's active participation in local events such as the Vacaville Fiesta Days Parade and the Fairfield 4th of July Parade, uplifting Asian American voices and traditions in the community. In addition to her cultural work, Ms. Turner has dedicated over 13 years to Fairfield High School, her alma mater, as the Associated Student Body Treasurer. Her efforts have allowed countless students to experience safe and memorable events, from proms to club activities, ensuring that every student feels valued and supported. Recognizing the growing needs of students and families, Ms. Turner has also volunteered for the past 10 years to manage Fairfield High School's clothing closet and food pantry. Thanks to her dedication, up to 20 individuals a day receive clothing, supplies, and food. Ms. Turner represents the very best of our community. Her legacy of compassion, inclusion, and service will continue to inspire generations to come. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, it is my pleasure to honor and recognize Shelmae Turner for her invaluable contributions to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Rennae Ross, recognized as one of California's 8th Congressional District's Women of the Year. Ms. Ross is a Marine Corps veteran, skilled tradeswoman, and tireless advocate for equality and inclusion within the labor movement. A proud member of Boilermakers Local 549, she has dedicated her career to advancing opportunities for women and underrepresented workers in the skilled trades. Rennae's journey began after completing the W.I.N.T.E.R. Program, known as Women in Non-Traditional Employment Roles, in Los Angeles. She later worked as a Petroleum Tank Field Fabricator before being organized into the Boilermakers through California's SB-54 ``Skilled and Trained Workforce'' legislation for high-hazard facilities. A graduate apprentice of Local 549, she now serves as an elected Trustee on the Executive Board and as the Chairperson of the Boilermakers Women at Work Committee. In these roles, she has become a mentor and role model, guiding members across trades and championing her vision to ``Bridge the Gap'' for equality on every job site. Rennae's passion for advocacy extends beyond her local union--she participates in all-female cohorts of MC3 pre-apprenticeship programs and outreach initiatives in correctional facilities, inspiring women to pursue meaningful, well-paying careers in the trades. Her leadership embodies the true spirit of solidarity: empowering others and fostering solidarity. On behalf of the people of California's 8th Congressional District, I am honored to recognize Rennae Ross for her service to country and community, her exceptional leadership in organized labor, and her unwavering commitment to advancing equality in the workforce.