Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I thank our newly-elected vice chair. Congratulations. I look forward to working with him.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today because accountability is finally here.

For years, Joe Biden has used his name and influence for personal gain, all while serving in office and receiving a salary funded by taxpayer dollars. He has deceived the Nation by posing as a trustworthy family man, only to be bought and paid for by foreign nationals.

The Biden family has embedded themselves in a web of lies, spreading deceit to the Nation to cover up their shady dealings. We are not fools and we cannot be fooled.

For months, House Republicans have followed the facts, and more importantly, followed the money. It has all led right back to President Biden. Despite stonewalling attempts at every turn, we have persisted. From the DOJ to the FBI and the White House, cohorts of the Biden family have done everything they can to stop the truth from coming to light. These lies cannot stay hidden forever.

House Republicans in the Oversight Committee have unearthed over $240,000 in direct payments to the President and his family. What about that money?

That money has direct ties to foreign nationals and our adversaries. These same adversaries President Biden swore to defend America against are actually lining his pockets and influencing his decisions.

It is past time that the American public know the truth. It is time for the Biden family to be held accountable for their corruption.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the House Republicans that accountability is finally here.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize James Arthur Parkhurst, a former U.S. Army Ranger and proud veteran of the Korean War.

Since before 1968, Jim has been a committed and selfless member of the Oxford American Legion. In 1990, he began its Veterans' Museum. In its early beginnings, older veterans donated their uniforms for display-- but as time passed, its collection was built into a full- blown museum with a plethora of military memorabilia.

For many years, Jim has helped his community with parades, always making sure to include his fellow veterans. Year after year, Jim ensures that families are aware of both Veteran's Day and Memorial Day. From placing flags to cleaning headstones, Jim is well known throughout eastern Michigan for his support and commitment to veterans' causes.

Jim also helps many families throughout the community throw birthday parties for children, delivering toys, food, and other gifts. Even through the personal tragedies in his life, Jim is always there to serve others.

Jim gave his youth in service to our country: he has served with honor, distinction, and pride. To many, Jim is a profound inspiration.

Above all else, Jim has selflessly donated his time to make sure others are safe, our veterans are taken care of, and everyone can get the help they need. In the words of the Legion's Auxiliary Department Americanism Chairman Darlene Jones, ``Jim just keeps going--he has no quit.''

On November 11th, as part of their Veteran's Day observation, the American Legion will dedicate the Veterans' Museum in his honor. On behalf of Michigan's 9th Congressional District, I am proud to celebrate this wonderful occasion.

Mr. Speaker, it is a great pleasure to recognize James Arthur Parkhurst for his lifetime of service, both in and out of uniform. It is my sincere hope that the James Arthur Parkhurst Veterans' Museum of Oxford, Michigan, will prosper for many years to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the birthday of Rita Josephine Lynch, who on October 27th reached the incredible milestone of her 95th birthday.

Rita Josephine was born one of seven children to Behia and James Thomas, who emigrated from Lebanon in the early 1920s to pursue the American Dream. Rita graduated from Olean High School, attended Canisius College, and is a proud graduate of Mercy School of Nursing in Buffalo, New York. Before meeting the love of her life, Thomas ``Tom'' Meecham Lynch, she worked at hospitals in Olean and Buffalo, New York.

Rita and Tom married in 1955 and later moved to Dunkirk, New York, where Rita worked as a nurse and Tom as a pharmacist. Rita and Tom grew their family to six children, even as Rita continued to pursue her career in nursing for local families and friends.

Throughout her life, Rita has always been a committed volunteer for many selfless causes. Rita has volunteered with the Red Cross, providing blood pressures appointments at local drugstores, she has served on the Altar Rosary Society at her local Catholic church, and the Brooks Hospital Auxiliary Board.

Rita has always helped others; from caring for her mother and mother- in-law to her youngest brother, Rev. Donald N. Thomas, after his retirement and her late husband until his passing.

Today, friends, family, and her faith continue to be focal points in her life as she stays in contact with old friends from nursing school along with her six children and their families, which includes 18 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren.

While at home, if she isn't watching EWTN, she is watching Fox News, TMC, or her favorite sports--football, hockey, or golf. In her free time, she loves to go for drives around the Point and Dunkirk Pier-- sometimes, she looks for bargains at T.J. Maxx.

She loves to see her great grandchildren and watch them compete in baseball, football, volleyball, and dance performances every opportunity she has. Every week, when she is able, you can find her in a pew at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Fredonia, New York.

Mr. Speaker, please join me and my colleagues in celebrating the wonderful occasion of Rita Josephine Lynch's 95th birthday. I cannot wait to wish her a happy 100th.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor exceptional female leaders throughout our Nation who have recently been recognized as ``Christian Women of Distinction'' by She Leads America.

While I strive to lead by example for my constituents back home in Michigan, I understand that not everyone looks to Washington politics for role models. Thankfully, we do not need to look far to be inspired by individuals led by their strong faith, moral values, and unwavering dedication to their communities. Today, I am proud to honor some of the women who through their hard work and tireless dedication have brought great inspiration to many throughout the world.

As a United States Representative, it is both my sacred and constitutional obligation to remain steadfast in my commitment to the defense of religious freedom. Now more than ever, we must safeguard religious liberty to ensure that each of these women and those I serve never have to compromise their religious beliefs.

One of the women honored by She Leads America, Hannah Castillo, has dedicated much of her career to promoting Christian causes nationally. In the world of politics, Hannah is one of the youngest to have served a senior role on a presidential campaign. In 2016, she was named Campaign Manager of the Year by the San Diego County Republican Party and has contributed valuable advice to many. Today, Hannah is with Prayer House DC, a ministry dedicated to worship and community.

Mr. Speaker, these women, including Hannah, have left an indelible mark on countless lives. They are pioneers whose examples have--and will continue to--inspire many. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of them for their unwavering dedication. This honor is truly well- deserved.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor exceptional female leaders throughout our Nation who have recently been recognized as ``Christian Women of Distinction'' by She Leads America.

While I strive to lead by example for my constituents back home in Michigan, I understand that not everyone looks to Washington politics for role models. Thankfully, we do not need to look far to be inspired by individuals led by their strong faith, moral values, and unwavering dedication to their communities. Today, I am proud to honor some of the women who through their hard work and tireless dedication have brought great inspiration to many throughout the world.

As a United States Representative, it is both my sacred and constitutional obligation to remain steadfast in my commitment to the defense of religious freedom. Now more than ever, we must safeguard religious liberty to ensure that each of these women and those I serve never have to compromise their religious beliefs.

One of the women honored by She Leads America, Charmaine Hedding, is a global development manager in the non-profit sector. In this role, she focuses on the protection of Christians and other minorities in the Middle East and Africa. A fierce proponent of religious freedom, she has also assisted in many humanitarian projects, including the evacuation of over 9,000 people from Afghanistan. Today, she also consults for government agencies, authorities, and faith-based organizations.

Mr. Speaker, these women, including Charmaine, have left an indelible mark on countless lives. They are pioneers whose examples have--and will continue to--inspire many. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of them for their unwavering dedication. This honor is truly well- deserved.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor exceptional female leaders throughout

our Nation who have recently been recognized as ``Christian Women of Distinction'' by She Leads America.

While I strive to lead by example for my constituents back home in Michigan, I understand that not everyone looks to Washington politics for role models. Thankfully, we do not need to look far to be inspired by individuals led by their strong faith, moral values, and unwavering dedication to their communities. Today, I am proud to honor some of the women who through their hard work and tireless dedication have brought great inspiration to many throughout the world.

As a United States Representative, it is both my sacred and constitutional obligation to remain steadfast in my commitment to the defense of religious freedom. Now more than ever, we must safeguard religious liberty to ensure that each of these women and those I serve never have to compromise their religious beliefs.

One of the women honored by She Leads America, Riley Gaines, is a brave spokeswoman for fairness in women's sports. Riley is no stranger to me or my team--a recent graduate from the University of Kentucky and 12-time NCAA All-American swimmer, she gained recognition after tying against Lia Thomas at the NCAA championships. She began the Riley Gaines Center, which has since led a movement to protect and support women's sports. To many athletes, her work is an inspiration to many.

Mr. Speaker, these women, including Riley, have left an indelible mark on countless lives. They are pioneers whose examples have--and will continue to--inspire many. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of them for their unwavering dedication. This honor is truly well- deserved.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Elizabeth Doyle, an exceptional leader in faith and in her community.

For over 50 years, Elizabeth Doyle has been a tremendous inspiration to many. In 1972, Elizabeth began her speaking career in Belfast, Ireland, at the height of the Troubles conflict. It was there that she met her husband, Syd, who joined her in pioneering and leading three churches throughout Southeast England.

After 25 years in Southeast England, Elizabeth and her husband moved to the United States and started Nations Light Ministries, an organization dedicated to training leaders across the world. Elizabeth also founded Releasing Daughters of the Last Days, which has led her to over 50 countries across 6 continents. This organization inspired tens of thousands, oftentimes divided by terrorism or civil war, to find their faith.

Today, Elizabeth continues to inspire many throughout the nation by serving as Executive Director of She Leads America. Alongside Michigan State Representative Nancy DeBoer and Sylvia Williams, Elizabeth honors Christian women of distinction for their accomplishments across every professional sector.

Mr. Speaker, Elizabeth's remarkable journey is an inspiration to us all. In times of anguish, her spirit and devotion to the Lord has lifted me up. We are all deeply grateful for the wonderful work of Liz and her team as they continue to honor impactful women of faith everywhere.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor exceptional female leaders throughout our Nation who have recently been recognized as ``Christian Women of Distinction'' by She Leads America.

While I strive to lead by example for my constituents back home in Michigan, I understand that not everyone looks to Washington politics for role models. Thankfully, we do not need to look far to be inspired by individuals led by their strong faith, moral values, and unwavering dedication to their communities. Today, I am proud to honor some of the women who through their hard work and tireless dedication have brought great inspiration to many throughout the world.

As a United States Representative, it is both my sacred and constitutional obligation to remain steadfast in my commitment to the defense of religious freedom. Now more than ever, we must safeguard religious liberty to ensure that each of these women and those I serve never have to compromise their religious beliefs.

One of the women honored by She Leads America, Mary Faus, is a Anishinaabekwe of the Ojibway Cree. In her community, Mary is a spiritual leader and proud advocate for her native people. Mary is a founder and active member of All Tribes DC, which is a Christian-based nonprofit organization formed by Native Americans that encourages spiritual empowerment. Mary has ministered in several countries and throughout North America, bringing inspiration to many.

Mr. Speaker, these women, including Mary, have left an indelible mark on countless lives. They are pioneers whose examples have--and will continue to--inspire many. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of them for their unwavering dedication. This honor is truly well- deserved.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor exceptional female leaders throughout our Nation who have recently been recognized as ``Christian Women of Distinction'' by She Leads America.

While I strive to lead by example for my constituents back home in Michigan, l understand that not everyone looks to Washington politics for role models. Thankfully, we do not need to look far to be inspired by individuals led by their strong faith, moral values, and unwavering dedication to their communities. Today, I am proud to honor some of the women who through their hard work and tireless dedication have brought great inspiration to many throughout the world.

As a United States Representative, it is both my sacred and constitutional obligation to remain steadfast in my commitment to the defense of religious freedom. Now more than ever, we must safeguard religious liberty to ensure that each of these women and those I serve never have to compromise their religious beliefs.

One of the women honored by She Leads America, Dr. Day Gardner, is a civil rights activist serving as President of the National Black Pro- Life Union. Dr. Gardner also serves on the National Clergy Council on Capitol Hill, Project 21 National Advisory Council, and sits on several boards both on the state and national level. Dr. Gardner was also the first African American contestant to place as a semi-finalist at the Miss America Pageant, has led a career in broadcasting, and is a motivational speaker.

Mr. Speaker, these women, including Dr. Gardner, have left an indelible mark on countless lives. They are pioneers whose examples have--and will continue to--inspire many. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of them for their unwavering dedication. This honor is truly well-deserved.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor exceptional female leaders throughout our Nation who have recently been recognized as ``Christian Women of Distinction'' by She Leads America.

While I strive to lead by example for my constituents back home in Michigan, I understand that not everyone looks to Washington politics for role models. Thankfully, we do not need to look far to be inspired by individuals led by their strong faith, moral values, and unwavering dedication to their communities. Today, I am proud to honor some of the women who through their hard work and tireless dedication have brought great inspiration to many throughout the world.

As a United States Representative, it is both my sacred and constitutional obligation to remain steadfast in my commitment to the defense of religious freedom. Now more than ever, we must safeguard religious liberty to ensure that each of these women and those I serve never have to compromise their religious beliefs.

One of the women honored by She Leads America, Terry Anne Meeuwsen, is a trailblazer and recognized talent in Christian broadcasting. In 1973, Terry was crowned Miss America and has since used her singing and acting talents on television. For over 30 years, Terry has greeted millions of viewers from the Christian Broadcasting Network's studio in Virginia Beach. Terry is also an accomplished author, children's advocate, and inspiration to many.

Mr. Speaker, these women, including Terry, have left an indelible mark on countless lives. They are pioneers whose examples have--and will continue to--inspire many. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of them for their unwavering dedication. This honor is truly well- deserved.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor exceptional female leaders throughout our Nation who have recently been recognized as ``Christian Women of Distinction'' by She Leads America.

While I strive to lead by example for my constituents back home in Michigan, I understand that not everyone looks to Washington politics for role models. Thankfully, we do not need to look far to be inspired by individuals led by their strong faith, moral values, and unwavering dedication to their communities. Today, I am proud to honor some of the women who through their hard work and tireless dedication have brought great inspiration to many throughout the world.

As a United States Representative, it is both my sacred and constitutional obligation to remain steadfast in my commitment to the defense of religious freedom. Now more than ever, we must safeguard religious liberty to ensure that each of these women and those I serve never have to compromise their religious beliefs.

One of the women honored by She Leads America, Lori Windham, is vice president and senior counsel at Becket. In this capacity, Lori proudly defends religious freedom before the United States Supreme Court. Her work in Fulton v. Philadelphia, as well as in Becket's Hobby Lobby and Little Sisters of the Poor victories, has protected many from religious discrimination. Lori is a renowned expert on religious freedom and in First Amendment Law and has testified before U.S. Congress.

Mr. Speaker, these women, including Lori, have left an indelible mark on countless lives. They are pioneers whose examples have--and will continue to--inspire many. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of them for their unwavering dedication. This honor is truly well- deserved.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor exceptional female leaders throughout our Nation who have recently been recognized as ``Christian Women of Distinction'' by She Leads America.

While I strive to lead by example for my constituents back home in Michigan, I understand that not everyone looks to Washington politics for role models. Thankfully, we do not need to look far to be inspired by individuals led by their strong faith, moral values, and unwavering dedication to their communities. Today, I am proud to honor some of the women who through their hard work and tireless dedication have brought great inspiration to many throughout the world.

As a United States Representative, it is both my sacred and constitutional obligation to remain steadfast in my commitment to the defense of religious freedom. Now more than ever, we must safeguard religious liberty to ensure that each of these women and those I serve never have to compromise their religious beliefs.

One of the women honored by She Leads America, Dr. Susan Michael, is the Director of the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem and a member of its board. Susan's studies and travel to Israel over the past 45 years have allowed her to skillfully handle a variety of issues regarding biblical and modern Israel. To that end, Susan is a remarkably gifted author, teacher, and speaker. She has produced highly cited articles, podcasts, and educational resources, serving many throughout the world.

Mr. Speaker, these women, including Dr. Michael, have left an indelible mark on countless lives. They are pioneers whose examples have--and will continue to--inspire many. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of them for their unwavering dedication. This honor is truly well-deserved.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor exceptional female leaders throughout our Nation who have recently been recognized as ``Christian Women of Distinction'' by She Leads America.

While I strive to lead by example for my constituents back home in Michigan, I understand that not everyone looks to Washington politics for role models. Thankfully, we do not need to look far to be inspired by individuals led by their strong faith, moral values, and unwavering dedication to their communities. Today, I am proud to honor some of the women who through their hard work and tireless dedication have brought great inspiration to many throughout the world.

As a United States Representative, it is both my sacred and constitutional obligation to remain steadfast in my commitment to the defense of religious freedom. Now more than ever, we must safeguard religious liberty to ensure that each of these women and those I serve never have to compromise their religious beliefs.

One of the women honored by She Leads America, Dr. Larinda King, is an entrepreneur and inspiration to many. Dr. King has been an Elite Executive Senior Sales Director with Mary Kay since 2019, with her team ranking #1 in 2021. Dr. King has founded several community organizations, including a church, and is also Executive Director of Remnant Kingship Academy. In addition to these roles, she is also an expert broadcaster in television and radio.

Mr. Speaker, these women, including Dr. King, have left an indelible mark on countless lives. They are pioneers whose examples have--and will continue to--inspire many. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of them for their unwavering dedication. This honor is truly well- deserved.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor exceptional female leaders throughout our Nation who have recently been recognized as ``Christian Women of Distinction'' by She Leads America.

While I strive to lead by example for my constituents back home in Michigan, I understand that not everyone looks to Washington politics for role models. Thankfully, we do not need to look far to be inspired by individuals led by their strong faith, moral values, and unwavering dedication to their communities. Today, I am proud to honor some of the women who through their hard work and tireless dedication have brought great inspiration to many throughout the world.

As a United States Representative, it is both my sacred and constitutional obligation to remain steadfast in my commitment to the defense of religious freedom. Now more than ever, we must safeguard religious liberty to ensure that each of these women and those I serve never have to compromise their religious beliefs.

One of the women honored by She Leads America, Jaci Velasquez, is a Grammy nominated and platinum-selling Christian artist who has recorded albums in English and Spanish. Since her debut at 16, she has had 16 No. 1 hits, authored three books, acted in seven movies, and has appeared on 50 magazine covers. Jaci has also received 7 Dove Awards, a Premio Lo Nuestro Award, 3 Grammy nominations, 2 Latin Grammy nominations, and an American Music Award nomination.

Mr. Speaker, these women, including Jaci, have left an indelible mark on countless lives. They are pioneers whose examples have--and will continue to--inspire many. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of them for their unwavering dedication. This honor is truly well- deserved.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor exceptional female leaders throughout our Nation who have recently been recognized as ``Christian Women of Distinction'' by She Leads America.

While I strive to lead by example for my constituents back home in Michigan, I understand that not everyone looks to Washington politics for role models. Thankfully, we do not need to look far to be inspired by individuals led by their strong faith, moral values, and unwavering dedication to their communities. Today, I am proud to honor some of the women who through their hard work and tireless dedication have brought great inspiration to many throughout the world.

As a United States Representative, it is both a sacred and constitutional obligation to remain steadfast in my commitment to the defense of religious freedom. Now more than ever, we must safeguard religious liberty to ensure that each of these women and those I serve never have to compromise their religious beliefs.

One of the women honored by She Leads America, Joni Eareckson Tada, is a hero to many. In 1967, Joni was left paralyzed by a diving accident but quickly emerged from rehabilitation, determined to help others who have similar disabilities. Her autobiography, Joni, has been adapted into a film and was also translated into 15 different languages. Today, she serves as the CEO of Joni and Friends, which serves to assist those who are disabled and in need of assistance. Through this organization, Joni has delivered over 220,000 wheelchairs in developing nations and has hosted over 64,000 families at Family Retreats and Getaways. Joni also had the unique opportunity to serve her country on the National Council on Disability during the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Mr. Speaker, these women, including Joni, have left an indelible mark on countless lives. They are pioneers whose examples have--and will continue to--inspire many. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of them for their unwavering dedication. This honor is truly well- deserved.