Floor Statements

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, Sharon Daughterty, founded Victory Christian Center in 1981 alongside her husband. After his passing, Sharon served as the lead pastor for five years. Over time, Victory thrived and developed into a large church community with a K-12 school, Bible School, camp, and a community center. This church has also planted over 2,000 Bible Colleges in 102 countries and has played a supportive role in missions across the globe.

Mr. Speaker, these women, including Sharon, 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 in recognition of Michigan Veteran Homes in my district in Chesterfield.

I was fortunate enough to recently visit this facility and spend time learning from the great folks caring for so many of Michigan's heroes. This great facility provides veterans with top-level care, from physical rehabilitation programs, memory stimulation, and all the way up to full-term care.

The Chesterfield staff honorably serves our veterans with the utmost dignity, which is something veterans deserve. I am so proud to have an organization like this in Michigan's Ninth District, and I am especially proud of the outstanding work Michigan Veteran Homes in Chesterfield does every single day.

President Biden is Negotiating with Terrorists

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in anger. I am angry that President Biden is quite literally negotiating with terrorists and plans to release to Iran $6 billion in frozen assets.

Do you know what negotiating with terrorists leads to? I will share with you what that leads to: more Americans being kidnapped for ransom. Connect the dots, people. It is not that tough.

This is an absolute embarrassment to our country and a complete and utter failure of Biden's foreign policy yet again. Make no mistake about it. The $6 billion that Biden is so casually handing over to Tehran, what will it be used for? It will be used to fund State- sponsored terrorism.

Let us not forget what happened on 9/11. This is on the heels of 9/ 11. We are incentivizing terrorism by giving our enemies $6 billion. We can't be this asleep at the wheel; but he is. This will destabilize the Middle East and put our allies at grave risk.

Let me be clear. This is not diplomacy or statesmanship. This is signing a deal with the devil.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today because my home State of Michigan and our entire country is at a crossroads.

This coming Friday, the United Auto Workers are likely going to strike. Nearly 150,000 will stop working, leaving General Motors, Stellantis, and Ford without anyone to build the cars that drive our economy forward.

If you ask President Biden, he will say it is no big deal and the strike is not going to happen. Well, let me tell you, Mr. President: Guess again. The strike is real, and its dawn is coming tomorrow.

While I don't always agree with Big Labor and their strategies, I can see why they are angry. They have watched as their companies have sold out to the radical Green New Deal agenda and have placed EVs ahead of their employees. Yes, I want to say that. These companies have placed EVs ahead of their employees.

For those that don't know, it is simple. EVs take less parts. Less parts means less workers. Less workers hurt our economy.

Make no mistake about it. This is happening because of Joe Biden's EV mandates and his reckless agenda to rid the world of reliable engines. It is not a sustainable plan, but Biden seems not to care.

Some automakers are just going along to get along with Biden because even when their profits decrease due to EVs, they have doubled down on their plan at the expense of the men and women who build our cars.

I want to be clear about something. I am not against EVs, but I am against mandates and against abandoning things that actually work.

Gas-powered engines work, and they work well. EVs barely work, and they are unreliable, which is something Secretary Granholm knows very well.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the distinguished career of retired Chief Michael Mertens. Chief Mertens has dedicated 33 years of his life to the People of New Baltimore, leaving an indelible mark on the department and the lives of those he served. He began his journey in law enforcement in 1987, graduating with distinction from the Macomb Police Academy. Throughout his career, he exhibited exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to public safety.

As a certified Firearms Instructor, Chief Mertens ensured his fellow officers were well-trained and prepared for the challenges they faced. He courageously confronted the rising threat of drug-related crimes, leading successful investigations and making substantial steps against crime, including leading the largest LSD seizure in Michigan at that time.

Selected for the Macomb County's multi-jurisdictional Special Weapons and Tactics Team, Chief Mertens demonstrated considerable bravery and commitment to the protection of his community. His promotion to Sergeant in 2004 further showcased his leadership abilities and dedication to his colleagues.

Accepted into the esteemed FBI National Academy Associates in 2008, Chief Mertens solidified his outstanding qualifications and commitment to excellence. As Chief of the New Baltimore Police Department from 2019, he implemented crucial initiatives, securing resources and enhancing public safety measures.

Beyond doubt, Chief Michael Mertens' exceptional career in law enforcement has left a lasting impact on the City of New Baltimore. Today, we express our deepest gratitude and admiration for his unwavering commitment to public safety and his remarkable service to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary constituent whose dedication, service, and unwavering commitment to our community exemplify core American values.

Michael Tomtishen, who many throughout the City of New Baltimore regard as a `hometown hero,' is a veteran of the Vietnam War, a two- time Purple Heart recipient, and a lifelong resident in his community.

Mr. Tomtishen served in the United States Army for three years, of which two were spent in Vietnam. He assisted in the training of troops at Fort Benning in Georgia and was severely injured in combat as a result of a landmine. An active member of the Lempke-Blackwell VFW Post 7573 and AMVETS Post 52, Michael Tomtishen has assisted and participated in many local events and parades, once saving an onlooker's life by performing CPR.

For 30 years, Mr. Tomtishen has also honored fallen heroes by assisting in the placement of American flags--a task he was never asked to do. Michael Tomtishen is a hero to many--his selfless commitment to those around him is an example for us all to follow.

With National Purple Heart Day still fresh in our hearts and minds, I am beyond proud to honor Michael for his many years of unselfish leadership, generosity, and respect for his community. We are all indebted to him for the example he sets.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to talk about the reality of Bidenomics.

We have heard the President say time and time again that his economic policies have worked. He actually believes that the American economy is better today than it was before he took office.

Mr. Speaker, let's look at the facts because we know this administration has a habit of changing terms, redefining issues, and really not looking at the facts.

So let's look at the facts.

Gas is up 34 percent since Joe Biden took office, energy prices are up 28.5 percent, and the average American family is paying almost $1,200 more per month in everyday needs.

Now, tell me, Mr. Speaker, does that sound like an economy that is strong?

The clear answer is no, the economy is not strong. It is actually a lot weaker than it was before Joe Biden took office.

The sad reality is that hardworking taxpayers are footing the bill for Biden's policy failures. I think it is time we tell the truth, that Bidenomics has been a complete and utter failure.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Frances Metcalf, who will be celebrating the milestone of her 99th birthday tomorrow. It is a distinct honor to pay tribute to Frances, who like many other women made substantial contributions to the war effort during World War

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Schools Not Shelters Act. This bill will protect our student safety and our schools, ensuring that they are used for learning.

I don't know if anyone has recently looked, but the scores of math are down. The scores of reading are down. This bill will make sure that our schools--I will say it again--are used for learning, not to house illegal aliens crossing our southern border.

The decision of local officials in New York City and elsewhere to house illegal aliens at school threatens the safety of our students.

We wouldn't need this bill if President Biden did his job and secured the southern border. See, I am open to talking about immigration reform, but we must secure our southern border. They are not one and the same. They are different.

Schools should never let a stranger come into a school without ID. I know when I go into my daughter's school, I have to show ID.

What is happening now is we are letting illegals into our schools with no idea who these illegals are. They haven't been vetted at the border. Background checks haven't been run. We don't know who is coming into our schools. Could we at least employ the same type of verification that we do for legal American citizens? I mean, it doesn't make sense. Schools are not hotels. They are for education.

When declaring New York's status as a sanctuary State, New York officials should have been a little bit better prepared for the mass number of migrants in a different manner and not throw the problems on our children's schools.

I find it funny how they have an opinion on the southern border, but, yet, when the sanctuary city receives illegal migrants, oh, my goodness, they are all up in arms. They receive those migrants at a much lower rate than the border cities.

Democrats are playing politics with people's lives instead of providing a quality education, and they are more focused on spending your taxpayer money on illegals and telling your kids what pronouns they should be. We have a math and reading problem. Perhaps we should focus our attention on education.

Pass this bill today, protect our children, and keep criminals out of our schools.

Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that when the House adjourns today, it adjourn to meet on Monday, July 17, 2023 when it shall convene at noon for morning-hour debate and 2 p.m. for legislative business.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to represent the majority, the

majority of Americans who actually pay their bills, the majority of Americans who actually believe that if they have a right, they actually have a responsibility.

Unfortunately, President Biden just announced that by the stroke of his pen, he is going to forgive $39 billion in student loans, this morning.

Now, let me be clear. This is in direct violation of the Supreme Court's decision just 2 weeks ago that blocked his student loan forgiveness plan. I guess the President has no respect for the constitutional authority of the Supreme Court.

Apparently, he has no respect for hardworking taxpayers that are going to foot this bill. Education isn't free. Someone pays for it. Last I checked, the teachers don't work for free. It is you, the taxpayer, who actually paid your student loans, who is now going to pay for somebody that doesn't want to pay their student loans. Every American who has paid off their student loans now gets the opportunity to pay somebody else's.

What comes next, Mr. President? Are you going to forgive mortgages and credit card bills? Where does this forgiveness end?

Rest assured, come hell or high water, I will fight this till the end.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Paul Englehart, who celebrated his 98th birthday on June 27, 2023. I am honored to pay tribute to him for his service and loyalty to his Nation during wartime.

Born in 1925 to Calvin Englehart and Margaret Squire, Paul grew up in Toledo, Ohio alongside his twin sister, Pauline, and older brother, Russell.

After the outbreak of the war, Russell served in the South Pacific until its end in 1945. But after Paul graduated from Libbey High School in 1943, he too decided to enlist in the United States Army.

Paul received his training at Fort Custer in Battle Creek, Michigan. At the time, his training assignment was to guard prisoners of war. He was then sent to Roswell, New Mexico, to guard German prisoners.

In July 1944, along with 5,000 other soldiers, Paul was dispatched to the Philippines where he would continue his assignments, and on January 14, 1946, he was honorable discharged.

In 1950, Paul married his wife, Loulla, and had three children, Roy, Ann, and Kathy. Paul then began work as a draftsman for the Packard Motor Car Company in Detroit where he stayed for two years.

Paul then worked for GM-Truck and Bus in Pontiac, Michigan, to continue his specialization as a draftsman. He remained there for 25 years, retiring in 1981. While at GM, Paul was specially recognized for not missing a day of work in over a decade of service.

During his much-earned retirement, he has enjoyed traveling to Las Vegas, Nevada--and especially the Grand Canyon. For over 25 years, Paul has also been an active participant in the VFW.

On behalf of Michigan's 9th Congressional District, I am proud to offer my warmest birthday wishes and a debt of gratitude for his honorable service to the United States Army. We are proud to have Paul Englehart in our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to offer my heartfelt congratulations to the Unionville-Sebewaing Area Patriots on their fourth consecutive state softball championship, which also marks their ninth overall title. The unmatched dedication, skill, and determination of these incredible athletes have once more brought great pride to our community.

This team's triumph not only further solidifies their place as champions, but also sets a new standard of excellence for future athletes to follow. The Patriots' commitment to their craft, their tireless hours of practice, and their winning sportsmanship have certainly propelled them to this fantastic achievement.

As we celebrate this resounding victory, we must also remember that this victory extends far beyond the field. Behind this team, there are incredibly dedicated and supportive coaches, teachers, friends, and families.

It is no small feat to achieve victory once, let alone four straight times. This team has continuously showcased their resilience, winning spirit, and tireless dedication, and it is no doubt that this mindset led to yet another victory.

On behalf of Michigan's 9th Congressional District, I extend my most sincere congratulations to the Unionville-Sebewaing Area Patriots and to all the coaches and families who have helped build this outstanding record.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the 100th anniversary of Barron Industries of Oxford, Michigan.

Founded in 1923, Barron Industries has led a remarkable journey. Family-owned and operated since its beginning, this esteemed company has remained committed to delivering excellence, innovation, and quality.

100 years ago, Barron Industries began as a comparatively small foundry producing 60-ton sand castings and even hand-delivering other orders to customers like Henry Ford. But now, this company maintains a sterling reputation as a manufacturer of precision aerospace, defense, automotive, oil and gas, nuclear, and medical components which are shipped and used worldwide.

For decades, Barron Industries has built an impressive track record in countless industries, and they have done so here in our community. Since 1983, they have been a vital employer, innovator, and contributor to the Oxford area.

With the promise of quality and product integrity, this company has cemented its name as a trusted manufacturer by many other leading industries, all the while remaining family-owned and operated since its founding. Their commitment to precision, innovation, and their community truly embodies the sense of responsible American entrepreneurship that has driven our Nation forward for centuries

I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Barron Industries of Oxford on their centennial celebration. Here's to another century of accomplishments, growth, and continued success both in our community and throughout the world.

Mr. Speaker, I stand here today in strong opposition to the Chinese Communist Party's takeover of a town in my home State of Michigan.

The CCP is using one of their state-controlled companies to implant thousands of Chinese workers and billions worth of Chinese technology just outside of Big Rapids.

The company is called Gotion, and their technology is EV batteries. Now, Gotion likes to say that this is a good thing for Michigan and maybe even a good thing for America.

Why?

It is because they claim it brings jobs and money to our economy--but let's not forget the over $500 million worth of taxpayer dollars that will be used to subsidize and build this facility. That is, quite frankly, what I call BS.

Gotion is bought and paid for by the CCP, and let's be clear: the CCP is not our friend.

So I am not standing idly by and going to let this happen. I am going to stand with the people of the great State of Michigan to call this out and continue to bring attention to this and do something about this. That is why I am here today: to call out the CCP for this blatant attempt to overtake our State.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mrs. Tess Florek of St. Veronica Catholic School, who for nearly a decade has dedicated her career and scholarship to educating children in their early years. Throughout her years of service as a schoolteacher, Mrs. Florek has made remarkable contributions to the lives of students, parents, and her school community.

Born and raised in Jacksonville, Florida, Tess attended San Jose Catholic Grade School and spent her summers with family in New Orleans. After graduating high school with an International Baccalaureate degree, Tess attended Florida State University to become a Bachelor of Music. Upon the completion of her degree, she elected to earn her master's degree in the same field from the University of North Texas. In 2017, she earned her second master's degree in education from Marymount University.

Despite her remarkable academic accomplishments thus far, Mrs. Florek is continuing her scholarship at Marymount University, where she is in the final year of her second master's degree in education through the Marymount University graduate program in Catholic School Leadership.

As of the 2022-2023 academic year, Tess Florek has completed her 7th year teaching

fourth grade students at St. Veronica Catholic School. Beyond her responsibility as a teacher, Tess actively serves as a school band leader while simultaneously playing an integral community role in the diocesan accreditation process.

As the teacher for Josiah and Elijah Hawatmeh--nephews of my Chief of Staff, Nicola Hawatmeh--Mrs. Florek has left a lasting impression on the many young lives she has impacted. Her devotion and faithful service exemplify every characteristic that makes for a great educator, and we are all thankful for her passion, drive, and commitment to the field of education.

I join the wider St. Veronica community in thanking Mrs. Florek for going above and beyond for her students at St. Veronica Catholic School. With National Teacher Appreciation still fresh in our minds, it is a profound honor to recognize the great work of Tess Florek and all the passionate men and women who dedicate their lives to educating our youngest generation.

Mr. Speaker, it is hard to believe that after 2 years of record-breaking migrant encounters at the southern border, things continue to get worse with absolutely no end in sight.

I always say, to fix a problem, you first have to admit there is a problem. But the guy who is supposed to be in charge, the leader of border security, just cannot admit there is a problem.

DHS Secretary Mayorkas has time and time again failed to take responsibility, as the leader, as the boss, as the man in charge. He has the audacity to tell MSNBC that the open border is Congress' fault, and that Congress should do something about it.

Okay. Well, then I think it is time to do something about it. Let's impeach Secretary Mayorkas. His blatant failures have resulted in the deaths of American citizens and has made fentanyl the number one killer of 18- to 45-year-olds.

Enough is enough. We need real leadership, not some Biden puppet.

Mr. Speaker, I stand here today calling for the impeachment of Secretary Mayorkas.