Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I feel compelled to remark on the outrage of my colleagues and others over the special government employee status granted to Elon Musk by the executive branch. We are hearing a lot of, oh, he is unelected or he is unaccountable.

Let me remind my colleagues and those voices that the vast majority of government employees who review and authorize grants, disburse billions of dollars, issue rules and laws, or even handle our Nation's pandemic response, like Dr. Anthony Fauci, are unelectable and unaccountable to the voters.

How about the IRS bureaucrat Lois Lerner?

How can we forget ACORN?

None of my colleagues on the other side of the aisle were calling for accountability or investigations when Dr. Fauci was forcing his mandate on 300 million Americans.

None of them were expressing outrage when unelected bureaucrats were forcing 6-year-olds to wear masks or closing down schools or forcing Head Start students to continue to wear masks long after the rest of America had stopped wearing them and closing down churches and small businesses across the country.

Who can forget the government employee who leaked the pending Dobbs court decision?

No conservative has forgotten Lois Lerner of the IRS denying 501(c) status to those volunteer citizens wanting to protest the Obama administration.

These government employees yield tremendous power with no oversight, often making decisions behind closed doors that affect millions of Americans. Elon Musk was hired by the President of the United States, or brought on, to undercover waste, fraud, and abuse in our government. That is it. Every move being made by him and DOGE is being made in the public eye as an audit and not in the shadows.

Let's be clear because this really is not about accountability. It is about the fear of a system that might be held accountable and expose corruption.

Mr. Speaker, from 712 to 205 to the Super Bowl, former Iowa Hawkeye and current Philadelphia Eagle Cooper DeJean is now a world champion.

The rookie quarterback helped lead the Eagles to their second Super Bowl victory, returning his first professional career interception for a touchdown against the reigning champion Kansas City Chiefs.

If that wasn't special enough, it was also Coop's 22nd birthday. What a way to celebrate a birthday than with a first career interception to a touchdown and winning the Super Bowl.

Cooper, a proud native of Odebolt, Iowa, grew up wanting to be a University of Iowa Hawkeye player. He even wore shoes with the 712 area code during the biggest game of his life. During his time with the Hawkeyes, he earned All-American honors and was regarded as one of the Nation's best quarterbacks.

His NFL success comes as no surprise to those of us who watched him play in Iowa. With last night's performance, Cooper solidified his place as one of the greatest Hawkeyes ever, and he did it in his rookie season. All of Hawkeye Nation and Iowa are proud of Coop. He will always be a Hawkeye.

God bless and Go Hawks.

Honoring Iowa City Veterans Administration Medical Center and Heidi

Kaufman

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the incredible work being done by Heidi Kaufman and the dedicated team at the Iowa City Veterans Administration Medical Center. Their innovative use of aromatherapy in the PACU, or post-anesthesia care unit, is transforming the recovery experience for our veterans.

Through their pioneering efforts, this team has introduced a noninvasive, natural solution to combat postoperative nausea and vomiting. In a recent study, 12 out of 47 patients reported complete relief from nausea using only aromatherapy. Although that is a small amount, it is not pharmaceutical, it is nonaddictive, and the cost is extremely low.

This achievement is a testament to their compassion, skill, and commitment to improving patient care, and it can go far beyond the PACU. Heidi and her team have proven that sometimes the simplest solutions can make the most profound impact. Their work not only enhances the recovery process but also brings comfort and healing to those who have served our country.

We are deeply grateful for their dedication to our veterans and the innovative care they continue to provide. We thank Heidi for her work.

Special Government Employee Status of Elon Musk

Mr. Speaker, I feel compelled to remark on the outrage of my colleagues and others over the special government employee status of Elon Musk from the executive branch and constant remarks that he is unelected and unaccountable.

Let me remind my colleagues and those voices, the vast majority of government employees that review and authorize grants, that disburse funds, and that, in fact, issue rules or laws are unelected and unaccountable to the voters.

Mr. Speaker, had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 36.

Mr. Speaker, what you see next to me is a tiny speck of fentanyl, just a few milligrams, a dose so small it could fit on the ear of Lincoln on a penny, yet that speck is enough to take a life and destroy a family.

In 2023, over 107,000 Americans died from drug overdoses or poisoning, with fentanyl responsible for nearly 75 percent of those deaths.

As a State senator, I eliminated preauthorization for medicated assisted treatment for substance use disorder. In Congress, I have the Alternatives to PAIN Act. I have also helped veterans to get access to substance use disorder treatment.

This poison is flooding our streets and killing our children, parents, and neighbors. It is killing my constituents in Iowa. That is why we must pass the HALT Fentanyl Act. This bill would make the temporary classwide scheduling order for fentanyl-related substances permanent, ensuring law enforcement has the authority to seize these deadly drugs before they destroy more lives.

If we fail to act, traffickers will continue to exploit loopholes, pushing even deadlier drugs onto our streets.

The time for action is now. Lives are on the line. We must pass this bill to protect our families and stop this crisis.

Mr. Speaker, I stand before you today with a heavy heart to honor the life and legacy of a dear friend, a true servant of our State, and an extraordinary public servant, Representative Martin Graber. His unexpected passing leaves a void that cannot be filled.

For all who knew him, Martin was more than a colleague. He was a friend, mentor, and dedicated leader. A proud veteran with 32 years of service in the Iowa National Guard and a distinguished representative of Iowa House District 100, Martin was a man of integrity, always putting the people of southeast Iowa first. His commitment to faith, community, and service will never be forgotten.

To his beloved wife, Coni, their daughters and granddaughters, his entire family, and the rodeo family, we extend our deepest condolences. Martin's genuine care and unwavering dedication to those he served left an indelible mark on all of us.

Mr. Speaker, may God bless his memory, and may we continue to honor his spirit of service as we move forward.

Mr. Speaker, it is a new era in American history.

I congratulate President Donald Trump and Senator, now-Vice President J.D. Vance on their inauguration. This is the beginning of a golden age where we will secure our borders, lower prices, unleash American energy, and drain the D.C. swamp.

Under President Trump's leadership, we will restore safety by securing our borders and putting American citizens first--no more open borders or out-of-control illegal immigration. We will cut the costs that are crushing families across this Nation and especially in Iowa. By unleashing American energy, we will lower gas prices and, subsequently, food prices and reduce our dependency on foreign energy.

Let's be clear. We are here to drain the D.C. swamp. It is time to root out waste, inefficiency, and corruption that has held this Nation back for too long.

I pray for their success and that God blesses their leadership and guides their efforts to make America stronger, safer, and more prosperous for everyone than ever before.

I also wish President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump a wonderful and happy 20th anniversary.

Celebrating Clara Petersen

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate a remarkable woman from West Branch, Iowa, Clara Petersen, who recently turned 100 years old.

While this milestone is extraordinary on its own, Clara's life and legacy are made even more remarkable by her service to our country during World

War II. She proudly served in the Coast Guard, and the Iowa City VA Healthcare System honored her with a plaque to recognize her incredible dedication.

Clara's humble spirit and sense of humor shine through as she fondly recalls her time in service, joking that she joined in 1945 to help get that darn war over with.

As she, herself, will tell you, her greatest achievements are not in her service but in the joys of family, getting married, raising children, and cherishing a family she calls the greatest in the world.

Clara's century of life is a testament to the strength and heart of our Nation. We are grateful for her service and her example.

Supporting the Most Vulnerable

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to reaffirm my unwavering commitment to protecting life and supporting both mothers and babies. Every life is precious, and it is our responsibility to defend the most vulnerable among us.

As a mother, a doctor, and a Member of Congress, I have always been dedicated to ensuring that children have the opportunity to grow, thrive, and fulfill their potential.

I am proud to share that I earned an A+ on the Susan B. Anthony Pro- Life America National Pro-Life Scorecard for the 118th Congress. This score reflects my consistent pro-life voting record, cosponsorship, and efforts to protect the sanctity of life.

This week, people from all around the country are coming to Washington, D.C., to celebrate life and advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves.

In addition to defending life, we must ensure that mothers have the support and resources they need to make the best choices for themselves and their children.

Mr. Speaker, today I wish a happy 15th birthday to my best buddy and nephew, Andrew Martino. I hope he has a wonderful day.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to wish my best bud and my nephew a happy 15th birthday. Today is the actual day. Happy birthday, Andrew. I hope you have a wonderful day.

Madam Speaker, I rise today, proud to announce that I have joined the bipartisan Congressional DOGE Caucus. This important initiative is focused on bringing much needed efficiency to the Federal Government and reducing wasteful spending that burdens taxpayers.

As an Iowan, I know that every dollar counts. Many of my constituents are living paycheck to paycheck, while unelected bureaucrats in Washington continue to waste taxpayer dollars. That is why I am excited to work alongside leaders like Vivek Ramaswamy and Elon Musk who bring a business-minded approach to reforming government operations.

The national debt has now surpassed $36 trillion. Since 2003, $2.7 trillion in improper payments have been made by Federal agencies. The DOGE Caucus will work tirelessly to address this issue, streamline operations, and ensure the government is working more effectively and efficiently for all Americans.

I look forward to collaborating with my colleagues and advancing President Trump's agenda to rein in wasteful spending while we work efficiently to provide services and protect taxpayer dollars.

Protecting Women and Girls in Sports

Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act which was introduced by Representative Steube.

In the last term, the House passed this bill as well, but it was not taken up by the Senate. This critical legislation ensures that only biological women and girls can participate in athletic programs designed for their sex at birth, preserving fairness and integrity in women's sports.

For decades, Title IX has worked to provide equal opportunities for women in education and athletics. This bill reaffirms that commitment by clarifying that sex is determined by an individual's chromosomal expression at birth.

As a physician and a scientist, the science indicates that males, especially after puberty, have greater and longer striated muscle mass which means they run faster, swim faster, and jump higher. They also have greater cardiac volume and greater lung volume which

also enables them to have greater endurance and strength. Those individuals who are competing with women don't offer a level playing field for female athletes.

This bill also requires a report from the Government Accountability Office to assess the negative psychological, developmental, and sociological aspects of male participation in female sports.

Madam Speaker, this is about fairness. It is about protecting women's rights and women's spaces and ensuring that girls have equal opportunities in athletics, and I urge my colleagues to support this legislation.

Welcoming Iowans to the United States Presidential Inauguration

Madam Speaker, I extend a warm welcome to the thousands of Iowans, including the hundreds from Iowa's First Congressional District, who are traveling to Washington, D.C., to attend President Trump's inauguration. I know that many of them are making the journey with their families, friends, and fellow community members. I am excited to see such a strong presence of Iowans in our Nation's Capital.

From local leaders to activists to business owners, students, and veterans, Iowans of all walks of life are coming together to witness this historic event. It is a testament to the pride and dedication we have in our State and our country.

My team and I are here to make sure their experience is as smooth and as enjoyable as possible. We look forward to assisting them in any way we can while they are here. We welcome Iowa to Washington, D.C.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate a true leader from my district, Mr. Decker Ploehn, Bettendorf's city administrator, who has recently been named the Quad Cities Most Influential Leader for 2024.

Decker's leadership is defined by his dedication to his community and his remarkable ability to build relationships that foster growth, collaboration, and positive change.

His work has helped transform Bettendorf into a thriving city, with impressive developments like the I-74 bridge and the TBK Bank Sports Complex. His tireless efforts have been instrumental in securing funding and advancing projects that benefit the entire region.

Decker's impact extends beyond the city's infrastructure. He is a passionate mentor, a devoted volunteer, and a trusted resource for countless organizations.

Whether he is emceeing a fundraiser, advising local leaders, or volunteering his time to nonprofits, Decker consistently proves that his success in leadership is rooted in service to others.

Decker's contributions have truly shaped our community, and I am proud to represent him in Congress.

I congratulate Decker on this well-deserved recognition.

Mr. Speaker, I take this moment to wish my older sister, Marianne, a very happy birthday.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to offer my heartfelt congratulations to my good friend, Senator Chris Cournoyer, on her appointment as Iowa's new Lieutenant Governor.

This is a historic moment, as Iowa now has two women in the top two executive positions for the first time. It

is a testament to the strength, leadership, and dedication of women across our State.

Governor Reynolds has made an excellent choice in appointing Chris to this important role. I had the pleasure of serving alongside Chris in the Iowa Senate and have seen firsthand the kind of leader she is.

Chris has been a tireless advocate for education, technology, innovation, conservative budgeting, tax cuts, and accountability in government during her time in the Iowa Senate. Her ability to roll up her sleeves and find practical solutions makes her uniquely qualified to serve our State in this capacity.

From her leadership on the school board of the Pleasant Valley School District, to her work in the technology sector, Chris has proven herself time and time again. I am proud to call her a friend and excited to see the continued success she will bring to Iowa in this new role.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Senator Cournoyer. Iowa is fortunate to have her.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of former Congressman Jim Leach, who recently passed away.

Jim Leach represented southeast Iowa in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1977 to 2013, the district I now represent, leaving an indelible mark on our State and Nation.

As chairman of the House Financial Services Committee, he played a key role in shaping financial regulations that promoted stability and competition.

Known for his integrity and civility, Jim worked across the aisle to build bridges and promote bipartisan solutions. He was also a principled leader, notably voting against the Iraq war, reflecting his commitment to thoughtful, measured foreign policy.

Jim's legacy of public service, grounded in his deep love for Iowa and his country, continues to inspire. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and all who had the privilege of working alongside him.

Recognizing Pleasant Valley Spartan Girls' Volleyball Team

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Pleasant Valley Spartan girls' volleyball team for their 2024 State volleyball championship. This valiant effort, spurred on by Coach Amber Hall and team captain Isabelle Kremer, led to the Spartans winning their second State title in 4 years. They finished the season with an astonishing 35-2 record.

This culture of excellence established in Pleasant Valley will serve as a springboard for these young women, compelling them to strive for that same excellence in their professional lives. The leadership imbued in them will shine through in all aspects of life.

The Pleasant Valley all-in mentality, which pushes students and teachers to give 100 percent effort in athletics and academics, was established in 2016 and has been a cornerstone of accomplishment ever since. The goal of this rallying cry is to instill a growth mindset that encourages everyone to learn together and push each other to always give their best.

Congratulations to the Pleasant Valley girls' volleyball team, which made us all proud.

Holding Pharmacy Benefit Managers Accountable

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of President Trump's call to hold pharmacy benefit managers accountable for their role in driving up prescription drug prices.

Currently, six PBMs control over 90 percent of the U.S. prescription drug market, and they are destroying independent pharmacies, especially in rural areas like Iowa. In fact, 25 independent pharmacies have closed in Iowa this year alone.

The first legislation I passed on PBM reform and transparency was as a State senator in 2019.

PBMs use tactics like spread pricing, where they charge insurers more than they reimburse pharmacies, and they pocket the difference. As a result, PBM profits have increased over 300 percent, while prescription drug prices have surged nearly 40 percent, far outpacing inflation.

That is why I introduced the DRUG Act, bipartisan legislation that bans spread pricing, patient steering, and other harmful PBM practices.

It is time for transparency and fairness in our healthcare system. Let's get started on President Trump's agenda and pass PBM reform now.

Merry Christmas to People of Iowa

Mr. Speaker, as Christmas approaches, I want to take a moment to wish the people of Iowa a very merry Christmas. This is a time of year to reflect on the blessings we have received, to show gratitude for our loved ones, and to embrace the spirit of giving.

For me, Christmas is especially meaningful because it is a time to slow down and spend quality time with my family and friends and to deliver my well-known cinnamon rolls. In our busy lives, these moments together are precious, and I am so grateful for the opportunity to share them with those I love most.

Iowa is a place where community and family are at the heart of everything we do. As we celebrate this season, I encourage everyone to share these connections and spread kindness to those around you.

To my fellow Iowans, may your homes be filled with love, joy, and peace this Christmas. I am truly grateful for each of you. Merry Christmas and happy new year.

Warm Wishes During Hanukkah

Mr. Speaker, as Hanukkah begins, I want to wish the Jewish community in Iowa and across the country a happy and meaningful holiday.

Hanukkah is a time to celebrate light, tradition, and the strength of family and faith.

This season, as families gather to light the menorah and share their meals, I hope they find moments of peace, joy, and reflection. Hanukkah reminds us that even in challenging times, we can always find hope and light.

To all those who are celebrating, I send my warmest wishes for a wonderful Hanukkah filled with love and happiness. May your homes be filled with warmth, and may this season bring you closer to those you cherish most.

Happy Hanukkah.

Congratulating Iowa Lieutenant Governor Chris Cournoyer

Mr. Speaker, I wish to recognize my good friend, who I served with in the State senate, Senator Chris Cournoyer, for being named the Lieutenant Governor under Governor Reynolds. Once again, Iowa is trailblazing with this Lieutenant Governor selection.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Senator Cournoyer.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the winners of our first ever congressional writing competition. I asked students from around Iowa's First Congressional District, elementary, middle, and high school, to submit an essay about what makes Iowa special. Given that the University of Iowa has the Writers' Workshop, writing in Iowa is a known quantity.

I was moved by the quality of writing our students in Iowa possess and their unwavering love for Iowa.

The winners are: Katelyn Cope, sixth grader from Newton; Adele Decker, sixth grader from Newton; Sawyer Rhoades, sixth grader from Keokuk; Georgia Clark, eighth grader from West Liberty; Gwenavier Spalding, ninth grader from Anamosa; Kayden Wherry, ninth grader from Anamosa; Yuchen Gong, 11th grader from Iowa City; and Justin Chapman, 12th grader from Williamsburg.

The winners will receive a certificate of achievement as well as a flag flown over the Capitol building.

I congratulate these dedicated students. I look forward to seeing all of their contributions to Iowa in the future.

Congratulating the Iowa Hawkeyes Football Team

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Iowa Hawkeyes football team on another winning season. Led by the breakout running back Kaleb Johnson, who finished the regular season with 1,537 yards and 21 touchdowns, the Hawkeyes finished 8-4, with key wins coming against Washington, Nebraska, Wisconsin, and Minnesota.

This season was a historical one for our longtime coach, Kirk Ferentz. Coach Ferentz clinched his 204th career win on November 29 and is now only one win away from the all-time record for wins in the Big 10.

While the regular season may be over, there is still more football to be played. On December 30, the Iowa Hawkeyes will be taking on the number 19 in the country, the Missouri Tigers, in the Music City Bowl in Nashville.

I once again congratulate the Hawkeyes on a great season and wish them all the best in their bowl game.

Go Hawks.

Giving Veterans Tools to Thrive

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Veterans SPORT Act, legislation I introduced to ensure that our Nation's veterans have access to adaptive prostheses and terminal devices for sports and recreational activities as part of their medical benefits.

Currently, veterans eligible for VA medical services can receive artificial limbs, but those wishing to engage in sports and recreation lack access to specialized equipment. This bill amends title 38 of the United States Code to include these critical devices, allowing veterans to pursue activities that support their physical and mental well-being.

Sports and recreation are vital components to rehabilitation, promoting fitness, social interaction, a sense of accomplishment, and the sense of being a whole person once again.

The Veterans SPORT Act empowers veterans to regain independence and participate fully in activities they love. I urge my colleagues to support this bill and ensure our veterans have the tools they need to thrive.

Misguided EV Mandates

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of President Trump's commitment to ending the misguided EV mandates set by the Biden-Harris administration.

While our country and our automakers need to make EVs to combat the Chinese Communist Party and electric vehicles have their place in the market, the American people should not be forced into adopting them.

Hundreds of millions of Americans rely on combustion engine vehicles in their daily lives, and these mandates are driving up the cost for families who can least afford it.

In just 2 years, the Biden administration allocated $7.5 billion in taxpayer funds for EV chargers, yet only eight

stations have been completed. This failure highlights the need for a more thoughtful approach, one that assesses cost and benefit and one that respects consumer choice and avoids unnecessary government intervention.

President Trump understands that a thriving economy is built on freedom and choice, not top-down mandates. Under his leadership, the American people will have the freedom to make their own decisions without the overreach of Washington.

Merriam-Webster's Word of the Year

Mr. Speaker, Merriam-Webster has named ``polarization'' the word of year. While that may reflect current times, it should also serve as a reminder that we must work harder to bridge the growing divide in our Nation.

Too often, political discourse has become hostile, with one side labeling their opponents as extremists for advocating commonsense solutions like securing our borders, lowering costs, or commonsense solutions that are helping hardworking families and ensuring fairness in women's sports.

I am optimistic that we can begin to heal these divisions and put America back on track. We must come together to prioritize policies that promote economic growth, strengthen national security, and restore the American Dream.

As we move into a new year, let us focus on the values that unite us and work for the betterment of all Americans.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the economic heartbeat of Iowa, our small businesses.

In Iowa, over 99 percent of businesses are small, many of which are family-owned. That is over 282,000 small businesses employing more than 616,000 people.

At a time of great economic uncertainty across the country, Iowa has been a beacon of hope and proven to be one of the best States to own and operate a business.

This past weekend, we celebrated Small Business Saturday encouraging folks to shop local for the holidays. As we approach Christmas and the New Year, I encourage Iowans and Americans everywhere to continue supporting small businesses and shopping local during this holiday season.

Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and without them, we don't have large businesses and our Nation's economic engine would falter.

I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the vital contributions of small businesses in Iowa and across the country, and to continue advocating for their success.

Recognizing Iowa Regional Teacher of the Year Kaitlin Mahoney

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the first- ever Iowa Regional Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Kaitlin Mahoney. Mrs. Mahoney has taught at Bettendorf High School for 11 years, molding the minds of our future generations.

Mrs. Mahoney believes that education begins with the ability to engage students. She has worked vigorously to adapt the school algebra curriculum, enabling hundreds of students to move on to higher education. She also works as a student counselor, pushing students toward achievements previously unthinkable.

It is the creativity and passion of educators like Mrs. Mahoney that will push this Nation across the finish line of our educational goals. The fostering of our youth must be at the forefront of concern in this Nation if it is to remain the greatest country in the world.

She will be competing against other finalists for the title of the 2025 Iowa Educator of the Year, the winner of which will be announced later this year. I wish Mrs. Mahoney all the luck in the world.

Maintaining the Values of American Democracy

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 5349, the Crucial Communism Teaching Act.

This important bill directs the Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation to develop a curriculum that teaches high school students about the dangers of communism and its conflict with the values of American democracy.

As communist nations continue ramping up their aggression toward the U.S., it is crucial that we educate the next generation on the stark realities of totalitarian regimes and human suffering caused by communism.

By providing students with these critical resources, we can help them understand the importance of liberty, individual rights, free markets, and the constitutional principles that define our Nation. This bill will prepare our young people to be responsible citizens who can safeguard the freedoms we hold dear.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 5349 and ensure that future generations are educated on the lessons of history.

Recognizing the Iowa Computer Science Technology Association

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Iowa Computer Science Technology Association for helping Iowa rank amongst the top 10 States in the Nation for providing access to high-quality computer science education.

Iowa's top 10 ranking in the 2023-2024 academic year of computer science class availability beats the national average by 24 percent, with 84 percent of public schools offering computer science classes.

With computer and information technology jobs rising exponentially across the United States, the efforts of these passionate educators will be reflected in the success of Iowa's youth as they set the standard in the workforce.

As we move forward in the ever-changing technological climate, it is imperative that we continue to develop innovative ways of helping our students achieve success, not only on the national stage, but on the world stage, as well.

This is a win for the people of Iowa and for America. The fight for educational success is never over, and we must continue to prioritize education, continually aiming for a brighter future for our students.

Honoring the 83rd Anniversary of Pearl Harbor

Mr. Speaker, I rise today as Saturday, December 7, will be the honoring and remembering of the 83rd anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor, a day that will live in infamy, a day that claimed the lives of 2,403 American heroes.

On December 7, 1941, a peaceful Sunday morning was torn apart when Japan launched a surprise assault on our naval base in Hawaii. Ships were sunk, planes were destroyed, and lives were lost. Indeed, there is the USS Arizona Memorial that remains there today.

From this devastating attack, our Nation's strength and unity emerged. Pearl Harbor awakened an unshakable spirit of patriotism and resolve. Americans, ordinary men and women, answered the call to defend freedom and protect the ideals that make this country great and that continued democracy throughout the world.

Let us honor those who sacrificed everything and remember their courage and dedication. Their legacy lives on in the enduring strength of this Nation, which will never falter in the face of adversity and will always stand for freedom and justice.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Debbie Lesko, Representative Lesko.

Although I am not from Arizona, I would wonderfully be in Arizona to have her as my Representative.

Yes, indeed, we were on a boat in Grand Lake in Oklahoma for a Heat and Western Caucus event. You don't think of Oklahoma as being cold. It was cold and rainy and nasty, but we were troopers, and we were out there.

My next interaction with Mrs. Lesko was approaching her about steering and how to get on the Energy and Commerce Committee. She was gracious, kind, knowledgeable, a tremendous mentor, as she was to everybody. Honestly, I don't think I have ever seen Debbie smile as much as I have seen her tonight and as I have watched this on video.

Getting on the Energy and Commerce Committee, she was just one tier above me. Although, I had served on the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis my first term between 2021 and 2022, she then came on the committee this term; so we were serving in the 118th Congress both on Energy and Commerce and on the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis.

You have heard a lot about her kindness, her mentoring, and her friendship. You have heard about her grace. You have heard how she is conservative, but not angry. That is such a great description of her.

What you didn't hear a lot about was her intellect. Debbie studies. She is smart. She is able to dissect through things. She is able to prioritize. She is able to condense very complex topics into a 5-minute question and answer period.

I am telling you, if you are the witness and you are giving testimony, you don't want to be on the bad side of Debbie Lesko. She won't be angry. She won't be vindictive. She won't use profanity, but you are going to know you have been taken to the cleaners.

She will come out with a statement. She will smile. She will lead up to it, and then, bam. You are going: Where did that come from? That is Debbie Lesko. That is the power of Debbie Lesko. That is the power of preparation.

In my time in the military, you learn: If you failed the plan, you planned to fail. She always plans. She is always on target. She always studies. She always reads. And quite honestly, isn't that what we, as Americans, want of our Congress people? If they are going to make laws, if they are going to hold government accountable, don't we want people that do the work that their constituents ask them to do? She is a role model for all of us and an inspiration on what a citizen servant should be.

Next, if you get to travel with her, you don't have to go on a boat in the rain in Oklahoma. You can go to some far-off country. She is a great shopping companion. She likes to try all different kinds of foods. She does her homework on the plane over and on the plane back.

She is just a genuine and lovely person to travel and be with. When Members of Congress have to travel places, especially far off, for the work that they do, you really want to have somebody in the seat next to you that is a joy to be with and not making all kinds of noises and all kinds of stuff. They are not high maintenance. She is a shining example of what a good travel companion and what a good Member of Congress is.

I am probably over my time. It has been a real joy to serve with Debbie Lesko these 4 years I have served with her. She was a tremendous asset to the Energy and Commerce Committee and the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis that we served on together. She will be deeply missed. I will deeply miss her. She will be missed in our Conference for all of the reasons that everybody has said.

Mr. Speaker, we know she is going to continue to do great things for the people of Arizona. We wish her all the best. I know her husband is very happy to have her back.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Military Family Appreciation Month, a time to honor the families who stand as the true backbone of our military community.

As someone from a proud military family, I know the sacrifices made by those who serve are only possible because of the unwavering support of their families. I enlisted at 18 and served for 24 years from the Vietnam era to the Gulf war, both on Active Duty and in the Reserves.

Throughout my years in the military, I had the privilege of serving alongside five of my eight siblings. My husband and my father also served our country. None of us would have been able to do this without the strength and support of our family.

This month, we celebrate military families, the silent heroes behind every servicemember's success. To all military families, we thank them for their sacrifices and their unwavering commitment to our Nation's freedom.

Recognizing St. Ambrose University Veterans Legacy Project

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the St. Ambrose University Veterans Legacy Project, which is working to cement the legacies of over 25,000 of our veterans at Rock Island Arsenal in the Quad Cities.

Over Veterans Day weekend, I had the pleasure of meeting some of the individuals involved in this essential process. Their team of dedicated volunteers worked diligently to ensure the lives and careers of so many of our veterans are not forgotten.

They document the service and lives of veterans ranging from the Civil War until today. As a veteran, it inspires me to see young people who care so deeply about these personal sacrifices and American history. The detail and level of care which is put into this operation is breathtaking; speaking with friends and families of these servicemen and -women to ensure nothing is forgotten.

Without these men and women, many of whom gave the ultimate sacrifice, we would not be able to enjoy the freedoms we have today. It is my hope that this project can shine a spotlight on veterans' issues and the importance of safeguarding our history.

38th Annual Student Hunger Drive

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the incredible students from over 16 Quad Cities high schools who raised 787,186 meals for the River Bend Food Bank during the 38th annual Student Hunger Drive.

Through their hard work, creativity, and leadership, these students have had a profound impact on their community. By organizing events like penny wars and competing to raise the most meals, they not only provided vital resources but also united the community in their fight against hunger. Every meal they collected will go to those in need.

I am incredibly proud to represent these young leaders in Congress, and I have no doubt they will continue to make a difference in the Quad Cities and beyond. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating them for their dedication and commitment to service.

Honoring Jon West

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life of Jon West, an exceptional Iowan who passed away far too soon.

Born on May 24, 1971, in Mason City, Jon was a devoted husband to Tammy, father to TJ and Ashley, and grandfather to Rhea Lou and Lyra Jon. He dedicated 30 years to Winnebago Industries, rising from an entry-level position to lead manufacturing engineer where his innovations benefited both the company and his community.

Jon served two terms on the city council of Forest City, showing his deep commitment to giving back. A fourth-generation Iowan, he cherished his heritage and loved farming with friends, Jay and Kevin.

Above all, Jon's greatest joy was his family. His legacy lives on through them and his impact on his community endures.

Jon was a proud Iowan dedicated to his family, his work, and his State. He will be deeply missed.

Go Hawks

Mr. Speaker, this weekend on Saturday, November 23, the Iowa Hawkeyes play the Maryland Terrapins. Go Hawks.

Birthday Wishes to Austin Harris

Mr. Speaker, I wish a very happy birthday to my good friend, Austin Harris.