Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate Tayla Tollefson, the Outreach Coordinator in my district office, who was crowned Miss Spokane on Sunday, February 15, 2026.

Tayla is a senior at Eastern Washington University, one of the great institutions serving students across our region and expanding opportunity throughout Eastern Washington, where she is pursuing a double major in Political Science, Pre-Law, and International Affairs, along with a minor in Psychology. After graduation, she will attend Gonzaga University School of Law, continuing the tradition of excellence and community commitment that has made Gonzaga a point of pride for so many families in Eastern Washington. Her academic dedication and leadership exemplify the hard work, talent, and community spirit that define the very best of Washington's 5th District.

The Miss Spokane Scholarship Organization is a proud local preliminary to the Miss America Organization, providing scholarships to young women while promoting academic achievement, leadership, and community engagement. Tayla's own words capture the heart of that mission. She said, ``As Miss Spokane, I am deeply honored to represent a community that believes in opportunity, growth, and the power of young women to lead and inspire change.''

Tayla has a clear vision for building new community partnerships, expanding opportunities, and empowering other young women to pursue their goals with confidence and purpose.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating Tayla--our new Miss Spokane--and an outstanding representative of Eastern Washington.

Mr. Speaker, for nearly half a century, the Islamic Republic of Iran, the world's leading state sponsor of terrorism, has brutally targeted and killed Americans.

Through its own forces and its network of proxy militias, Iran has killed and injured thousands of Americans: diplomats, servicemembers, and civilians alike. No other terrorist regime has claimed more American lives. When the Ayatollahs of Iran chant ``death to America,'' they mean it. President Trump's bold and decisive actions have helped protect American lives and defended our national interests.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remind this body of the Iranian regime's ongoing and bloody campaign against the American people.

The following is only a partial record.

November 1979: Iranian students, backed by the regime, seized our embassy in Tehran and took 66 Americans for 444 days.

April 1983: an Iran-backed terrorist group bombed the U.S. Embassy in Beirut, killing 77 Americans.

October 1983: Iran-backed Hezbollah terrorists bombed the marine barracks in Beirut, killing 241 U.S. military personnel, including 220 Marines.

March 1984: Iran-backed terrorists kidnapped CIA Station Chief William Buckley in Beirut. He later died in captivity.

July 1989: Iran-backed Hezbollah terrorists murdered U.S. Marine Colonel William Higgins after kidnapping him while he was serving on a U.N. peacekeeping mission.

Throughout the 1990s, Iran-backed terrorists repeatedly targeted Americans in Israel and the Palestinian territories.

April 1995: a car bomb in the Gaza strip killed eight people, including one American citizen.

1995 through 1997: a series of suicide bombings on buses and shopping districts and public places in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv killed and wounded American citizens and dual nationals.

June 1996: Hezbollah terrorists directed by Iran bombed the Khobar Towers housing complex in Saudi Arabia, killing 19 U.S. airmen and wounding hundreds more.

August 1998: al-Qaida suicide bombers, facilitated by Iran-backed Hezbollah, bombed our embassies in Kenya and Tanzania, killing 224 people, including dozens of Americans.

In the 2000s, Iran and its proxies continued targeting Americans, including multiple bombings in Jerusalem and at Hebrew University that killed and wounded American citizens.

October 2003: Iran-backed terrorists killed three U.S. diplomatic personnel in a bombing in Gaza.

Between 2003 and 2011, Iran-backed militias killed at least 603 U.S. troops in Iraq, roughly one in six of every Americans killed in combat and fatalities in that war, including some of my friends.

March 2007: former FBI agent Robert Levinson disappeared in Iran and is believed to have died in an Iranian prison, becoming one of the longest held American captives in history.

In the last decade, the pattern has continued.

December 2019: Iran-backed Kataib Hezbollah terrorists killed an American contractor and wounded U.S. servicemembers in a rocket attack in Iraq.

January 2020: Iranian ballistic missile attack on Ain al-Asad airbase in Iraq left 109 U.S. troops with traumatic brain injuries.

February 2021 and July 2021: Iran-backed militias launched rocket and drone attacks that wounded U.S. servicemembers and American contractors in Iraq and Syria.

September 2022 and November 2022: Iran and IRGC-linked operatives killed American citizens in Iraqi Kurdistan and Baghdad.

March 2023: an Iranian drone strike on a coalition base in Syria killed an American contractor and wounded five U.S. servicemembers and another contractor.

October 7, 2023: Iran-backed Hamas terrorists murdered 46 Americans and kidnapped at least a dozen more in the October 7 massacre.

Between 2023 and November 2024: Iran and its proxies conducted more than 180 attacks on U.S. Forces in the Middle East, wounding over 180 American servicemembers and killing three.

January 2024: Iran-backed Kataib Hezbollah terrorists killed three U.S. servicemembers and wounded more than 40 in a drone attack on a U.S. base in Jordan.

November 2024: an Iranian national and IRGC asset was charged in a plot to assassinate President Trump on behalf of the Iranian regime.

June 2025: Iran-backed militias attacked multiple U.S. bases in Syria and Iraq, again targeting American troops.

Mr. Speaker, this is only a partial list of Iran's bloody war on American citizens. For decades, administrations of both parties have understood this threat. President Trump's actions are part of a necessary effort to defend American lives. I spent a lot of time in the Middle East in a lot of places, and there has been one constant: Iranian-backed terrorist groups have always been trying to kill Americans. That ends now.

Mr. Speaker, the Iranian terrorist regime has been at war with the American people for nearly 50 years through countless terrorist attacks, countless American servicemen and -women injured, and a persistent danger to the United States of America. President Trump's actions are a long time coming, well-meaning, and well- deserved.

I had the opportunity and the privilege to serve with the United States State Department during the Iraq surge, where I participated in putting together a joint U.S.-Iraqi interagency team to suppress Iranian-backed militia groups in Baghdad. These were very, very bad guys.

One of the things that they did was use what is called an explosively form penetrator. Al-Qaida and the Sunni groups would bake a lot of explosives on their roof and make big bombs. What the Iranians would do was make a special kind of bomb with a copper plate that would get an explosive, and it could punch right through our armor.

One day, on a trip to Sadr City, I watched a massive what is called an MRAP, armored personnel carrier, explode in front of me from an Iranian bomb and watched as that hulking metal burned to a crisp as American servicemen and -women sought to deal with the aftermath.

This terrorist regime has killed thousands of their countrymen and killed Americans across the Middle East, and it is time for them to come to an end. This is a partisan political maneuver by the Democrats, and they should be ashamed for what they are doing to put our servicemen and -women in danger.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Marine Sergeant Joshua Elliott of Stevens County in eastern Washington and to highlight the incredible work of Homes For Our Troops.

After the 9/11 attacks, Josh enlisted in the Marine Corps to serve his country. During his second deployment to Afghanistan, he was gravely injured by an improvised explosive device, losing both legs above the knee.

Despite these injuries, Josh returned home to continue to serve, founding Angel Peak Adaptive Sports with his wife, Samantha, to help other wounded veterans and athletes experience the freedom of adaptive skiing.

Yet, the unlevel terrain and narrow spaces of their current home make daily life difficult.

That is why the great group Homes For Our Troops is stepping in to build Josh a specially adapted home, giving him the safety, independence, and access he has earned through his service.

Madam Speaker, Sergeant Elliott embodies the courage, resilience, and community spirit of eastern Washington, and we are proud to call him one of our own. We are also grateful to Homes For Our Troops for providing this needed assistance.

Recognizing Military Recruiters

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the dedicated work of our military recruiters and their critical role in shaping the future of our Armed Forces.

I recently met with recruiters from across eastern Washington to discuss the state of military recruiting and the challenges that they face in reaching new applicants. These men and women are often the first connection that young Americans have to military service. They open doors to opportunity, education, and leadership,

while ensuring our Nation remains a strong and ready force.

I call upon the memory of one of my favorite Presidents, President JFK, and think about his statement: ``Ask not what your country can do for you--ask what you can do for your country.''

Madam Speaker, I call on all the parents of eastern Washington and all the teachers and principals to have a conversation with our fine recruiters and talk about what career paths their young people in their homes and their schools may have in protecting our country with our military.

Recognizing Spokane Chinese Association and Spokane Chinese Christian

Church

Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the Spokane Chinese Association and the Spokane Chinese Christian Church for hosting an outstanding Lunar New Year celebration in Spokane.

The event was a vibrant tribute to our community's diversity and the rich cultural traditions that strengthen all of us. The music and dance performances showcase not only extraordinary talent but also the spirit of unity and joy that defines this wonderful celebration.

In eastern Washington, we are proud to have such a vibrant Asian- American community. For more than 170 years, Asian, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander families have helped to shape the cultural fabric of the inland Northwest.

As we celebrate this season of new beginnings, may it bring good health, prosperity, and joy to them and their families. I am proud to join in honoring the start of a new year filled with hope and good fortune.

Madam Speaker, I thank the Spokane Chinese Association and the Spokane Chinese Christian Church for inviting me to such a wonderful celebration, and I wish them a Happy Lunar New Year.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the beloved Colfax boys' basketball coach, Reece Jenkin.

Coach Jenkin is battling stage IV pancreatic cancer with the same courage and determination he has inspired in his players for years.

Just this week, for the first time in over a month, he returned to Colfax High School not to coach but to cheer on his son, Adrik, on Senior Night.

Despite the toll of his treatments, Coach Jenkin's trademark positivity and radiant smile lit up the gym as he hugged his seniors and encouraged his team from the sidelines.

That night, Adrik delivered an incredible 38-point performance, leading the Bulldogs to victory and completing a perfect 20-0 season. Yet, the true victory was seeing Coach Jenkin there, living proof of the strength that love, faith, and community provide.

The entire Colfax community, including the entire eastern Washington community, stands behind Coach Jenkin as he continues this fight. His perseverance, humility, and devotion remind us all of what real leadership looks like both on and off the court.

World Pulses Day

Mr. Speaker, today is World Pulses Day, and I rise to celebrate eastern Washington's pulse growers.

What is a pulse, you say? One of the reasons I am standing on the House floor is to give rise to the new branding of the hardworking farmers who produce lentils, chickpeas, dried beans, and peas that feed our Nation and the world.

Pulses are a powerhouse crop, rich in protein, packed with nutrients, and a cornerstone of healthy diets across the globe. They are also a win for our soil and our climate. By fixing nitrogen naturally, they reduce the need for fertilizers that help sustain productive farmland for future generations.

In communities on the Palouse like Pullman, Colton, and Moscow, chickpeas and lentils aren't just an agricultural success story. They are a symbol of innovation, stewardship, and community pride.

As we mark World Pulses Day, let's recognize these growers and the vital role they play in strengthening both our food system and our rural economies.

Celebrating Pat Tully

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Pat Tully, one of the few remaining D-day veterans, as he marks his 105th birthday.

Sprague's own Joseph Patrick ``Pat'' Tully stands as a shining example of dedication, resilience, and character through every chapter of his remarkable life.

After graduating from high school in 1940, Pat answered his country's call, enlisting in the U.S. Army Signal Corps and helping maintain vital communications during the buildup to D-day.

Serving with the 980th Signal Corps Service Company, he crossed the icy North Atlantic in convoy to Liverpool before supporting the Allied Forces during and after the Normandy invasion.

When asked for the secret to 105 years of his remarkable life and his sound mind and body, Pat replied simply: two glasses of red wine, daily exercise, and a life of service.

Eastern Washington and, indeed, our entire Nation salute him for his remarkable example. Happy 105th birthday to Pat Tully. We thank him for his incredible life of service to our Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 1984 Walla Walla High School girls' basketball team and to celebrate the long-overdue recognition of their State championship victory.

The 1979 and 1984 Walla Walla High girls' teams remain the only State basketball champions in Wa-Hi history. Yet, for more than four decades, the 1984 champions have had no victory cup to mark their achievement.

What began as a casual conversation last spring has turned into the long-awaited correction of that injustice. This Saturday, after 42 years, the 1984 team will finally be recognized with a ceremony and the presentation of a specially made championship trophy.

These remarkable women represent the best of our communities: perseverance, teamwork, and pride that will stand the test of time. Now, finally, they will have a victory cup to recognize their significant achievement.

Mr. Speaker, I would also like to give a shout-out to the Walla Walla Union-Bulletin for covering this story. It is a reminder that while we can sometimes be frustrated with the way media covers things politically, we always appreciate a local news source for these types of stories.

Recognizing Driver and Lindsey Families of Pend Oreille County

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Driver and Lindsey families of Pend Oreille County, whose century-long story tells the very best of rural America: perseverance, hard work, and renewal.

Their history stretches from a hand-built homestead in the 1920s, through decades of loss and reclamation, to today's 800-acre hay operation that continues to be an anchor in their community.

This year marks three remarkable milestones: 100 years since the original home was built, 80 years since the farm was reclaimed, and 20 years since the current operation began.

The Driver and Lindsey families embody stewardship and resilience. They have tilled the same soil for generations, adapting through challenge and change, ensuring this family legacy. Pictured to the right of me today is one of the fifth generation of the Driver family, and we know that he has much to look forward to as he builds his community on this wonderful family farm.

Celebrating 145th Anniversary of Spokane Tribe of Indians

Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate the 145th anniversary of the Spokane Tribe of Indians, a proud milestone honoring one of eastern Washington's oldest and most resilient communities.

The Spokane Tribe recently hosted its 1881 Powwow near Wellpinit, bringing together families, dancers, and community members to mark this anniversary with song, dance, and fellowship. The day was filled with vibrant drumming, traditional ceremonies, and shared meals that reflected the enduring spirit of the Tribe.

As the American flag and the Spokane Tribe flag flew side by side, this celebration stood as a powerful symbol of unity, resilience, and the living heritage that continues to enrich the inland northwest.

Mr. Speaker, I am not a Native Tribal member myself, but growing up in eastern Washington, I did have time to spend playing basketball with the Nez Perce Tribe of Indians in Lapwai, close to my family home. On several occasions, I was able to join and observe powwows.

Mr. Speaker, if anyone in Congress or watching at home has not had the opportunity to attend a powwow, it truly is one of the best celebrations of our shared culture and history. It is something that all Americans should attempt to do as we celebrate our 250th anniversary.

I close by again congratulating the Spokane Tribe of Indians on their leadership, tradition, and community pride.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor another of the bright lights of eastern Washington, but I also rise with sadness as I honor the life of Larry Batterton, a devoted husband, father, and community leader from eastern Washington who passed away on January 16 of this year.

Larry dedicated his life to service--first to his country as an Air Force dependent, and later to his community in Spokane and Stevens Counties. He was active in We Believe, We Vote and active in civics, community, and government in Stevens County. In these roles he led with faith, kindness, and conviction, always working to strengthen trust in our elections and unity in our civic life.

Larry and his wife, Susan, shared 54 years of marriage and built a wonderful family of four children and many grandchildren.

His faith guided everything he did, and Larry's steady leadership left a lasting mark on eastern Washington.

We give thanks for the life of Larry Batterton, his love of family, his enduring service to his community, and our State. When our Founders created this wonderful Republic that we live in, they thought of its foundation of good people like Larry Batterton. He will be deeply missed.

In Opposition to Washington State's Proposed Millionaire's Tax

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong opposition to the tax proposal in Washington State of Governor Bob Ferguson and his so-called millionaire's tax.

Mr. Speaker, I hear frequently from folks back home that they are very pleased with the work of this Washington and what Republican leadership has done to give our country the largest tax reduction in history. They tell me how much they enjoy and look forward to no taxes on tips, no taxes on overtime, a tax deduction on interest for loans for American-made cars, and new tax credits for education.

All the work we have done here in Washington, this Washington, reduces the cost of living for Americans, but I hear very frequently, as well, while this is going on, in the other Washington, my home of Washington State, that the Democrat leadership there is increasing taxes.

It is time for a reality check about budgets.

In Washington State, the legislative session has just begun, and the Governor has proposed a new income tax that would push Seattle's top earners into one of the highest tax brackets of anywhere in the country. There would be higher taxes in Washington State than even deep blue States like New York and California.

It doesn't stop there.

Other taxes are being considered, too, such as higher payroll taxes and higher business taxes for starters. It is sad. Just 3 years ago, Washington State had a $14 billion surplus, and instead of saving for a rainy day, the Democrats in Olympia spent recklessly.

State revenues went up by 25 percent, billions of extra dollars, but it was all spent, all to wind up $12 billion in the red today. That is after last year when the Democrats gave our State the largest tax increase in history, and now they want even more taxes.

Implementing this tax will hurt job creators in Washington State, hurt our innovative economy, hurt our family farms, hurt job creation, and hurt growth.

In the Federal Government we have a better record. Again, I voted for the largest tax reduction in history joining my Republican colleagues. The Democrats and Governor Ferguson in Olympia need to learn this lesson, not go even deeper into our pocketbooks and drive even more job creators out of the State.

My message to Governor Ferguson is this: Get spending under control. Stop taxing the good people of Washington State.

Mr. Speaker, there are many things that make eastern Washington the greatest place to live in these wonderful United States of America. Today, I rise to recognize one of those wonderful things, the Eastern Washington University Adaptive Athletics Program, home of the first collegiate National Wheelchair Basketball Association team in the Western United States.

Founded in 2019, this program embodies the values of leadership, teamwork, positivity, and integrity, helping student athletes build confidence, discipline, and independence both on and off the court. These athletes balance the same rigorous demands as all EWU varsity players--classes, practices, study sessions, travel, and competition-- all while setting a powerful example of determination and excellence.

They continue to raise the bar for what collegiate athletics can be, showing that true greatness is defined by heart and perseverance.

I know, on a personal level, each and every time I see these wonderful student athletes in person, I am inspired. I have seen the team traveling to and from games on my own trips to D.C., and I couldn't be prouder of their dedication and the way they represent Eastern Washington University. Go Eags.

Honoring Officer Kellsey Torres

Mr. Speaker, last week was National Law Enforcement Day, and I rise to recognize wonderful Officer Kellsey Torres of the Spokane Police Department, who was named officer of the quarter, and to shine the eastern Washington spotlight on her outstanding service.

This recognition is not just about one moment or one case. It reflects a pattern of service, compassion, and integrity that defines Officer Torres' work every single day. She embodies the values that make eastern Washington so special: hard work, humility, and a deep commitment to helping neighbors in need. Her dedication reminds us that public service is about people and showing up, lending a hand, and treating every person with dignity and respect while protecting us.

It is officers like Kellsey Torres who strengthen the trust between law enforcement and our communities and give us pride in the place we call home.

Today, we honor her not only for her outstanding service but for embodying the very best of the eastern Washington spirit. We honor all of our Nation's law enforcement officers, and may this body back the blue.

Celebrating North County Food Pantry

Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to celebrate the North County Food Pantry in rural Elk, Washington.

Nestled between the pristine forests and recovering farmland, this small 1982 mobile home has nourished hundreds of families in body and soul for decades.

The pantry does far more than provide food. It offers connection, dignity, and a true sense of community.

At the heart of the community is the director, Lora Benzinger, who has led the pantry for a little over a year after years and years of service. Drawing on her background in social services, she has made it her mission to ensure the pantry nourishes not only families' tables but also a sense of belonging.

Families come not just for groceries but for fellowship, encouragement, and a place to be seen and valued.

The pantry brings in volunteers from every walk of life. The North County Food Pantry stands as a powerful reminder that fighting hunger is about more than filling plates. It is about nurturing the human spirit. It reflects the compassion and resilience that define eastern Washington.

Mr. Speaker, my voters and my constituents sent me here to help solve problems, to help small business, to help employees, and to help grow the economy. As such, I am proud to support the Tipped Employee Protection Act. This important bill will help codify changes we are making in Congress to help tip the scales in favor of our service workers and waitresses.

Current Fair Labor Standards Act rules define tipped work as someone who customarily and regularly receives more than $30 a month in tips. It also considers a standard known as the 80/20 rule, which stipulates that tipped workers can spend no more than 20 percent of their time, or 30 minutes at a stretch, doing tasks that don't directly earn tips. If that sounds arbitrary, that is because it is.

Restaurants and similar businesses already run on thin margins. Keeping track of that kind of detail adds unnecessary red tape and stress. We all know how tough it is out there right now for small businesses.

That is why Representative Steve Womack and I introduced the Tipped Employee Protection Act. This bill replaces the outdated definition of tipped employees with a simpler and more realistic definition. The bill defines a tipped worker as anyone who receives tips and other cash wages that together add up to the Federal minimum wage, without worrying about how much time they spend on this or that.

This change gives businesses more flexibility and protects them from unfair and crippling penalties for small recordkeeping mistakes they might make.

This bill resolves a longstanding issue that has been the subject of expensive litigation and ensures that the Federal Government does not set a standard that it cannot reasonably expect to enforce. It also helps the Department of Labor focus on real wage violations instead of technical paperwork issues.

Let's help small business. Let's help employers. Let's do the right thing. Let's not work for the people that just want to have endless lawsuits, endless litigation, and red tape.

Mr. Speaker, I urge everyone to vote ``yes'' on H.R. 2312 because businesses don't need Federal bureaucrats micromanaging their timekeeping.

Mr. Speaker, I applaud Congressman Lawler for this fine bill. We have heard about the loophole that exists, and I will provide a few more details.

Mr. Speaker, this bill would allow the U.S. Government to extend existing export controls to the remote access of controlled U.S. technology

through cloud infrastructure. Remote access is more than just the CCP. Remote access is defined as access by foreign persons of concern, specifically those from Russia, Iran, North Korea, and China, to also include Hong Kong and Macau.

Let me give you three examples of what we are talking about of high- risk national security activities involving access to controlled technologies such as advanced AI chips.

One example would be conducting surveillance to undermine human rights through spyware location tracking or biometric identification. That is not good stuff. We don't want the Chinese and our countries of concern to be using the best American technology remotely to do that. Nor do we want them to train AI models to enable weapons of mass destruction, automated cyber attacks, or systems that evade human oversight. Another final example would be accessing tools designed for offensive cyber operations.

Under this bill, if a Chinese firm would like to rent access to a cluster of advanced chips already subject to U.S. control in an overseas data center, the Department of Commerce can require a license if determined that remote access is a risk to U.S. national security.

Put simply, if the U.S. has the authority to prohibit the export of a critical U.S. technology, then the remote access to that same technology should also be subject to control.

As mentioned, this bill was unanimously supported in committee, and I hope and expect unanimous support here on the House floor.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate $181 million in rural healthcare funding for the State of Washington.

Not long ago, right here in this Chamber, I joined my House Republican colleagues to pass the Working Families Tax Cut Act, the largest tax cut in American history.

When we voted for this, we also voted for a new rural healthcare fund, and $181 million of this rural healthcare fund will go to transforming Washington State. This is just the first round of funding, part of a 5-year, $50 billion commitment to rural health transformation.

This is $181 million to keep our rural hospitals' doors open, upgrade critical infrastructure, expand access to emergency care, protect maternal health, and strengthen Tribal health services.

Rural Washington is one of the best places in America to live, work, and raise a family, and this investment means more doctors, nurses, stable hospitals, and peace of mind for the people who grow our food, power our grid, and keep our communities strong.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to support this historic tax relief and this transformational funding.

Baby Jay Sets Washington State's Pecking Order

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate a special tradition of the congressional delegation of Washington State.

Just 1 year ago, I was sworn in to the 119th Congress and welcomed as one of the two new members of the Washington congressional delegation. If you are wondering why I have an oil painting of a baby chick next to me right now, I will tell you that it is about one of the most charming traditions of our Washington delegation.

``The Chick'' was bought at a charity fundraiser and presented to then-Congressman Joel Pritchard as a gift to his office in the early 1970s.

Congressman Pritchard, as the story goes, wasn't too fond of the painting. In true Washington fashion, he decided that the honorable way to handle it was to regift the baby chick to the next new member of the Washington delegation.

As such, he passed it on to Congressman Norman Dicks in 1976, and it then went to Congressman Mike Lowry in 1979. It has been passed down ever since, with each new Member from Washington State signing the back before giving it to the next new, proud owner.

The only Congressman who didn't sign it was then-Congressman Jay Inslee, and Congressman Inslee then lost his election.

Mr. Speaker, when I was gifted ``The Chick,'' I decided to give it a proper name: ``Baby Jay.'' As I prepare to part ways with ``Baby Jay'' to my Washington State colleague Emily Randall, I share this lighthearted piece of Washington delegation history and the spirit of continuity and camaraderie that it represents with the House today.

Recognizing Kirby Moore

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the new football coach of Washington State University, Coach Kirby Moore.

Just before the holidays, WSU hired Kirby Moore, a Washington native, as our new head coach. Kirby Moore is young, hungry, and armed with an impressive coaching resume. Coach Moore is ready to lead the Cougs to new heights in his first head coaching role.

Kirby grew up going to Cougar football games. Kirby said: ``For me, this is home. We've got grandparents in Palouse. We've got aunts in Pullman, aunts in Spokane. My parents just built a house in the Tri- Cities, so there's some incredible memories for my kids.'' They are the same memories that he grew up with.

Mr. Speaker, as such, I welcome Coach Kirby Moore back to the Palouse, back home, and I look forward to his leadership of our crimson and gray. Go Cougs.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the Christmas spirit in eastern Washington.

As a boy, I remember Christmastime in eastern Washington, sledding in my boyhood home of Colton, Washington, going on shopping trips with the family to Toys ``R'' Us in Spokane, and perhaps stopping off to go sledding in Manito Park or visiting Riverfront Park. Indeed, it is the best of America.

That spirit of Christmas continues in Spokane and in eastern Washington with its spirit of generosity and service. This year, Spokane has been selected as one of just 126 cities worldwide to host the Light the World Giving Machine, innovative vending machines in reverse that will allow families to purchase meals, warm clothing, hygiene items, or even chickens for neighbors in need here at home and around the globe.

From December 12 through January 12, visitors at Spokane Valley Mall can, with just a few taps, direct every dollar of their donations to trusted local charities like Second Harvest and global charities like CARE. This is eastern Washington at its best, people coming together to serve, to give, and to care for one another.

Since their launch in 2017, the Giving Machine initiative worldwide has helped raise tens of millions of dollars in donations, and now Spokane is part of that story of quiet, everyday kindness.

During this holiday season, eastern Washington is not just celebrating. It is stepping up to bless lives across our community and around the world. I am proud to represent a region that leads with generosity, and I encourage all who are able to to visit the Light the World Giving Machine and to join in this spirit of giving.

Celebrating Spokane Christmas Bureau

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the Spokane Christmas Bureau and their 79th year of serving eastern Washington families and making each holiday season brighter.

Coordinated by Catholic Charities Eastern Washington, Volunteers of America, and The Spokesman-Review, the Christmas Bureau runs on the generosity of local donors and volunteers who give their time, talents, and treasures.

Through these community efforts, the bureau provides grocery vouchers to put food on the table and gather toys and books so children can experience the simple joy of a Christmas gift.

The Christmas Bureau serves folks in need throughout the greater Spokane area, including Adams, Lincoln, Pend Oreille, Stevens, Spokane, and Whitman Counties, making sure no child is forgotten and that no table is empty at Christmas.

Mr. Speaker, the Christmas Bureau reminds us what makes eastern Washington and the holidays so wonderful. It is neighbors stepping up for neighbors year after year.

Supporting The Salvation Army

Mr. Speaker, over the last few weeks, many of us have walked past the familiar red kettles and heard the ringing bells of The Salvation Army outside our neighborhood grocery stores. Those kettles are just the tip of the iceberg of what The Salvation Army does for communities like mine in eastern Washington, not just at Christmas but all year long.

The donations collected outside of our local grocery stores are essential to funding key programs that serve our most vulnerable neighbors. In Spokane, The Salvation Army operates emergency foster care programs like Sally's House, providing safe and loving shelter for children removed from abusive or unsafe homes and giving them stability at one of the most traumatic moments in their young lives.

This holiday season, The Salvation Army in Spokane is leading toy drives across the greater Spokane area, collecting gifts so that hundreds of local children, who might otherwise go without, will wake up to a present under the tree.

Mr. Speaker, I am sure that many of us in this Chamber have seen someone outside our neighborhood grocery store ringing a bell right next to a red kettle. When we all go home for the holidays, let us take a moment to thank The Salvation Army volunteers in our communities for raising money for programs like Sally's House and who are working every day to make our communities stronger.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the final passage of S. 356, the Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act of 2025, which will now be sent to the President's desk.

This much-needed legislation was one of my priorities in coming to Congress. It will give our rural areas the support they need for their schools, and it brings much-needed certainty to rural communities and school districts that have depended on this program for generations.

The Secure Rural Schools program has been a lifeline for rural communities and school districts across America. Since 1908, the Federal law has required the U.S. Forest Service to share 25 percent of revenues from Federal forest lands with local government to support public education.

As timber revenues declined due to foolish Federal regulations and ill-sighted reduced timber harvests, Congress acted in 2000 to create the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act, preserving vital funding for our most rural communities. When last reauthorized in 2023, this program delivered more than $281 million nationwide to help keep teachers, classrooms and students on schoolbuses.

I represent rural areas like the counties of Pend Oreille, Stevens, Ferry, and Columbia, where school leaders tell me how essential these funds are to keep programs running. With this reauthorization, those communities finally have the stability they need to plan for the future.

This is not a partisan issue. It is a promise to rural America. By reauthorizing Secure Rural Schools and sending this bill to the President's desk, we are keeping faith with the communities that steward our national forests.

Honoring Ambassador Asif Chaudhry

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate one of the bright lights of eastern Washington. In my view, eastern Washington is truly the home of the American Dream. From the mountains of the Colville region to the rolling hills of the Palouse, our region embodies the values of opportunity, hard work, and perseverance that define America at its best.

This week's shining example of that spirit is my friend, Ambassador Asif Chaudhry. Born in Pakistan, U.S. Ambassador Asif Chaudhry earned his bachelor's degree there, followed by a master's degree from the American University of Beirut. We might say this is a unique and perhaps unusual path for an American Ambassador, but it represents what is possible with the American Dream.

After leaving the Middle East, like so many who have come to our Nation in search of a better future, he found his way to Pullman, Washington, and to Washington State University where he pursued his Ph.D.

From a small college town in eastern Washington, and then marrying into a local farm family, he decided to enter the U.S. Foreign Service after receiving his citizenship. He went on to serve our Nation with distinction in postings around the world including Cairo, Poland, and Russia. He later served as the United States Deputy Administrator to the Foreign Agricultural Service and rose to become the United States Ambassador to Moldova, dealing with complex issues in the former Soviet Union.

Throughout his career, he held key positions that advanced America's interests abroad with integrity and purpose in service of America's national security. When his diplomatic service abroad concluded, he returned home to Pullman, where he served as vice president of International Programs at Washington State University, preparing the next generation of global leaders and strengthening the bridge between our local communities and the world.

Mr. Speaker, Ambassador Chaudhry's life is a powerful testament to what the American Dream is all about. No matter where we begin, with hard work, dedication, love of the United States of America, and a commitment to the values of the United States of America, we can achieve extraordinary things.

His story reminds us the American Dream is not a relic of the past. It is alive and thriving in eastern Washington. We thank Ambassador Chaudhry for being a role model to all of us who believe America remains a land of limitless possibility.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of S. 356, the Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act of 2025, which will be considered under suspension of the rules this week. I urge its swift passage so it can be sent to the President's desk without delay.

For generations, the Secure Rural Schools program has been a lifeline for rural communities and school districts across America. Since 1908, Federal law has required the U.S. Forest Service to share 25 percent of revenues from Federal forest lands with local governments to support public education.

As timber revenues declined due to foolish Federal regulations and reduced harvests, Congress acted in 2000 to create the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act, preserving vital funding for most rural counties. When last reauthorized in 2023, this program delivered more than $281 million nationwide to help keep teachers in classrooms and students on the bus.

I represent rural counties like Pend Oreille, Stevens, Ferry, and Columbia Counties, where school leaders tell me how essential these funds are to keeping programs running.

This is not a partisan issue. It is a promise to rural America. Let's reauthorize the Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act of 2025 and keep faith with the communities that steward our national forests.

Recognizing Environmental Stewardship in Our Forests

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to support the timber industry and the harvest of trees in our forests.

When I was growing up, my father was a forestry professor at Washington State University and my uncle was a smokejumper. I served in the U.S. Forest Service.

Years of fear and hesitation around commonsense tools like select timber harvest and controlled burns have left many of our forests dangerously overgrown and chronically undermanaged. We need to harvest more timber for the economic revenue it produces and for the reduced fire danger it creates.

Good environmental stewardship means empowering these professionals to be part of the solution and to help manage our Federal forest lands responsibly for today and generations to come.

Gray Wolf Population Reduction in Washington State

Mr. Speaker, with gray wolf populations reaching over 400 in Washington State and Oregon, I rise today to warn of the danger they continue to pose for hunters, farmers, and livestock.

Gray wolves can consume up to 7 pounds of meat a day. Their primary food sources include deer, elk, and cattle. In August 2025 alone, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife reported that three calves were killed and two injured in just one 30-day period.

Folks in our region know why our grandparents worked so hard to control the gray wolf population. They understood that balance must be kept between wildlife preservation and the livelihoods of those who live and work the land.

With a significant number of these wolf packs now concentrated in northeastern Washington and with no signs of their growth slowing, Congress should take careful note of our ranchers' perspective. Their continued loss, emotional toll, and frustration caused by inconsistent State and Federal protections demand attention and action. A one-sided policy of unchecked expansion is not the answer.

Gray wolf populations have recovered. Now it is time to ask whether our current path reflects balance, fairness, and common sense for rural America. As everyone in rural America knows, particularly in Washington State, if there were wolves in Bainbridge Island or in the suburbs of Seattle, the wolf population in Washington State would be a little different.

Mr. Speaker, we need to bring common sense and balance back and reduce our wolf population in northeastern Washington.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding work of Ron Hauenstein, who has served as the executive director of the Spokane Fatherhood Initiative since 2018.

Throughout my time representing eastern Washington in Congress, I have seen firsthand the transformative impact that this organization has had under Ron's leadership. The Fatherhood Initiative has become a pillar in our community, equipping fathers with values like commitment, resilience, gratitude, and honor.

Their guiding principle and their guiding belief is simple but powerful: When fathers are present and engaged, children do better and entire communities prosper. Time and again, families across Spokane have been reunited, and lives have been changed for the better, one dad, one child, and one family at a time.

Earlier this month, my team had the honor of joining the Spokane Fatherhood Initiative's Building Legacy gala, where our community rallied to raise nearly $175,000 for life-changing programs.

With weekly classes, some lasting half a year, and special outreach to men reentering society after incarceration or dealing with drug addiction, Spokane Fatherhood Initiative is helping dads restore relationships with their children and strengthen the fabric of our region.

I express my gratitude and extend my congratulations to Ron Hauenstein and everyone at the Spokane Fatherhood Initiative. Their dedication to building stronger fathers is building a stronger Spokane and a brighter community for every child in our community.

Honoring Scouts Across America

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Scouts Across America. Scouts Across America carries forward with a remarkable legacy that began with Robert Baden-Powell, a British Army officer whose simple idea was that outdoor skills, teamwork, and service could build better citizens and a better world.

Robert Baden-Powell served with the British military in Afghanistan and against the Boer in South Africa, and the ideas that he saw there and the skills that he saw that were needed to be developed in young boys. From that, grew a global movement and in our country inspired what is now Scouting America, chartered by Congress to serve our Nation's youth by instilling the values of the Scout oath and law.

As a proud Scout dad, I rise today to say very clearly: Scouts is an outstanding program, and America needs more Scouts, not less.

It takes real effort from moms and dads and volunteers to get kids to meetings, campouts, and service projects. That effort pays off in character, confidence, civic service, and self-reliance of our young people.

Eleanor and I are father and mother to three boys and two girls, and we look forward to hopefully one day being the proud parents of five Eagle Scouts.

Today, Mr. Speaker, let's honor the Scouts, the volunteer leaders, the parents, and the enduring legacy of Robert Baden-Powell, whose vision still calls each new generation to duty, service, and leadership.

May we always support this movement so that more young Americans, especially the young people of eastern Washington, can discover a lifetime of impact and purpose, guided by the Scout oath and the Scout law.