Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, the purpose of the War Powers Act was to prevent secret wars from happening after Vietnam. The reason why we have this is so that the administration is accountable to the people. No war should be declared and no war should be prosecuted in the name of the American people without their consent.

If the President wishes to go to war, he must come to the people, explain his rationale, and get their consent. He is not doing that now. When he doesn't do that, bad things happen. Bad things are happening today.

Madam Speaker, I rise in strong opposition to

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Sunday, December 21, 2025, as World Meditation Day, which has been designated by the United Nations to celebrate the growing recognition of meditation as a practical tool for mental well-being and peace.

This observance will culminate in a global moment of stillness at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time, when events across Illinois, throughout the United States, and around the world will unite communities in a shared moment of peace and connection during the holiday season, supporting mental well-being, resilience, and unity.

This meditation will be led by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. For more than 45 years, Gurudev has dedicated his life to promoting peace, advancing human values, and serving communities around the world.

Mr. Speaker, I wish to extend my deepest gratitude to Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar for his work in promoting meditation, and I encourage my colleagues to join in a moment of silence in recognition of World Meditation Day.

Mr. Chair, had I been present, I would have voted NO on Roll Call No. 325.

Amendment No. 3 Offered by Ms. Waters

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of

Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support to release the Epstein files. First, this issue is beyond party. It is a question of justice. Survivors have waited too long. Stop the delay. This is not a hoax. Release the files.

Second, we must face a hard truth. Silence that shields the powerful is a betrayal of those they hurt. Congress must reject any attempt, including a Presidential pardon or any form of clemency for Ghislaine Maxwell. This cannot be done. This would be a coverup. We cannot allow clemency of any kind for Maxwell, not now, not ever.

Survivors deserve justice. I urge a strong ``yes'' vote.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, known to many simply as ``Sister Jean,'' the beloved chaplain of the Loyola University Chicago men's basketball team. Sister Jean was more than an icon of Loyola; she was its beating heart.

While she first captured national attention during the 2018 NCAA March Madness Tournament, her impact extended far beyond the basketball court and long before the headlines. For decades, Sister Jean inspired generations of students, athletes, and educators through her faith, wisdom, and joyful spirit.

Born and raised in San Francisco, California, during the hardships of the Great Depression, Sister Jean learned the values of perseverance and compassion early in life. The eldest of three children, she developed a lifelong love of sports and community. After graduating from high school, she answered her calling to religious life, entering the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in March 1938, fulfilling a dream she had since childhood.

Sister Jean began her career as an educator, shaping the minds and hearts of young people across the country. She taught elementary school at St. Vincent in Chicago and St. Charles Borromeo in North Hollywood, California, and later served as both an elementary and music teacher at St. Bernard in Los Angeles, where she also became principal.

She went on to serve as associate academic dean and an instructor in the education department at Mundelein College in Chicago, before beginning her 34-year ministry at Loyola University Chicago. There she held numerous administrative roles. Although she had planned to retire at the age of seventy-five after more than fifty years of teaching, she was asked to take on one more task: to help Loyola's men's and women's basketball players with their studies. That simple request became a defining chapter in her life. As team chaplain, Sister Jean brought faith, encouragement, and humor to every practice and game, earning the affection of players, coaches, and fans across the Nation.

It is rare for someone like Sister Jean to come into our lives, but when they do, we are all better for it. Her life was extraordinary not only for her accomplishments, but also for the way she inspired others to recognize the extraordinary within themselves. As she often said, ``Being yourself is extraordinary, because each of us is a unique individual.''

Mr. Speaker, Sister Jean's century-long life was a testament to joy, service, and faith. She reminded us that purpose is not found in fame or fortune but in love for others and belief in the potential of every person. Like so many whose lives she touched, I will always be grateful for her example.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the remarkable life and legacy of my good friend, Albert J. ``Al'' Llorens.

Born and raised in Chicago, Al grew up in Englewood on the Southwest side and attended Chicago Public Schools. He went on to earn his bachelor's degree in mathematics education from the University of Illinois at Champaign and later a master's degree in curriculum and instruction from National Louis University.

Al was, above all, a good man. He believed deeply that making the world a better place begins in the classroom. For more than 30 years, he poured his heart into teaching mathematics and coaching at the high school level. He loved the classroom and dedicated himself to empowering the next generation of students.

But Al's impact reached far beyond the walls of any classroom. Even when he stepped away from teaching--always calling it a ``leave of absence'' rather than a retirement--he carried his passion for students into his work with the Illinois Education Association. Before being elected IEA president in 2023, Al served two terms each as vice president and secretary/treasurer, working tirelessly to address the teacher shortage crisis in Illinois and to ensure that every student had access to a higher quality education. As president of the IEA, he was a giant in education, fighting for his beloved teachers and students until the very end. Al dedicated his life to strengthening public education as he believed deeply in its power to transform communities, leaving a legacy that will continue to change the lives of many.

I will miss Al not only for what he accomplished, but for how he carried himself. He was a friend to all, a leader who combined compassion with resolve, and a fierce advocate for public education.

Mr. Speaker, I extend my deepest condolences to his beloved wife, Wanda, his children, and his grandchildren. May they find comfort in knowing that Al's life's work continues in the generations of students and educators he inspired.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the life and legacy of former Illinois Governor Jim Edgar.

Born in Oklahoma but raised in Charleston, Illinois, Governor Edgar was shaped by the values of family, hard work, and service. The youngest of three boys, raised by his mother Betty, he found his calling early. Elected to class office in the second grade, he never let go of his passion for public service.

From those humble beginnings, he went on to a career that changed Illinois for the better. He first entered public selvice in 1968 as a top aide to leaders in the Illinois House and Senate, then was elected to the Illinois House, later becoming Secretary of State, and eventually the 38th Governor of Illinois. In every role, he worked not for headlines but for results. He strengthened DUI laws, required mandatory auto insurance, reformed child-care standards, improved Chicago's schools, and restored Illinois's fiscal health--leaving office with a balanced budget and a surplus.

But what stood out most about Governor Edgar was not only the policies he championed, but the way he led. He always put people before politics. He earned trust across party lines and across the state, carrying 101 of 102 counties in his reelection, including Cook County. That trust came not from partisanship, but from his integrity, humility, and a level head in moments of challenge. Even after leaving office, Governor Edgar continued to give back. He devoted himself to mentoring young leaders from both parties, believing that democracy is strongest when we work together with respect and compassion. He lived by those values every day, and in doing so, set an example for all of us.

Governor Edgar is survived by his beloved wife, Brenda, who was his full partner in public and political life. As First Lady, she championed issues to improve the lives of women and children across Illinois. Together they raised two children, Elizabeth and Brad, and delighted in their grandchildren. His family, like his public service, is a testament to his devotion and love.

Mr. Speaker, Illinois has lost one of its finest statesmen. But his legacy endures, reminding us that honesty, decency, and good government are not old-fashioned ideals; they are timeless ones. I am honored to celebrate his life today, and I ask my colleagues to join me in remembering Governor Jim Edgar's remarkable service and the lasting example he leaves behind.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to welcome the All- Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople and the spiritual leader of Orthodox Christianity worldwide.

At 85 years old, All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew remains at the forefront of the global struggle for religious freedom. Known as the ``Bridge Builder'' and the ``Patriarch of Peace,'' he has worked tirelessly to foster dialogue, reconciliation, and cooperation across nations and faith. He has stood firmly against racism, extremism, and fundamentalism, championing peace-building measures to help defuse conflicts in some of the world's most volatile regions.

In addition to his leadership on matters of faith and peace, All- Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew has been a pioneering advocate for environmental stewardship. Often called the ``Green Patriarch,'' he has elevated ecological awareness to the forefront of his ministry, inspiring both individuals and institutions to act with moral urgency in protecting our planet.

This month, he is visiting the United States to receive the Templeton Prize--the most prestigious award at the intersection of religion and science. He joins a distinguished group of past recipients, including Mother Teresa, the Dalai Lama, and Archbishop Desmond Tutu.

As the longest-serving Archbishop of Constantinople in over two millennia, All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew embodies the values of faith, service, and moral leadership. His life's work is a testament to the power of courage, compassion, and conviction, and I am honored to welcome him to our country.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Reverend Dr. William Crowder on his appointment as the next Regional Minister and President of the Living Waters Region of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).

Born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee, Reverend Dr. Crowder was inspired by his mother, who instilled in him a deep sense of faith, discipline, and service. As a young man, he distinguished himself both as a student leader, serving as student government vice president and president at Central State University, and as an athlete, helping lead his football team to a championship.

Answering his call to ministry, Dr. Crowder entered United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio. He was licensed by the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in 1994 and ordained the following year.

Since then, Dr. Crowder has devoted his life to ministry and service, impacting communities far beyond the pulpit. Working alongside lay leaders of Park Manor and the City of Chicago, he helped bring forward a $34 million senior housing project, secured a $1 million state grant to combat gun violence, and contributed his time and insight on numerous distinguished boards. Through these efforts, he has lived out his calling to serve others and to strengthen the communities around him.

Reverend Dr. William Crowder's appointment is a testament to his lifelong devotion to faith and service. His leadership has strengthened congregations, uplifted communities, and left a lasting impact on Chicago and beyond.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Reverend Dr. Crowder for this new role and for the many ways he has guided others with wisdom, compassion, and faith.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the launch of the Congressional Study Group on India (CSGI), and to applaud the visionary leadership of the Roundglass Foundation and its partners in standing up this groundbreaking initiative.

Congressional Study Groups provide a vital platform for bipartisan exchanges that enable Members of Congress to engage in substantive policy discussions focused on strengthening America's relationships with its partners, friends, and allies.

India and America are crucial strategic partners, and that is why this new Congressional

Study Group is so important. As the fifth such group established by the U.S. Association of Former Members of Congress, the CSGI creates a dedicated, bipartisan forum for substantive discussions on trade, technology, energy, defense, and other issues that define the U.S.- India relationship. This initiative will not only strengthen our strategic partnership, but also build greater understanding and collaboration between our two great democracies at a pivotal moment in history. The CSGI represents an investment in the future, one that advances shared priorities like national security, global health, and climate stewardship, while also reaffirming the enduring bonds between the American and Indian people.

I would like to specifically extend my sincere gratitude to the Roundglass Foundation, established by Mr. Gurpreet ``Sunny'' Singh, for its marquee role in launching this groundbreaking initiative that will further strengthen the sacred bond between the United States and India. Under Mr Singh's visionary leadership, Roundglass has already championed numerous efforts that have expanded access to athletics, education, women's empowerment, and environmental stewardship, particularly for underserved communities. This new initiative is a shining example of that legacy, one that reflects Roundglass' unwavering commitment to building a healthier, more inclusive, and more sustainable future for us all.

As an Indian-American, I am deeply honored to recognize the work being done under Roundglass' efforts to unlock the full potential of a strong U.S.-India relationship, one that can help build healthier and more resilient societies in both of our countries. The establishment of this Congressional Study Group on India holds the promise of guiding our nations toward a stronger, more cooperative future. For that, Mr Speaker, I wish to extend my heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to Roundglass, to Mr. Singh, and to the additional partners who helped launch this ground-breaking program.

Mr. Speaker, today I wish to recognize the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) as it commemorates India's 78 years of independence. Since FIA's establishment in 1970, its mission has been to serve the Indian-American community, promote Indian cultural heritage, and advance bilateral ties between the United States and India.

Over the course of five decades, FIA has organized numerous outreach events to provide community support and to celebrate Indian culture and heritage. FIA's efforts have included consular document service assistance for over 11,000 community members, cultural dance competitions that have engaged over 19,000 children in celebration of their heritage, and an annual Diwali Soup Kitchen, which has successfully distributed thousands of meals throughout the Northeastern United States. Furthermore, FIA helped to distribute personal protective equipment and hot meals to first responders and community members during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mr. Speaker, I honor the dedicated work of FIA to serve and uplift the Indian-American community, sustain the legacy of Indian heritage across generations, and foster cross-cultural cooperation and understanding. FIA's activities benefit all the communities in which its members reside, and for that, we are all grateful.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the remarkable life and legacy of Mr. Yung Pate, Jr., a proud veteran, respected professional, and devoted community leader, whose contributions have left a lasting mark on the city of Chicago and beyond.

Mr. Pate answered the call to serve his country during the Korean War, carrying out his duties in the United States Army with honor, courage, and steadfast dedication, His service reflected the strength of character and deep sense of duty that would define the rest of his life.

Following his military service, Mr. Pate built a distinguished career in the security field. Known for his dedication to his clients and employees, as well as his exceptional service and professionalism, he became a trusted and admired figure throughout the region. His work helped shape Chicago's security industry, and his legacy continues to inspire a new generation of professionals, including the hundreds he mentored and employed, to follow in his footsteps and uplift others.

Mr. Pate's commitment to service extended far beyond his profession. Throughout his life, he remained deeply engaged in his community, dedicating himself to public service, mentorship, community engagement, and generosity.

Above all, Mr. Pate was a devoted family man. He is survived by his beloved wife, Mrs. Dolores Thibodeaux-Pate, and the cherished Pate family, who continue to uphold his legacy of service and excellence.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the cherished life of Yung Pate, Jr.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the remarkable career of Craig Dellimore and to congratulate him on his upcoming retirement from WBBM Radio in Chicago.

Craig has been a pillar of Chicago journalism for more than four decades. After studying journalism at Columbia University, he began his career covering Washington politics for the Associated Press before joining WBBM Radio in 1983.

For 40 years, Craig has exemplified the highest standards of fairness and professionalism in political reporting. As the host of the weekly ``At Issue'' radio show and Political Editor of WBBM News radio, Craig has covered every aspect of Chicago and national politics. Whether interviewing elected officials or unpacking complex topics like homelessness, mental health, and gun violence, Craig brings compassion, clarity and an unwavering commitment to the truth. His dedication to integrity earned him the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Lisagor Awards, recognition from the Illinois Associated Press, and widespread respect across the state.

Beyond the newsroom, Craig served his colleagues through leadership in the Chicago chapter of SAG-AFTRA, as both President and Vice President.

From the halls of Congress to Chicago's City Hall, Craig has been a trusted voice guiding listeners through a turbulent political landscape with clarity and insight.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to congratulate Craig Dellimore on his retirement and to thank him for his outstanding service to journalism and to the people of Illinois.