Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Daniel Elizalde for his incredible service and contributions to Virginia's 1st District and to our Nation.

Daniel joined my office in September 2025 after spending two and a half years as a Policy Analyst at the Bipartisan Policy Center. Earning a bachelor's degree in economics from Rollins College and a master's in public policy from American University, Daniel displayed an early commitment to civic leadership and service.

During his time in my office, Daniel served as my Energy Policy Fellow and quickly distinguished himself as an indispensable member

of my team. He played a vital role spearheading numerous legislative efforts across a wide array of topics such as energy, transportation, and national security that all delivered tangible results for the people of Virginia's 1st District, the Commonwealth, and our country. Throughout Daniel's time as my policy fellow, he consistently demonstrated remarkable intelligence and an unwavering work ethic. He faced every task with a thoughtful approach and a genuine desire to help his colleagues and constituents.

Daniel's willingness to offer his insightful advice and expertise greatly contributed to the success of our team. His knowledge and guidance made him a mentor to staff and interns alike, helping to foster a collaborative and supportive work environment. His kindness, leadership, and integrity have left a lasting impact on my team. While his cheerful presence will be missed, I am confident he will continue to thrive in this next chapter.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Daniel Elizalde for his dedicated service to Virginia's 1st District and to our Nation. May God bless Daniel as he embarks on this exciting new chapter, and may he continue to excel in all that he does.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 9340, the Ratepayer Protection Act.

This legislation will require State utility regulators to examine standards to ensure that data centers pay all the costs associated with their power generation, transmission lines, and grid upgrades needed to serve their facilities.

The Commonwealth of Virginia is home to approximately 13 percent of all data centers in the world. Some of these data centers are located in the district that I represent.

While data centers create economic opportunities for our communities, they also come with enormous challenges. Data centers support telehealth, mobile banking for American small businesses, and everyday technologies like streaming services. At the same time, they consume massive amounts of power and place increasing strain on our electric grid while threatening to increase costs for families.

Virginians and Americans who choose to have data centers in their communities should not be paying higher electric bills as a result. Instead, these costs should be borne directly by the data center developers, the primary catalysts of this increased demand for energy.

We have a responsibility to ensure that our constituents are not picking up the tab for data centers, and this legislation will do exactly that.

I am proud to be a cosponsor of the Ratepayer Protection Act, and I urge all of my colleagues to support its passage.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 9340, the Ratepayer Protection Act.

This legislation will require State utility regulators to examine standards to ensure that data centers pay all the costs associated with their power generation, transmission lines, and grid upgrades needed to serve their facilities.

The Commonwealth of Virginia is home to approximately 13 percent of all data centers in the world. Some of these data centers are located in the district that I represent.

While data centers create economic opportunities for our communities, they also come with enormous challenges. Data centers support telehealth, mobile banking for American small businesses, and everyday technologies like streaming services. At the same time, they consume massive amounts of power and place increasing strain on our electric grid while threatening to increase costs for families.

Virginians and Americans who choose to have data centers in their communities should not be paying higher electric bills as a result. Instead, these costs should be borne directly by the data center developers, the primary catalysts of this increased demand for energy.

We have a responsibility to ensure that our constituents are not picking up the tab for data centers, and this legislation will do exactly that.

I am proud to be a cosponsor of the Ratepayer Protection Act, and I urge all of my colleagues to support its passage.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support today of H.R. 7889, the Advancing Water Research and Collaboration Act.

This legislation would reauthorize the Water Resources Research Act, better known as the WRRA, and it will strengthen Federal investment in the water research that our communities depend upon. It supports a nationwide network of research institutes that address State and regional water challenges.

This is locally driven, nationally significant research. It helps safeguard drinking water supplies, reduces nutrient pollution, and addresses emerging contaminants that we may find in critical water resources.

With growing water demands from advanced manufacturing, data centers, and artificial intelligence infrastructure, the need for sound water science has never been greater.

In Virginia, the WRRA supports research that helps to address water challenges that matter most to our communities, including efforts to improve the health and resilience of our great natural resource, the Chesapeake Bay.

Reauthorizing this program will help ensure that every State has the science-backed information it needs to address its own unique water challenges. By investing in scientific research today, we help ensure future generations have access to safe, reliable water resources.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to lead this bipartisan effort, and I encourage all of my colleagues to vote in support of this bill.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 6893, the Chesapeake Bay WATERS Act, and I am very proud to co-lead this bipartisan bill with Representative Kiggans.

The Chesapeake Bay is one of our Nation's most important natural resources, and this bill will ensure the bay remains healthy for generations to come.

H.R. 6893 reauthorizes the NOAA Chesapeake Bay Program office, which has been a leading partner in bay restoration efforts. Working alongside universities, State and local governments, and other stakeholders, this office supports the science and coordination necessary to understand the health of the bay and make informed decisions about the future.

Importantly, this bill supports the observation, monitoring, collection, and analysis of marine resource data, an area I was committed to for over 27 years with the Commonwealth of Virginia. That information is used by policymakers, resource managers, and the

public to better understand and protect the bay and its living resources.

The bill also supports training and education programs, and strengthens coordinated efforts to manage, protect, and restore bay habitats and living resources.

For communities across Virginia, the Chesapeake Bay is far more than a natural resource. It is part of our way of life. It supports our watermen, farmers, small businesses, and families throughout the Commonwealth.

The bay is a major economic driver, supporting tens of thousands of jobs and generating billions of dollars in economic activity. Protecting the bay means protecting those jobs, strengthening our local economies, and preserving the natural resources that our communities depend upon.

By continuing to invest in sound science, monitoring, education, and coordinated restoration efforts, we can ensure the Chesapeake Bay remains healthy for generations to come.

This is truly a Federal role because this truly is what interstate commerce is all about. The bay is that economic engine that involves all of the States in the bay watershed. It is our responsibility as a group of States to make sure we continue to improve the water quality there and, in turn, the economic resources that come to us from the bay.

The bay is an incredible economic driver for the seafood and tourism economies. All of those things are key. The Chesapeake Bay Program Office allows us to coordinate and make sure that all of us in the bay watershed are doing our part to make sure the bay continues to get cleaner and cleaner.

I am very proud to support this bipartisan effort to protect one of our Nation's most vital resources, and I encourage my colleagues to vote in support of H.R. 6893.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. William ``Billy'' Norton, who has dedicated a lifetime of selfless service to the residents of Deltaville, Virginia, in Middlesex County, where he has served as a shining example of civic engagement and volunteer leadership. Mr. Norton has been instrumental in enhancing the safety and well-being of the community, most notably through tireless contributions to emergency response.

Mr. Norton's service includes being the longtime Fire Chief for the Lower Middlesex Fire Department and volunteering with the Lower Middlesex Volunteer Rescue Squad. Additionally, in 2000, Mr. Norton received the U.S. Coast Guard's Public Service Commendation in recognition of his bravery in aiding an emergency rescue function, enabling the safe return of a distressed vessel's crew. Mr. Norton further distinguished himself by serving as the co-chair for the rebuilding of the Ricky Taylor Memorial Swimming Pool and the Deltaville Community Association's entire campus following the devastating tornado of 2011.

Mr. Norton has long championed the spirit of community and local pride through leadership roles. He organized the first Lower Middlesex Volunteer Fire Department Firefighters' Parade to honor the essential work of local first responders and served as captain for the 2018 Urbanna Oyster Festival Parade. Mr. Norton also has a profound commitment to conservation and is an advocate for the preservation of the Chesapeake Bay. Additionally, Mr. Norton has supported the small banks across the region, serving with distinction on the Board of Directors for the Bank of Middlesex, the First Virginia Bank Director's Board, and the Bank Advisory Board for BB&T.

Mr. Norton's long-standing commitment to community has significantly improved infrastructure and safety in Middlesex County, Virginia. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the 1st District of Virginia and the United States Congress, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Norton on an exceptional life of selfless sacrifice and thank him for inspiring so many to engage in civil service that betters our community for future generations.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the remarkable service of Mr. Marvin Russell. Marvin is the embodiment of bravery, service, and unparalleled devotion to our Nation. On behalf of Virginia's First Congressional District, it is truly a privilege to honor Mr. Russell and his legacy that continues to inspire generations of Americans.

As a World War II pilot, Marvin answered the call to serve during a pivotal moment in our nation's history. Like so many members of his generation, he displayed exceptional courage, resilience, and determination in the defense of freedom, placing duty above self and helping secure the liberties that every American enjoys today. His service in the skies during the war reflects the highest ideals of patriotism, sacrifice, and commitment to country.

Beyond his military service, Marvin has embraced life with an adventurous spirit that has carried him through a century of remarkable experiences. Throughout his life, Marvin has touched countless people with his kindness, wisdom, generosity, and willingness to share the lessons he has learned along the way. His example reminds us that the pursuit of purpose, perseverance, and adventure does not end with one chapter but continues throughout a lifetime.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Marvin Russell for his century of selfless service and achievement that stands as a testament to the enduring strength of the American spirit. May he continue to inspire future generations to serve with honor, live with purpose, and embrace each day with gratitude.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Caroline Kuhn for her outstanding service and many contributions to Virginia's 1st Congressional District and to our Nation.

Caroline joined my office in January 2025 after serving on the House Committee on Ways and Means. Prior to coming to Washington, she earned both her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and her Master of Public Administration from Texas A&M University, where she demonstrated an early commitment to public service and leadership.

During her time in my office, Caroline worked her way from Staff Assistant to Legislative Aide, earning each new responsibility through her dedication, professionalism, and exceptional work ethic. She played a vital role in ensuring our office provided outstanding constituent service and helped manage one of the strongest constituent correspondence and mail programs in the Commonwealth of Virginia and the Congress.

Caroline approached every task with thoughtfulness, kindness, and selflessness. No matter the challenge, she consistently rose to the occasion with a positive attitude and unwavering commitment to serving the people of Virginia's 1st District. She was also a trusted mentor to interns and staff alike, generously sharing her knowledge and helping cultivate a collaborative and supportive office culture. Her leadership, integrity, and willingness to invest in others have left a lasting mark on my team.

I extend my sincere gratitude to Caroline for her dedicated service over the past year and a half. She has been an invaluable member of my staff, and while we will miss her greatly, I am confident she will continue to excel as she begins the next chapter of her career with the House Committee on Natural Resources. I wish her every success in this new role and look forward to seeing all she will accomplish in the years ahead.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Caroline Kuhn for her dedicated service to Virginia's 1st Congressional District and to our Nation. May God bless Caroline as she embarks on this exciting new chapter, and may she continue to serve our country with the same excellence and integrity that have defined her time in my office.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the life of Sharon O'Neal, a cherished member of our community. Sharon was an extraordinary individual who lived a full and truly beautiful life.

Sharon was a passionate and active member of the Williamsburg community. She was a member of both the Junior Woman's Club and the Woman's Club for over ten years, while serving as club president for two years. Sharon was also a part of the Jamestown High School Parent Teacher Association (PTA) where she served as president for two years. When she was not leading the PTA or Woman's Club, Sharon loved to watch NASCAR, go camping, spend time at the beach, and above all else, be around her loving family.

Sharon's smile coupled with her warm personality made everyone she met feel as if they had known her for years. Her kindness touched everyone, and she leaves behind a legacy full of compassion and love. Sharon is survived by her devoted husband, Michael O'Neal; her mother, Julie Northway; her children, Jeffrey O'Neal (Abby), Stacey Hughes (John), and Sean O'Neal (Kimberlee); her cherished grandchildren, Kendal, William, Corbin, Sadie, Hazel, Bodhi, Koa, and Lucy; and her brother, Michael Northway (Michelle).

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me in celebrating Sharon's incredible life. Our community is eternally grateful for everything she has done.

Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support today of H.R. 8800, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027.

I thank Chairman Rogers and Ranking Member Smith for their leadership in putting together this critical piece of legislation. I also thank my friend and subcommittee Ranking Member Don Norcross for his partnership in leading the Subcommittee on Tactical Air and Land Forces.

Also, I thank our Tactical Air and Land professional staff: Michael Kirlin, Heath Bope, Caroline Kehrli, Brooke Alred, Amelia Litynski, Jay Vallario, and Andrew Smith.

The FY27 NDAA takes several steps to ensure that our servicemembers operate with unmatched capabilities to deter and defeat any adversaries.

This bill allows the Secretary of War to enter into multiyear procurement contracts for both the F-15EX and F-35 aircraft.

H.R. 8800 prioritizes helicopter and rotorcraft procurement, authorizing the purchase of additional Chinook, Black Hawk, and Grey Wolf helicopters. It also fully funds the Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft program to continue development of the MV-75 Cheyenne.

Our forces must excel in both offensive and counter-small UAS mission sets.

This bill also assists the Department in achieving this by standardizing sUAS operating systems, establishing sUAS test ranges to inform and accelerate drone innovation.

To counter such systems, the bill strengthens the definition of counter-UAS systems and applies standards for networked, autonomous, kinetic capabilities for sUAS defense.

This NDAA also emphasizes the importance of our munitions supply. It directs the Army to expand and upgrade facilities used to manufacture 155-millimeter artillery rounds and advances the integration of novel energetics into weapon systems.

Lastly, the bill leans into innovation by expediting the development and procurement of nontraditional intermediate-range fires capabilities.

Mr. Chairman, this is an extremely strong bill that sends a signal to our servicemembers that we have their back. I urge this bill's passage.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Commander Christopher Ragsdale on the occasion of his taking command of the USS Lenah Sutcliffe Higbee. This milestone is a testament to his professionalism and unyielding commitment to serving our Nation. Advancing to this level of leadership reflects both the trust placed in him by the United States Navy and the exceptional standard he has continuously demonstrated throughout his career.

During his time serving as my Department of Defense Legislative Fellow, Commander

Ragsdale distinguished himself as a professional of the highest caliber. Commander Ragsdale has judgement that is unmatched and a commitment to excellence that is second to none. These traits made him an invaluable asset to our team. Whether navigating complex national security challenges or offering thoughtful insight on matters affecting our Armed Forces, Commander Ragsdale consistently exhibited a level of competence and character that set him apart.

It is no surprise to those of us who had the privilege of working alongside him that he has now taken command of the USS Lenah Sutcliffe Higbee. This achievement reflects not only his incredible abilities, but also his unbreakable dedication to serving our Nation.

While we miss his presence in our office, we take extraordinary pride in knowing that he will continue to do great things wherever he goes. The United States Navy, and our country, are stronger because of leaders like Commander Ragsdale. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me in recognizing Commander Christopher Ragsdale for his service to the Nation. I pray for his continued success in all that lies ahead.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the life of Susan Lascolette, a cherished member of our community. Susan was an extraordinarily dedicated individual who worked tirelessly and persistently to make her country, commonwealth, and Nation a better place.

Susan had an impressive career as a Senior Insurance Underwriter with notable firms such as Maryland Casualty, Security Insurance, and Markel; not to mention Susan's significant civic contributions, where she served as District No. 1 Supervisor for Goochland County from 2012 to 2024 and was past President of the Goochland Republican Women. Susan was also an active member of the Goochland Republican Committee and served as member of the State Central Committee of the Republican Party of Virginia from 2016 representing the 7th and 5th Districts.

Her devotion to service was not only evident in her professional life, but in her personal life as well. Susan was deeply involved in the community, volunteering whenever she could, helping support causes such as Meals on Wheels, Goochland Cares, and the Goochland Fire Auxiliary. Susan's kindness touched everyone she met, and she leaves behind a legacy full of compassion and devotion.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me in celebrating Susan's incredible life. Our community is eternally grateful for everything she has done.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the National Speech & Debate Association's 2026 National Tournament, which will be hosted in Richmond, Virginia, this June.

This prestigious national tournament will welcome more than 10,000 students, educators, and families from across the United States to the Commonwealth's capital. It is an extraordinary opportunity not only to showcase Richmond's abundant history and hospitality, but also to highlight the Commonwealth's commitment to educational excellence and civic engagement.

The Richmond Forum Speech & Debate Initiative has showcased a deep understanding of a simple yet profound truth: the strength of our democracy depends on the ability of its citizens to communicate clearly, think critically, and engage one another with respect and kindness. I am proud to welcome these young leaders into our community. This tournament provides an opportunity for students across the country to develop the analytical and persuasive skills that empower the next generation to engage in the civil exchange of ideas and tackle the problems of tomorrow.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in welcoming these talented students to Virginia and celebrating the enduring value of speech and debate. I pray that they continue to find success in all their future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Captain Brian Tanaka on the occasion of his departure from North Carolina Piedmont Region NROTC Program as Commanding Officer and retiring from the Navy after serving for 30 years as a Submarine Officer. I commend him for his extraordinary leadership, steadfast devotion, and distinguished service to our Nation.

Captain Tanaka has dedicated 30 years of service to the United States Navy. His sea duty assignments have included Navigation/Operations Officer onboard USS Jefferson City, Executive Officer on USS West Virginia and Commanding Officer of USS Minnesota. While at sea, he completed deployments to the U.S. European and Indo-Pacific Command areas of responsibility, two strategic deterrent patrols and multiple depot level maintenance periods. His more recent ashore assignments include Deputy Director, Navy Liaison to the United States House of Representatives, in the Navy's Office of Legislative Affairs, Deputy Commander, Task Force 69 at the Headquarters, United States Sixth Fleet, Commanding Officer, Naval Submarine Training Center Pacific and Commanding Officer, Training Support Department Hawaii, and Commanding Officer of the North Carolina Piedmont Region NROTC Program.

Captain Tanaka's leadership has left a lasting impact on those privileged to serve alongside him. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a deep commitment to mission accomplishment while never losing sight of the importance of mentorship, teamwork, and care for the people under his leadership. His contributions have immensely strengthened operational readiness, advanced organizational success, and positively influenced countless colleagues and service members. As he transitions from this command, we also recognize the support and sacrifices made by his family, whose encouragement and unwavering commitment have undoubtedly contributed to his success. Public service is never undertaken alone, and their support deserves our sincere gratitude.

Captain Tanaka is an incredible Navy officer and has done a phenomenal job serving our Nation. I will always treasure the times we had while traveling together during his time at Navy's Office of Legislative Affairs. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the 1st District of Virginia and the United States Congress, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and deepest appreciation to Captain Brian Tanaka for his exemplary service and leadership. I wish him continued success in the next chapter of his life and thank him for his enduring contributions to our Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor my extraordinary granddaughter, Morgan Elizabeth Gooch, on the occasion of her graduation from high school as valedictorian of her class. Morgan's achievement reflects not only academic excellence, but also perseverance, devotion, and sacrifice. In classrooms, on the field, and within her community, she has consistently demonstrated character and leadership that inspires everyone fortunate enough to know her.

To graduate at the top of one's class is no small accomplishment. It requires countless hours of study and determination. Yet what makes her success even more remarkable is the humility and kindness she has carried through this journey. She treats others with respect and is grounded in the values of faith, family, and hard work that have guided her every step of the way.

As her grandfather, I have had the privilege of watching her grow from a curious child with big dreams into a poised and accomplished young woman prepared to make her mark on the world. I can say with confidence that our Nation's future is brighter because of young leaders like Morgan, individuals who understand the importance of integrity, compassion, and service above self. Her generation will inherit great challenges, but also tremendous opportunities, and I know that Morgan will meet both with courage and wisdom.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating my granddaughter, Morgan Elizabeth Gooch, on this outstanding milestone. May this achievement serve as only the beginning of a lifetime filled with purpose, success, and meaningful contributions to her community and country. Her family could not be prouder, and we look forward with excitement to all that she will accomplish in the years ahead.