Floor Statements

I ask for the yeas and nays.

Mr. President, for the Committee on Armed Services I report favorably the following nomination lists which were printed in the RECORDS on the dates indicated, and ask unanimous consent, to save the expense of reprinting on the Executive Calendar that these nominations lie at the Secretary's desk for the information of Senators.

Mr. President, Chinese President Xi Jinping arrives in town tomorrow for a highly anticipated state visit. Quite frankly, had the White House asked me for advice, I would have suggested the President not

invite Xi Jinping to Washington for such a lavish welcome here in the United States of America based on all of the troubling issues we have with President Xi and the Chinese Communist Party. But in light of the fact that the Chinese Communist President is coming to the United States, I want to take a moment to suggest a list of topics that the President might mention during the summit.

As we know, a proper state visit requires a proper state dinner. Again, I would not have scheduled such a thing. But as guests converse over the meal, the President might inquire about the purposes of China's massive military buildup or about China's clear support for Iran.

This summer, it was all over the press that China gave Iran satellite imagery intelligence, and that intelligence led to the death of American troops. So I would certainly suggest that the President try to get an answer to that.

While President Trump and President Xi are talking, perhaps Mr. Trump could bring up the Uighur people. For nearly a decade, Xi Jinping has consigned more than a million Uighurs to concentration camps in China's Xinjiang region. I hope our President will take this visit as an opportunity to advocate for the Uighur people. The fact that they remain in prison by the millions is a grave injustice and a reminder of Xi Jinping's many human rights abuses.

Then, after asking about the Uighur people, the President should mention China's persecution of all manner of religious groups, to include Tibetan Buddhists, Christians, and those practicing Falun Gong. In July, President Trump successfully advocated for the release of Pastor Ezra Jin. Why not suggest releasing all imprisoned Christians and allowing all people of whatever faith to worship freely?

Then President Trump might ask why China openly coerces Japan, Taiwan, and the Philippines. The Chinese dictator works hard to intimidate America's allies in the East China Sea, the Taiwan Strait, and the Second Thomas Shoal. China also bullies, jails, and otherwise silences dissidents.

When meeting with Xi in May, President Trump advocated for Jimmy Lai, the Hong Kong newspaper publisher Xi has kept locked up in solitary confinement. Why has Mr. Lai been locked up? His crime was speaking freely in Hong Kong. I hope Mr. Trump will again ask for the release of the frail, elderly Mr. Lai and all those imprisoned by the Chinese Communist Party in Hong Kong and elsewhere.

Perhaps over the salad course of the dinner, our President could ask Xi Jinping about the Chinese navy's harassment of Filipino fishermen and sailors and about China's abuse of its neighbors. Perhaps he could ask Mr. Xi why he invents military disputes and then resolves them by military force--or attempts to resolve them.

Then I hope the President will inquire about Xi Jinping's interference in the internal affairs of nations around the world. Perhaps he could bring up Chinese exploitation of African countries and Latin American nations with debt-trap diplomacy and election meddling.

While the servers are switching from chardonnay to cabernet at the fancy state dinner, perhaps the President could turn to Xi's so-called reunification of China with Taiwan, his wish that Taiwan become a part of mainland China. In the strong Chinese leader's view of the future, should the freely elected Government of Taiwan expect the same treatment that the people of Hong Kong have experienced--the loss of their freedom that the world has seen over the past three decades since reunification with Hong Kong.

I know the President intends to discuss trade and artificial intelligence with the Chinese leadership--and rightfully so. Perhaps some progress will be made.

But, Mr. President, during every minute of dialogue, our Commander in Chief should keep in mind that his guest is a brutal, unelected, and oppressive dictator who seeks to dominate his neighbors and whose massive military arsenal is aimed directly at the United States of America.

I yield the floor.

Mr. President, today I commend Roger Harris, who has been an excellent partner to the State of Mississippi and to passenger rail across the country. This year, Mr. Harris is concluding 7 years of service with Amtrak, a tenure which has been marked by dedication and success.

Roger joined Amtrak in January 2019, following a decades-long career in commercial aviation. He excelled and, within 3 years, was promoted to president. He devoted himself and the company to running a great railroad, building for the future, and increasing revenue and ridership across the entire Amtrak network.

Roger's 7 years at Amtrak spanned some of the most consequential in the railroad's history. In the depths of the pandemic, he helped provide steady leadership, enabling the company to continue delivering essential service, even as daily ridership declined by up to 97 percent. He led the company through an impressive post-pandemic recovery. Amtrak has set back-to-back revenue and ridership records over the last 2 years, and the company is currently on track for another banner year. It is worth noting that Amtrak has met this growing demand for train service while delivering major capital projects, including new trains and facilities, more accessible stations, and the biggest Northeast Corridor infrastructure program in Amtrak history.

Under his leadership, Amtrak has been ambitious: launching the NextGen Acela fleet, beginning the delivery of the Airo fleet, laying the groundwork to replace much of the long distance fleet, advancing major infrastructure projects like the Portal North Bridge and the B&P Tunnel Replacement, and expanding service in places like Virginia and the Midwest Borealis train. Of particular interest to my constituents, he helped accomplish what Mississippians had anticipated for two decades: the return of passenger rail to the gulf coast.

The Mardi Gras Service is personal to me and to the people I represent. Hurricane Katrina silenced that line in 2005. For 20 years, the gulf coast lost not just a train but one of its connections to the rest of the country. I spent the better part of a decade in the U.S. Senate working to restore this service. I testified before the Surface Transportation Board, secured Federal investment, and spoke to every Amtrak and Federal Railroad Administration official that I could reach. On August 18, 2025, the Mardi Gras Service was restored. Through it all, Mr. Harris and his team were also integral to restoring the service.

A year into its operations, the Mardi Gras Service has exceeded every expectation. Amtrak projected 71,000 riders during the service's first year. The line has carried more than 100,000 passengers just in 8 months. Riders have embraced the service, giving it the highest customer satisfaction rating in the Amtrak system.

That success did not happen by accident. It reflects a leadership philosophy that values customer service, operational excellence, and a willingness to invest in communities that had waited far too long for passenger rail. Roger believed the gulf coast corridor was worth restoring, and the people of Mississippi are better served because of his belief.

In my interactions with Roger, he has always been straightforward, accessible, and willing to work together. Because of that, Mr. Harris does not only leave Amtrak in a stronger position than he found it. He also leaves it with many a friend in Mississippi. On behalf of the people of my State and the taxpayer--and of the riders along the gulf coast who have a Mardi Gras Service to be proud of--I thank Roger Harris for his service. I wish him and his family well in the next adventure.

Mr. President, I commend Nissan's and Toyota's investments in Mississippi. These efforts are part of a broader pattern of Japanese-brand automakers' expansion into the American Southeast to build vehicles closer to their customers and to create

good-paying American jobs. As of the end of 2025, Nissan's Canton assembly plant and Toyota's Blue Springs facility together employ over 5,600 workers and represent more than $5.6 billion in capital investment. This has catalyzed the growth of suppliers and logistics operations that provide additional employment across our State.

The Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA)'s historical assessment shows that Japanese-brand automakers have expanded from early plants in the Midwest to a network of more than 2 dozen manufacturing facilities and dozens of R&D and design centers across the country, with the Southeast playing an increasingly important role. Mississippi's plants are integral to that network, supplying vehicles and components that feed national and international markets.

These companies have also invested in the future of Mississippi's workforce. Nissan and Toyota participate in STEM initiatives, support technical training, and offer earn-and-learn programs and scholarships that help Mississippians gain skills in automotive manufacturing, robotics, and maintenance. Research published by JAMA underscores how this kind of effort helps transform education and build a talent pipeline for the future. Community engagement, including charitable contributions, volunteerism, and support for local organizations, further demonstrates their commitment to Mississippi. As we mark JAMA USA's 50th anniversary, the story in Mississippi is instructive. It reminds us that steadily increasing, long-term investment from trusted allies like Japan is about more than factories and numbers. Investment supports workers, strengthens communities, and reinforces a U.S.-Japan relationship that is essential to both of our countries' economic and strategic success.

I ask for the yeas and nays.

Madam President, on the evening of May 6, 2026, Jonathan Blanchard heard tornado sirens blare through his hometown Bogue Chitto, MS. A volunteer firefighter accustomed to responding to emergencies, Blanchard gathered his family and found shelter. Once the storm passed, he set out to assess the damage. A walk that would typically take minutes turned into a 2-hour trek through uprooted trees and storm debris. When he arrived at his home, Blanchard found it had been virtually destroyed. Instead of being paralyzed by his loss, he reached out and helped others.

A short distance away, Blanchard heard cries for help. He sprang into action, followed the sound, and found a woman trapped beneath an overturned camper. He put his 30 years of emergency response experience to use. Blanchard and another neighbor carried the woman nearly a quarter mile to an ambulance, delivering her to safety. He continued his rescue efforts throughout the night.

Like Mississippians across the State affected by the tornadoes, Mr. Blanchard could not sit by as his community suffered. That spirit characterizes his whole life. When he is not on duty at the Hog Chain Volunteer Fire Department, Mr. Blanchard works as a welder at Wastequip in Brookhaven. He and his wife Rebecca Blanchard have three children.

Jonathan Blanchard's selfless service to his town is a true testament to his character and is an example to the State. I join my fellow Mississippians in saluting Jonathan Blanchard for his swift action and selflessness in the face of disaster.

Mr. President, first, I ask unanimous consent to waive the mandatory quorum call with respect to the cloture motion on the motion to proceed to Calendar No. 454, H.R. 5334.

Mr. President, and now let me join with my colleagues from New Hampshire and Alabama in urging a strong ``yes'' vote on the motion to proceed to Lindsey Graham's sanctions bill.

A number of us gathered today, as we have already heard, at the National Cathedral for Senator Lindsey Graham's funeral. And in a few moments, we will vote to advance a bill that Lindsey Graham made possible.

During the past few days, we have heard a number of stories about Lindsey Graham's many idiosyncrasies: his endless energy--he has been called the Energizer Bunny--his quotable jokes, his nonquotable quips, his one-of-a-kind personality.

We also remembered his steadfast love for freedom and his intolerance for tyrants. The bill we will vote on in a few moments reflects those aspects of his personality.

I have suggested that it is his greatest political achievement. It took a Senator like Lindsey Graham to bring this bill so far. In this environment, with these stakes, he brought together so many parties. It seems he did this almost through the sheer force of his will. I have seen that drive for 32 years since we came to Washington together as freshmen in 1994.

Again, I say this could turn out to be Lindsey Graham's greatest legislative achievement. The Lindsey Graham sanctions bill will advance the cause of freedom, and it will combat Vladimir Putin's war machine. It will go after Vladimir Putin, his inner circle, and the shadow fleet they use to evade sanctions. It will hold accountable those who purchase the most Russian oil and gas. It will also take aim at China's investments in Russian weapons production. It will maintain sanctions pressure on Iran. These policies will save human lives. They will pave the way for even more impressive battlefield achievements by Ukraine.

The Ukrainians have been resourceful from day one. For 4 years, the freedom fighters have managed to stand against a country four times the size of theirs. And today, Ukraine is using long-range drone strikes to take the war to Russia. I hope to meet with President Zelenskyy of Ukraine soon. He regularly refers to these drone strikes as long-range sanctions. Let's give Ukraine even more sanctions, even more tools to fight back against the dictator Putin.

This bill will be a moral achievement. It is a clear statement about the aggressor in Russia and the nation he is attacking.

Ukraine targets facilities in Russia used to wage war. On the other hand, Vladimir Putin targets apartments, neighborhoods, churches, and corner stores. As Ukraine defends its homeland, Vladimir Putin callously sends the sons of Russia into bloodshed. He is not persuaded by appeals to human rights.

I have made no secret of my complete disgust for the dictator Vladimir Putin and for his many war crimes against the Ukrainian people throughout this unprovoked conflict. If we have learned anything about the Russian despot Vladimir Putin over the course of this war, it is that the slaughter of civilians and even his own Russian troops give him no pause. His soulmates are the dead dictators of the previous century--Pol Pot, Hitler, Mussolini, and Stalin. Vladimir Putin's name deserves to be stated among those disparate war criminals.

He disregards human life, but he does prize the strength of his war machine. For this, Putin relies on his energy sales, and that is what we are getting to with this bill. This legislation will help curtail those energy sales. It will put maximum economic pressure on Vladimir Putin. This is the one thing--apparently the only thing he understands.

President Trump and President Zelenskyy have long extended the hand of peace. Time and again, Putin has answered with more violence, more destruction, and more innocent Ukrainian and Russian lives snuffed out.

Lindsey Graham understood Putin's calculation, and he wrote a bill to hit Putin where it hurts. We will have a

chance to act on that bill today. I expect an overwhelming majority vote in favor.

Mr. President, for the Committee on Armed Services I report favorably the following nomination lists which were printed in the Records on the dates indicated, and ask unanimous consent, to save the expense of reprinting on the Executive Calendar that these nominations lie at the Secretary's desk for the information of Senators.

Mr. President, for the Committee on Armed Services I report favorably the following nomination lists which were printed in the RECORDS on the dates indicated, and ask unanimous consent, to save the expense of reprinting on the Executive Calendar that these nominations lie at the Secretary's desk for the information of Senators.

The following executive reports of nominations were submitted:

Mr. President, in January, Mississippi endured a historically catastrophic ice storm. At the height of the bad weather, nearly 90 percent of north Mississippi had lost power. The situation demanded swift thinking and a massive response. As always, State and local authorities responded--but so did everyday Mississippians, who stepped up to assist with recovery.

One Mississippian responded with particular fervor. Brittany Clark, a family nurse Practitioner and mother, has long dedicated herself to serving her community. Through volunteerism and other acts of service, she has built a reputation for compassion, leadership, and reliability in times of crisis. During Winter Storm Fern, she built on that legacy.

With remarkable courage and resourcefulness, Brittany mobilized critical relief efforts. She ensured that vulnerable communities had access to essential supplies, beginning first with those most at risk. By prioritizing the elderly and families without adequate resources, she ensured that none slipped through the cracks. Because of her efforts, many Mississippians found safety, warmth, and support during a time of dire need.

Brittany grew up in Pontotoc, MS, and later acquired her bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing from the Mississippi University for Women. She and her husband Trent Clark reside in New Albany with their two children.

Brittany's action during Winter Storm Fern inspired others to step forward and serve, strengthening community bonds and contributing to a more resilient Mississippi. She helped reflect the very best of our State. I join my fellow Mississippians in expressing deep gratitude for Brittany's outstanding work.

Mr. President, I have six requests for committees to meet during today's session of the Senate. They have the approval of the Majority and Minority Leaders.

Pursuant to rule XXVI, paragraph 5(a), of the Standing Rules of the Senate, the following committees are authorized to meet during today's session of the Senate:

Mr. President, today I recognize the distinguished career and extraordinary service of LTG Thomas L. James, U.S. Army. A native of Petal, MS, Lieutenant General James served in uniform for more than four decades, leaving an indelible mark on the security of our Nation.

In 1982, Lieutenant General James took the first step in his military journey by enlisting in the Mississippi National Guard. He served first as a medic and operating room technician with the 114th Support Group. Later, he joined the 20th Special Forces Group (Airborne).

From the beginning, Lieutenant General James was committed to soldier care, unit readiness, and high standards of service--values that would define his entire career. In 1988, after completing his education at the University of Southern Mississippi and earning his commission through ROTC, he entered Active Duty as an Army aviator.

Lieutenant General James would go on to command at every level from platoon to brigade. In July 2014, he assumed leadership of the 1st Space Brigade. Under his charge, the Army's only brigade dedicated to space operations became more adept at missile warning, satellite communications, and space situational awareness. Combatant commanders across the globe benefit from these enhanced capabilities.

At the Joint Functional Component Command--Space and the Joint Force Space Component Command, Lieutenant General James held a number of senior roles. Among his responsibilities, he handled global operations, planning, and exercises in support of joint and allied forces.

When U.S. Space Command was reestablished in 2019, Lieutenant General James was selected to command Joint Task Force-Space Defense. He oversaw the defense of critical space assets and the integration of space capabilities into the joint force. He became the Deputy Commander of Combined Joint Task Force-Space Operations. Then, in December 2023, he was confirmed as Deputy Commander of U.S. Space Command. His promotion to lieutenant general took place at the armory in Hattiesburg, MS. It was the site where he took his oath of enlistment more than 40 years earlier, creating a fitting symbol of a life dedicated to service.

General James' career spanned work in the Gulf War, the Iraq War, and the war in Afghanistan. He is a decorated veteran. His most notable awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, two awards of the Legion of Merit, and two Bronze Star Medals. Notably, he is the first Army space operations officer to advance beyond the rank of brigadier general, a testament to his pioneering role in elevating space as a warfighting domain.

While I recognize Lieutenant General James, it is important to honor the sacrifice and support of his family. His wife Nicole and his daughter Rachel have stood beside him these many years. They have shared in the hardships of military life and contributed immeasurably to his success. Their strength, patience, and devotion exemplify the resilience of military families who give so much in service to the Nation.

I speak on behalf of a thankful State when I express my gratitude to LTG Thomas L. James. We are grateful for his faithful service to the United States. His career reflects honor upon his character, his family, the people of Mississippi, the Army, U.S. Space Command, and the Nation he has so ably defended.