Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor immigrants.

Throughout American history, immigrants of all kinds have made our country great. Sergey Brin invented Google, and Madeleine Albright blazed trails as the first female Secretary of State.

Instead of celebrating this diversity, many Republicans want to shame immigrants. On Tuesday, Zohran Mamdani, an immigrant from Uganda, won the New York mayoral primary. Representative Andy Ogles promptly went on an unhinged, anti-immigrant, racist rant throughout yesterday and today, calling this freely elected man and U.S. citizen ``Little Muhammad'' and called for revoking his citizenship and for him to be deported with no just cause.

We must always condemn hate. I have introduced a censure resolution, H. Res. 553, against Andy Ogles for his horrific anti-immigrant sentiment. Immigrants make our country great.

Madam Speaker, when I was sworn into office, I took an oath to protect the Constitution of this great Nation.

I am an immigrant who came to this country with just $20 in my pocket. The United States has given me so much. I love America, and I will do anything to protect our Constitution and our democratic values.

President Donald J. Trump has been committing crimes since day one: bribery, corruption, taking power from Congress, creating an unlawful office in DOGE, violating First Amendment rights, ignoring due process, and, finally, refusing to abide by a unanimous Supreme Court ruling.

Just as I stand here in the House of Representatives, Mr. Trump is traveling to the Middle East to accept a gift worth $400 million from a foreign government. I have spoken with Americans all over the country. They asked me: What will you do as President Trump continues his unconstitutional activities? Well, Madam Speaker, I rise today to hold this President accountable.

The fact of the matter is, the President has committed crime after crime. I am not concerned about whether this is the right time or if there are enough votes from my colleagues across the aisle. I rise today to do my duty and uphold my oath to protect the Constitution.

The effort is not about partisanship. It is about principles. If we don't draw the line now, we risk losing the rule of law entirely. If we don't act today, we are complicit in letting democracy erode on our watch.

That is why I introduced H. Res. 353 to impeach Donald J. Trump, outlining seven Articles of Impeachment because when a President violates the Constitution, Congress must act.

My seven Articles in H. Res. 353 are as follows:

1. Obstruction of justice and abuse of executive powers. Trump denied due process and defied Federal court orders.

2. Seizing Congress' power of the purse. He froze funds and dismantled agencies without congressional approval.

3. Abuse of trade powers and international aggression. His reckless tariffs hurt American families, and he even threatened military actions against our allies.

4. Violation of First Amendment rights. Trump retaliated against journalists and critics for speaking out.

5. Creation of an unlawful office. He gave Elon Musk unconstitutional control over government agencies and American people's personal data.

6. Bribery and corruption. Trump dismissed criminal cases and accepted foreign payments for personal gain.

7. Tyrannical overreach. His actions reveal a dangerous attempt to consolidate unchecked power.

This is not leadership. This is dictatorship. We have Presidents, not kings. If we allow this to continue, we are telling the American people that the Presidency is above the law and that the Constitution is optional.

When Trump ignored Court rulings, we called it out. When he threatened the peaceful transfer of power, we pushed back. When he tried to dismantle Federal institutions, we said: No more.

Now we are fighting--in the courts, in Congress, and in the court of public opinion--because the truth still matters. I call on my colleagues, Democrats and Republicans, to do what is right: Impeach Donald J. Trump. Let's keep fighting.

Mr. Speaker, when I was sworn into office, I took an oath to protect the Constitution of this great Nation.

I am an immigrant who came to this country with just $20 in my pocket. The United States has given me so much. I love America, and I will do anything to protect our Constitution and our democratic values.

Donald J. Trump has been committing crimes since day one: bribery, corruption, taking power from Congress, creating an unlawful office in DOGE, violating First Amendment rights, ignoring due process, and finally refusing to abide by a unanimous Supreme Court ruling.

Just as I stand here in the House of Representatives, Mr. Trump is traveling to the Middle East to accept a gift worth $400 million from a foreign government.

I have spoken with Americans all over the country.

Mr. Speaker, pursuant to clause 2(a)(1) of rule IX, I rise to give notice of my intention to raise a question of the privileges of the House.

The form of the resolution is as follows:

H. Res. 353: Impeaching Donald John Trump, President of the United States, for high crimes and misdemeanors.

Resolution: Impeaching Donald John Trump, President of the United States, for high crimes and misdemeanors.

Resolved, That Donald John Trump, President of the United States, is impeached for high crimes and misdemeanors, and that the following articles of impeachment be exhibited to the Senate:

Article of impeachment exhibited by the House of Representatives of the United States of America in the name of itself and of the people of the United States of America, against Donald John Trump, President of the United States of America, in maintenance and support of its impeachment against him for high crimes and misdemeanors.

article i: obstruction of justice, violation of due process, and a

breach of the duty to faithfully execute laws

The Constitution provides that the House of Representatives ``shall have the sole Power of Impeachment'' and that the President ``shall be removed from Office on Impeachment for, and Conviction of, Treason, Bribery, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors''. Further, Article II of the Constitution states that the President ``shall take Care that the Laws be faithfully executed'', the Fourth Amendment of the Constitution states that ``The right of the people . . . against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated'', and the Fifth Amendment of the Constitution states ``No person shall be . . . deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law''. In his conduct of the office of President of the United States--and in violation of his constitutional oath to faithfully to execute the office of President of the United States and, to the best of his ability, preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States, and in violation of his constitutional duty to take care that the laws be faithfully executed--Donald John Trump has abused the powers of the Presidency in a manner offensive to, and subversive of, the Constitution, in that:

Using the power of his high office, Donald John Trump has engaged in this scheme or course of conduct through the following means:

(1) By his orders and directions to subordinates, obstructed the administration of justice and embarked on a scheme to destroy and corrupt the legal system and the powers of the courts under Article III of the Constitution. Specifically, he has done the following:

(A) Directed and permitted his subordinates and attorneys at the Department of Justice to violate their oaths to uphold the Constitution, laws of the United States, and the rules of professional ethics by adducing misleading and willfully false representations to the courts of the United States, and to otherwise abuse their official powers. Specifically, he has--

(i) sought to dismiss, without prejudice and under false pretenses, the bribery and fraud charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams, in an unethical quid pro quo exchange for the Defendant's cooperation with the Administration's political priorities, thus abusing the criminal laws to unconstitutionally commandeer a State officer and unit of government in violation of the sovereignty thereof; and

(ii) terminated and purged career Department of Justice attorneys without reasonable cause and in violation of the law in retaliation for their legitimate investigatory and prosecutorial

As enacted in the Department of Education Organization Act, signed into law by President Jimmy Carter, the Department of Education was established by Congress to create reform in the education system throughout the country, distribute Federal aid to students and places of learning, and prohibit discriminatory practices. The President does not have the authority to dismantle the Department of Education, and his signing of Executive Order 14242, which aims to ``Improving Education Outcomes by Empowering Parents, States, and Communities'', violates the law and the Constitution.

(2) Unlawfully directed the elimination of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). As enacted in the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, signed into law by President John F. Kennedy, USAID plays a crucial role in delivering foreign assistance worldwide, including disaster relief, conflict relief, combating global diseases, promoting educational programs, and enhancing food security in developing countries. By dismantling USAID and freezing foreign assistance, he has severed the United States from its humanitarian role as directed by Congress, leaving other countries and potentially our adversaries to fill in the role the United States has abandoned.

(3) Created the so-called ``Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)'', which has imposed payment holds and rescinded funds after disbursement. Donald John Trump has utilized DOGE to unlawfully block or impound appropriated funds to dozens of Federal agencies, including the National Institutes of Health, the Federal Aviation Administration, and the Department of Veterans Affairs. By impounding congressionally appropriated funds, Donald John Trump and DOGE have not only violated the law, but have negatively impacted the American people by cutting jobs, halting critical services, and rescinding grants for programs, in defiance of the express, constitutionally binding will of Congress.

Using the powers of his high office, Donald John Trump has unlawfully withheld congressionally appropriated funds and attempted to dismantle congressionally mandated agencies. By withholding funds and crippling agencies, he has prevented the Federal Government from performing critical duties here and abroad. He has threatened the well-being of United States citizens through the gross misconduct of his office, resulting in dire and life-threatening consequences on the world's most vulnerable populations.

Wherefore, Donald John Trump, by such conduct, has demonstrated that he is unfit to govern a Nation by and for the people, has acted in a manner grossly incompatible with self-governance and the rule of law, and will remain a threat to the Constitution if allowed to remain in office.

article iii: abuse of trade powers and international aggression

The Constitution provides that the House of Representatives ``shall have

Mr. Speaker, had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 89 and YEA on Roll Call No. 90.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Rajiv Malhotra and the Infinity Foundation for their contributions to Hindu American Civil Rights, interfaith dialogue, and intellectual diversity.

The Infinity Foundation, established by Rajiv Malhotra thirty years ago, has played a pivotal role in championing the rights of Hindu Americans, advocating against biases and Hinduphobia, and ensuring their equal protection under civil rights laws. It has contributed significantly to intellectual diversity in the United States by fostering rigorous academic inquiry, research, and dialogue on Indian philosophy, dharmic traditions, and Hindu contributions to world civilization, thereby enriching America's multicultural fabric.

I applaud the efforts made by Rajiv Malhotra and the Infinity Foundation in strengthening the bridge between Hindu Americans and other faith communities, fostering goodwill, collaboration, and mutual respect. The Infinity Foundation's tireless work aligns with the American ideals of justice, equality, and religious freedom, serving as an exemplary institution that strengthens the Nation's commitment to these values.

Rajiv Malhotra and the Infinity Foundations efforts can be seen in their upcoming ``Global Dharma Renaissance'' event, planned for April 2025. This event marks a historic milestone in recognizing the intellectual and cultural revival of Dharma traditions in the United States and globally, solidifying its role as a forerunner and a guiding force akin to a banyan tree that supports and nurtures other Hindu organizations in the country.

Rajiv Malhotra's scholarship and leadership have significantly contributed to the empowerment of Hindu Americans, providing them with a voice in academia, media, and policy discussions. His advocacy has ensured that Hindu American heritage is accurately represented in public discourse.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the Hindu community, I commend Rajiv Malhotra and the Infinity Foundation for their outstanding contributions to Hindus around the world. I thank them for their exceptional work. We wish them continued success in their quest to foster better understanding and goodwill between Hindu Americans and other faith communities.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 788.

First of all, I thank Chairman Williams and Ranking Member Velazquez for their bipartisan work. As a serial entrepreneur in the technology innovation sector, I couldn't be happier to stand here and support this bill along with my amazing colleagues, Representative LaLota and Representative Morrison.

Mr. Speaker, I recognize the indispensable role in enhancing collaboration between the Small Business Administration and the Department of Energy, all in the name of improving research and development efforts.

Let's not forget small businesses are a cornerstone of this country. The innovation we stimulate within this sector is not just important, it is vital for America's future. This legislation does not simply propose research collaboration. It carves a path for our small businesses to lead the way.

It mandates a collaborative report within 2 years of its enactment. This report will empower us to monitor and comprehend the effectiveness of our research collaborations, providing us with the opportunity to revise and refine strategies as necessary.

I am excited, and I hope my colleagues share my enthusiasm about the potential growth and broadening capabilities the DOE and SBA Research Act promise to bring.

Let's always keep sight of the ultimate goal of this legislation which is creating high-paying jobs for our fellow Americans and safeguarding our Nation's competitive edge on the global stage. Remember, this isn't just about legislation. It is about our future.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Sonja Dunlap, Lauren Hatto, Jasmine Hunley and Soren O'Dell from Girl Scouts of Southeastern Michigan, who have been selected to represent Girl Scouts of the USA at the United Nations' 69th Commission on the Status of Women.

Each year, Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) joins over 5,000 women and girls from around the world at the United Nations headquarters in New York to participate in the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW). Delegates representing GSUSA undergo a rigorous application process and training to prepare them for their participation in the CSW. As delegates, girls will have an opportunity to engage with GSUSA's work around global advocacy, learn about global issues, see firsthand how global entities function, and let their voices be heard on key global issues impacting girls and young women.

The Commission on the Status of Women is a functional commission of the United Nations, dedicated exclusively to shaping global standards on gender equality as well as the advancement and empowerment of women and girls. Every year, national representatives of Member States gather for a two-week session to evaluate progress on gender equality, identify challenges, set global standards, and formulate concrete policies to promote gender equality and the advancement of women worldwide. As NGO Consultative members, Girl Scouts of the USA and the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts participate to bring the voice of girls and young women to the global stage.

The focus of the sixty-ninth session will be on the review and appraisal of the implementation of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action and the outcomes of the 23rd special session of the General Assembly. The review will include an assessment of current challenges that affect the implementation of the Platform for Action and the achievement of gender equality and the empowerment of women and its contribution towards the full realization of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of Michigan's 13th Congressional District, I congratulate these four outstanding young women on their selection, and I thank them for their leadership. We wish them the best of luck in their future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, Elon Musk invested $277 million into Donald Trump's election. I guess that is the price to take over our Federal Government. Elon Musk is worth over $400 billion, meaning his contribution to Trump is the same as about $130 for an average American.

Mr. Musk, the government is not a private enterprise. It serves the American people, not the wealthy shareholders.

Thousands will die around the world because USAID won't deliver lifesaving

food and medicine. Millions will lose control of their personal information, such as Social Security numbers, banking information, Social Security checks, and Medicare benefits.

Elon Musk does not care about us because he does not have to and does not want to. Rest assured, Democrats care, I care, and we will use every tool at our disposal to get rid of this unelected, power-hungry, egocentric billionaire.

Mr. Speaker, had I been present, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call No. 23.

personal explanation

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to bring awareness of the human rights violations in Bangladesh against the minority Hindus.

Since 1971 when Bangladesh got its freedom from Pakistan, there has been numerous occasions where minority Hindus have been attacked. More recently we have seen a Hindu priest being arrested and his lawyer was murdered.

The crowds of the majority have destroyed Hindu temples, Hindu deities, and Hindus who are practicing their religion in peace. The time has now come for the United States Congress to act and the U.S. Government to act. It is important whether we use humanitarian issues, economic sanctions, every possible tool in our hands needs to be used to ensure that such atrocities in Bangladesh against the Hindus stop right away.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 7987, the Plain Language in Contracting Act, which I am co-leading with Representative Nick LaLota of New York. I applaud Representative LaLota's leadership, and it is a pleasure to work with him on this bipartisan bill.

I am also, as an entrepreneur, delighted and excited to be working on the Small Business Committee led so well by Chairman Williams and Ranking Member Velazquez.

Having experienced the challenges of running a small business, I recognize the urgent need to cut through the jargon of bureaucracy and provide clear, concise, and accessible information to our Nation's small business owners.

This bill would require all notices related to small business concerns to comply with the Federal plain language guidelines established by the Plain Writing Act of 2010, reflecting our core values of transparency, efficiency, and unwavering dedication to fostering a level playing field for all businesses, regardless of size.

By including key words and sticking to the Federal plain language guidelines, we are not just drafting legislation. We are empowering small businesses to navigate the complexity of

government contracting with confidence and ease.

This is about more than just policy. It is about supporting our economy and ensuring that every entrepreneur has the opportunity to succeed.

Walking down the streets of my district, I meet a lot of small business owners every day. Often, I hear from these small businesses, the mom-and-pop shops, the entrepreneurs who are working so hard, that the complexity of the language contributes to the difficulty in obtaining Federal contracts.

This bill goes a long way in simplifying the matter, helping our small businesses that create most of the jobs to be able to acquire Federal contracts and work with the Federal Government.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. Speaker, I hereby remove my name as cosponsor of H. Res. 1068.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend Jennyfer Crawford- Williams, an inspiring entrepreneur and advocate for Michigan's small businesses, on the 10th anniversary of All Things Detroit. In 2014, with just $1,500, she ventured into entrepreneurship, becoming a renowned name, supported by accolades like Crain's Detroit Business' 40 Under 40 and the Detroit Young Professionals Vanguard Award.

As founder of Ask Jennyfer and the successful All Things Detroit showcase, which draws 12,000 attendees and earned its own holiday, Jennyfer has created a vibrant community for small business owners. Beyond events, she established All Things Marketplace, an online and brick-and-mortar hub, fostering opportunities for growth.

Her commitment to showcasing Detroit's small businesses is evident in initiatives like Conversations, Ask Jennyfer: The Podcast, and All Things Ticketing. Jennyfer actively curates' small business markets for local non-profits within the City of Detroit and serves on advisory boards.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognizing Jennyfer Crawford-Williams for her impactful contributions to Michigan's small business community. Her dedication is a beacon of inspiration and deserves our commendation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Colonel Promotable Fred A. Hockett, Jr., a constituent of Michigan's 13th District, on his promotion to Brigadier General in the United States Army Reserve.

His military career started in 1987 as an Army Reserve Infantryman with the 70th Division. He later transitioned to active duty with the 4th Infantry Division at Ft. Carson, Colorado. After attending the United States Military Academy Prep School and the United States Military Academy at West Point, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant of Infantry. Serving in various leadership, command, and staff positions, he currently serves as the Deputy Commanding Officer for Support for the U.S. Army Recruiting Command, Fort Knox, Kentucky.

Colonel Promotable Hockett has been recognized for distinguished performance of duty that represents exemplary achievement in the finest traditions of the United States of America.

Throughout his career, his leadership has positively impacted the lives of countless service members. There is no doubt that his service and achievements will have a lasting impact on the Army's future ability to protect and defend the freedoms guaranteed by the United States Constitution. I am humbled to offer him the thanks and congratulations of a grateful Nation.