Floor Statements

Mr. President, I rise to talk in favor of my CRA on the overdraft fees.

President Biden and his politically motivated junk fee conversation was not about helping consumers. It was about trying to change the conversation away from the devastation that inflation was bringing to kitchen table after kitchen table after kitchen table all across America. The average American, because of Bidenflation, lost $1,000- plus in spending power, devastated by the Biden economy.

President Biden looked for something to change the conversation and it changed something called junk fees. One of the junk fees he talked about was the overdraft fee. Now, some would say: What is an overdraft fee? Your bank account goes beyond zero; you have to pay a fee; your bills are paid. Some people who live paycheck to paycheck use their overdraft option to pay their rent.

So when you start capping these fee structures, you start eliminating overdraft. You start eliminating the possibility of people working paycheck to paycheck to make the decision--to make the decision--to continue to use their resources in the most effective way.

Unfortunately, President Biden's devastating economy has reverberated for years now. This overdraft conversation is a critically important conversation, if you are, like me, a guy who grew up in poverty, single-parent household, who understands the difficulty, the challenge of single moms making those ends meet. I want every single hard-working American to have access to our financial system. That sometimes includes, as it did for us, free checking.

A free checking account is not free, but with the revenue streams coming into the institutions, they can use those revenues as an option to provide free checking for those living paycheck to paycheck.

Overturning the Biden CFPB's overdraft fee structure is good for consumers.

Let me just quote from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York that confirmed the overdraft fee caps hinder financial inclusion. As a study stated:

[O]verdraft fee caps hinder financial inclusion. When

constrained by fee caps, banks reduce overdraft coverage and

deposit supply, causing more returned checks and a decline in

account ownerships among low-income households.

To do the right thing for the working class is to give them all the options and let them decide. Trust them with their own resources. That is in the best interest of our Nation, and that is why I am offering this CRA tonight.

I yield back all time on Calendar No. 27, H.J. Res. 25.

Vote on H.J. Res. 25

Mr. President, I ask for the yeas and nays.

Madam President, reserving the right to object, IEEPA is a powerful tool that provides the President with a range of authorities to protect our national security. With all the challenges facing our Nation, now is not the time to be limiting Presidential power, and that is exactly what Senator Shaheen's bill would do.

Instead, we must use every tool available to combat these threats, and we are already seeing results. As an example, Colombia accepted migrant return flights. We have seen Mexico and Canada take initial credible steps to combat fentanyl and illegal immigration. Now is not the time to tie the hands of President Trump.

Thank you, and I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Senate through regular order to ensure that we take every step to protect our national security.

Therefore, I object.

Madam President, I urge my colleagues to oppose this amendment. Here is why: They are putting the blame in the wrong place.

We all agree the housing prices have skyrocketed over the last 4 years. Unfortunately, my colleagues across the aisle aren't interested in new solutions. They are willing to place the blame anywhere except where it belongs.

The real culprit in the failed housing policies is the Biden administration. Under the previous administration, rental costs rose 20 percent. We should be discussing how to make housing more affordable for more Americans. I plan to do just that at the Banking Housing and Urban Development Committee.

I urge my colleagues to work with me. Working with President Trump and Secretary Turner, we can achieve a housing comeback for the blue- collar workers. I urge my colleagues to reject this amendment.

Vote on Amendment No. 473

I urge my colleagues to oppose this amendment. Democrats are the ones who caused the record-high inflation and soaring consumer prices with their reckless partisan spending. The cost of everything is up 20 percent, and the cost of housing went up 40 percent during Joe Biden's Presidency.

Reducing illegal immigration and cutting energy costs through reconciliation are critical components of reducing costs at the checkout aisle.

Point of Order

Mr. President, this amendment, however, is not in order. If adopted it would jeopardize the privileged status of the budget resolution and could derail our efforts to use reconciliation.

Since the amendment does not meet the standard required by law, I raise a point of order against the amendment under section 305(b)(2) of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974.

I urge--I urge--my colleagues to just vote no.

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the text of the bill be printed in the Record.

Mr. President, the Department of Housing and Urban Development's mission is to create strong, sustainable communities and support of affordable homes. Yet under President Biden and his administration, the Department failed to serve our Nation's most vulnerable.

Here is the truth: We are facing a homelessness crisis in America. The latest homelessness survey found an 18-percent increase in homelessness year over year, increasing the number of homelessness in our country to nearly 772,000 Americans not able to find a place to lay their heads. This is unacceptable.

On top of that, we are facing an affordability crisis in our country as well. During President Biden's tenure, mortgage rates ballooned 150 percent and rents 20 percent.

Over the last 4 years, far-left housing policies and burdensome regulations have put the American dream out of reach for millions and millions of hard-working, dedicated patriots throughout our Nation. It is no secret that HUD is in serious need of new leadership.

Fortunately, there is good news: Help is right over there, and it is on its way.

My good friend, Scott Turner, has a remarkable life story, a tremendous life story. Scott is a native Texan who has had an exceptional journey from professional athlete to public servant. Scott came from humble beginnings, but he never let those circumstances define who he is. Actually, Scott, in high school, I believe it was, worked at a barbecue shop. What I love about Scott is he has this affection for the truth. He told me himself--he conceded--that South Carolina barbecue is better than Texas. I am glad he has no microphone to say anything right now. I am just telling you that that is a man I can appreciate.

He went on and had a successful career in the NFL: nine seasons as a cornerback playing for the Denver Broncos, the San Diego Chargers, and, yes, the Washington Redskins. And I note that he did not play for America's team, the Dallas Cowboys. Nobody can be perfect.

After hanging up his cleats, Scott served two terms in the Texas State legislature and then went on to work in the Trump administration.

As the Executive Director of the White House Opportunity and Revitalization Council, Scott helped implement the opportunity zones initiative I created, directing over $50 billion in private sector capital into hard-hit, typically majority minority communities, breathing hope and opportunity not only to the neighborhoods but into the lives of people who desperately, passionately were praying for hope, and with less than a 5-percent gentrification. That is what I call success.

His story and his perspective are essential tools that he will bring to the table to fight the increase of homelessness, to fight the 150- percent ballooning of our mortgages, and to fight back against the 20- percent increase in rents.

As HUD Secretary, Scott will make himself known. He will create access to quality, affordable housing as a top priority. He will work to reverse decades of failed housing policies, and make targeted reforms across all segments of the U.S. housing market.

It is time to make America's economy work for working-class Americans. It is time for a blue-collar comeback. And I am so thankful that we have a man prepared to put in 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, if necessary, so more people--not 772,000 Americans, but more Americans-- will have a place to lay their heads because they are no longer homeless. More Americans will be able to afford a home because the interest rates will come down, the housing supply will increase. And we will thank God Almighty that we live in a land where opportunity is more available because the right person, at the right time, in the right place, says yes.

I am very thankful that Scott Turner is the Secretary of Housing and Urban

Development. But I am more thankful that we have a President making good decisions to put America back on the right track.

I yield the floor.

Will the Senator yield?

It sounded like you were suggesting that there was a place on the planet that has better barbecue than South Carolina. I know my ears mistook the words coming out of your mouth. I know you are a fine coach, Coach, but we both know we can't lie to the public.

The Senator will yield.

Will you yield?

Thank you, Coach.

I will just simply say that although there are many, many people living in Alabama coming to the conclusion--it makes total sense to me. Alabama is a fine State. You guys produce national championships, and you know something about that. Of course, the home of barbecue, the beginning place of barbecue and sweet tea is South Carolina.

Yes, sir.

We will have a taste test.

Mr. President, as a Senator from the great state of South Carolina, it is my distinct honor and privilege to recognize Deputy Hal Gooding as he retires after an extraordinary career with the Charleston County Sheriff's Office. His unwavering commitment to public service is a testament to the highest ideals of law enforcement.

On behalf of the U.S. Congress and the American people, I extend my deepest gratitude to Deputy Gooding for his years of selfless service, tireless efforts, and steadfast dedication to keeping Charleston County safe. He has not only protected citizens of Charleston County, but also helped create an environment where families and neighbors can live in peace.

Fifty years with Charleston County speaks volumes about Deputy Gooding's steadfast commitment to the community he serves. As he transitions into this well-deserved chapter of retirement, I am confident that he will continue to make a positive impact in the lives of those fortunate to know him.

Congratulations on your retirement, Deputy Hal Gooding.

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent to have the following printed in the Congressional Record.

Mr. President, as the junior Senator from the great State of South Carolina, it is my pleasure to honor BMW Manufacturing for its 30th anniversary and strong legacy of promoting economic growth, job creation, and innovative excellence in South Carolina's Upstate.

Since 1994, BMW's presence in the Upstate has demonstrated South Carolina's top-of-the-line workforce to the rest of the world. South Carolinians' focus on excellence has allowed BMW to prosper over the last 30 years and hopefully for future generations.

Today, BMW's Spartanburg plant employs nearly 43,000 jobs and produces over 1,500 vehicles daily, totaling over 400,000 yearly.

This continued partnership has grown a $600 million investment into over $26.7 billion in assets that flow from the automotive industry in our State, directly impacting countless local families and strengthening our State's economy.

Congratulations to Dr. Robert Engelhorn and the entire BMW Group for this incredible milestone and ongoing partnership.

Mr. President, as the junior Senator from the great State of South Carolina, it is my pleasure to honor Greenwood Genetics Center as they celebrate their 50th anniversary.

Fifty years ago, the first independent center in the United States to offer comprehensive genetic services was established. Beginning as a small building tucked away in the heart of Greenwood, SC, Greenwood Genetics Center quickly blossomed in more ways than one. Greenwood Genetics Center has

made incredible strides in providing personalized, accessible, and effective genetic services since opening its doors in 1974.

Genetic medicine has transformed from a minor subspecialty to a driving force in revolutionizing medicine. Greenwood Genetic Center's research initiatives have not only significantly contributed to the understanding of genetic conditions, but have led to groundbreaking discoveries, helping transform the landscape of personalized medicine.

Today, it is my pleasure to recognize Greenwood Genetics Center and their dedication to advancing genetic research, education, and patient care. As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, we honor both the achievements of Greenwood Genetics Center but also the many lives they have touched along the way. Thank you to Greenwood Genetics Center for your profound contributions to genetic medicine and your enduring commitment to enhancing the lives of so many.

Mr. President, as the junior Senator from the great State of South Carolina, it is my pleasure to honor the Indian Land Middle School 7th grade volleyball team for winning the 2024 FMAC Championship. This achievement is not only a testament to their skills on the court, but a reflection of the hard work, dedication, and teamwork demonstrated throughout the season.

Despite the many challenges faced, this team continued to support one another and show remarkable resilience. Their ability to celebrate each other's successes, whether in times of victory or moments of adversity, has fostered an atmosphere of positivity and motivation that has created a lasting impact not only on their performance but also within their school community. Whether in practice or during games, each teammate played an important role in shaping the team's success.

As the team celebrates this incredible achievement, I encourage each player to reflect on their journey and take pride in what they have accomplished together. Whether some will return next season or move on to new challenges, the memories and friendships created will always remain. The skills and lessons learned this season will undoubtedly extend beyond the volleyball court and into all aspects of life.

Congratulations to the Indian Land Middle School 7th grade volleyball team on an outstanding season.

Madam President, I rise today to take a moment to reflect on the remarkable life of Senator Jim Inhofe, who passed away and is now spending time with his Lord and Savior in heaven.

I rise for a number of reasons: One, because he was such a fantastic public servant who served our Nation in the U.S. Senate for nearly 30 years. I rise because, as a member of the U.S. Army, he served his Nation valiantly and selflessly. I rise because here is a man of great faith who dedicated his life to public service.

But I also rise because of the slanderous headlines that marked his death. People wonder time and time again why the American people continue to lose faith in our media, when the headlines from Associated Press or Politico, New York Times and ABC News reflects a partisan difference on policy and leads them to label his death in such a negative way. It does, indeed, cripple their credibility in the eyes of the American people when the Washington Post speaks of the death of an ISIS terrorist by saying he was an austere, religious scholar at the helm of the Islamic State. But Senator James Inhofe, the Oklahoma Senator and climate change denier, dies at 89. It saddens me, as an American, that our press pays so little attention to the sacrifice of public servants and so much respect for those who kill because they can.

Jim Inhofe will be remembered in Oklahoma and around the country as a man of deep faith, as a man who sacrificed on behalf of a country that he dearly and deeply loved, and as a man who brought people together in Bible studies and faith communities and, frankly, around the world.

I remember traveling with Senator Inhofe a number of years ago on what we call a congressional delegation. It was a 7-day trip with 10 country stops. If you wanted to sleep on Senator Inhofe's codels, you slept on the plane because there was too much to do when the plane landed.

I recall him bringing together African leaders who had been warring against each other, and having a moment of prayer before he found a way, courageously, to bring two warring factions to the same table to solve deeply rooted problems that seemed impossible to solve.

I remember with great affection seeing some of his reelection acts, where he was flying a plane upside down at the age of 84 or 85.

Jim Inhofe was a great man, and his family does not deserve to read the headlines of media outlets that denigrate his public service, denigrate his character, and lessen his reputation. Thankfully, no one can touch his character. They can only darken the shadow around it, because he indeed was a man of great character.

I yield the floor.

I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded.

Mr. President, in the first 48 hours following the October 7 Hamas terror attack on Israel, violent language and threats against the Jewish community and Israel increased by over 488 percent. This hatred is spreading like wildfire on college campuses around the Nation, turning our so-called elite academic institutions into cesspools of harassment and violence pointed toward Jewish students. There are violent mobs storming buildings, smashing windows, defacing property, tearing down the American flag and replacing it with the flag of radical extremist groups. We are witnessing anti-Semitic hate and extremism that threaten the very safety of our Jewish students on college campuses around the greatest Nation on God's green Earth. It is so shocking and outrageous that so many of the administrators on these campuses sit back and watch as their campuses descend into chaos and criminality.

There can be--and I mean this--there can be no equivocating when it comes to the issue of anti-Semitic violence or hatred, and I and every single one of us should just call it out for what it is.

So let me be clear. Any student who advocates for murder and sympathizes with terrorists should be expelled. Any university that allows itself to become a megaphone for hatred should lose every single dime of their Federal funding. Any college administrator who refuses to stamp out violent bigotry should lose their job.

The American people and especially our Jewish brothers and sisters deserve our moral clarity on this issue. That is why I introduced a resolution that forcefully condemns the explosion of anti-Semitism on college campuses, calls out administrators who have failed to do their jobs and stamp out hatred, and urges the Department of Education to do their job and ensure that universities are protecting the rights of Jewish students.

I am asking every single Senator in this Chamber to support this resolution, to support common sense, and to push back against the hatred on these college campuses pointed directly at our Jewish students. Let us all send a very clear message to our Jewish students and to those who oppose them.

It is vital that this body, the so-called most deliberative body on the planet, stand united and speak with moral clarity on this issue.

Mr. President, I would like to turn over some time to Senator Hoeven and then Senator Ernst.

But let me be clear. Without any question, it is time for the U.S. Senate to stand unanimously not behind our Jewish students but in front of them. Let us be the wall that protects them.

I ask unanimous consent that the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions be discharged from further consideration and that the Senate now proceed to S. Res. 670; further, that the resolution be agreed to, the preamble be agreed to, and that the motions to reconsider be considered made and laid upon the table.

Mr. President, let me just respond to my good friend on the other side of the ocean and this aisle.

I wonder, in the 1960s, when there were Black students, what did they want then? It wasn't a resolution condemning all hate, when they were the only target of the hate. It was support for those who were being victimized in the moment, not a resolution that muddies the water.

Every single challenge facing the folks in the Middle East as a result of Hamas attacking Israel, every drop of blood, is on the hands of the terrorists in Hamas, period. Every challenge facing folks in Gaza that is a result of Hamas's terrorizing the nation of Israel is on the shoulders of Hamas. When you start the war, every innocent life, every unnecessary death is on you, plain and simple.

Well, let me just say that it is a coalition government in Israel--a unanimous coalition government in Israel--supporting the efforts of Israel to eliminate Hamas from the planet, and I do too, 100 percent.

It is frustrating. It is frustrating to see the level of violence in our country. It is frustrating for me to see the level of violence on our college campuses.

I started working on the definition of anti-Semitism not October 7 but in 2018. President Trump made my language into an Executive order 5 years ago. Why? Because there were signs, even then, of hate, disgusting violence, and intimidation on college campuses in America.

And so I just find the language and the comments from my colleague from Vermont deeply disturbing and insulting and misleading.

My resolution is quite simple. It condemns the rampant anti-Semitism on college campuses.

The 2,000-plus arrests on college campuses weren't because of violence against Blacks or violence against Muslims or violence against Hispanics or violence against Asians. It was violence against Jewish students. It was intimidation of Jewish students. It was vandalism on college campuses because of these folks who were trying to intimidate and get to our Jewish students.

It was our Jewish students who couldn't walk to class in peace. It was our Jewish students who couldn't study in libraries without intimidation.

An objection to my resolution is an objection to the reality that today our Jewish students are facing disgusting environments on college campuses, and the administrators sit back with their hands under their butts.

My colleague's resolution clouds the issue of anti-Semitism and equates

Hamas's unprovoked terrorist attack on innocent Israelis and Israel's measures of self-defense. It is ridiculous. What can we say? What can we say to our young students in elementary schools and middle schools and high schools as they look at these so-called elite campuses where they are taking down American flags? What do we say to our young students watching anti-Semitism rage on college campuses? What do we say when they ask the questions that they ask me: Why do they hate the Jews so much? And who will stand in the gap--not just with them, before them?

I say there is not a single Republican in the U.S. Senate who is blocking this resolution. I say not I will but I must stand.

Why can't we just say anti-Semitism on college campuses is wrong? Why can't we have a full stop right there? Perhaps it is because the politics of it is so entangled in the quagmire pit, we must have everything thrown into the bucket, as opposed to just speaking the truth as it is right now on college campuses. Why can't we just condemn anti-Semitism on its face? Why is it so hard for my Democratic colleagues to condemn what Senator Sanders says--and I agree--is the oldest form of hate in the world? Why can't we just do that right now? We can. But politics suggests that to be politically correct, we must include everybody. Well, everybody is not being impacted like our Jewish students today. Why is it so hard to speak without a forked tongue on such a powerful issue that deserves our moral clarity?

It is Jewish students being forced out of the classrooms and out of the dorms. It is Jewish students facing violence today. I get frustrated by the fact that so often we just feel sorry for those poor kids. I get tired of hearing people say: Well, you know, there is this larger group of folks who need to be protected. Mr. President, 2,000 arrests for violence specifically focused on and targeting Jewish students.

Every single child--I don't care what race you are, what religion-- has a right to go to campus safely, but in today's America, it is the Jewish student--the Jewish student--who can't prepare for a midterm in a library. It is the Jewish student who can't walk to class without hoping and praying that law enforcement is there.

We deserve--we deserve--better. America deserves leadership that is unequivocal when it matters the most. We deserve leadership that speaks to the issue of the day, today and every day. That is why people are so disgusted with politics.

Mr. President, reserving the right to object, I think the Senator and I could do this all night long. I would be happy to, frankly. I don't think we will get to the place where we just have a clear statement condemning anti-Semitism. So for all the reasons I have already noted and made, I object.

Mr. President, as the junior Senator from

the great State of South Carolina, it is my pleasure to honor the legacy of Parker High School for its centennial anniversary. Formed as a bold collaboration between textile mills and educators in Greenville County, the vision and success of the Parker experiment has received national recognition. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the inspiring impact Parker High School has had on generations of hardworking South Carolinians.

In the 1920s, the textile industry was an integral part of the fabric of South Carolina. Recognizing that many children raised in the textile mill villages attended the local mill village schools only through the sixth grade, Upstate mill leaders fought to provide a quality education for the Woodside area community. Their vision was to provide vocational training and a lengthened formal education for the children of the Parker District, an area on the west side of Greenville County that consisted of 14 textile communities. Their efforts paid off, and Parker High School was established in 1923.

Parker High School came to be celebrated as one of the top schools in the Nation. Its success was fueled in part by its first superintendent--Dr. L.P. Hollis--who inspired the Woodside community with his unwavering commitment to children's education. Dr. Hollis introduced basketball and Boy Scouts to the State of South Carolina, crafting a recreational program that spurred student development and success. Recognized for its rigorous academics, Parker High School also afforded students access to brilliant extracurricular activities, with a marching band that won multiple prestigious awards on local, State, and national levels.

During its 62-year tenure, the vision and success of the Parker experiment was studied by educators nationally and internationally. Before closing its doors in 1985, Parker High School was named as one of America's ``Top 100'' high schools five times. Today, plans are being developed for a Parker High School museum on campus to cement the groundbreaking history of the Upstate's unique and inspiring education system.

The legacy of Parker High School remains one of excellence. Congratulations to the Woodside community as they continue celebrating Parker's 100th anniversary.

Mr. President, as the junior Senator from the great State of South Carolina, it is my pleasure to honor the legacy of South Carolina Citizens for Life, SCCL, as they celebrate their 50th jubilee anniversary. Formed in the wake of Roe v. Wade, SCCL's tireless work has been instrumental in saving hundreds of thousands of lives over the past five decades. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating all they have done to create a culture of life in South Carolina and across the country.

South Carolina Citizens for Life has an incredible record of successfully fighting to nurture life at every stage. Their efforts have championed a total of 16 pro-life measures that became law, including legislation which banned doctor prescribed suicide and the Parental Consent Act, which resulted in a 16 percent drop in abortions the year following its passage.

Additionally, South Carolina Citizens for Life spreads awareness about the value of every human life through its booth at the South Carolina State Fair. As SCCL's largest educational resource, this booth has been instrumental in helping millions encounter the humanity of the unborn, many for the first time. For the past 45 years, fair volunteers have faithfully provided crucial information and resources, empowering vulnerable pregnant mothers to choose life.

In 2022, South Carolina Citizens for Life rejoiced when the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, ushering in a new chapter for the pro-life movement. While they celebrated the lifesaving decision, SCCL continues to press forward, leading the Palmetto State in fighting abortion on demand and helping expectant women choose life. Whether they are fighting to pass the Human Life Protection Act or continuing to spread the pro-life message at our State fair, SCCL's unwavering commitment to the sanctity of life remains stronger than ever.

Congratulations to SCCL on their 50th jubilee anniversary and for championing the unborn for half a century.