Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Carl Pierson, a husband, father, teacher, coach, City Council member, and resident of Minnesota's Sixth Congressional District. Carl has served the City of Waconia for more than twenty years, enriching the lives of countless students and community members around him. He leads by example, and we are fortunate to have someone like Carl in the Sixth District who puts others first and demonstrates what ``Selfless Service'' truly means.

Carl is a staple in the Waconia Community, teaching high school government for the last two decades. In addition to educating future generations of Minnesotans in the classroom, he is cultivating the next generation of student-athletes as coach of the Waconia High School basketball, baseball, and football teams. If that weren't enough, Carl is the Executive Director of the Minnesota Girls Basketball Coaches Association and author of the book ``The Politics of Coaching,'' a must-read for coaches looking to navigate the politics of youth sports. As someone who coached youth hockey for many years, I've learned some valuable lessons in negotiation and diplomacy while working with the parents of my players, but Carl literally wrote the book on it.

In November 2020, Carl was elected to the Waconia City Council, representing Ward 2. This was not his first stint in public service, as Carl had previously served on the Waconia Park Board and the Carver County Sheriffs Citizen Advisory Council. Where Carl finds time to accomplish all these things and continue to be a loving husband to his wife and father to his two sons remains a mystery, however, Carl remains a leader and mentor for the residents and students in Waconia.

Earlier this year, Carl was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer. While this news is never easy to receive, I have no doubt that he will approach this new challenge with the same optimism and determination be has shown time and time again on the basketball court and win this fight.

I cannot thank Carl enough for his leadership and dedication to the residents of Waconia. Our community, our district, and our state are in a better place because of his work and perseverance. I thank Carl, and may God Bless him and his wonderful family.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mike Schultz of St. Cloud, Minnesota, for his participation in the 2022 Winter Paralympics. Mike competed for Team USA in the Men's Snowboard Cross and Banked Slalom races.

Mike has not only inspired other athletes with his diligent training and perseverance, but he started his own company to design high- performance lower limb prosthetics for other amputees to participate in competitive sports and activities.

His dedication has paid off. Congratulations to Mike for bringing home a silver medal for Men's Snowboard Cross and coming in fifth for Men's Banked Slalom. I am proud to count such an amazing athlete and innovator among my constituents in the Sixth District.

Madam Speaker, I was regrettably unable to vote on March 8, 2022. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yes'' on H.R. 5681 and ``yes'' on H. Con. Res. 70.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Nick Perbix of Elk River, Minnesota, for his participation in the 2022 Winter Olympics. Nick represented the United States as a defenseman on our men's ice hockey team. He carries on a legacy of talented Minnesotans who share this sport with the world.

I am proud to count such an amazing athlete among my constituents in the Sixth District. I congratulate Nick and thank him for representing our great state and country at the 2022 Winter Olympics.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Ben Meyers, from my hometown of Delano, Minnesota. During the 2022 Winter Olympics, Ben played on the United States men's ice hockey team as a forward.

Ben comes to Team USA from the University of Minnesota, where he is a junior. He serves as the team captain for the Gophers.

I congratulate Ben on making it to the Olympics. We're lucky to have such a talented young athlete in our backyard.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Maddie Rooney of Andover, Minnesota, for her participation in the 2022 Winter Olympics. Maddie joined Team USA and played as goalkeeper on the women's ice hockey team.

Maddie comes to the Olympic team from the University of Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs women's ice hockey program. In 2018, she was awarded the Bob Allen Women's Player of the Year Award from USA Hockey.

Her training and hard work paid off: She helped bring home a silver medal for the United States. I congratulate Maddie on this great result at the 2022 Winter Games.

Madam Speaker, I too, rise today to honor our dear friend, Congressman Jim Hagedorn. It is amazing that in this day and age with all of our differences, proud Minnesotans, regardless of our political perspective, can stand together in memory of one of our great colleagues, and we thank everybody in this Chamber for doing the same.

It is fitting that we hold this tribute on the House floor. I never saw Jim more proud than when he was here in this Chamber representing the State of Minnesota and the communities that he loved so much.

Jim showed us the best of Minnesota. Born in Blue Earth, as Betty told you, Jim was born in 1962, and he grew up on his family's farm near Truman, Minnesota. The son of former Minnesota

Congressman Tom Hagedorn, Jim was raised with a lifelong commitment to serve.

After graduating from George Mason University, Jim followed in his father's footsteps and pursued a life of public service. Jim began his career as a staffer to Minnesota Representative Arlan Stangeland and then he went on to work for the U.S. Treasury and Bureau of Engraving and Printing before finally being elected to the House of Representatives in 2018.

During his time in the House, Jim served the First District of Minnesota every day with an unwavering passion and a positive attitude that brightened the Halls of Congress and brought the best of Blue Earth to Washington.

We will all miss Jim dearly, and we pray for his family during this difficult time.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to once again address the crisis hurting every household in America: runaway inflation.

The January 12 Consumer Price Index report showed inflation has increased 7 percent over the last 12 months, the fastest increase since 1982.

Rural communities are being hit harder than anyone else. In my district, inflation has increased 8 percent over the past year. Americans are paying more for essentials everywhere, from the grocery store to the gas station, and working families are being hit the hardest.

Like many of my colleagues, I believe the primary driver of this inflation is unchecked government spending. Unfortunately, even though inflation has reached historic highs, this issue continues to be ignored by many of my Democrat colleagues.

Whether you agree with me or not, we owe it to the American people to identify the root cause and begin to address the problem. I have introduced legislation to do just that, and I hope all of my colleagues will join me in supporting efforts that put an end to this ongoing problem that harms every single American, especially those living paycheck to paycheck and trying to raise a family.

Recognizing Deputy Chief Dan Szykulski

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Deputy Chief

Dan Szykulski. In January, Dan retired as deputy chief of the Blaine Police Department.

Dan served with the Blaine Police Department for 38 years. During that time, he saw many changes in the city and his department.

Deputy Chief Szykulski had the respect and admiration of his fellow officers. Often described as a hard worker and team player, Dan was always there to lend a hand on emergency calls or bring in home-cooked meals for officers working on holidays.

Dan earned numerous awards during his career, including the Chief's Compassion Award and a Certificate of Recognition from the city of Blaine. I should note, however, that possibly my favorite thing about Dan was his reputation as the best hockey player in the station. He will certainly be missed at the annual Guns and Hoses hockey game. Maybe he will be able to return with an alumni exception.

Mr. Speaker, I thank Dan thank for his service, and I congratulate him on his retirement.

Recognizing Dr. Richard Lee

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the career of Dr. Richard Lee. Dr. Lee is retiring as executive director of the Central Minnesota Mental Health Center.

Dr. Lee has led the center for the past 6 years. In that time, Dr. Lee has been a champion for expanding mental health resources in central Minnesota. I have had the privilege to work with Dr. Lee and have been fortunate to visit the Central Minnesota Mental Health Center to see the great work they do.

Under Dr. Lee's leadership, the Central Minnesota Mental Health Center cultivated and expanded strong community partnerships with local counties, law enforcement, and healthcare agencies. Dr. Lee also helped develop and expand the Co-Responder Program that partners mental health professionals with law enforcement officers to respond to behavioral health calls.

Mr. Speaker, I thank Dr. Lee for the incredible impact he has had on expanding access and availability of mental health care in central Minnesota and wish him an enjoyable and well-deserved retirement.

Honoring the Life of Gregory ``Butch'' Bakeberg

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Gregory ``Butch'' Bakeberg, a constituent, a friend, and a leader in Minnesota's agriculture community.

Butch passed away last month at the age of 74, but his legacy and work for the Sixth District and the city of Waverly, Minnesota, will continue to have an impact.

Butch was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, but moved to Waverly where his family owned and operated Goldview Farm. Butch and his wife, Faye, were active in their community for decades, getting involved with the Wright County American Dairy Association and helping start the Wright County Breakfast on the Farm Committee. Butch and Faye were known to host countless agricultural-related events on their farm with the goal of educating fellow Minnesotans on dairy farming. They also host the occasional Sunday mass on the family farm as well.

Last year, I had an opportunity to visit Butch on his family's farm, and I am glad I did. Butch and Faye truly represent the best of Minnesota, and while we mourn the loss of a leader in our community, Butch's contribution to our community will live on for years to come.

Remembering Loral I. Delaney

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Loral I. Delaney. Loral I passed away on September 19, 2021, after battling breast cancer.

Loral I was a shooting-sports legend. In 1957, at the age of 19, Loral I competed in her first event, the Minnesota State Trap Shoot, which she won with a near-perfect score. Loral I would go on to win seven Grand American World Trapshooting Championships, five of them consecutively. Loral I remains the only woman to win more than two championships in a row and more than four in total.

Loral I not only loved to compete, but she had an incredible passion for animals, as well. She and her husband, Chuck, ran Armstrong Ranch Kennels in Ramsey, Minnesota, providing grooming and training for some of Minnesota's premier hunting dogs. Loral I also founded an event known as Game Fair, an annual event known and beloved by sportsmen and -women and hunting enthusiasts throughout Minnesota and beyond.

Loral I leaves a tremendous legacy behind her; she will be missed dearly. To Chuck and her family, we offer our sincere condolences.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of S. 452, the Willie O'Ree Congressional Gold Medal Act, and to recognize the incredible impact that Willie O'Ree has had on the great sport of hockey.

Willie etched his name into the history books in 1958. When he became one of the select few--and it is a very few--who got called up from the minors to play in the National Hockey League for the Boston Bruins, Willie broke down racial barriers for sure. He would go on

to play more than 24 seasons as a professional hockey player, despite facing countless challenges on and off the ice.

Willie O'Ree remains a trailblazer for many, but his contributions certainly did not end after his retirement from his playing career in 1979. As we have heard, in 1996, he became the NHL's diversity ambassador. In this capacity, he established the Hockey is for Everyone initiative to create a culture of inclusivity and provide an opportunity for disadvantaged children across this country and North America to play the game. His work continues even to this day to reinvigorate and grow the great sport of hockey while setting an example for underrepresented communities here at home and on an international level.

As the NHL and teams across the country finally recognized Willie O'Ree's incredible contributions to hockey, today is Congress' opportunity to honor a true legend of the game that is loved and enjoyed by millions.

Remember, we know that hockey was given to us directly from God because it is played on ice, which can only exist in Heaven.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to co-lead this long overdue effort, and I urge all my colleagues in the House of Representatives to honor this icon of our God-given sport by voting ``yes'' on S. 452.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Dan Glessing, the newest president of the Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation. Dan has served as vice president and as a member of the Minnesota Farm Bureau board for more than 8 years. He recently was elected to serve as the 14th president of the bureau on November 19 following the announcement of Kevin Paap's retirement in March after serving 16 years in his position as president.

Our office and I personally have been fortunate to know and work with Dan for many years already. Dan and his family are the definition of the great American farming tradition. He has always been a steadfast advocate for our State's farmers and producers. I am proud that Dan, his wife, Seena, and the entire Glessing family call Minnesota's Sixth District home.

There are many challenges ahead for Dan, but I know he will continue to be a leader for all of Minnesota's farmers, ranchers, producers, and agribusinesses. I congratulate Dan on his new leadership role, and I look forward to working with him and everyone at the Minnesota Farm Bureau on behalf of Minnesota's agriculture community.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of St. Cloud area school district superintendent Willie Jett. Willie will be retiring from his role as superintendent at the end of this school year, ending 8 years in service to the district.

During his tenure, Willie has been an advocate for students, a leader for faculty, and an ally to parents. When the district experienced challenges, Willie focused on a student-centric approach to education. Willie's leadership prioritized the performance of each student and provided the support they needed to thrive.

Willie led the St. Cloud school district through times of crisis and change. He helped schools rebuild after fires and successfully navigated the COVID-19 crisis. Willie oversaw the construction of the new St. Cloud Tech High School and an early childhood education center. Willie even participated in one of our Congressional telephone townhalls to answer questions about remote learning for families across the St. Cloud community.

Willie remains a friend and leader in our community. Willie's presence in the St. Cloud school district will be missed.

Madam Speaker, I thank Willie for all of his work, and I wish him good luck in the next chapter of his life.

Madam Speaker, I was regrettably unable to vote on November 2, 2021. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yes'' on all the day's legislation: rollcall No. 342 (H.R. 1975), rollcall No. 343 (H.R. 5221), rollcall No. 344 (H.R. 3616), rollcall No. 345 (S. 108), rollcall No. 346 (H.R. 4881), rollcall No. 347 (H.R. 2088), rollcall No. 348 (H.R. 3469), rollcall No. 349 (H.R. 4256), rollcall No. 350 (H.R. 3462), rollcall No. 351 (H.R. 4481), rollcall No. 352 (H.R. 4531), and rollcall No. 353 (H.R. 4515).

Members Recorded Pursuant to House Resolution 8, 117th Congress

Axne (Spanberger)

Barragan (Gallego)

Bowman (Tlaib)

Brown (Mfume)

Cardenas (Gomez)

Cohen (Beyer)

Crist (Castor (FL))

Davids (KS) (Cleaver)

DeFazio (Blumenauer)

Deutch (Rice (NY))

Doggett (Raskin)

Fletcher (Escobar)

Gaetz (Greene (GA))

Gonzalez, Vicente (Gomez)

Gottheimer (Panetta)

Hagedorn (Carl)

Kirkpatrick (Stanton)

Larsen (WA) (Connolly)

Lawson (FL) (Evans)

Meng (Jeffries)

Morelle (Rice (NY))

Ocasio-Cortez (Garcia (IL))

Palazzo (Fleischmann)

Payne (Pallone)

Pingree (Kuster)

Rush (Underwood)

Schiff (Thompson (CA))

Sires (Pallone)

Smucker (Joyce (PA))

Speier (Scanlon)

Steube (Franklin, C. Scott)

Strickland (Jeffries)

Swalwell (Gomez)

Thompson (MS) (Butterfield)

Thompson (PA)

(Reschenthaler)

Titus (Connolly)

Trone (Beyer)

Wilson (FL) (Hayes)

Mr. Speaker, I was regrettably unable to vote on November 1, 2021. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yes'' on H.R. 1619 and ``yes'' on H.R. 2758.

Members Recorded Pursuant to House Resolution 8, 117th Congress

Axne (Spanberger)

Barragan (Gallego)

Beatty (Jeffries)

Bilirakis (Fleischmann)

Bowman (Tlaib)

Boyle, Brendan F. (Jeffries)

Brown (Mfume)

Cardenas (Gomez)

Carter (TX) (Calvert)

Cohen (Beyer)

Crist (Castor (FL))

Davis, Danny K. (Underwood)

DeFazio (Davids (KS))

DesJarlais (Fleischmann)

Deutch (Rice (NY))

Doggett (Raskin)

Fletcher (Escobar)

Gaetz (Greene (GA))

Gonzalez, Vicente (Gomez)

Granger (Cole)

Hagedorn (Carl)

Houlahan (Wild)

Johnson (TX) (Jeffries)

Kelly (IL) (Blunt Rochester)

Kind (Connolly)

Kirkpatrick (Stanton)

Langevin (Lynch)

Larsen (WA) (Connolly)

Lawson (FL) (Evans)

Mann (LaTurner)

McEachin (Wexton)

Meeks (Perlmutter)

Meng (Jeffries)

Morelle (Rice (NY))

Moulton (Kahele)

Mullin (Cole)

Norcross (Pallone)

Nunes (Garcia (CA))

Ocasio-Cortez (Garca (IL))

Palazzo (Fleischmann)

Payne (Pallone)

Pingree (Kuster)

Rush (Underwood)

Salazar (Gimenez)

Schiff (Thompson (CA))

Sewell (Cicilline)

Sires (Pallone)

Speier (Scanlon)

Steube (Franklin, C. Scott)

Strickland (Jeffries)

Thompson (MS) (Butterfield)

Titus (Connolly)

Torres (NY) (Auchincloss)

Trone (Beyer)

Wagner (Walorski)

Wasserman Schultz (Soto)

Welch (McGovern)

Williams (GA) (McBath)

Wilson (FL) (Hayes)

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to address a crisis hurting every household in America: skyrocketing prices.

If you listen to the Biden administration, they will tell you that this is a ``high-class problem.'' This is a lie propagated by those who have never had to do the mental math at the grocery store to make sure the amount in their cart does not exceed the cash in their wallet.

For Democrat leaders, paying 42 percent more at the pump isn't a problem. I suppose the price of gas isn't a concern if you are riding government-funded high-speed rail in Silicon Valley.

More than 90 percent of my constituents reported that rising prices are impacting their household budgets. Inflation is destroying Americans' ability to save for retirement, buy a home, or build wealth. This isn't a tax on the rich. It is an enormous burden for working Americans.

It is not too late to change course. I have introduced legislation to increase the transparency in government spending so that lawmakers will be forced to answer for reckless spending sprees. Moreover, my Retirement Inflation Protection Act will protect Americans from inflation-driven tax burdens right when they enter retirement.

This crisis is already hitting home for millions of Americans. We must act before it financially cripples generations of Americans to come.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague from Minnesota for the time.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to the previous question so that we can immediately consider H.R. 5586.

This bill would kill a Biden administration proposal that would allow IRS agents to comb through the bank accounts of any American who spends more than $10,000 a year.

To put that in perspective, $10,000 a year equates to just $28 a day, $850 a month, or half of the average Minnesota mortgage payment. In other words, the Biden administration wants the IRS to be able to spy on tens of millions of Americans.

Don't be mistaken. This proposal does not just target the 1 percent, as the President sometimes likes to claim. Instead, it is pointed directly at working American families.

Today, I led a letter, with more than 200 of my colleagues, urging Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen to scrap this proposal to spy on American citizens.

This is not China. We must protect Americans' right to privacy and stop this proposed intrusive, unnecessary Biden financial reporting requirement.