Floor Statements

Mr Speaker, I rise today to commend and celebrate the exceptional interns

who have devoted their summer to serving the people of California's 20th Congressional District. From my offices in Washington, D.C., and Bakersfield, California, these students have exhibited maturity well beyond their years, offering their time, talents, and energy to support my work in meaningful ways. Then contributions have been a powerful reminder of the potential and promise embodied by the next generation. At a time when many young Americans are contemplating their role in civic life, these interns chose to engage directly with purpose and passion.

As their summer internships come to a close, I want to express my deepest gratitude to Daniel Bazmi, Jake Dowell, Michael Edmonston, and Rafael Barrientos Posada for their contributions to my Washington, D.C., office, and to Penelope Campbell for her service in my Bakersfield, California office. Their hard work has been instrumental to my team's efforts, and I am confident that the experiences and lessons they've gained will guide them toward continued success in their future endeavors in public service. I look forward to seeing where their paths lead, and I hope those paths include a continued dedication to serving others.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life and legacy of Joseph H. ``Joe'' Campbell, a respected farmer and pioneer in California's table grape industry, who passed away on July 10, 2025, at the age of 81.

Joe Campbell was part of a generation that helped shape the modern agricultural landscape of the Central Valley. After graduating from Delano High School in 1960 and serving in the U.S. Army, Joe began farming in 1969. He first grew cotton and wheat, then later moved into almonds and, ultimately, table grapes. In 1986, he leased his first vineyard, setting the course for what would become a transformative career in California agriculture.

Through his leadership roles at Delano Farms and Four Star Fruit, Joe helped grow the combined operation into one of the largest table grape producers in the state. His business decisions often required risk, but they were grounded in instinct, common sense, and a deep familiarity with the communities in which he operated. He played a defining role in shaping California's table grape industry--a legacy that endures.

While Joe's work ethic and vision helped drive the success of a major agricultural enterprise, he remained grounded in his roots and true to the values that shaped him. He was known for his humility, consistency, and dedication to his family above all else. He shared a long and loving marriage with his wife, Jana, and raised three sons who continue his legacy in agriculture.

Joe Campbell's story is a reminder of the strength and promise of California's farming families. His contributions helped define an industry, and his example will continue to influence the generations that follow.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Joseph H. Campbell. He was a farmer, a businessman, and a man whose life's work and pursuit of the American dream left a lasting mark on the Central Valley and California agriculture.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Joel Nelsen, who passed away on July 1, 2025, at the age of 78. For nearly four decades, he served as President of California Citrus Mutual, where he became a leading voice for citrus growers in California and throughout the Nation.

From 1982 to 2019, Mr. Nelsen led California Citrus Mutual through significant challenges to and changes in the agricultural landscape. He worked to ensure citrus growers were represented in key policy decisions related to water, trade, pest management, regulation, and beyond. His efforts helped strengthen the industry and protect the long-term viability of farming in the Central Valley.

Throughout his career, Joel built relationships across the agricultural community, in Sacramento, and in Washington, D.C. He believed in the future of Central Valley agriculture and worked to support family farms and the people who rely on them. He also took time to mentor others in the industry and help prepare the next generation of advocates and leaders.

Joel Nelsen will be remembered for his deep knowledge of the Citrus industry, his decades of service, and his unwavering commitment to the growers he represented. I have no doubt that his legacy will last generations.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring Joel Nelsen for his lifelong dedication to California agriculture and the citrus industry.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of John C. Harris, a visionary agriculturalist, respected horseman, successful businessman, and generous philanthropist, who passed away on July 2, 2025, at the age of 81.

A lifelong resident of Fresno County, Mr. Harris was born into a farming family and embodied the spirit of the San Joaquin Valley. After graduating from the University of California, Davis, in 1965 and serving his country as a U.S. Army officer, Mr. Harris returned to the Central Valley to carry on and expand his family's agricultural legacy. As the driving force behind Harris Farms, he transformed the business into one of California's most prominent agricultural operations. Under his leadership, Harris Ranch Beef Company became a nationally respected name in food production, known for quality and innovation.

Mr. Harris was equally influential in the world of thoroughbred horse racing. Over five decades, he bred and raced champions, including California Chrome, the winner of the 2014 Kentucky Derby and the 2014 Preakness Stakes. As chairman of the California Horse Racing Board and a board member of the Jockey Club and the Breeders' Cup, he was a pillar of integrity and advocacy in the sport. His green-and-white silks became a fixture in California's winner's circles, and his leadership helped shape the industry for future generations.

Beyond his impact as a businessman and sportsman, John Harris was a servant of his community. He supported educational institutions throughout the Central Valley such as Fresno State, UC Davis, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and Saint Agnes Medical Center. His philanthropic work spanned education, healthcare, and vocational training, including supporting a program at Pleasant Valley State Prison that pairs inmates with horses.

Over the years, Mr. Harris was honored with numerous accolades, including the Livestock Man of the Year Award, the Leon S. Peters Award, and induction into the Fresno Athletic Hall of Fame. However, he was known not only for his accomplishments, but for his humility and his steadfast dedication to his home. He believed deeply in investing in people, mentoring young agricultural leaders, and uplifting those around him through quiet acts of kindness. He is survived by his beloved wife, Cookie.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in remembering John C. Harris--a pioneer whose legacy will continue to shape California agriculture, equine sport, and civic life for generations to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the outstanding interns who have devoted their summer to serving the people of California's 20th District. From my offices in Washington, D.C., and Bakersfield, these students have demonstrated maturity beyond their years, contributing their time, intellect, and drive to support our work in meaningful ways. They brought fresh insight, a willingness to learn, and an admirable commitment to public service. Their presence has been a welcome reminder of the promise and potential of the next generation. At a time when many young Americans are navigating questions about their role in civic life, these interns chose to engage directly with purpose and passion.

As their summer internships come to a close, I want to express my deepest gratitude to Isaac Chipres, Luke Fernandes, and Margaret Woolf for their contributions to my Washington, D.C., office and to Gianna Gatson for her service in my Bakersfield, California office. Their hard work has been instrumental to my team's efforts, and I trust that the skills and educational experiences they have gained will guide them toward continued success in their future endeavors in public service. I look forward to seeing where their paths lead, and I hope those paths include a continued dedication to serving others.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the extraordinary life and legacy of Robert ``Bob'' Lechtreck, Sr., a decorated Navy veteran of World War II and the fifth Fire Chief of Kern County. Bob passed away recently, just months after celebrating his 100th birthday. His remarkable life reflects a century of service and deep devotion to both his country and his community.

Born on April 2, 1925, Bob Lechtreck joined the U.S. Navy at the age of 17. He served in the Pacific Theater during World War II and saw combat in some of the most pivotal battles of the war, including the Battle of Okinawa. Just three days before his death, we marked the 80th anniversary of that battle, which serves as a reminder of the high cost of freedom and the courage of those like Bob who helped secure it. His ship later guarded Tokyo Bay during the signing of Japan's formal surrender, helping to usher in the end of the war.

In 1948, Bob returned home and joined the Kern County Fire Department. Over the course of a 30-year career, he rose through the ranks to become the department's fifth fire chief. Having worked alongside Kern County's very first fire chief, Harold Boway, he was a bridge between generations and remains the only known person to have driven the department's first fire engine, a 1929 Moreland, on active calls.

In his later years, Bob remained an active and honored member of the community. He was part of the very first Kern County Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., where he visited the World War II Memorial and the U.S. Capitol in recognition of his service. On his 100th birthday, he was celebrated by friends, neighbors, veterans, and members of the Kern County Fire Department, who gave their former chief a ceremonial ride in a working fire engine--a fitting tribute for a life of courage and leadership.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Bob Lechtreck, Sr., who was a patriot and a pillar of Kern County. His memory will endure in the hearts of those he inspired and the institutions he helped build.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in celebration of National Dairy Month and to honor the hardworking dairy farmers of California, our Nation's leading dairy producer.

In my district, which encompasses Tulare, Fresno, Kings, and Kern Counties, we are proud to be the epicenter of dairy production. Tulare County alone holds the title of the largest dairy-producing county in America. It is home to 500,000 dairy cows, 222 dairies, and some of the largest dairy-processing plants.

Most of these dairies are family-owned enterprises. I myself personally know the effort it takes to operate these family businesses. I am proud of the legacy of my own family members who are in the dairy industry and who brought their farms to the Central Valley.

Even our region's large-scale operations remain rooted in family traditions, reflecting the dedication and perseverance of our agricultural communities.

Together, these dairies contribute one-fifth of our Nation's milk supply, producing everything from butter to ice cream, nourishing families and bringing joy to countless households across America.

To our dairy farmers, I thank them for their tireless efforts to feed our Nation. Their work sustains us, and it is an honor to stand in their corner.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of William ``Bill'' Deaver, a dedicated public servant, journalist, veteran, and lifelong champion of East Kern County. Bill passed away on May 30, 2025, at the age of 89, still engaged in the political and civic life of the region he called home for more than seven decades.

Bill moved to Mojave, California in 1948. While his career and service took him to other places such as Northern California, Washington, D.C., and beyond, his heart never left the desert. He returned to Mojave time and again, determined to help the community grow and thrive. With a deep love for East Kern County, he spent decades working to improve local institutions for all residents to enjoy.

Bill was a veteran of both the U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force Reserve. He brought that same spirit of service to civilian life, including a distinguished tenure in the Reagan administration. He later served in the administration of President George H.W. Bush, worked for two Members of Congress and a California State Assemblyman, and held a seat on the California Fair Political Practices Commission. In Mojave, he and his wife Billye modernized the Mojave Desert News, cementing its role as a trusted local institution. He also served as Constable of Mojave, President of the Mojave Chamber of Commerce, and was a longtime member of the Kern Press Club.

Throughout his life, Bill helped shape the institutions that define Mojave. He was a founding member of the East Kern Economic Alliance, the East Kern Educational Resource Network, and the Mojave Transportation Museum. He played a vital role in protecting Edwards Air Force Base from closure during multiple rounds of base realignment, and as one of the original organizers of the East Kern Medical Center, he helped ensure access to healthcare for area residents. Most recently, Bill served from 2014 to 2022 on the Board of Directors of the Mojave Air and Space Port, where he worked to preserve Mojave's role as a hub of aerospace innovation and exploration.

Bill later moved to Tehachapi to be closer to his sister, Susan Wiggins, and her family. However, his love for the desert and his commitment to the people of East Kern County never wavered.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring Bill Deaver, whose life was marked by tireless service and an unwavering devotion to community. East Kern and our Nation as a whole are stronger because of his contributions, and I have no doubt that his memory will continue to inspire future generations.

Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 1223) to require a plan to improve the cybersecurity and telecommunications of the U.S. Academic Research Fleet, and for other purposes.

Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on H.R. 1223, the bill now under consideration.

Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of my bill, H.R. 1223, the Accelerating Networking, Cyberinfrastructure, and Hardware for Oceanic Research Act, also known as the ANCHOR Act.

I urge my colleagues to support this bill because it addresses a critical and urgent need: safeguarding the integrity of our Nation's academic research fleet and ensuring that the valuable data collected at sea remains secure from emerging threats. This is about protecting the future of American science, innovation, and national security.

Our research fleet is a cornerstone of America's scientific advancement. Since the 1960s, these vessels have supported federally sponsored missions that impact everything from human health and energy development to ocean hazards and national security. They are laboratories at sea, collecting data that fuels critical decisionmaking here on land.

However, these ships face modern challenges. Right now, they lack the secure cyberinfrastructure needed to protect sensitive data and communicate reliably across global networks. That leaves them vulnerable to cyber threats from foreign adversaries, which have been on the rise and will continue to evolve with emerging technology.

Data is the heartbeat of scientific progress. It informs policy. It drives discovery. It strengthens our ability to respond to crises. We need it to compete and win on the world stage. We must ensure that this data is protected, that our researchers have the tools they need, and that the outcomes of their work remain in secure hands.

The ANCHOR Act directs the National Science Foundation to create a comprehensive plan to upgrade the cybersecurity and communication systems on these vessels to add another layer of protection where it is desperately needed.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my cosponsor, Representative Haley Stevens, for supporting our bipartisan effort to protect our Nation's scientific edge and security.

Today, let's take a critical step to safeguard our research fleet, protect our data, and secure the future of American innovation by voting in support of the ANCHOR Act.

Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Babin), the chair of the Science, Space, and Technology Committee.

Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Babin) control the remainder of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Hmong American community and commemorate May 14, 2025, as Hmong American Day, marking 50 years since the first Hmong families began their journey to the United States following the fall of Long Cheng in 1975. On this day, we recognize the legacy of service, sacrifice, and strength that defines the Hmong American experience.

From 1961 to 1975, more than 40,000 Hmong men and boys--many under the age of 18--were recruited by the Central Intelligence Agency to fight in the Secret War in Laos, a critical but often overlooked chapter of the Vietnam War. Fighting alongside American forces, Hmong soldiers risked everything to defend freedom and combat the spread of communism in Southeast Asia. Following the end of the war, they and their families faced persecution and displacement, forcing thousands to flee Laos.

On May 14, 1975, the final airlift evacuated Hmong soldiers and their families from Laos to refugee camps in Thailand. From there, many resettled in the United States, including in California's Central Valley, where they rebuilt their lives with determination and hope. Today, communities like Clovis, Fresno, and Sacramento are home to some of the largest and most vibrant Hmong populations in the country. These families have contributed to the fabric of American society in countless ways by serving as educators, healthcare professionals, entrepreneurs, public servants, and community leaders.

We especially honor the Hmong veterans and their families, whose courage and loyalty to the United States must never be forgotten. Their stories remind us of the price of freedom and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

I commend the County of Fresno, the City of Clovis, and other local governments for formally recognizing Hmong American Day and paying tribute to the history, culture, and contributions of the Hmong people. I join them in encouraging all Americans to learn more about this rich legacy and to celebrate the extraordinary impact of Hmong Americans on our communities and our country.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding group of interns who have supported the work of the 20th District of California this spring. These bright and driven young people--serving in my Washington, D.C. office and my Bakersfield, California office-- have brought a spirit of dedication and enthusiasm that enriched our team. At a time when many young Americans are questioning the role of public service, their eagerness to engage with the federal government on behalf of their communities offers real encouragement for the future of our Nation.

With their time in Congress reaching its close, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Jonathan Clark, Justin Gibbins, and Jack Putrino for their work in my Washington, D.C. office, and Ava Dykes for her service in my Bakersfield, California office. Their hard work and dedication have been invaluable, and I hope that the experiences gained here will serve them well in their future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a cherished institution in my district, Smith's Bakeries, located in Bakersfield, California.

Since 1945, Smith's has been more than just a bakery. It has been a pillar of joy in our community. Founded by Howard Smith and Roy Balmain, the goal was simple: to provide the best baked goods possible.

As we celebrate Small Business Week, Smith's Bakeries exemplifies how local businesses can thrive while staying deeply connected to their customers. A key part of their success is Jim Balmain, son of cofounder Roy, who, along with his wife, Jacque, took over in 1985, ensuring the bakery's continued legacy.

Celebrating 80 years of business, Smith's has been a symbol of excellence and community spirit, known for their iconic treats, like the famous happy face cookie.

As Jim Balmain once said: ``If you care and you try to do things right, people will appreciate it,'' and that is exactly what Smith's has done for decades.

Here is to many more years of sweet memories and continued success for one of the most popular small businesses in California's 20th District.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and heroic service of Mr. Victor Killingsworth of Taft, California. Victor, a veteran of World War II, served our country in the U.S. Navy for over three years and made incredible contributions to the Taft community. Victor passed away on April 5, 2025, at the age of 104.

Victor was born on November 11, 1921, in Coalinga, California, to Francis and Evelena Killingsworth. Shortly thereafter, Francis and Evelena would move to Taft, California, which would become Victor's home for over 90 years. After graduating from Taft High School and later Taft College, Victor enrolled in the University of California, Berkley. While studying there, the attack on Pearl Harbor occurred, causing the United States to formally enter World War II. Eager to defend his country, Victor enlisted in the U.S. Navy at a time when Japanese and German naval attacks had stretched American naval forces precariously thin. Victor sought to be a more valuable asset to the Navy and enrolled in Midshipman School at Columbia University on December 7, 1942. Industrious American shipbuilders soon remedied the ship shortage with remarkable speed, enabling Victor to later serve in the campaigns against Imperial Japan in the Pacific Ocean. During his naval training, while at Joint Expeditionary Base--Little Creek, Victor met his future wife Margaret (Peggy) Sexton who would keep his morale high with frequent devoted letters throughout the war.

Upon completion of Midshipman School, Victor received orders to be assigned to the USS Sumter, a troop transport ship, carrying elements of the 4th Marine Division. Assigned to a U.S. Navy Amphibious Squad, Victor worked to transport ``Carlson's Raiders'' to Kwajalein Atoll in the Marshall Islands in February 1944. He would transport Marines onto the six-square mile atoll throughout a fierce four-day battle as part of the Gilbert and Marshall Islands Campaign. In the pouring rain and amidst choppy surf, Victor towed Marine landing forces behind him to the beach like ``ducklings'' as he recalled. Victor later noted that his audaciousness in landing so close to enemy positions at night seemed to have tricked the Japanese defenders into thinking his boat was one of theirs.

Victor next took part in the operation to capture the island of Saipan. While on the island, Victor drove too far into enemy lines where he witnessed tremendous human suffering on the island. In one location in Saipan, he would successfully urge numerous Japanese soldiers to lay down their arms by promising the men they would be treated with civility. Adopting similar de-escalation strategies with civilians he encountered, Victor's compassion saved many from perishing.

Upon completion of U.S. operations in Saipan in late July 1944, Victor transported--in just one day--some 8,000 Marines in 75 boatloads across three miles of open ocean to secure the Japanese-held island of Tinian in the Northern Mariana Islands. This vital island would later provide the two airfields necessary for American bombers to quickly reach Japan and bring about the culmination of World War II.

Later in 1944, Victor served as a Communications Officer aboard the USS Artemis. While onboard at the onset of the heroic Battle of Iwo Jima in February 1945, the USS Artemis sustained withering fire from Japanese coastal artillery and was forced to withdraw to Guam. This was Victor's final combat of World War II, as the war would end seven months later on September 2, 1945. Promoted to the rank of Lieutenant, Victor was honorably discharged, married Peggy, and returned to his hometown of Taft.

The couple ran Taft Sporting Goods for 37 years while raising their three daughters--Barbara, Janet, and Patty. Victor was passionate about supporting his community, helping launch Westside Little League and Westside Jr. Football. Later in life, Victor wrote a book about his service titled ``The Gator Navy,'' where he detailed stories of his training and service. Cementing his local legacy, Victor conceived of the idea to construct the iconic Oil Worker Monument in Taft, the largest bronze statue west of the Mississippi River, to mark the centennial anniversary of the city. Whether it was his service to our country or our community, Victor has certainly left a lasting impact on countless individuals. The Taft community remains fortunate and grateful to have had such a hero.

Victor is survived by his daughters: Patty Killingsworth Gray, Barbara Killingsworth, and Janet Killingsworth Sandoval; his sons-in- law: Everett Gray and Miguel Sandoval; five grandchildren: Christian Gray, Ashley Gray, John Gray, Sarah Sandoval, and Andrew Sandoval; and eight great-grandchildren: Samantha Gray, Andrew Gray, Piper Gray, Foster Gray, Lex Gray, Charlotte Sandoval, Victoria Sandoval, and Oliver Sandoval.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me in remembering Victor Killingsworth, and his legacy of invaluable service to both our country and his community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and enduring legacy of Patricia Marie Farris, a caring mother, grandmother, great- grandmother, and entrepreneur who dedicated her career to our communities. Patricia passed away March 5, 2025, at the age of 94.

Born on April 29, 1930, in Blue Eye, Arkansas, Patricia moved west in 1941 during the Dust Bowl and was raised in the Indian Wells Valley of California. Through the Great Depression and World War II, Patricia grew up alongside her six siblings and parents. Together, they became one of the first families to put roots down in the area prior to the establishment of the Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake, home of the U.S. Navy's premier weapons development program. Following her graduation from Burroughs High School, Patricia attended college in Missouri, where she would meet her husband, Fred Stanley Farris. They soon fell in love and were married on December 1, 1948.

In 1969, Patricia and Fred Farris returned to the Indian Wells Valley with their children, after spending years living around the country. Patricia Farris, alongside her husband, managed a service station and cafe within the town of Inyokern, and worked many community events such as air shows and parades. For decades, she successfully contributed to community events and productions while simultaneously managing the family-run businesses. In 1980, Patricia was hired as publisher for the News Review, a local newspaper that informed thousands of community members on events effecting the Indian Wells Valley. It was in this role that Patricia became a strong advocate and voice for the Indian Wells Valley. Always seeking to keep her community and its leaders aware of important stories and events, Patricia served in this role for 44 years, until retiring in 2024.

Patricia is preceded in death by her husband Fred, with whom she shared a 52-year long marriage, her daughter, Patti Cosner, grandson, Kenny Farris, and great-grandson, Joshua Farris. She is survived by her children, Paul, Bill, and Laura, her 32 grandchildren, and other relatives.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in remembering the life of Patricia Farris, a valued member of our community who has left a lasting impact on countless individuals.