Katie Boyd Britt
Senator for Alabama · Republican · United States
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)] [Senate] [Pages S3933-S3934] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] TRIBUTE TO BARRY GOSNELL Mrs. BRITT. Mr.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)] [Senate] [Pages S3933-S3934] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] TRIBUTE TO BARRY GOSNELL Mrs. BRITT. Mr.”
“He played a pivotal role in advancing the use of game-based technologies for military training and recruiting, helping bring to life the groundbreaking America's Army program, which reached more than 10 million registered users and became one of the most widely recognized online military engagement tools in the world.”
“He played a pivotal role in advancing the use of game-based technologies for military training and recruiting, helping bring to life the groundbreaking America's Army program, which reached more than 10 million registered users and became one of the most widely recognized online military engagement tools in the world.”
“He has served abroad on numerous deployments with the 101st Airborne Division and the 25th Infantry Division, including historic Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Atlantic Resolve.”
“He has served abroad on numerous deployments with the 101st Airborne Division and the 25th Infantry Division, including historic Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Atlantic Resolve.”
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“(a) In General.--The Poarch Band of Creek Indians shall be considered ``now under Federal jurisdiction'' as of June 18, 1934, for purposes of the Act of June 18, 1934 (commonly known as the ``Indian Reorganization Act'') (48 Stat. 984, chapter 576; 25 U.S.C. 5101 et seq.). (b) Lands Taken Into Trust.--All lands taken into trust by the United States for the benefit of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians before the date of enactment of this Act are reaffirmed as trust land, and the actions of the Secretary of the Interior in taking those lands into trust under the Act of June 18, 1934 (commonly known as the ``Indian Reorganization Act'') (48 Stat. 984, chapter 576; 25 U.S.C. 5101 et seq.), are ratified and confirmed. ______”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)] [Senate] [Page S3957] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] SA 6686. Mrs. BRITT submitted an amendment intended to be proposed by her to the bill S. 4784, to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2027 for military activities of the Department of Defense, for military construction, and for defense activities of the Department of Energy, to prescribe military personnel strengths for such fiscal year, and for other purposes; which was ordered to lie on the table; as follows: At the end of subtitle G of title X, add the following: SEC. 1__. APPLICABILITY OF INDIAN REORGANIZATION ACT TO THE POARCH BAND OF CREEK INDIANS.”
“His service has strengthened our military, safeguarded our national security, and inspired countless soldiers who served alongside him. I wish to extend my deep gratitude to MG Thomas O'Connor for his lifetime of highly respected and faithful service to the U.S. Army. On behalf of a grateful nation, I thank him and his entire family for their sacrifices and wish them the best as they enter into this new season of life. His legacy of courage and commitment will endure for generations to come. ____________________”
“Army Aviation and Missile Command at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, AL, he played a pivotal role in strengthening our aviation and missile lethality around the globe. Additionally, as deputy commander of the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence, located at Fort Rucker, Major General O'Connor further strengthened the future of Army aviation. Most recently, in his role as the Director of Force Development for the Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff, Major General O'Connor has transformed the Army's modernization efforts. His leadership has directly ensured that American forces remained prepared, capable, and ready to respond to emerging global threats. Major General O'Connor's career exemplifies the highest standards and values of the U.S. Army: courage, vision, rigor, and a commitment to duty.”
“He has served abroad on numerous deployments with the 101st Airborne Division and the 25th Infantry Division, including historic Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Atlantic Resolve. He has earned an exemplary reputation as a steadfast and skilled combat leader, and his experiences have provided him with a profound understanding of the needs of the American warfighter. His extensive tactical leadership, unwavering devotion to his fellow soldiers, and unique gift for combat strategy represent the absolute best that the U.S. Army has to offer. While Major General O'Connor has played a pivotal role in strengthening military readiness, maximizing operational effectiveness, and prioritizing modernization abroad, his leadership at home is equally impressive. As commanding general of the U.S.”
“Military Academy in 1994, Major General O'Connor has led a multitude of operational assignments, from commanding cavalry troops during the height of the Global War on Terror to being a key driver of modernization in Army aviation. Alabama, our Nation, and our entire globe are safer and more secure thanks to the discipline, dedication, and heroism of Major General O'Connor. Over the course of his exceptional career, Major General O'Connor has held key leadership positions at every level of command, including company command at Fort Hood, command of the 2d Squadron, 6th Cavalry in Afghanistan, and leadership of the Combat Aviation Brigade, 1st Armored Division at Fort Bliss.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)] [Senate] [Page S3934] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] TRIBUTE TO MAJOR GENERAL THOMAS O'CONNOR Mrs. BRITT. Mr. President, I am honored to recognize the extraordinary service of MG Thomas O'Connor on his retirement from the U.S. Army after more than three decades of distinguished service to our Nation. Major General O'Connor has devoted his life to the defense of our country and has served with integrity, professionalism, and bravery. Since he commissioned from the U.S.”
“I am pleased to join my colleagues and the citizens of Alabama in expressing our sincere gratitude to Mr. Barry Gosnell for his extraordinary leadership, innovation, and faithful service to the U.S. Army, the defense community, and our Nation. His career stands as a testament to excellence in public service, principled leadership, and a steadfast commitment to those he serves. Mr. Gosnell is truly an outstanding American. ____________________”
“He also played a central role in expanding systems integration laboratory concepts to aviation platforms, enabling improved interoperability, enhanced testing, and significant cost savings across multiple Army airframes, including the AH-64 Apache, UH-60 Black Hawk, CH-47 Chinook, and other mission- critical platforms. Throughout his distinguished career, Mr. Gosnell consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to strengthening America's defense capabilities while fostering technical excellence within government and industry alike. His work in missile defense systems testing, aviation interoperability, cyber security, business leadership, and organizational development has had an enduring impact, directly supporting the readiness of our armed forces and the strength of Alabama's defense industrial base.”
“He played a pivotal role in advancing the use of game-based technologies for military training and recruiting, helping bring to life the groundbreaking America's Army program, which reached more than 10 million registered users and became one of the most widely recognized online military engagement tools in the world. His vision in leveraging emerging technology helped modernize how the Army communicates with and inspires future generations of servicemembers. His contributions to cyber security and systems engineering have likewise left a lasting mark. Mr. Gosnell was instrumental in developing Software Engineering Directorate capabilities to secure critical operational and training systems against evolving cyber threats, strengthening the Army's information assurance posture during a period of rapidly increasing digital risk.”
“Recognizing the importance of disciplined growth, he established rigorous business development processes that enhanced corporate performance and maintained a strong pipeline of future opportunities. He also helped position COLSA at the forefront of emerging technologies by leading the company's expansion into uncrewed systems, assembling highly skilled teams and helping bring innovative commercial drone technologies to market. Throughout his tenure, he remained steadfastly focused on long- term growth while ensuring that every decision reflected the four values established by COLSA's founder, Dr. Frank J. Collazo: teamwork, integrity, people, and customer satisfaction. Mr. Gosnell's career has been defined by innovation and forward- thinking leadership.”
“Under his guidance, COLSA achieved record growth, generating more than $400 million in new revenue during 2024 and 2025 alone. Despite significant industry-wide challenges resulting from Federal contract reviews and reductions in professional services spending, COLSA remained resilient and well- positioned for continued success. Mr. Gosnell fostered a culture of collaboration, accountability, and open communication, empowering leaders throughout the organization to contribute ideas and pursue innovative solutions. He strengthened strategic partnerships across the Huntsville and Eglin defense communities, resulting in increased prime contract awards and valuable teaming opportunities.”
“During his tenure, he oversaw the reassignment of engineers and technical personnel to establish two new divisions, strengthening organizational capability and increasing government engineering capacity by 15 percent. Over the course of his leadership, he simultaneously served in multiple demanding roles, including deputy director, fire support division chief, head of special projects, and oversight of critical business management functions, reflecting the confidence his superiors and colleagues consistently placed in his leadership. Following his distinguished government career, Mr. Gosnell continued his service to the defense community through his leadership at COLSA Corporation. As chief executive officer, he has overseen one of the most successful periods in the company's history.”
“Most recently serving as deputy director of the Software Engineering Directorate, he helped lead one of the Army's most vital technical organizations through a period of remarkable growth and transformation. As a principal architect of that success, Mr. Gosnell played a central role in the directorate's 40-percent increase in business revenue, reaching $1.1 billion in fiscal year 2012, while the organization expanded to more than 3,000 government and contract engineers supporting some of our Nation's most important defense programs. Before serving as deputy director, Mr. Gosnell led the Acquisition and Technology Engineering Division for 14 years and earned a reputation as a [[Page S3934]] trusted and highly capable executive leader.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)] [Senate] [Pages S3933-S3934] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] TRIBUTE TO BARRY GOSNELL Mrs. BRITT. Mr. President, I am honored to recognize Mr. Barry Gosnell, an exceptional public servant, business leader, and innovator whose more than four decades of leadership in government and industry have strengthened our national defense, advanced technological innovation, and fostered economic growth throughout the Tennessee Valley and beyond. A longtime leader at Redstone Arsenal, Mr. Gosnell devoted 28 years of civilian service to advancing engineering excellence, innovation, and mission effectiveness in support of the American warfighter.”
“Vera also worked to cultivate lifelong friendships and will be remembered for her warmth, kindness, and support. As we mourn this devastating loss to the Montgomery community, I pray that Vera's loved ones find peace in knowing how profoundly she impacted and bettered those around her. She was truly one of a kind, a leader with a servant's heart, steadfast faith in the Lord, and a remarkable ability to create meaningful change. Vera will be greatly missed. I am honored to share her story and help celebrate the memory of an extraordinary woman. ____________________”
“Every choice she made was rooted in her trust in God and in every action she took, she sought to spread His love. She touched countless lives through her deep faith in the Lord, and while her earthly journey has come to an end, I am encouraged that her Heavenly one has just begun. While Vera's legacy of public service is unmistakably woven throughout the Montgomery community, her spirit will truly live on through her pride and joy; her family and friends. Vera treasured her relationships with her mother; sisters Sharon V. Jordan, LaFreeda M. Jordan, and Richele Jordan-Davis; nephews Richard Davis, Nyles Davis, and Bray Davis; and brother-in-law Daryl Davis. She loved her family deeply and offered them wisdom, and encouragement whenever possible.”
“By the time she retired in 2021, Vera was beloved and well-respected by her colleagues and the people of Alabama. Beyond serving her State through her professional career, Vera was also an active volunteer throughout the Montgomery community. From her role as the president of the Montgomery (AL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, to supporting Habitat for Humanity, to serving on the Metro YMCA Board and so much more, Vera devoted her free time to uplifting, strengthening, and advocating for those around her. She was a shining example of a true servant leader. Vera's most important calling was to live a life of great faith. As a fifth-generation member of Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, Vera's devotion to the Lord was the foundation of her life.”
“She furthered her higher education at both the University of Pennsylvania and Auburn University of Montgomery where she earned master's degrees. For Vera, education was a lifelong pursuit and she always embraced the opportunity to learn. Her involvement at these universities was just the beginning of how she would positively impact those around her across the great State of Alabama. For 15 years, Vera served as a congressional field representative for U.S. Senator Richard Shelby. I had the privilege of working alongside Vera for several of those years, where we supported Senator Shelby in his efforts to strengthen both Alabama and our Nation. It was an honor to witness her incredible ability to connect with Alabamians, work through issues, and deliver for our State.”
“From an early age, Vera was an involved and gifted student, excelling both academically and in her extracurricular activities, later earning her induction into the Lee High School Hall of Fame. Her enthusiasm for pouring her time and talents into her campus community continued at Spelman College, where she earned a bachelor of arts degree in history and minor in secondary education. There, she held no shortage of leadership positions in student government, Kappa Delta Epsilon, the Morehouse Maroon Tigers Cheer Team, Mortar Board, and several other campus clubs. Vera also served as the president of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Mu Pi Chapter and remained an active life member in the Beta Nu Omega Chapter.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)] [Senate] [Page S3933] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] REMEMBERING VERA BENESBY JORDAN Mrs. BRITT. Mr. President, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of an exceptional Alabamian, Ms. Vera Benesby Jordan. Vera was an incredible woman--a true steward of the Lord, a generous public servant, a deeply loving daughter, sister, aunt, and friend, and someone I was proud to know. A lifelong resident of Montgomery, Vera was born on December 13, 1971, to parents Richard S. Jordan, Jr., and Viola Howze Jordan.”
“(a) In General.--The Poarch Band of Creek Indians shall be considered ``now under Federal jurisdiction'' as of June 18, 1934, for purposes of the Act of June 18, 1934 (commonly known as the ``Indian Reorganization Act'') (48 Stat. 984, chapter 576; 25 U.S.C. 5101 et seq.). (b) Lands Taken Into Trust.--All lands taken into trust by the United States for the benefit of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians before the date of enactment of this Act are reaffirmed as trust land, and the actions of the Secretary of the Interior in taking those lands into trust under the Act of June 18, 1934 (commonly known as the ``Indian Reorganization Act'') (48 Stat. 984, chapter 576; 25 U.S.C. 5101 et seq.), are ratified and confirmed. ______”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)] [Senate] [Page S3957] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] SA 6686. Mrs. BRITT submitted an amendment intended to be proposed by her to the bill S. 4784, to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2027 for military activities of the Department of Defense, for military construction, and for defense activities of the Department of Energy, to prescribe military personnel strengths for such fiscal year, and for other purposes; which was ordered to lie on the table; as follows: At the end of subtitle G of title X, add the following: SEC. 1__. APPLICABILITY OF INDIAN REORGANIZATION ACT TO THE POARCH BAND OF CREEK INDIANS.”
“His service has strengthened our military, safeguarded our national security, and inspired countless soldiers who served alongside him. I wish to extend my deep gratitude to MG Thomas O'Connor for his lifetime of highly respected and faithful service to the U.S. Army. On behalf of a grateful nation, I thank him and his entire family for their sacrifices and wish them the best as they enter into this new season of life. His legacy of courage and commitment will endure for generations to come. ____________________”
“Army Aviation and Missile Command at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, AL, he played a pivotal role in strengthening our aviation and missile lethality around the globe. Additionally, as deputy commander of the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence, located at Fort Rucker, Major General O'Connor further strengthened the future of Army aviation. Most recently, in his role as the Director of Force Development for the Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff, Major General O'Connor has transformed the Army's modernization efforts. His leadership has directly ensured that American forces remained prepared, capable, and ready to respond to emerging global threats. Major General O'Connor's career exemplifies the highest standards and values of the U.S. Army: courage, vision, rigor, and a commitment to duty.”
“He has served abroad on numerous deployments with the 101st Airborne Division and the 25th Infantry Division, including historic Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Atlantic Resolve. He has earned an exemplary reputation as a steadfast and skilled combat leader, and his experiences have provided him with a profound understanding of the needs of the American warfighter. His extensive tactical leadership, unwavering devotion to his fellow soldiers, and unique gift for combat strategy represent the absolute best that the U.S. Army has to offer. While Major General O'Connor has played a pivotal role in strengthening military readiness, maximizing operational effectiveness, and prioritizing modernization abroad, his leadership at home is equally impressive. As commanding general of the U.S.”
“Military Academy in 1994, Major General O'Connor has led a multitude of operational assignments, from commanding cavalry troops during the height of the Global War on Terror to being a key driver of modernization in Army aviation. Alabama, our Nation, and our entire globe are safer and more secure thanks to the discipline, dedication, and heroism of Major General O'Connor. Over the course of his exceptional career, Major General O'Connor has held key leadership positions at every level of command, including company command at Fort Hood, command of the 2d Squadron, 6th Cavalry in Afghanistan, and leadership of the Combat Aviation Brigade, 1st Armored Division at Fort Bliss.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)] [Senate] [Page S3934] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] TRIBUTE TO MAJOR GENERAL THOMAS O'CONNOR Mrs. BRITT. Mr. President, I am honored to recognize the extraordinary service of MG Thomas O'Connor on his retirement from the U.S. Army after more than three decades of distinguished service to our Nation. Major General O'Connor has devoted his life to the defense of our country and has served with integrity, professionalism, and bravery. Since he commissioned from the U.S.”
“I am pleased to join my colleagues and the citizens of Alabama in expressing our sincere gratitude to Mr. Barry Gosnell for his extraordinary leadership, innovation, and faithful service to the U.S. Army, the defense community, and our Nation. His career stands as a testament to excellence in public service, principled leadership, and a steadfast commitment to those he serves. Mr. Gosnell is truly an outstanding American. ____________________”
“He also played a central role in expanding systems integration laboratory concepts to aviation platforms, enabling improved interoperability, enhanced testing, and significant cost savings across multiple Army airframes, including the AH-64 Apache, UH-60 Black Hawk, CH-47 Chinook, and other mission- critical platforms. Throughout his distinguished career, Mr. Gosnell consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to strengthening America's defense capabilities while fostering technical excellence within government and industry alike. His work in missile defense systems testing, aviation interoperability, cyber security, business leadership, and organizational development has had an enduring impact, directly supporting the readiness of our armed forces and the strength of Alabama's defense industrial base.”
“He played a pivotal role in advancing the use of game-based technologies for military training and recruiting, helping bring to life the groundbreaking America's Army program, which reached more than 10 million registered users and became one of the most widely recognized online military engagement tools in the world. His vision in leveraging emerging technology helped modernize how the Army communicates with and inspires future generations of servicemembers. His contributions to cyber security and systems engineering have likewise left a lasting mark. Mr. Gosnell was instrumental in developing Software Engineering Directorate capabilities to secure critical operational and training systems against evolving cyber threats, strengthening the Army's information assurance posture during a period of rapidly increasing digital risk.”
“Recognizing the importance of disciplined growth, he established rigorous business development processes that enhanced corporate performance and maintained a strong pipeline of future opportunities. He also helped position COLSA at the forefront of emerging technologies by leading the company's expansion into uncrewed systems, assembling highly skilled teams and helping bring innovative commercial drone technologies to market. Throughout his tenure, he remained steadfastly focused on long- term growth while ensuring that every decision reflected the four values established by COLSA's founder, Dr. Frank J. Collazo: teamwork, integrity, people, and customer satisfaction. Mr. Gosnell's career has been defined by innovation and forward- thinking leadership.”
“Under his guidance, COLSA achieved record growth, generating more than $400 million in new revenue during 2024 and 2025 alone. Despite significant industry-wide challenges resulting from Federal contract reviews and reductions in professional services spending, COLSA remained resilient and well- positioned for continued success. Mr. Gosnell fostered a culture of collaboration, accountability, and open communication, empowering leaders throughout the organization to contribute ideas and pursue innovative solutions. He strengthened strategic partnerships across the Huntsville and Eglin defense communities, resulting in increased prime contract awards and valuable teaming opportunities.”
“During his tenure, he oversaw the reassignment of engineers and technical personnel to establish two new divisions, strengthening organizational capability and increasing government engineering capacity by 15 percent. Over the course of his leadership, he simultaneously served in multiple demanding roles, including deputy director, fire support division chief, head of special projects, and oversight of critical business management functions, reflecting the confidence his superiors and colleagues consistently placed in his leadership. Following his distinguished government career, Mr. Gosnell continued his service to the defense community through his leadership at COLSA Corporation. As chief executive officer, he has overseen one of the most successful periods in the company's history.”
“Most recently serving as deputy director of the Software Engineering Directorate, he helped lead one of the Army's most vital technical organizations through a period of remarkable growth and transformation. As a principal architect of that success, Mr. Gosnell played a central role in the directorate's 40-percent increase in business revenue, reaching $1.1 billion in fiscal year 2012, while the organization expanded to more than 3,000 government and contract engineers supporting some of our Nation's most important defense programs. Before serving as deputy director, Mr. Gosnell led the Acquisition and Technology Engineering Division for 14 years and earned a reputation as a [[Page S3934]] trusted and highly capable executive leader.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)] [Senate] [Pages S3933-S3934] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] TRIBUTE TO BARRY GOSNELL Mrs. BRITT. Mr. President, I am honored to recognize Mr. Barry Gosnell, an exceptional public servant, business leader, and innovator whose more than four decades of leadership in government and industry have strengthened our national defense, advanced technological innovation, and fostered economic growth throughout the Tennessee Valley and beyond. A longtime leader at Redstone Arsenal, Mr. Gosnell devoted 28 years of civilian service to advancing engineering excellence, innovation, and mission effectiveness in support of the American warfighter.”
“Vera also worked to cultivate lifelong friendships and will be remembered for her warmth, kindness, and support. As we mourn this devastating loss to the Montgomery community, I pray that Vera's loved ones find peace in knowing how profoundly she impacted and bettered those around her. She was truly one of a kind, a leader with a servant's heart, steadfast faith in the Lord, and a remarkable ability to create meaningful change. Vera will be greatly missed. I am honored to share her story and help celebrate the memory of an extraordinary woman. ____________________”
“Every choice she made was rooted in her trust in God and in every action she took, she sought to spread His love. She touched countless lives through her deep faith in the Lord, and while her earthly journey has come to an end, I am encouraged that her Heavenly one has just begun. While Vera's legacy of public service is unmistakably woven throughout the Montgomery community, her spirit will truly live on through her pride and joy; her family and friends. Vera treasured her relationships with her mother; sisters Sharon V. Jordan, LaFreeda M. Jordan, and Richele Jordan-Davis; nephews Richard Davis, Nyles Davis, and Bray Davis; and brother-in-law Daryl Davis. She loved her family deeply and offered them wisdom, and encouragement whenever possible.”
“By the time she retired in 2021, Vera was beloved and well-respected by her colleagues and the people of Alabama. Beyond serving her State through her professional career, Vera was also an active volunteer throughout the Montgomery community. From her role as the president of the Montgomery (AL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, to supporting Habitat for Humanity, to serving on the Metro YMCA Board and so much more, Vera devoted her free time to uplifting, strengthening, and advocating for those around her. She was a shining example of a true servant leader. Vera's most important calling was to live a life of great faith. As a fifth-generation member of Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, Vera's devotion to the Lord was the foundation of her life.”
“She furthered her higher education at both the University of Pennsylvania and Auburn University of Montgomery where she earned master's degrees. For Vera, education was a lifelong pursuit and she always embraced the opportunity to learn. Her involvement at these universities was just the beginning of how she would positively impact those around her across the great State of Alabama. For 15 years, Vera served as a congressional field representative for U.S. Senator Richard Shelby. I had the privilege of working alongside Vera for several of those years, where we supported Senator Shelby in his efforts to strengthen both Alabama and our Nation. It was an honor to witness her incredible ability to connect with Alabamians, work through issues, and deliver for our State.”
“From an early age, Vera was an involved and gifted student, excelling both academically and in her extracurricular activities, later earning her induction into the Lee High School Hall of Fame. Her enthusiasm for pouring her time and talents into her campus community continued at Spelman College, where she earned a bachelor of arts degree in history and minor in secondary education. There, she held no shortage of leadership positions in student government, Kappa Delta Epsilon, the Morehouse Maroon Tigers Cheer Team, Mortar Board, and several other campus clubs. Vera also served as the president of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Mu Pi Chapter and remained an active life member in the Beta Nu Omega Chapter.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)] [Senate] [Page S3933] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] REMEMBERING VERA BENESBY JORDAN Mrs. BRITT. Mr. President, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of an exceptional Alabamian, Ms. Vera Benesby Jordan. Vera was an incredible woman--a true steward of the Lord, a generous public servant, a deeply loving daughter, sister, aunt, and friend, and someone I was proud to know. A lifelong resident of Montgomery, Vera was born on December 13, 1971, to parents Richard S. Jordan, Jr., and Viola Howze Jordan.”
“I ask for the yeas and nays. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there a sufficient second? There appears to be a sufficient second. The clerk will call the roll. The senior assistant executive clerk called the roll.”
“Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the previously scheduled rollcall vote begin immediately. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered.”
“Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered.”
“(Mr. MORENO assumed the Chair.) (Mr. GRAHAM assumed the Chair.) The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. Moreno). Under the previous order, the motion to reconsider is considered made and laid upon the table, and the President will be immediately notified of the Senate's actions. The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. Husted). The Senator from New Jersey.”
“181 Leg.] YEAS--48 Armstrong Banks Barrasso Blackburn Boozman Britt Budd Capito Cassidy Collins Cornyn Cotton Cramer Crapo Cruz Curtis Daines Ernst Fischer Graham Grassley Hagerty Hawley Husted Hyde-Smith Johnson Justice Kennedy Lankford Lee Lummis Marshall McCormick [[Page S2926]] Moreno Murkowski Paul Ricketts Risch Rounds Schmitt Scott (FL) Shaheen Sheehy Sullivan Thune Tillis Wicker Young NAYS--39 Baldwin Blumenthal Booker Cantwell Coons Cortez Masto Fetterman Gallego Gillibrand Hassan Heinrich Hickenlooper Hirono Kaine King Klobuchar Lujan Markey Merkley Murphy Murray Ossoff Padilla Peters Reed Rosen Sanders Schatz Schiff Schumer Slotkin Smith Van Hollen Warner Warnock Warren Welch Whitehouse Wyden NOT VOTING--13 Alsobrooks Bennet Blunt Rochester Duckworth Durbin Hoeven Kelly Kim McConnell Moody Moran Scott (SC) Tuberville The nomination was confirmed.”
“Moran), the Senator from South Carolina (Mr. Scott), and the Senator from Alabama (Mr. Tuberville). Further, if present and voting: the Senator from North Dakota (Mr. Hoeven) would have voted ``yea''. Mr. SCHUMER. I announce that the Senator from Maryland (Ms. Alsobrooks), the Senator from Colorado (Mr. Bennet), the Senator from Delaware (Ms. Blunt Rochester), the Senator from Illinois (Ms. Duckworth), the Senator from Illinois (Mr. Durbin), the Senator from Arizona (Mr. Kelly), and the Senator from New Jersey (Mr. Kim), are necessarily absent. The result was announced--yeas 48, nays 39, as follows: [Rollcall Vote No.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 103 (Thursday, June 18, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 103 (Thursday, June 18, 2026)] [Senate] [Pages S2925-S2926] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] Vote on Holding Nomination The PRESIDING OFFICER. The question is, Will the Senate advise and consent to the Holding nomination? Mrs. BRITT. I ask for the yeas and nays. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there a sufficient second? There appears to be a sufficient second. The clerk will call the roll. The senior assistant executive clerk called the roll. Mr. BARRASSO. The following Senators are necessarily absent: the Senator from North Dakota (Mr. Hoeven), the Senator from Kentucky (Mr. McConnell), the Senator from Florida (Mrs. Moody), the Senator from Kansas (Mr.”