Ben Cline

IN THEIR OWN WORDS

The complete record

79 held · 41 searchable for Ben Cline. The searchable lines are below in date order, each linked to its source. Free to read, in full, without an account.

This is not an official version of US Congress proceedings. It reproduces the published record and links to it; the official version is the one US Congress publishes.

1. “Mr. Speaker, I also support the legislation and urge our colleagues to support the bill. I yield back the balance of my time.”

   House of Representatives16 September 2026Source ↗

   Check this claim →

2. “Between 2020 and 2024, Congress temporarily allowed individual debtors to aggregate their secured and unsecured debts for purposes of qualifying for chapter 13. After 2024, the temporary change expired, meaning individual debtors can only qualify for chapter 13 if their unsecured or secure debts are under their respective thresholds. H.R. 7730 reinstates the ability for debtors to qualify for chapter 13 if their aggregate debts are less than $2.75 million, regardless of how those debts are constructed. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this commonsense, bipartisan bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.”

   House of Representatives16 September 2026Source ↗

   Check this claim →

3. “Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 7730, the Bankruptcy Threshold Adjustment Act of 2026. H.R. 7730 is an important bipartisan bill that will help small businesses and individual consumers reorganize their financial affairs in bankruptcy. First, H.R. 7730 increases the debt limit for cases under subchapter V. In 2019, I sponsored the bill that created the subchapter V process, which allows small businesses the opportunity to efficiently reorganize their debts and exit bankruptcy as a viable small business. Between 2020 and 2024, Congress temporarily increased the subchapter V debt limit allowing debtors with up to $7.5 million in debt to be eligible for Subchapter V. In 2024, the higher limit expired and reverted to around $3 million.”

   House of Representatives16 September 2026Source ↗

   Check this claim →

4. “Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and to include extraneous material on H.R. 7730.”

   House of Representatives16 September 2026Source ↗

   Check this claim →

5. “Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 7730) to amend title 11, United States Code, to modify certain bankruptcy eligibility requirements, and for other purposes, as amended.”

   House of Representatives16 September 2026Source ↗

   Check this claim →

6. “That spirit of faithfulness continues under Pastor Wendell Shurtz, who has served Walnut Springs for an extraordinary 41 years. Mr. Speaker, Pastor Shurtz continues a tradition of faith and welcome that has defined generations of this church family. I congratulate the Walnut Springs congregation. May their simple but powerful message continue to guide them. Be faithful. ____________________”

   House of Representatives15 September 2026Source ↗

   Check this claim →

7. “recognizing walnut springs christian church Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Walnut Springs Christian Church in Strasburg as it celebrates 200 years of faith, fellowship, and service. The congregation traces its founding to August 26, 1826, when members made the Stickley Meeting House their permanent place of worship. In 1848, David Stickley donated the land where the church stands today. Over two centuries, Walnut Springs has endured hardships, such as the Civil War and a devastating fire in 1945. Yet, through every challenge, its members persevered. Remarkably, when the church burned just 2 days before Christmas in 1945, members rushed inside and saved the communion table, piano, and pews--pews that remain in use today.”

   House of Representatives15 September 2026Source ↗

   Check this claim →

8. “His tenure also saw the creation of the county's first strategic economic development plan and millions of dollars in investment and expansion at Modine Manufacturing. Spencer also helped oversee the transition of Natural Bridge into a Virginia State Park, preserving one of Rockbridge County's most treasured landmarks. These accomplishments reflect Spencer's calm, practical, and people- centered approach to public service. He treated county employees like family, placed the needs of the community first, and demonstrated that no task was beneath him, whether managing a crisis, shoveling snow, or picking up trash along the road. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring Spencer Suter for his distinguished service and lasting impact on Rockbridge County. We wish Spencer and his wife, Tina, all the best in his well-deserved retirement.”

   House of Representatives15 September 2026Source ↗

   Check this claim →

9. “Frank Shakespeare, a proud American yet humble Christian whose incredible achievements and message are something we can all learn from. recognizing spencer suter's retirement Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a remarkable public servant from Virginia's Sixth Congressional District, Mr. Spencer Suter. A native of Rockingham County, Spencer dedicated 30 years to local government, including 14 as administrator of my home, Rockbridge County, a community he and his family also proudly call home. Under Spencer's leadership, Rockbridge County experienced significant progress. The county expanded broadband into rural communities and worked with neighboring localities to open a joint Department of Social Services building.”

   House of Representatives15 September 2026Source ↗

   Check this claim →

10. “Naval Academy's rowing team, he and his teammates represented the United States at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics. They defeated the Soviet Union to win gold and were later dubbed by Life Magazine as ``The Great Eight.'' After 11 years of faithful service in the Navy, he went on to enjoy a long career teaching math to students in Baltimore, Maryland. To this day, he continues to share his life's lessons with young people. If you meet Frank, he will hand you his business card that reads: ``Be a Winner.'' Through failures, challenges, and learning to embrace the talents and opportunities that God grants, Frank wants everyone to know that when you live by this motto, Be a Winner, all things are possible. Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognizing Mr.”

    House of Representatives15 September 2026Source ↗

    Check this claim →

11. “Speaker, let us toast a man who lived a genuinely colorful life, whether riding his turquoise Harley-Davidson downtown, wearing purple to cheer on the JMU Dukes, or adding a few extra maraschino cherries to his glass. Here is to Rodney Eagle, a man who cared for Harrisonburg deeply and spent his life making it a better place for all. honoring frank shakespeare's lifetime achievements Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize an extraordinary individual, Mr. Frank Shakespeare, a U.S. Olympic gold medalist, United States Navy veteran, and retired public school teacher living in Virginia's Sixth Congressional District. For almost 70 years, he was united in marriage to the love of his life, Shirley. This May, he celebrated his 96th birthday and is the oldest living U.S. Olympic champion. As a member of the U.S.”

    House of Representatives15 September 2026Source ↗

    Check this claim →

12. “The Trump administration and House Republicans are taking action to restore accountability and protect our communities. These efforts not only make Virginia safer but also strengthen public safety across our entire Nation. ____________________”

    House of Representatives2 September 2026Source ↗

    Check this claim →

13. “I proudly commend the Strasburg High School Rams on making history. National News on Immigration Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak about the recent arrests of 1,328 illegal immigrants across Virginia. Among those arrested were individuals wanted for serious crimes, including murder, rape, sexual assault, kidnapping, DUI, and attempted murder. During the Biden administration, our immigration laws went unenforced. When individuals who entered our country illegally are allowed to remain in our communities, the rule of law is undermined and public safety is put at risk. Govern Spanberger and prosecutors like Fairfax Commonwealth Attorney Steve Descano are making it harder to enforce our immigration laws, weaken cooperation with ICE, and remove dangerous criminals from our communities.”

    House of Representatives2 September 2026Source ↗

    Check this claim →

14. “Strasburg's come-from-behind victory under the leadership of second year Head Coach Tripp Lamb showed resilience and composure. Senior Brady Knight, playing both running back and linebacker, helped lead the comeback and finished as one of three Rams to rush for over 100 yards. Juniors Quincy Williams and Linkyn Bosworth also surpassed the century mark on the ground, while Williams delivered game-changing defensive play. Quarterback Brayden Hough added a late rushing score to seal the victory. Mr. Speaker, this win belongs to not only this year's team, but to decades of Strasburg athletes and coaches, including Jeff Smoot, Glenn Proctor, and Mark Roller, who laid the foundation for success. This championship is a testament to perseverance, teamwork, and a community that never stopped believing.”

    House of Representatives2 September 2026Source ↗

    Check this claim →

15. “Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Virginia Phoenix Wood 16U Fastpitch softball team of Vinton, Virginia, for capturing the 2026 USA Softball One True National Championship. These talented young women completed an undefeated tournament run, averaging 10 runs per game, while outscoring their opponents 67-9, and finishing with an outstanding .490 team batting average. This outstanding team includes Alexis McFarland, Lilly Gillispie, Addie Lowry, Tinley Humphries, Averi Fuller, Heidi Dixon, Jocelyn Weddle, Morgan Smith, Elissa Caricofe, Madelynn Ray, Katelyn Mills, Olivia Pierce, Kenley Cundiff, Gianna Pitzer, Zoe Sartin, Emma Sartin, Madison McDaniel, Ava DeJesus, Matilyn Gouldthorpe, and Ashleigh Johnson.”

    House of Representatives2 September 2026Source ↗

    Check this claim →

16. “For more than 75 years, she has been a devoted member of Trinity United Methodist Church, serving on committees, singing in the choir, and continuing to give back to her church and her community. Catherine spent 45 years with Lee's Carpets and Burlington Industries, raised a family, and served organizations throughout the region. She and her late husband, Joseph, shared 53 years of marriage and raised a family grounded in faith and strong values. Catherine says: ``God has been good to me.'' Her life is a testament to those blessings. Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating Catherine Watts on 100 remarkable years and wishing her continued health and happiness. Recognizing Phoenix Wood 16U Fastpitch Softball Team Mr. CLINE. Mr.”

    House of Representatives2 September 2026Source ↗

    Check this claim →

17. “Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Catherine Watts of Buchanan, Virginia, who celebrated her 100th birthday on August 17, 2026. For 100 years, Catherine's life has been rooted in Buchanan. She has built a life defined by faith, family, hard work, and service to her community.”

    House of Representatives2 September 2026Source ↗

    Check this claim →

18. “It demonstrates our commitment to defending our Nation, supporting the American people, and governing with responsibility. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution this week and join us in advancing policies that strengthen our country for generations to come. ____________________”

    House of Representatives21 July 2026Source ↗

    Check this claim →

19. “Congress' primary responsibility is to defend the American people and preserve the strength of our Nation, and this resolution reflects that duty. It invests in our warfighters; supports our ranchers, farmers, and producers; and secures the integrity of our voting systems with the SAVE America Act. For rural districts like Virginia's Sixth, this resolution delivers real support and stability for our farmers. It empowers our national defense, stands behind our warfighters, secures our food supply, and ensures American elections are decided only by American citizens. This budget reflects a commitment to responsible governance while restoring the faith and confidence of voters in our election system. Mr. Speaker, this resolution reflects a vision of a stronger, safer, and more prosperous America.”

    House of Representatives21 July 2026Source ↗

    Check this claim →

20. “With a membership of nearly 100 volunteers, the LFD has celebrated many milestones and accomplishments since then, and it continues to strengthen community ties through annual traditions such as the concert and ceremony held on September 11 as well as its raffle and fundraiser held on September 12. Today, we honor the men and women, past and present, whose selfless service reflects the very best of our Commonwealth. Join me in celebrating the strong and brave Luray Fire Department on 125 years of steadfast commitment to not only their community but to the Nation. providing certainty for america Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the passage of the concurrent resolution on the budget for fiscal year 2027 out of the Budget Committee last week.”

    House of Representatives21 July 2026Source ↗

    Check this claim →

21. “Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Luray Fire Department of Luray, Virginia, as it marks an extraordinary milestone: 125 years of dedicated service to the people of Luray and Page County. Founded in 1901 and chartered in 1933, the Luray Fire Department has stood as a proud, all-volunteer, and nonprofit organization with the goal of protecting the lives and property of so many for over a century. From its early days when the department attended its first State Firefighters Convention in Staunton and a year later sent its first reel team to a State contest in Portsmouth, the department has remained the cornerstone of community safety and pride.”

    House of Representatives21 July 2026Source ↗

    Check this claim →

22. “Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary Virginian whose life has been defined by service to others. After 45 years of leadership, Pam Irvine is retiring as president and CEO of Feeding Southwest Virginia. When Ms. Irvine founded the organization in 1981, it began with little more than a vision--and even the food bank's first truck caught fire on the road.”

    House of Representatives21 July 2026Source ↗

    Check this claim →

23. “The Working Families Tax Cut Act is what it looks like when Washington works for families. For millions of Americans, this marks the 1-year anniversary of more money for groceries, more money for childcare, and more money for the things the average American needs to succeed in the country. I look forward to celebrating more wins for American economic security. House Republicans have delivered, and the American people are better for it. ____________________”

    House of Representatives14 July 2026Source ↗

    Check this claim →

24. “For years, American families were burdened by unnecessary taxes, forcing families to bear the brunt of government overreach. Under House Republican leadership, we returned that money to the American people and restored commonsense, family-first policies to Washington. Mr. Speaker, the numbers do not lie. According to IRS data, the Working Families Tax Cut Act returned more than $310 billion to Americans and their families, with the average tax refund climbing to nearly $3,300, an increase of more than 11 percent from the year before. More than 60 million Americans, over 40 percent of all filers, claimed relief through commonsense provisions like no tax on tips and no tax on overtime, and our seniors gained an additional deduction on their Social Security benefits.”

    House of Representatives14 July 2026Source ↗

    Check this claim →

25. “In the past year alone, the club distributed more than $40,000 in community donations while providing student vision screenings, recycling eyeglasses, and supporting families across the region. I also recognize the club's current leadership: President Phil Eddy, Secretary Tammie Brightwell, Administrative Treasurer Earl Pettrey, and Activities Treasurer Barry Dick. For 90 years, the Salem Host Lions Club has exemplified service above self and the enduring spirit of volunteerism. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Salem Host Lions Club on this milestone anniversary and thanking its members for their outstanding service. Promises Made, Promises Kept Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in celebration of the Working Families Tax Cut Act, one of the boldest, most successful acts of legislation in recent history.”

    House of Representatives14 July 2026Source ↗

    Check this claim →

26. “Speaker, this was a complete team victory earned through discipline, toughness, and trust in one another in a moment that will be remembered in Luray for generations. Please join me in congratulating the Luray Bulldogs. Celebrating Salem Host Lions Club's 90th Anniversary Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 90th anniversary of the Salem Host Lions Club, whose members have faithfully served the city of Salem and the Roanoke Valley since 1935. Founded with 21 charter members, the club continues its proud tradition of service through dedicated volunteers who strengthen their community every day. For decades, Salem Host Lions have operated concession stands at Salem Stadium, raising funds that support scholarships, local schools, youth programs, charitable organizations, and first responders throughout southwest Virginia.”

    House of Representatives14 July 2026Source ↗

    Check this claim →

27. “Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Rotary Club of Front Royal as it celebrates 100 years of service to Warren County and the Commonwealth of Virginia. Chartered in 1926, this club has helped shape the very fabric of its community. Its members were instrumental in the early advocacy that led to the creation of Skyline Drive and Shenandoah National Park, even sending a delegation to meet with President Calvin Coolidge.”

    House of Representatives14 July 2026Source ↗

    Check this claim →

28. “We are seeing the most secure border in our Nation's history, a manufacturing boom, and real relief for families who spent years struggling under failed leadership. House Republicans are proud to be working with President Trump to keep our promises to the American people by strengthening our economy, protecting our communities, and restoring America's standing in the world. Mr. Speaker, America is getting stronger every day, and we are just getting started. ____________________”

    House of Representatives29 April 2025Source ↗

    Check this claim →

29. “Also competing were Aly Ory, Zippy Elliot, Tori Iverson, and Lori Lowry, all rising stars, along with Kaelyn Henzey, the team's manager, who made sure every detail of the event ran smoothly. This team is more than a powerhouse. It is a legacy of excellence. Congratulations to Salem, whose voices are making history. President Trump's First 100 Days Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, today marks 100 days since President Trump returned to the White House, and already the results speak for themselves. In just 100 days, President Trump has delivered where it matters most: securing our border, cutting inflation, restoring American energy independence, rebuilding our economy, and enforcing the rule of law.”

    House of Representatives29 April 2025Source ↗

    Check this claim →

30. “Speaker, I rise today to honor the Salem High School speech team, who just made history by winning their 19th consecutive VHSL State Championship, the most in Virginia history. With a commanding 39-11 win over E.C. Glass, Salem now holds 103 individual State titles, a record capped by senior Claire Rawlins, who earned the school's 100th with her second straight title in impromptu speaking. Joining Claire were State champions Charlie Bain in serious dramatic, Rosalie Botos in prose, and the dynamic duo of Lacy Stratton and Bella Poarch in humorous duo. Rounding out the team's strength were runners-up Hall Blackwood, Rebekah Steinweg, Parneet Gill, Tara Farrokhpoor, and Noah Lovern. Third place finishes went to Connor Smythers and Colton Easter, Brenasha Devlin, Ariana Turner, and Caden Smythers.”

    House of Representatives29 April 2025Source ↗

    Check this claim →

31. “Eight players were also named to the Academic All-American Team: McCaughey, Bonvissuto, Thomas, M. Keller, Pennefather, Kolesar, Speier, and S. Keller. These student athletes demonstrated incredible discipline, teamwork, and commitment both on and off the court. Coach Minick, now in her seventh season, has fostered a winning culture built on faith, leadership, and mentorship. Her guidance, along with Assistant Coaches Annie Heisler and Jeremy Minick, has elevated the program into a true national powerhouse. Congratulations again to the 2025 Christendom Lady Crusaders on this historic season. It is an honor to recognize such an outstanding team and the pride they bring to our community. I wish them continued success in the years to come. Congratulating Salem High School Speech Team Mr. CLINE. Mr.”

    House of Representatives29 April 2025Source ↗

    Check this claim →

32. “This is money that should have gone to serve the American people, not to subsidize private union interests. Ending ``official time'' is a commonsense step to ensure taxpayer dollars are used responsibly and to increase accountability across the Federal workforce. Public funds should serve the American people, not private union interests. Mr. Speaker, I strongly urge my colleagues to support this important bill. ____________________”

    House of Representatives8 April 2025Source ↗

    Check this claim →

33. “A Roanoke native and graduate of Virginia Tech and the University of Richmond School of Law--go Spiders--Justice Koontz was known for his clarity of writing, profound sense of fairness, and deep commitment to justice. Justice Koontz mentored generations of legal professionals and leaves a legacy of wisdom, service, and an unwavering dedication to the rule of law. We extend our deepest condolences to his beloved wife, Elizabeth, his children, grandchildren, and all who were touched by his wisdom and kindness. May his memory be a blessing, and may we all strive to live with the same dedication to service that Justice Koontz so fully embodied. Restoring Accountability in the Federal Workforce Mr. CLINE. Mr.”

    House of Representatives8 April 2025Source ↗

    Check this claim →

34. “I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating these outstanding young athletes. Honoring the Life of Justice Lawrence Larkins Koontz, Jr. Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the extraordinary life and legacy of Justice Lawrence Larkins Koontz, Jr., of Salem, Virginia, who passed away at the age of 85. Justice Koontz was one of the most consequential judges in the Commonwealth's history. Over a judicial career spanning 42 years, he served at every level of Virginia's court system, culminating in his roles as the founding chief judge of the Virginia Court of Appeals and as a justice of the Supreme Court of Virginia.”

    House of Representatives8 April 2025Source ↗

    Check this claim →

35. “Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the extraordinary achievement of the 2025 Glenvar High School boys' swim team, the VHSL Class 1 and 2 combined State champions. The Glenvar Highlanders traveled to Richmond on February 27 and captured their second consecutive State title, an incredible accomplishment that reflects their hard work, talent, and dedication.”

    House of Representatives8 April 2025Source ↗

    Check this claim →

36. “Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 40th anniversary of Access Independence, a dedicated organization serving people with disabilities in Virginia's Northern Shenandoah Valley. For four decades, Access Independence has been a beacon of hope and empowerment, promoting independent living through essential services and resources.”

    House of Representatives11 March 2025Source ↗

    Check this claim →

37. “Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor an extraordinary American, a true hero in every sense, George Walton Weller. For 65 years, Mr. Weller has dedicated his life to the safety and well-being of his community through the Verona Volunteer Fire Company. Helping to found the fire company in 1959, he remains an active member to this day at age 91.”

    House of Representatives25 February 2025Source ↗

    Check this claim →

38. “Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize my constituent, Mr. David Price of Fishersville, Virginia, who was named the grand champion of the 2024 Virginia Truck Driving Championship. David has been a professional truck driver for 33 years. He has been employed with FedEx Freight for the last 18. He has logged 3.3 million miles without an accident, making him the perfect candidate to enter the competition.”

    House of Representatives5 February 2025Source ↗

    Check this claim →

39. “Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor former Rockingham County Administrator Stephen King on his well-deserved retirement after a lifetime of public service to Virginia's Sixth District. Stephen earned his degree in civil engineering from the Virginia Military Institute in Lexington. He went on to work for the city of Buena Vista as a civil engineer and worked his way up to assistant city manager.”

    House of Representatives23 January 2025Source ↗

    Check this claim →

40. “Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the outstanding achievement of the Spotswood High School girls' cross country team, who won the VHSL Class 3 State championship in Blacksburg last November. This incredible accomplishment caps years of hard work. In the last three seasons, the Blazers placed fourth, third, and finally runners- up.”

    House of Representatives22 January 2025Source ↗

    Check this claim →

41. “Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize an outstanding group of young athletes in Virginia's Sixth Congressional District, the Broadway High School boys cross country team, which won the VHSL Class 3 State championship in November.”

    House of Representatives14 January 2025Source ↗

    Check this claim →