James R. Walkinshaw
Representative for Virginia · Democratic · United States
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 116 (Thursday, July 16, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 116 (Thursday, July 16, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E701-E702] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF JOHN PATRICK DWYER ______ HON.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 116 (Thursday, July 16, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 116 (Thursday, July 16, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E701-E702] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF JOHN PATRICK DWYER ______ HON.”
“He proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1962 to 1966 aboard the USS Mitscher and continued his service in the Naval Reserves. Following his military service, John pursued a career as an air traffic controller with the Federal Aviation Administration.”
“He proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1962 to 1966 aboard the USS Mitscher and continued his service in the Naval Reserves. Following his military service, John pursued a career as an air traffic controller with the Federal Aviation Administration.”
“Through his business and civic involvement, he built enduring friendships and earned the admiration of many for his integrity, generosity, and unwavering loyalty. [[Page E702]] John was also a dedicated supporter of civic engagement and public service.”
“Through his business and civic involvement, he built enduring friendships and earned the admiration of many for his integrity, generosity, and unwavering loyalty. [[Page E702]] John was also a dedicated supporter of civic engagement and public service.”
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“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E686] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING MAY AS MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH ______ HON. JAMES R. WALKINSHAW of virginia in the house of representatives Tuesday, July 14, 2026 Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize May 2026 as Mental Health Awareness Month and to reaffirm our shared commitment to raising awareness, reducing stigma, and providing compassionate support for those affected by mental health challenges. Since 1949, Mental Health Awareness Month has served as an opportunity to increase understanding and encourage early support for those living with mental health conditions.”
“This year's awards include the Youth Ministry Monetary Award, Men's Ministry Monetary Award, Erin Peterson Award, Fairfax Central Baptist Sunday School Union Scholarship, Lucy Cole Scholarship, Cameron Dudley Memorial Scholarship, and the Mt. Olive Baptist Church Scholarship. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mt. Olive Baptist Church of Centreville for its continued service to our community and in congratulating the graduates of the 2025 to 2026 academic year. Their achievements are a testament to their hard work, perseverance, and the support of their families, friends, and educators. ____________________”
“Fahren Auriel Nipple, Prince William County, Oklahoma State University, Doctor of Forensic Science with a Concentration in Forensic Psychology; Alissa Northan, Prince William County, Virginia Commonwealth University, Bachelor of Science in Forensic Science with a Concentration in Physical Evidence and a Minor in Chemistry; and Jasmine Wigington, Prince William County, Virginia Tech, Bachelor of Science in Human Development. In addition to recognizing this year's graduates, the church's Scholarship Committee continues its longstanding tradition of supporting educational advancement through scholarship assistance and recognition programs.”
“College and Post-Graduate Graduates: Tristan Marcellus Anderson, Fairfax County, Frostburg State University, Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Exercise and Sport Science; Jaelen Elizabeth Barker, Prince William County, Temple University, Bachelor of Arts in Cinematography; Nia Michelle Bradley, Fairfax County, William & Mary, Bachelor of Arts in Government; Jarrett Dalton Carolina, Prince William County, Virginia State University, Master of Business Administration; Yuri Crenshaw, Prince William County, Spelman College, Bachelor of Arts in Economics with a Minor [[Page E685]] in Visual Arts; Ajani Nyle Evans, Virginia Commonwealth University, Bachelor of Science in Urban Planning and Development; Marquis Cetrel Freeman, Culpeper County, University of Northwestern Ohio, Bachelor of Business Administration; Nicholas Myles Hamm, Loudoun County, Virginia Tech, Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Analytics; Darius Hill, Fairfax County, George Mason University, Bachelor of Science in Biology; Tori Hudspeth, Fairfax County, George Mason University, Master of Science in Environmental Science and Policy; Malani Kathleen Johnson, Manassas Park, Virginia Commonwealth University, Bachelor of Science in Marketing with a Concentration in Product and Brand Development; Marie Johnson, Fairfax County, Regent University School of Law, Master of Arts in Law and Financial Planning; Matthew Hayden Leverette, Prince William County, Denison University, Bachelor of Arts in Journalism; Dr.”
“Youth and Young Adult Day is a meaningful tradition that recognizes students who have reached important academic milestones while encouraging younger generations to pursue their own educational goals. This year's celebration honors graduates from high schools, colleges, and graduate programs across Northern Virginia and beyond. I include in the Record the names of this year's graduates in recognition of their achievements: High School Graduates: Dylan Cherry, Prince William County, Gainesville High School; Faith Afolabi, Prince William County, Battlefield High School; Laila Jones, Prince William County, Patriot High School; Wayne Henderson, III, Manassas City, Osbourn High School; Xavier Williams, Fairfax County, George C. Marshall High School; and Zachariah Teague, Loudoun County, John Champe High School.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E684-E685] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING MT. OLIVE BAPTIST CHURCH'S YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULT DAY AND THE CLASS OF 2026 ______ HON. JAMES R. WALKINSHAW of virginia in the house of representatives Tuesday, July 14, 2026 Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mt. Olive Baptist Church of Centreville as it celebrates its annual Youth and Young Adult Day and honors the graduates of the 2025 to 2026 academic year.”
“Michael Cherry is one of those individuals. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Michael Cherry on this tremendous achievement, and in wishing Michael a career filled with brilliance, purpose, and joy. ____________________”
“Prior to joining Ailey, Michael danced for two seasons with Complexions Contemporary Ballet, where he continued to grow as a versatile and technically sophisticated performer. Behind every great artist stands a community of love and support, and Michael is no exception. I want to take this opportunity to extend heartfelt recognition to his mother, Susan Cherry, whose steadfast love, sacrifice, and encouragement have been a constant source of strength throughout Michael's life and career. Equally deserving of recognition is Michael's brother, Brandon Cherry, whose steadfast support and brotherly encouragement have meant the world to Michael throughout this journey. Mr. Speaker, Virginia's 11th Congressional District is home to remarkable individuals who reflect the very best of who we are as a Nation.”
“Michael is a graduate of George Mason University, where he earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance with a minor in Arts Management. George Mason has long been a launchpad for professional artists, and Michael's career is a testament to the quality of training and mentorship he received there. Michael's path to Ailey has been one of extraordinary rigor and breadth. During his training and early career, he had the opportunity to perform in works created or set by an impressive roster of renowned choreographers, including Rafael Bonachela, Camille A. Brown, Rena Butler, Alejandro Cerrudo, and Doug Varone, among others. He further honed his craft at highly competitive national programs, including the Juilliard Summer Dance Intensive, the Complexions Summer and Winter Intensives, and the LINES Ballet Summer Program.”
“Founded on March 30, 1958, the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater was established by choreographer, dancer, and visionary Alvin Ailey to uplift the African American experience while transcending the boundaries of race, faith, and nationality with its universal humanity. Recognized as a vital American Cultural Ambassador to the World, the company has performed for an estimated 25 million people in 71 countries on 6 continents. With a repertoire that boasts close to 300 works by more than 100 choreographers, it stands today as the largest modern dance company in the United States. To join this company is among the highest honors a dancer can achieve, and it is an honor that Michael Cherry has earned through years of exceptional dedication, training, and artistry.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E683] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING MICHAEL CHERRY ON HIS JOINING THE ALVIN AILEY AMERICAN DANCE THEATER ______ HON. JAMES R. WALKINSHAW of virginia in the house of representatives Tuesday, July 14, 2026 Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Michael Cherry, a constituent from Springfield, Virginia, upon joining the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, widely regarded as one of the most celebrated dance companies in the world.”
“These discussions have provided participants with valuable opportunities to learn about the legislative process, ask questions about public policy, and better understand how local and state government directly impacts their communities. Through these engagements, she has helped bridge the gap between government and young constituents, empowering future leaders to become active participants in civic life. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the hard work of Ms. Claire Kim. Her leadership reflects a deep commitment to empowering others, promoting cultural understanding, and inspiring the next generation to become engaged, compassionate, and effective leaders. She continues to serve as a role model whose contributions extend beyond individual events, leaving a positive and enduring legacy of community engagement and public service.”
“Her efforts have helped create opportunities for cultural education, dialogue, and increased visibility for the Korean American community across the region. Recognizing the importance of encouraging the next generation to become informed and engaged citizens, she has actively supported local political leaders through campaign volunteer efforts, canvass launch events, voter outreach initiatives, and special election activities. By introducing young volunteers to the electoral process and encouraging civic responsibility, she has inspired greater participation in public service and democratic engagement. Beyond volunteer efforts, Claire has facilitated meaningful conversations between emerging young leaders and elected officials, including state senators and members of the House of Delegates.”
“By helping coordinate volunteers, engaging community partners, and supporting event planning, Claire has played an important role in ensuring the festival continues to serve as a welcoming space for cultural exchange and community building. In addition to the Kimchi Festival, Claire has been actively involved in several large-scale community outreach initiatives, including the KORUS Festival and George Mason University's AANHPI Heritage Month celebration. Through these events, she has helped organize educational exhibits, coordinate volunteer teams, and facilitate community engagement activities that highlight the history, contributions, and experiences of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities.”
“Through her vision, dedication, and collaborative leadership, she has worked to strengthen connections within the Korean American community while fostering meaningful relationships with the broader Northern Virginia and DMV communities. One of Claire's most notable contributions has been her leadership in organizing and supporting major cultural events, including the annual Kimchi Festival. This signature event celebrates Korean heritage through traditional food, music, performances, and educational programming while promoting cross-cultural understanding and appreciation among people of diverse backgrounds.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E681] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING CLAIRE KIM FOR HER ROLE AS PRESIDENT OF THE KOREAN-AMERICAN NEXT GENERATION COUNCIL ______ HON. JAMES R. WALKINSHAW of virginia in the house of representatives Tuesday, July 14, 2026 Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ms. Claire Kim for her role as President of the Korean-American Next Generation Council. As President of the Korean American Next Generation Council, Claire Kim has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to civic engagement, cultural advocacy, and the development of the next generation of community leaders.”
“Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Sully District on its 35th anniversary and in recognizing its continued contributions to Fairfax County and the Commonwealth of Virginia. ____________________”
“His leadership helped establish the foundation upon which the Sully District continues to thrive today. Today, the Sully District is represented by Supervisor Kathy Smith, who continues to build on that legacy through her tireless service to the residents of the Sully District. Her leadership reflects an ongoing commitment to meeting the needs of a growing community while ensuring that residents remain connected to local government and services. As the Sully District marks its 35th anniversary, residents come together to celebrate not only its history but also the people and partnerships that have contributed to its growth and success. This milestone reflects decades of dedication to building a community where families can live, work, and thrive. Mr.”
“Established following the 1990 Census, the Sully District has grown into a vibrant and diverse community that reflects both the history and future of Northern Virginia. Over the past three and a half decades, the district has experienced significant growth and development while maintaining a strong sense of community and commitment to quality of life for its residents. The Sully District has long been shaped by thoughtful leadership at the local level. The district's first supervisor, Michael Frey, served from its creation through his retirement after more than two decades in office. During his tenure, he helped guide the district through a period of rapid population growth and transformation, playing a key role in advancing infrastructure, expanding public safety services, supporting youth programs, and preserving community assets.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E680] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING THE 35TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SULLY DISTRICT ______ HON. JAMES R. WALKINSHAW of virginia in the house of representatives Tuesday, July 14, 2026 Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 35th Anniversary of the Sully District, the westernmost supervisor district in Fairfax County, Virginia, which includes communities such as Centreville, Chantilly, Oak Hill, Oakton, and surrounding neighborhoods.”
“Madam Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. Madam Speaker, I appreciate the gentleman's and the committee's work on H.R. 7574, and it sounds like, I think, that we are in alignment. I just want to be sure that the language in the bill referring to redundancies isn't used to defund the I&A at the Department of Homeland Security. It sounds like the gentleman and I are on the same page. Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.”
“We need to strengthen, not undermine I&A's ability to protect the homeland. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.”
“7574's requirement to identify redundancies at the Office of Intelligence and Analysis should not, I hope, be viewed as a pretext to reduce I&A's workforce. {time} 1700 I&A is charged with delivering timely and actionable intelligence to our law enforcement on the front lines and unnecessarily slashing their capacity could unintentionally create security gaps and make our communities more vulnerable to cyber terror attacks and other threats. While I understand that H.R. 7574 seeks to improve DHS relationships with law enforcement agencies by establishing clear communication protocols and centralizing points of contact for law enforcement engagement, I urge DHS to consult with Congress on the implementation of this bill and before any staffing changes or reductions are made.”
“Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, engagement with State, local, Tribal, and territorial law enforcement is essential to the Department of Homeland Security's mission to secure the homeland. State and local law enforcement partners must have clear points of contact within DHS to maximize information sharing and collaboration on issues like emergency and cybersecurity incident response. H.R. 7574 aims to ensure this by directing the Secretary of Homeland Security to realign the functions and personnel within the Office of Intelligence and Analysis' Engagement, Liaison, and Outreach office. Madam Speaker, while it is important for State and local officials to have clear points of contact at DHS for information sharing and collaboration, H.R.”
“I thank the chairman, Ranking Member Thompson, and Mr. Correa, as well, who worked hard on it. As I said, this bipartisan legislation would put three GAO recommendations for combating illicit fentanyl into law. It would require the establishment of a program to collect data and measure the effectiveness of current efforts to counter illicit fentanyl, ensure information sharing across DHS components, and require the development of performance goals and measures. Madam Speaker, I urge all Members to join me in supporting H.R. 8535, and I yield back the balance of my time.”
“Our bill simply would put into law those commonsense recommendations. Fentanyl remains one of the most devastating public safety and public health challenges facing our Nation. The scourge of fentanyl trafficking is sobering. CDC data showed that fentanyl accounted for over 69 percent of all drug overdose deaths in the United States in 2025. Last year alone, in the D.C. metropolitan region, there were nearly 1,000 deaths due to fentanyl overdose. With lives, resources, and time on the line, it is important for DHS personnel to not only work hard in the fight against illicit fentanyl but to also work smart against this enormous challenge. That requires collaboration and the ability to assess how their operations are having an impact. Madam Speaker, I thank Mr. McCaul, who was my co-lead on this legislation.”
“Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, H.R. 8535, the bipartisan Measuring Illicit Fentanyl Trafficking Act, is based on the nonpartisan research and recommendations of the Government Accountability Office, which last year examined the Department of Homeland Security's efforts to detect, deter, and seize illicit fentanyl. GAO identified critical gaps in DHS efforts against fentanyl trafficking: a lack of coordination, information sharing, and measures to assess DHS' effectiveness. As a result, GAO made three straightforward recommendations: first, establish a program to collect data and measure effectiveness; second, ensure access to information across DHS components; and, third, develop performance goals and measures aligned with DHS' strategic objectives.”
“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the new member, Mr. Van Epps, on this legislation. I support H.R. 8168, and I yield back the balance of my time.”
“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 8168, the Major Non-NATO Ally Terror Threat Assessment Act. This bill directs the Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Secretary of State and the Director of National Intelligence, to provide an assessment of the threats to the United States posed by foreign terrorist organizations and specially designated global terrorists present in countries that the State Department designates as ``major non-NATO allies.'' The assessment required under the bill will give Congress a more comprehensive view of terrorist threats to the homeland, which will inform Congress of authorities and resources needed to combat those threats. Mr. Speaker, I support the bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.”
“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, the airport experience is difficult enough for young families. This bill will help improve that experience while upholding security standards, and I urge support. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.”
“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 8897, the Improving Travel for American Families Act. Every day, thousands of families across our Nation take to the skies, many of them with small children who are not always the easiest of travel companions. I can attest to that. Any parent knows that long lines at checkpoints can make a long day of travel even worse for a kid. That is why since last year, the TSA has started pilot programs at select airports with special lines reserved for families which help decrease wait times while keeping screening efficient for other travelers, as well. H.R. 8897 would codify the ongoing pilot program and ensure appropriate security protocols are upheld. The bill would help advance this initiative to help traveling families. Mr.”
“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, I applaud Representative Kennedy's leadership on this bill, and I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 3106. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.”
“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, this bill will continue operations for this growing TSA pilot program, helping to improve the travel experience for inbound passengers on international flights. I urge my colleagues to support this measure, and I yield back the balance of my time.”
“Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Louisiana (Mr. Carter), who is the Democratic co- lead on this bill. {time} 1630”
“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 9388. TSA's one-stop pilot program enables passengers arriving from certain foreign airports to be exempt from rescreening by TSA prior to connecting to domestic flights. The one-stop program requires those foreign airports to meet certain standards deemed comparable to TSA's, which helps improve aviation security at those airports. As more international airports start participating in the program, H.R. 9388 will ensure the program can continue to operate until December 2032, while Congress evaluates and makes any necessary changes to improve the program for the traveling public. These changes will help advance this pilot program to improve the travel experience for passengers. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.”
“9391 would extend the pilot program until the end of September 2031 and expand the number of pilot program locations to 14 to allow the program to grow and bring new RSSP concepts online. Passing this bill would provide important clarity for a program that has been operating under repeated short-term extensions. Mr. Speaker, as I said, this bill ensures the RSSP at TSA can continue to operate and develop additional passenger screening locations at airports across the country to improve the travel experience. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.”
“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 9391, the Reimbursable Screening Services Program Extension Act of 2026. The TSA Reimbursable Screening Services Program, or RSSP, is a pilot program that permits TSA to conduct passenger screening outside primary airport terminal screening areas under reimbursable agreements with up to eight TSA-regulated entities, such as an airport operator. RSSP facilities are located at airports across the country, including in Los Angeles, Atlanta, and New York City, and the newest location recently opened in Boston. The pilot program is set to expire at the end of September 2026. H.R.”
“It will strengthen oversight, support our local partners, and help ensure that years of Federal investment and preparedness are not lost. I applaud Congressman Carter for his leadership on this issue and strongly urge my colleagues to support H.R. 8874. I yield back the balance of my time.”
“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. I thank the gentleman from Louisiana (Mr. Carter) for his work on this legislation. I also thank the chairman for his work. UASI grants have played a critical role in my region, the D.C. metropolitan region, in protecting Northern Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia, including this Capitol complex. This bill that will improve transparency, strengthen congressional oversight, and ensure that important security investments made over many years are not lost is a wonderful piece of legislation. Passage of H.R. 8874 will ensure that Congress has the information needed to understand the impact of UASI transitions and help preserve the critical Homeland Security capabilities our communities rely on.”
“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, military servicemembers and their families make sacrifices for our Nation every day. We owe it to them to make their lives easier in ways big and small wherever and whenever we can. This bill represents a step toward easier travel for Active Duty military and their families. I thank the gentlewoman for her work on that, and I yield back the balance of my time.”
“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 9328, the Improving Travel for Military Members Act. Our military servicemembers and their families are required to travel regularly, uprooting their lives to move to new locations. Last year, TSA initiated a pilot program at select airports to provide Active-Duty military and their families front-of-line access to security screening. H.R. 9328 would cement TSA's ongoing pilot program and codify requirements for appropriate security protocols. Expediting wait times for servicemembers and their families makes travel a little bit easier and a little bit less stressful for them, and I support advancing this effort. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.”
“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 8770 will help ensure TSA's frontline staff get more of the tools they need to keep travelers safe, and at a faster pace. I look forward to working with our colleagues on both sides of the aisle to ensure there are no unintended consequences for TSA's workforce if this bill becomes law. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.”
“Mr. Speaker, I have no further speakers. I am prepared to close when the chairman is prepared to close, and I reserve the balance of my time.”
“To start, the House should take up Ranking Member Thompson's bill, H.R. 2086, the Rights for the TSA Workforce Act, which would codify fair pay and collective bargaining rights for this critical workforce. This bill has more than 185 bipartisan cosponsors, and the Republican majority should bring it to this floor. In the meantime, I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle, as well as our colleagues in the Senate, to ensure that the SAFEGUARDS Act, if enacted, drives investments in technology without causing cuts to pay, benefits, or staffing at TSA. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.”
“Although speeding up the deployment of new screening technology is an important goal, I do have some reservations about the bill. The increased investments in technology are not paid for, and I am concerned that these increases could result in cuts to funding for TSA workforce salaries and benefits if TSA's overall budget does not increase. Although the bill does contain language reinforcing the sense of Congress that diversions of passenger security fees away from TSA's coffers should end, the bill does not actually do anything to end those diversions sooner than already scheduled under current law or otherwise to bring in more money to TSA. House Democrats have long been supportive of investments in new and innovative security technologies, but we must also make sure that we are supporting the workforce that operates those technologies.”
“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, since the Transportation Security Administration was created after the 9/11 attacks, the agency has been working to deploy the latest innovative security screening technology to ensure prohibited items carried inside bags and on individuals do not make it past a security checkpoint and onto an aircraft. However, with thousands of TSA screening lanes across the country in need of technology, Congress has at times struggled to provide funding to recapitalize technology expeditiously across all airports. H.R. 8770, the SAFEGUARDS Act, would ensure there are increased dedicated funds available to TSA to procure the latest screening technology so that the agency can replace aging technology deployed at airports at a more rapid pace.”
“Grant served two terms as President of the United States. During his time in office, he pushed forward the Reconstruction agenda, advocating for civil rights and protection from political violence for Black Americans. I encourage my colleagues to join us in honoring the life and legacy of President Grant by naming this post office in his hometown of Georgetown, Ohio, after him. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.”
“Grant initially resigned from the Army in 1854, but at the outbreak of the Civil War, he served as commander of a volunteer regiment and was quickly promoted to brigadier general. Throughout the war, he fought and won numerous battles. His victories included the capture of Fort Henry and Fort Donelson and the defeat of rebel forces at Shiloh and Vicksburg. As the war progressed, his military leadership played an instrumental role in enforcing President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation and advancing the United States' commitment to ending slavery. In March 1864, President Lincoln designated Grant as the general-in- chief of the U.S. Army Forces, ultimately leading to a Union victory in April 1865 with the surrender of Confederate General Lee at Appomattox in Virginia. After the war, Ulysses S.”
“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, some of my Virginia ancestors are rolling over in their graves today, but I am very happy to be here to speak in support of H.R. 7809 to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 201 East Grant Avenue in Georgetown, Ohio, as the Ulysses S. Grant Post Office Building. Ulysses S. Grant was an American hero who helped lead the United States Army to victory against the Confederacy in the Civil War before serving as President of the United States. After graduating from West Point, Grant served in the Mexican- American war under the leadership of General Zachary Taylor, who would later become the 12th President of the United States.”
“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Texas for his kind and eloquent words. I also thank Chairman Comer for his support of this legislation. As I said, Gerry Connolly is somebody who loved this body. He loved Fairfax County. He loved the Postal Service. This naming of the post office on Page Avenue in Fairfax will mean a lot to his family. Just as importantly, it will mean a lot to our community, which recognizes his decades of dedicated and passionate service with the integrity that he provided. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.”