Thursday, July 2, 2026

Vol. 172, No. 110 · 119th Congress, 2nd session

Honoring Bob Israel

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Bob Israel, whose remarkable photography has captured the beauty, character, and spirit of Minnesota and whose work will now help preserve a moment in our state's history for generations to come. As part of Congress's celebration of America's 250th anniversary, each state's congressional delegation selected items for a time capsule that will remain sealed in the United States Capitol until July 4, 2276. After inviting constituents to submit pieces representing Minnesota's 3rd Congressional District, I selected one of Bob's images, a striking photograph of a loon family gliding across a Minnesota lake, to represent the district. The photo reflects our state's natural beauty, outdoor heritage, and enduring commitment to conservation. For decades, Bob has explored Minnesota with his camera, documenting the landscapes, wildlife and quiet moments that define life in our state. His photographs invite viewers to slow down, appreciate the world around them, and see familiar places with fresh eyes. Whether capturing the vibrant colors of a sunrise over Lake Minnetonka, the quiet stillness of a winter landscape, or the graceful flight of Minnesota's wildlife, his work reflects a deep appreciation for the natural beauty that surrounds us. His work has been featured in galleries, publications, and community projects celebrating Minnesota's landscapes and wildlife. Bob's photograph will remain sealed inside the United States Capitol for the next 250 years before being opened by future generations on our Nation's 500th anniversary. It is a fitting tribute not only to Minnesota's remarkable natural heritage, but also to the artists and storytellers who help preserve it. On behalf of the people of Minnesota's 3rd Congressional District, I thank Bob for sharing his extraordinary talent and for helping tell Minnesota's story through his lens. His work will ensure that when Americans look back on this moment in history centuries from now, they will see not only the beauty of our state, but the values of stewardship, community, and wonder that continue to define it.

Honoring Colonel John D. Samples Upon His Retirement from the United States Army

Page E647 · Official text

HONORING COLONEL JOHN D. SAMPLES UPON HIS RETIREMENT FROM THE UNITED STATES ARMY

Pablo Jose Hernandez (D-PR)

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Colonel John D. Samples, Garrison Commander of United States Army Garrison Fort Buchanan, as he concludes his distinguished military career and transitions to a well-deserved retirement. It is both a privilege and an honor to recognize a leader whose service has left an indelible mark on our island, our military community, and the broader Caribbean region. Puerto Rico has a deep and proud military tradition. Our sons and daughters have served in every major conflict in American history, and the bonds between the people of Puerto Rico and the United States Armed Forces run generations deep. Fort Buchanan, Sentinel of the Caribbean and the Army's only installation in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean, stands as a symbol of that enduring relationship, and Colonel Samples understood that responsibility from the moment he assumed command. What distinguished Colonel Samples was not simply his rank or his record, impressive as both are. It was his genuine investment in the people and the place entrusted to his care. He approached his command not as a temporary assignment, but as a calling. He walked into communities, built relationships, and worked to ensure that the men and women under his charge, and the veterans and military families who depend on Fort Buchanan, were seen, heard, and supported. In a role that could have been administrative, he chose to be present. Under his leadership, Fort Buchanan grew stronger as an installation and deeper in its ties to the communities surrounding it. He recognized that the strength of an installation is inseparable from the strength of its relationships: with local government, with civic organizations, with veterans' groups, and with the families who sacrifice alongside those who serve. He nurtured those relationships with consistency and with purpose. Colonel Samples also understood the unique strategic significance of Fort Buchanan. As the Army's stronghold in the Caribbean, the installation serves not only the people of Puerto Rico, but also those of the United States Virgin Islands and the broader region. He stewarded that mission with seriousness and vision, ensuring Fort Buchanan remained a place of readiness, resilience, and genuine service. For all of this, the people of Puerto Rico are grateful. We are grateful for the years Colonel Samples devoted to this island, for his professionalism, his steadiness, and his care. We are grateful to his family, who shared in the sacrifices that military life demands and who made their home among us. Their presence here has been a gift, and their departure leaves a void that speaks to their level of devotion. Mr. Speaker, when we speak of public service at its finest, we speak of people like Colonel John D. Samples, individuals who give more than is asked, lead with more than authority, and leave every place better than they found it. Fort Buchanan is better because of his command. Puerto Rico is better because of his presence. As the Resident Commissioner of Puerto Rico, and on behalf of the people of our island, I offer Colonel Samples our deepest gratitude, our highest respect, and our warmest wishes for his next remarkable chapter.

Honoring the Neighborhood Partnership Housing Services

Pages E647–E648 · Official text

Norma J. Torres (D-CA)

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Neighborhood Partnership Housing Services (NPHS) as it celebrates its 35th anniversary. NPHS was founded in 1991 by a group of community members who came together in Montclair, California, with a simple shared belief: strong neighborhoods begin with empowered residents. The organization's mission is to build resilient, thriving communities through innovative housing and financial solutions. By elevating the well-being of underserved individuals and families, revitalizing economically distressed neighborhoods, and strengthening local economic opportunity, NPHS continues to improve the lives of hard-working individuals across the Inland Empire. For the past 35 years, the founders, sponsors, and volunteers of NPHS have supported communities across the Inland Empire with $4.5 billion in direct investment, helping expand access to housing and providing individuals and families with a place to call home. The organization has empowered thousands of families through homeownership education and counseling, assisting more than 10,000 first-time homeowners, and providing millions of dollars in down-payment assistance for working families across the Inland Empire. By combining housing, financial education, and neighborhood revitalization, NPHS has created lasting pathways to stability and prosperity for residents of California's 35th Congressional District and surrounding communities. NPHS has strengthened neighborhoods by promoting financial literacy, supporting community revitalization, and increasing access to affordable housing. Through these initiatives, the organization has helped families build long-term financial security while fostering healthier, more economically resilient communities throughout the Inland Empire. Since its founding, NPHS has grown from a grassroots community organization into one of the Inland Empire's leading community development organizations. Through its commitment to expanding access to affordable housing, promoting financial empowerment, and investing in underserved neighborhoods, NPHS continues to strengthen communities and improve the quality of life for families across Southern California. As the Neighborhood Partnership Housing Services celebrates its 35th anniversary, it is my privilege to honor an organization that plays a transformative role for families across California's 35th District. Its impact on the Inland Empire and beyond is worthy of the highest commendation.

Honoring the Career of Dr. Chace Anderson

Page E648 · Official text

Kelly Morrison (D-MN)

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Dr. Chace Anderson for his extraordinary career in public education and his dedicated service to the students, families, and educators of Minnesota. I commemorate Dr. Anderson as he concludes a remarkable 43-year career in education, including 18 years as Superintendent of Wayzata Public Schools. Over the course of his career, he served as a teacher, coach, principal, administrator, and superintendent, bringing a deep understanding of education and an unwavering commitment to student success. A graduate of the University of Minnesota, Dr. Anderson began his career in 1983 as a middle school science teacher, football coach, and track coach. He carried the lessons of those early experiences throughout his career, always approaching educational leadership with the mindset of a teacher and mentor. Following his appointment as Superintendent in 2008, Dr. Anderson guided Wayzata Public Schools through a period of significant growth and change. Under his leadership, enrollment grew from approximately 9,500 students to over 13,000 students, prompting the construction of two new elementary schools, major additions to Wayzata High School, and facility improvements to meet the needs of the growing community. Through collaboration with teachers, staff, families, and community leaders, Dr. Anderson strengthened academic opportunities and supported student success across the district. Dr. Anderson dedicated himself to improving students' day-to-day educational experience. He championed changes to school start times that better aligned with student learning needs, advanced initiatives supporting student health and well-being, and provided decisive leadership during the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout every challenge, he uplifted students, families, and educators while ensuring stability across the district. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Anderson is a devoted husband and father. He and his wife raised two children who graduated from Wayzata Public Schools, giving him the unique perspective of serving as superintendent, parent, and community member. Dr. Anderson's legacy will endure through the thousands of students whose lives have been shaped by the schools he helped lead and strengthen. On behalf of the people of Minnesota, I extend my sincere gratitude for his decades of service and wish him all the best in his well-earned retirement.

Recognizing the Bristol Borough Post Office

Page E648 · Official text

Brian K. Fitzpatrick (R-PA)

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the historic Bristol Borough Post Office in Bristol, Pennsylvania, one of the original post offices established at the founding of our Nation's postal system, and to honor its enduring legacy of public service spanning more than two and a half centuries. Established in 1775 under the authority of the Second Continental Congress, the Bristol Post Office traces its origins to the creation of the United States Postal Service by our Nation's Founders. With Benjamin Franklin serving as the first Postmaster General, Bristol was selected as one of the original post offices because of its strategic location along the vital postal route connecting Philadelphia and New York. At a time when reliable communication was essential to the cause of American independence, Bristol played an important role in carrying correspondence, military intelligence, and news that helped unite the Colonies during the Revolutionary era. For more than 250 years the Bristol Post Office has continuously served the people of Bucks County through every chapter of our Nation's history. While its physical location has changed over the centuries, its mission has remained constant: delivering communication, fostering commerce, and serving the American people with dedication and reliability. The story of the Bristol Post Office is inseparable from the story of Bristol Borough itself. As one of Pennsylvania's oldest riverfront communities and a thriving center of commerce along the Delaware River, Bristol has long embodied the industrious spirit that helped build our Commonwealth and our Nation. The continued operation of this historic post office reflects the resilience, patriotism, and civic pride that have defined generations of Bristol residents. Today, as we recognize the extraordinary history of the Bristol Borough Post Office, we also pay tribute to the generations of postal workers whose commitment to public service has strengthened our communities and upheld one of the federal government's most trusted institutions. Their dedication has ensured that, for more than two centuries, the promise of connection has reached every doorstep. On behalf of the United States Congress, I proudly recognize the Bristol Borough Post Office for its remarkable place in American history and its enduring service to the people of Pennsylvania's 1st Congressional District. May its legacy continue to remind us of the enduring values of service, community, and the unity that has bound our Nation together since its earliest days.

Honoring the Life and Legacy of Dr. Mary Ross Cunningham

Pages E648–E649 · Official text

Bradley Scott Schneider (D-IL)

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and remember a remarkable community leader and a dear personal friend, Dr, Mary Ross Cunningham. Mary was a force of nature--larger than life, with the biggest of hearts and the most indomitable spirit. For more than two decades in her hometown of Waukegan, Illinois, and across Lake County, she served her community with dignity and grace, fiercely advocating for those she represented. Born on November 19, 1945, in rural Alabama, Mary Ross was one of 22 children. She later moved to Chicago and then to Waukegan with her husband, Samuel Davis Cunningham, to build a life and raise their family. Following the tragic murder of her husband in 1968, Mary became the sole provider for their four children--Emerson, Sam, Jackie, and the late Alvin. Through determination, faith, and perseverance, she instilled in her family the values of education, service, and respect. Her own experiences shaped a lifelong commitment to helping others overcome hardship with dignity and hope. Before entering elected office, Dr. Cunningham devoted nearly three decades to serving veterans at the Veterans Administration Hospital in North Chicago. She also worked extensively with the Waukegan Housing Authority, Community Action Partnership, and PADS Lake County, becoming a tireless advocate for affordable housing, economic opportunity, and individuals experiencing homelessness. In 2002, Dr. Cunningham was elected to represent District 9 on the Lake County Board, serving portions of Waukeean and North Chicago. In 2018, she made history as the first Black woman to serve in Board leadership when she was elected Vice Chair, a position she held with distinction until her untimely passing. Throughout her tenure, Mary championed equitable access to county services, public health, veterans services, workforce development, and criminal justice initiatives. She was instrumental in establishing Martin Luther King, Jr. Day as a fixed county holiday for employees and worked to expand opportunities for residents through numerous county and national leadership roles. As a member of the Lake County Forest Preserves Board, Dr. Cunningham believed that everyone should feel welcome in the county's natural spaces. She was especially devoted to the annual Gospelfest celebration, helping it grow into a beloved tradition that brought people together through music. Mary never lost sight of the people she served. She encouraged others to remember why they sought public office. Beyond her public accomplishments, she was known for her warmth, generosity, elegant style, and vibrant spirit. Above all, she took great pride in her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, whose accomplishments reflected the values she worked to instill. Dr. Mary Ross Cunningham leaves behind an extraordinary legacy. I will miss her as a colleague and as a mentor, but most of all as a friend. I send my deepest condolences to the entire Cunningham family and to the community mourning this great loss. May her memory forever be a blessing.

Honoring David Davis, 2026 Minnesota Teacher of the Year

Page E649 · Official text

Kelly Morrison (D-MN)

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and congratulate David Davis, instrumental and general music teacher at Park Spanish Immersion Elementary in St. Louis Park, on being named the 2026 Minnesota Teacher of the Year. Mr. Davis exemplifies the creativity, dedication, and innovation that define Minnesota's educators. Throughout his 16-year career, including the past five years at Park Spanish Immersion Elementary, Mr. Davis has inspired students to develop their creativity, confidence, and love of learning through music. A graduate of Lawrence University and the University of St. Thomas, Mr. Davis continues to hone his expertise through graduate coursework in Change Leadership at the College of St. Scholastica. Mr. Davis has reimagined music education by designing a curriculum centered on student voice, creativity, and cultural responsiveness. At Park Spanish Immersion, Mr. Davis guides his students to compose original music, collaborate with one another, and connect their learning to their identities, families, and communities. His curriculum is rooted in his belief in "inherent brilliance," creating classrooms where teachers and students learn alongside one another as partners in discovery. Beyond the classroom, Mr. Davis has earned national recognition for advancing innovative and inclusive music education. He was the first Minnesotan to be selected as a Top 25 semifinalist for the GRAMMY Music Educator Award and has received honors including the Give A Note Foundation Music Education Innovator Award, the Music for All Elementary Excellence Award, and Yamaha's "40 Under 40" recognition. He also serves on the National Association for Music Education's Council of Innovations, participates in the Minnesota Department of Education's Culturally Responsive Arts Education cohort, and leads the Changemakers in Music Education project, expanding access and opportunity for students across Minnesota. Mr. Davis's recognition as Minnesota Teacher of the Year reflects not only his remarkable talent as an educator, but also his unwavering belief in the growth potential of every student. His work reminds us that great teachers do more than impart knowledge, they inspire curiosity, foster a sense of self, and empower young people to see themselves as capable learners, artists, and leaders. On behalf of the people of Minnesota, I congratulate David Davis on this well-deserved honor and thank him for his outstanding dedication to the students, families, and educators of our state.

Honoring the 2026 Allen County Agricultural Hall of Fame Inductees

Page E649 · Official text

HONORING THE 2026 ALLEN COUNTY AGRICULTURAL HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES

Jim Jordan (R-OH)

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the 2026 Allen County Agricultural Hall of Fame Inductees. The Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce will hold an induction ceremony in Lima on July 9, 2026, to mark the induction of the 2026 Allen County Agricultural Hall of Fame class. I include in the Record the names of this year's inductees:

Text printed in the Record (68 characters)

Gary and Jackie Austin of Harrod, and Thompson Seed Farm of Delphos.

Jim Jordan (R-OH)

Selection for the Hall of Fame is a high honor that has been accorded to fewer than 50 people and organizations since 2013. Consideration is based on each nominee's contributions to the agriculture industry in Allen County. On behalf of the people of Ohio's 4th Congressional District, I am pleased to join in the accolades for these distinguished inductees as they are recognized for their commitment to agriculture and their service to others.

Letter for the Semiquincentennial Congressional Time Capsule

Page E649 · Official text

James R. Baird (R-IN)

Mr. Speaker, I rise to include in the Record a letter that I provided for the Semiquincentennial Congressional Time Capsule, which will be opened by the American people 250 years from now in the year 2276, the 500th anniversary of our great Nation's founding:

Text printed in the Record (3,803 characters)

To the American people in the year 2276, This letter was written in 2026, upon the semiquincentennial anniversary of our nation's founding. I, Congressman James R. Baird, PhD, representing Indiana's Fourth District, would like to offer this glimpse as you enter the 500th year of these United States. Today, Indiana is defined by its affordability, rich agricultural heritage, and status as a manufacturing hub. Indiana offers a balance of urban culture and expansive rural landscapes. The people exhibit "Hoosier Hospitality." The term describes a welcoming and kind demeanor centered on treating strangers like old friends. As the U.S. enters its 500th year, I ask that you remember America's founding principles. The Founding Fathers envisioned a nation based on inalienable, God-given rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Remember these principles. Freedom is never won nor defended easily but is always worth protecting. America is the greatest country ever created in human history. The words of Indiana veteran and journalist, Elmer Davis ring true now, as they will in 250 years: "This nation will remain the land of the free, only so long as it is the home of the brave." We have traveled to the moon and back, fought for freedom across oceans and continents, split the atom, and yet our greatest achievement remains forming a government of the people, by the people, and for the people. May God bless you all, and God bless these United States of America. As of the printing of this letter, Indiana makes up the following statistics: 1. The Hoosier state has a population of more than 6,973,333 people, based on U.S. Census data. The median age is 38. Average cost of a house in Indiana is $256,584 compared to the national average of $368,198. 2. Indiana has the highest percentage of manufacturing jobs in the U.S. with more than 540,000 workers across all manufacturing industries. Indiana is also the largest steel-producing state in the country, producing roughly 27% of all U.S. steel. 3. Indiana is the seventh-largest agricultural exporter in the country. There are just over 94,000 farmers in the state. We produce more popcorn, meat ducks, and gourds than any state. Indiana is the fourth-largest corn producer and fifth-largest soybean producer. 4. Six vice presidents were born in the state, making Indiana "The Mother of Vice Presidents." 5. The winning time of the 2026 Indy500 was three hours, five minutes, nine seconds and 6471 milliseconds. This was the closest margin of victory ever, 23.3 milliseconds. 6. The first successful goldfish farm in the United States was opened in Martinsville in 1899. 7. In 2026, Indiana University had an undefeated football season, beating Ohio State 13-10 to win their first Big Ten Championship Game. The Hoosiers defeated the Miami Hurricanes 27-21 to become the 2025-26 College Football Playoff National Champions, completing the greatest turnaround in college football history. 8. Interestingly, Aviator Pioneer Ameila Earheart taught at Purdue and her plane that mysteriously crash-landed over the Pacific Ocean in 1937 was legally owned by Purdue and if found must be returned to the University. 9. Purdue is also considered the "cradle of astronauts" since they have had more NASA Astronauts come from Purdue than any other public university. 10. 8 of the 10 largest high school basketball gymnasiums in the United States are in Indiana. 11. Purdue University has a premier basketball team with numerous wins throughout their storied history, including 26 "Big Ten" regular season championships and 3 Big Ten tournament championships, three NCAA Tournament Final Fours and two NCAA championship games, and participation in three "Final Four", seven "Elite Eight", and sixteen "Sweet Sixteen" games.

Honoring Dr. Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed

Pages E649–E650 · Official text

Kelly Morrison (D-MN)

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Dr. Rhoda Mhiripiri-Reed for her distinguished service to Hopkins Public Schools and her unwavering commitment to the students, families, and educators of Minnesota. Dr. Mhiripiri-Reed concludes nearly a decade as Superintendent of Hopkins Public Schools after a career dedicated to expanding opportunity and helping students reach their full potential. Throughout her career in education, she has served as a teacher, principal, district administrator, and superintendent, bringing a deep commitment to educational excellence and student success. A graduate of the University of Minnesota, Dr. Mhiripiri-Reed began her career as a social studies teacher in Saint Paul before serving in leadership roles across Minnesota and California. In 2017, she made district history by becoming the first woman and first person of color to serve as Superintendent of Hopkins Public Schools. During her tenure, Dr. Mhiripiri-Reed guided Hopkins Public Schools through a period of innovation and transformation. She led the development of Vision 2031, a community-driven strategic plan that established a roadmap for student achievement and future-ready learning. Under her leadership, the district expanded opportunities through Spanish Immersion, International Baccalaureate programs, project-based learning, and other initiatives designed to prepare students for success in a changing world. Additionally, she also worked to strengthen academic achievement, expand access to advanced coursework and career pathways, and foster a culture of belonging throughout the district. Dr. Mhiripiri-Reed provided thoughtful and steady leadership throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, helping students, families, and educators navigate unprecedented challenges while keeping student learning and well-being at the forefront of the district's work. Throughout her career, Dr. Mhiripiri-Reed has been guided by a belief that education can change lives. She consistently advocated for students who were underserved and worked to ensure that all students, regardless of background, had the opportunity to succeed. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dr. Mhiripiri-Reed is a devoted wife and mother. She and her husband, Frank, have raised two children, Sterling and Maddie, and her experience as both an educational leader and parent has shaped her approach to serving students and families. Dr. Mhiripiri-Reed's legacy in Hopkins will endure through the students, educators, and families whose lives have been impacted by her leadership. On behalf of the people of Minnesota, I extend my sincere gratitude for her years of service to Hopkins Public Schools and wish her all the best as she begins this next chapter of leadership and service.

Honoring Colonel Charles L. Decker Upon His Retirement from the United States Army Corps of Engineers

Page E650 · Official text

Pablo Jose Hernandez (D-PR)

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Colonel Charles L. Decker as he retires from the United States Army after a distinguished military career. Colonel Decker served as the inaugural Commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Caribbean District, and I want to thank him for taking on this mission during a time of transition and growth for the district's operations in our region. Throughout his military career, Colonel Decker has served with professionalism and dedication. His education, including a Master of Science degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering from Stanford University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from Clarkson University, prepared him well for the duties he faithfully executed. He is also a licensed Professional Engineer and a Project Management Institute certified Project Management Professional. Colonel Decker's military record reflects his unwavering commitment to service. His education and training, spanning the Naval Civil Engineer Corps Officer School, the Command and General Staff Officer Course, Airborne training, and the Special Warfare Center and School, demonstrates his dedication to professional development. His military decorations, including the Meritorious Service Medal with Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster and the Army Commendation Medal with Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, illustrate his contributions to his organization and his peers. Colonel Decker accepted command of the Caribbean District as a newly established operation, and he has managed that transition with competence and professionalism. We are grateful for his willingness to serve in this capacity and for the leadership he has provided to the organization. On behalf of the people of Puerto Rico, I wish Colonel Decker well as he enters this next chapter of his life. We thank him for his service to our country and for answering the call to lead the Caribbean District during its formative years. I extend my best wishes to him and to his family.

Honoring America's 250th Anniversary

Page E650 · Official text

Haley M. Stevens (D-MI)

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor America's 250th Anniversary. 250 years ago, a band of ordinary citizens, dedicated to the simple idea that all are created equal, came together and formed an enduring experiment that changed the course of history. For 250 years, America has been a model for democracy. A global beacon of freedom, lighting the path forward for governments of, by, and for the people in every corner of our world. For 250 years, America has been the land of opportunity. Where unions built the middle class and built an economy where all had the opportunity to succeed and create a good life for their family. For 250 years, America's natural beauty has outshined the world. With our Great Lakes and our national parks. With our spacious skies, our amber waves of grain, and our purple mountains majesty. For 250 years, America has been the launch pad of dreamers and doers. Henry Ford put the world on wheels. The Wright Brothers took us to the skies. Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin planted our flag on the moon. For 250 years, America has pushed for progress. From westward expansion to the abolition of slavery to the expansion of the right to vote. From women's suffrage to civil rights to workers' rights. From Sojourner Truth to Rosa Parks, from Frances Perkins to Dolores Huerta, from Elizabeth Cady Stanton to Gloria Steinem. For 250 years, America has not stopped at the mountaintop. America has always looked beyond, pushing toward what is next. And 250 years on, America looks pretty damn good. Mr. Speaker, each of us takes an oath when we arrive in this storied chamber to support and defend our Constitution. Included in that oath is a promise to never give up on our shared pursuit of a more perfect union. We will never give up on a more perfect union where all get to live with dignity no matter what zip code they grow up in or what schools they attend. We will never give up on a more perfect union where all can freely practice their faith without fear of violence; where children and parents do not have to worry about guns; where Americans can feel safe in their homes, in their grocery stores, in their houses of worship, and in their communities. We will never give up on a more perfect union where parents can afford to raise their kids, buy a home, take vacations, and give their family a good life. We will never give up on a more perfect union where we invest in manufacturing, support union jobs, and fight back against giant corporations that screw workers out of fair treatment in the workplace. We will never give up on a more perfect union where every American is equal, where all have the right to vote and have their vote count. Where the promises of our 250-year-old Declaration of Independence are upheld and preserved for current and future generations. There is nothing that Americans cannot do when we put our in minds together and work to achieve our common goals. No star is too distant to explore, no depth too deep to discover, no disease too complex to understand, no cure too impossible to devise. Nothing is out of reach in the United States of America. Nothing is impossible in the land of the free. Nothing can stop us from forever seeking that more perfect union. When I think of America, I think of Michigan. And when I think of Michigan, I think of the greatest place on earth. I wish Americans a Happy Fourth of July, Happy Independence Day, and a Happy 250th anniversary of our great country.